Little Green Dot

Category: Skin & Wellness

Podcasts that make early mornings more fun
For the last several months, I’ve had this little secret morning routine.

My alarm is set one hour before my kids and husband – so that I can slowly start the day listening to one (sometimes two) of my favorite podcasts.

No interruptions, no censoring with little ones around…

I’ll start the podcast in the bathroom as I get myself dressed and ready – and then I’ll finish listening to it in the kitchen as I setup breakfast and make peanut-butter and jelly sandwiches for school.

T.V doesn’t have the same effect, because it demands too much of your attention. It forces you to stop and watch. But with a podcast – you can get dressed, organized, you can pack lunches and do the dishes – all in one show!

There are five podcasts that I can’t seem to get enough of and highly recommend:
1. Criminal. Normally, I’m a big scaredy-cat, but these stories are not designed to scare. They are well told documentaries of criminals throughout time. There are horse thieves, prison escapes, lunatic nurses and bored bank robbers…Episode 47: Brownie Lady got me hooked
2. Heavyweight. Each episode follows an individual who wants to correct something that went wrong in their life. They’re followed around with a recorder and you get to hear them doing the thing they wished they had done a long time ago. It’s a brand new series, there are only three episodes so far and I’m desperate for the next one to come out!Episode 2: Gregor is so good.
3. Not by accident. This is one of the most beautiful podcasts – a mother began recording herself from the moment she decided that she would have a baby as a single parent. Its presented like a documentary – she narrates her story woven in with these recordings of the past, which has this way of drawing you in. You hear her footsteps walking into the insemination clinic, her phone calls with her mother, you hear her baby’s first cry… I’m already getting teary-eyed!This podcasts needs start from Episode 1
4. How I built this. For anyone who wants to build a business of their own – this podcast is pure motivation. You hear stories told by entrepreneurs – the process of creating a movement, their failures, their insights…I loved the story of Gary Erickson, creator Cliff Bar and Cathy Hughes who founded Radio One, the largest African American owned broadcasting company.
5. My Dad Wrote a Porno. An adult son discovers that his retired father has written a porno. So, he decides to read out loud a chapter of his dads book – to his best friends – and record it. They’re now joined by millions of listeners each week! It’s awkward, sometimes anatomically incorrect…. it’s hilarious!You’ll want to start from Episode 1
I think a good podcast can serve as an incentive to do something that you need a little motivation for… It’s like a treat that makes getting up out of bed, or going for a walk, even doing the dishes… a little more interesting.

Do you listen to podcasts? Let me know what’s on your radar!
October 11, 2016
It’s official – antibacterial soaps have been kicked to the curb!

Hi, if you’re here because of the coronavirus pandemic, you’re in the right place! I’m Militza, and I’ve been teaching safe and natural homemade alternatives to conventional skincare for almost 10 years.

The advice below is up-to-date, but when you’re done reading, you’ll find more information and resources on my Instagram account, @littlegreendot.

Stay home, and stay safe! ?

Wow, this is big!

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration recently put down a final ruling to ban the sale of many antibacterial soaps, after concluding that the risks outweighs the benefits.

In this article, I’m going to tell you a little more about the ban and what it means, and share five natural antibacterial options that are much better than than the nasties out there.

What’s the dirt on antibacterials?

Adding antibacterial ingredients to soap became a multi-billion dollar business. Consumers felt safer with the added protection it promises…

But when put to the test – manufacturers failed to demonstrate to the FDA that antibacterial ingredients are both safe for long-term daily use and more effective than plain soap and water.
{diy} Anti-Bacterial Hand Scrub Recipe
Here’s what the FDA says about antibacterials

“Consumers may think antibacterial washes are more effective at preventing the spread of germs, but we have no scientific evidence that they are any better than plain soap and water,” said Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, in a written announcement.

“In fact, some data suggests that antibacterial ingredients may do more harm than good over the long-term.”

What does the FDA ban mean?

Within one year, manufacturers will no longer be allowed to market soaps and washes that contain antibacterial ingredients like Triclosan, and 18 other chemicals that are not safe, and not effective.

Health experts have been actively pushing the FDA to ban Triclosan since 1978 – with growing concerns of interfering with children’s hormones and promoting antibacterial-resistant bacteria.

Finally, after nearly 40 years and a recent lawsuit – the FDA took some action.

“It has boggled my mind why we were clinging to these compounds” said Rolf Halden, a scientist at the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University, who has been tracking the issue for years. “They had absolutely no benefit but we kept them buzzing around us everywhere.”

Mae Wu, a senior attorney involved in the lawsuit that won this ban said “We call it stupid uses of toxic chemicals.” adding “There’s no reason to do it, and you could be hurting yourself and your family in the process.”

Woot, go get ’em, Mae!

Five Natural Antibacterials That Clean Your Skin

The FDA ban is a good first step. But, Mae Wu points out that these chemicals can still show up in your products.

The good news is that at home, you have access to natural ingredients that can keep you skin healthy and clean.

There is so much available to you and I love showing you new ways to simplify… so here are five natural antibacterials that clean your skin.

Natural Soap

The saponins found in natural soap are effective at killing bacteria and disease-causing germs. For hand washing, the old rule is: lather up and rub your hands for at least 20 seconds (on average people only wash for 6 seconds!)

Tip: while you’re washing your hands: Sing row-row-row your boat three times – and then you’re done!

Honey

Was used by ancient Romans to treat battle wounds and infections. It helps your body fight infection and prevent the growth of bacteria. You can also use honey directly on your skin as a cleanser. It’s very good if you have pimples or breakouts.

Cinnamon and Clove

In the spice world, both cinnamon and clove rank highest in terms of antibacterial properties. You’ll find that many hot climate countries tend to use these spices in their food. They inhibit the growth of bacteria.

My Body Glow Oil from the SIMPLIFY Skin Autumn collection infuses both cinnamon and cloves – use it right after a shower.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar has been used in household cleaners, for it’s antibacterial properties. When properly diluted, a little apple cider toner can help to cleanse your skin and prevent breakouts.

Bonus: Scrubbing

It’s not all about killing bacteria, friction removes bacteria and cleans your skin. Make yourself a body scrub and use it once a week in place of soap. Coconut oil is a good choice for your scrub, it’s naturally antibacterial and wonder skin cleanser.

If you’re scrubbing your face, make sure you use very gentle, fine grains and don’t apply too much pressure. Your body loves a good scrub – go in circular motion moving from your limbs up towards your heart. It’s going to help stimulate your body to improve circulation and detox from the inside too!

September 12, 2016
The simplest way to get gorgeous, healthy, glowing skin!

I’m so excited, I’m typing a million words a minute right now to tell you that my new natural skincare collection, SIMPLIFY Skin SEASONS: Autumn is live and ready.

You can go sign up right now and start making BIG changes.

You’re about to kick bad skincare to the curb!

Five years ago, I decided that I didn’t want to choose between conventional skincare or blowing our food budget on organic lotions and potions.

Making that decision was easy. Figuring out how to do it? That took some time.

Here’s a story you might relate to…

Back when I first became interested in natural skincare, I was so inspired and eager to make changes!

I started binging on Pinterest, collecting recipes and trying them all.

A lot of them didn’t work.

And far too many of the recipes were overly complicated.

Here’s what happened when I attempted to make this exact bath bomb cupcake recipe:

Yeah, my bath bomb – bombed!

But you know, even with each frustration and disaster – I still loved consuming less and the time spent making more for myself, plus using all-natural products – I adored the results.

It also helped that my kids thought I was pretty amazing for making all these fun things. Even if my version didn’t look like a Martha Stewart cupcake!

So, I kept going.

I took that bath bomb cupcake, and created Fizzy Bath Powder – equally amazing for your skin, fun to bathe in, full of exquisite natural ingredients – but without the complicated fuss.

And that approach of keeping it simple, has been the secret to my success.

I’ve learned a lot over the years about what makes truly good skincare – and it always comes down to this: simple ingredients + consistent routines.

And that’s exactly what you’re going to create!

This Autumn, I’d love to show you a new skincare routine that will create healthy, glowing skin!

When you purchase SIMPLIFY Skin SEASONS – you’ll receive the full recipe guide to make this entire natural skincare range.

It’s going to be so simple – but each product is packed with powerful ingredients that heal and restore. You won’t need to buy another piece of skincare – this is all you need this Autumn.

Here’s what your Autumn skincare routine is going to look like:

Your new skincare collection is made with whole food ingredients, inspired by the Autumn season: pomegranate, honey, cinnamon and more!

And it smells amazing!!

You’ll love the recipes. They’re easy to make, easy to use – and create clean and clear skin.

It’s such a gratifying feeling to know how to care for yourself – once you make your products, you can make them again and again – with ease.

I know what’s it like to start something new.

I know how hard it is to take the first step. That’s why in this guide, I’ve thought of everything you need – I’ll show you exactly what you need to get, where to find it, and how to make the products, step-by-step.

You’ll get recipe books, and HD video walkthroughs for each recipe, so I’ll be with you the whole time. Plus, you get access to our amazing SIMPLIFY Skin Private Community for more support. Because if you want to go far, go together.

I hope you’re excited – join today and get started right away!

I want you to be able to walk into your bathroom and see this beautiful range of natural skincare sitting on your counter top, without any of the nasties found in conventional skincare, and made with the purest ingredients that you deserve.

Join Today!

Make natural skincare a way of life with the three-week SIMPLIFY Skin program

When you purchase SIMPLIFY Skin SEASONS, you also get the full three-week SIMPLIFY Skin program – which teaches you how to make skincare for your skin’s exact needs!

As a student, you get instant lifetime access to our members-only website. It’s your resource for information, recipes, ingredients swap-outs and measurements.

You also have three weeks of lessons to follow, with videos that you can watch anytime, anywhere.

You’ll learn step-by-step how to de-clutter your skincare and make daily and weekly skincare routines that are right for your skin.

Your body and your wellbeing is the most important thing – you need to take care of yourself, to feel and be your own best.

I can’t wait for you to get started and feel the difference simplifying your skincare makes. Sign up today! I’ll send over your details right away!

Join Today!

September 11, 2016
Make a fresh start this Autumn
Long time readers of Little Green Dot will know that I’m all about routines.

My daily routine used to consist of a bike ride at dawn, while listening to podcasts and audiobooks. And I loved it. It kept me fit, I spent time out of doors and I learned new ideas at the same time – it was perfect for me.

But then we had a big shake-up. We moved to Bali, I got so busy with my kids’ school and starting a new home, and the bike rides went away.

I’m not complaining – I’ve gained so much from being here. But you know that feeling, when you look up and go, “whoah – I’ve not done anything!!”

So I decided to start fresh.

I don’t have a bike here yet, so instead, I laced up my sneakers, put on my headphones and started going for walks.

I always listen to something that makes me feel good and on one of those walks, I was listened to a podcast that introduced me to a running app called Freeletics.

Let me tell you – I don’t run, I never have, not even to get out of the rain. But listening to this podcast, it sounded interesting and I have this habit of following my curiosities.

So I gave it a go…

Having fun running and getting to know the neighbours

And as a result this summer, something big happened.

I went from no exercise routine, to walking, and then running!

I’ve only run a total of 11 miles, but that’s more than I’ve ever run. Slow at first, but I’m getting faster and stronger – and it feels really good!

Look, everyone needs a fresh start. But what is for you that prompts you to look up and go “whoah”?

Me, I love staying in tune with the seasons. Even though I live in the tropics where its permanently Summer, we’ve just entered the second rice planting season of the year.

Rice seedlings near my home in Bali

Nature is in transition, preparing for something new. And I think that’s a good reminder and and a good opportunity to look at where you are now, and decide whether you want to let go of old routines, start new ones or freshen things up.

And that’s something to celebrate!

So we’re going to celebrate the coming Autumn with something brand new. This September 15th, I’m launching a brand new skincare collection for all of my SIMPLIFY Skin students – but I want also have something for you, to freshen up your self-care routine.

I created a free SIMPLIFY Skin Autumn Starter Pack to kick off the season.

Inside you’ll find FOUR Autumn-inspired recipes, all made with nourishing whole foods:
- Autumn Hair Rinse for shiny, soft and healthy hair
- Autumn Glow Body Oil to luxuriously moisturize your body
- Autumn Tea to hydrate your body and stimulate healthy skin
- Salad Sprinkles to spruce up your Autumn salads with superfoods
Plus I’ve added some tips, inspiration and information – so that we can go into Autumn feeling our best from the inside, out!

Members, you’ll soon be receiving your brand new Autumn daily and weekly skincare routines, with recipe books and videos!! But in the meantime, go grab your free kit and get ready for Autumn!

So, here’s to celebrating change and a fresh start. Grab your Autumn Starter Pack now, and see how much change you can create this season!

Get the Starter Pack!
September 4, 2016
Join me at Green Living in Singapore!

If you’re in Singapore on the weekend of September 9-11, you’re going to want to check out Green Living, at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre.

It’s going to be so much fun to meet everyone from the green community… there’ll be an eco-marketplace where you can shop, talks to attend and lots of workshops!

I was asked to give a talk about my green journey… and I hope you can come join!

» Click here to get details for my talk «

People are often surprised when I say that everything I learned about creating a green lifestyle, I learned it in Singapore… living in my tiny apartment, in a busy, expensive, urban city.

So, I’ve decided to share that story (even the embarrassing parts 🙂

Then I’ll be teaching two SIMPLIFY Skin workshops – where I’ll show you the new AUTUMN recipe collection. It has all those yummy Autumn notes that celebrate the new season! It’s fun and so beneficial for your skin.

» Click here to get details for my workshop «

Come join us – if you have any questions, shoot me an email! ([email protected])
I really hope to see you there!
Militza

August 22, 2016
How to Keep your Cool with Ayurveda
The other day we were at lunch, in this beautiful outdoor Italian restaurant right next to a rice paddy field.

And it was sweltering hot.

I’m basically sticking to my chair, so I get up to go to the restroom and the second I open the door – I’m hit with this blast of air con – and I kid you not, I jumped up on the sink counter top… and just sat there.

I’m thinking, you know what – if anyone walks in right now… they’ll understand!

Living in Singapore, and now Bali – I’ve learned how to live with the heat. Granted, sitting on a bathroom sink was not my finest moment – but the heat can have you acting a little crazy sometimes.

So it’s a good idea to have some summer tips to keep your cool… and I’ve learned a few new ones!

In Bali, Ayurveda is a prominent practice, it’s based on the belief that our overall sense of wellbeing and stability, is dependant on the delicate balance of our mind, body and spirit.

Ayuverda is about having the tools bring yourself back into balance when and where you need it

Have you heard of it before?

According to this ancient practice – the summertime is considered Pitta Season, associated with fire. And when your Pitta is in balance, you are productive, passionate and full of energy.

But when your Pitta is cranked up…. that internal heat leads to inflammation, sensitivity, breakouts, rashes, indigestion, heart burn, fatigue, intolerance and a fiery temper.

So – if you don’t want to loose your cool – here are two ways that you can keep your Pitta in balance and actually enjoy the summer season!

Cooling Foods for Hot Summers

If you were to go to an Ayurvedic clinic, they would give you a comprehensive breakdown of what to eat and what to avoid when you’re feeling off balance.

As a guideline, during the summer you want to avoid foods that aggravate your system and increase your internal heat and you want to favor foods that cool down and calm your body.

Minimize:

hot, spicy foods, sour foods and overly salted foods. Chilli, vinegar, grapefruit and basically anything on a bar snack menu would be off the menu this season.

Increase:
- sweet: sweet fruits, sweet potato, most grains, milk. Sweet foods are cooling and satisfying. It calms an aggressive system.
- bitter: kale, collard greens, dark chocolate. Bitter foods are exceptionally cooling. It relieves itching and burning and supports digestion.
- astringent: lentils, beans, chickpeas. Astringent foods are drying. It counters excessive sweat and oil.
Cooling Scents for Hot Summers

Your sense of smell has a direct link to your brain and emotions. You can be instantly transported into a different place simply with a scent. When your Pitta is spiked – bring it back down into balance with sweet, uplifting, cooling and pretty scents…

A really good idea is to make a Pitta Cooling Spray, to keep with you at all times. When ever you feel hot, lethargic or irritated – spritz yourself and instantly feel yourself cooling right back down…

Here in Bali they say “Bali, no stress” That’s how this spray will make you feel. Here’s how you make it :

ingredients: 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon vodka or rubbing alcohol,
15 drops peppermint essential oil, 9 drops lavender essential oil

Peppermint Oil is uplifting and cooling

Lavender Oil is calming and soothing

directions: mix all the ingredients together in a sprayer mist bottle. Spritz on as a body and room spray.

Join the conversation

What do you do to stay cool in the summer and enjoy this beautiful season? I’d love to hear your tips!

If you like this article, hit the share buttons so that your friends can feel happy and cool too!
July 9, 2016
SIMPLIFY Skin Workshop – Coming to Singapore – One day Only!

The stars have aligned and I’m going back to Singapore where my journey into natural living first started! I’m teaching an in-person workshop called “SIMPLIFY Skin – From Bali With Love”.

It’s all about making 100% natural, safe and effective skincare – it’s such great fun and I’d love to see you there!

I know that many of you are aspiring to live a more natural lifestyle, and that may seem hard to balance with a busy, urban life – but it doesn’t have to be.

If you want to create a life that you love – with a routine of gorgeous natural skincare that makes you feel good with beautiful results – I’m here to show you how to make that happen!

RSVP here

This workshop has a special place in my heart. I learned how to make natural skincare while living in Singapore – and it was life changing!

Back then I was the kind of consumer who thought companies were responsible for my health. I had no idea what I was putting on my skin.

I had cabinets full of clutter, my self-esteem was on the floor and I couldn’t walk past a Guardian pharmacy without buying something that promised to “fix” my skin.

Until I learned that my skincare choices were harming my health, my family and our planet…

Commercial skincare is full of chemicals that simply do not belong on your skin – and the frustrating truth is that a lot of these products often do more harm than good.

The creams that we buy to care for our skin, contain chemicals that contribute to allergies, irritations, break-outs, eczema, oily skin… it’s a toxic cycle.

I switched to 100% all-natural by learning how to create my own skincare solutions. And this lifestyle not only cleared up my skin – but it cleared out the clutter and lifted my sense of self-worth.

I mean it’s hard not to feel fabulous when you bathe in coconut milk and smell of roses everyday!

Today I’m grateful to enjoy a rich life of natural skincare – because I’ve learned how to make it myself.

And that’s what I want to show you.

You have access to the very best products for your skin. Nature provides everything that you need to feed healthy, glowing skin.

Forget about searching for the next perfect product.

I’ll show you how to create your own three-step routine that you’re going love. I can’t wait for you to try it for yourself – I think it’s good enough to make you switch!

rsvp for the workshop here
July 16th | 11am – 1pm

We’re going to meet in a beautiful workspace, The Working Capitol. For $115 you get all the materials in class to make your skincare products (plus a few presents coming to you straight from Bali!) I’ll mentor you as you learn step-by-step how to create a natural beauty lifestyle and your own natural skincare collection.

Where do I buy? Where can I find? What ingredient is best for my skin?... you’ll get to ask me all of your questions – I’m here for you! I can’t wait!

Take a look at what we’re making!
RSVP today

I hope you’re excited!

Here’s the link to the sign up page.

I’ll see you on the 16th
Militza Xx

p.s. want to bring a friend? Get 15% off your purchase when you buy 2 tickets 🙂

June 30, 2016
The first step to waking up with more energy
Without a doubt, I’ve noticed that my kid is a much happier human-being – when she follows a certain night-time routine.
- No screens, one hour before bed
- A warm shower or bath
- Lights out, Kindle in bed
It’s a simple routine that makes her feel demonstrably better the next day – yet when night-time rolls around, she’ll fight it if she can.

And here’s the thing, I don’t think us adults are any different.

We get tired, stressed and overwhelmed and often all we need to do to feel better – is to go.to.bed.

I used to be terrible at going to bed. I basically never wanted to go to sleep. Don’t get my husband started on this!

Something about lying there in the dark, in the silence – it almost makes me more alert. My mind starts spinning and I’m up again… restless.

And then I learned about the importance of nighttime routines ( for my kids…) and I realised that the same principles of having consistency and predictability to ease their mind, work for us too.

So I started creating my own night-time routine, a grown up version of what all the baby books say to do. And I’m not ashamed to tell you, it worked.

Night-time routines create the kind of days you feel really good about.

Because when you end the night feeling relaxed, you wake up feeling refreshed. Having a night-time routine makes you less cranky in the morning, more clear-headed and with far more energy to be productive.

So if you’ve been needing it – how about a night-time routine makeover? I’m going to share my current routine with you, it’s what works for me now, I hope it inspires some ideas for you!

My Three Step Night-Time Routine

Self Care + Podcast (9pm)

As part of my routine – I always take my shower or bath, prepare my skincare and slowly get ready for bed while listening to a podcast.

I have a list of podcast that I listen to. They’re hilarious, and inspiring and thought provoking and entertaining… depending on my mood, I’ll switch around.

They’re usually around 30 minutes to an hour long, if my kids kick up a fuss during this vital “me time” – I press pause, come out with my scary face mask on and get back in as soon as I can.

Recommended podcasts:
- Mortified – people read their high school diaries to a live audience. It’s hilariously awkward.
- 99% Invisible – explores what goes into the everyday things we don’t think about. Like water fountains, turns out it’s fascinating!
- Song Exploder – well-known musicians explain, beat by beat, the thought process and inspiration behind one of their songs.
- Baby Geniuses – these girls crack me up. I don’t know how to describe this podcast. They’re successful creatives, they talk about nothing, and it’s funny.
- Slack Variety Pack – it’s all about work, innovation in the workplace, office culture, coffee drinkers vs. tea drinkers… that kind of thing – it’s good!
- Star Talk – my favorite – Neil Degrasse Tyson. Do you know, I once saw him in person, went up to him and actually said “can I please shake your hand” Not embarrassing at all! But I did get a picture of the handshake, see that’s my hand:
Organize tomorrow (10pm)

Ok, so now I’m relaxed, I enjoyed my podcast and my skin smells nice. It’s a good mood to be in to think about what I want to focus on tomorrow.

In my Moleskine notebook, I mind dump. List out tomorrow’s tasks and even thoughts down on paper – so that I don’t go to bed with it rolling around in my head.

The organizational system that works for me is a very loose interpretation of the Bullet Journal System. I don’t do the whole shebang, but I do list out tomorrow’s important, actionable tasks with a dot.

And I list out thoughts or ideas that come to mind, with a dash.

It looks like this:

May 30
. email Frank to line up an interview
– avocado in Indonesian is alpukat
. call the restaurant to book a table for Saturday
. buy four alpukats for the “Guacamole Four Ways” photo shoot

Just get it all out of your head. In the morning, you can map out the day adding the dots to your google calendar or what I do is refer to my list throughout the day and check things off as I go.

If anything doesn’t get done, just bring it over to the next day, or maybe decide to leave it behind for now.

Lights Out (10:30pm)

Now my mind is clear. Good sleep, here I come!

Truth is, I’m still not really good at just laying down in the dark, in the silence and closing my eyes. So I bring in my kindle and read until I fall asleep. I’m lucky if I get through a chapter.

I have ridiculous taste in books. I need suggestions, let me know what you’re reading! I love books about business, life skills and self-improvement (I listen to those on Audible when I’m commuting)

But at night, I like a bit of fiction. Usually Sci-fi.

Right now, I’m reading:
- The Zombie Survival Guide. It’s written like a real survival guide, technical and super detailed, but for incase of zombies.
- The Martian. A story about an astronaut left behind on mars and how he calculates his way through surviving.
- Half Way Home. A space adventure survival story.
Hmmm… I just noticed a survival theme happening there…

How to start your own night-time routine:

If you’re starting a night-time routine, start small. You don’t need to go and create an entire structured routine.

Right now, you may start just by noticing what your current habits and patterns are.

Think about one thing you can do each night, something that you would enjoy doing. Think about doing something slow and simple, that you never seem to have time for in the day.

Do this one thing each night leading up to bedtime, signaling to yourself that it’s time to start winding down.

And the moment it stops being enjoyable for you, do something else. Stay focused on noticing and doing the things that create the right mood and environment for restful sleep.

Soon you’ll get into a nice, sleepy rhythm and you’ll feel much better for it tomorrow.

I’d love to know what’a your current night-time routine? And if you don’t have a good one yet – tell me in the comments below what your ideal night-time routine might be.

Thanks for reading, and if you know someone who might find this energy giving tip useful – make sure to hit those share buttons below.

Sleep tight Xx
May 27, 2016
Feed Your Gut Beautiful
When I was first introduced to Pooja at The Nutrition Clinic, my gut had become compromised. I felt it because even though I was eating a healthy diet, I wasn’t feeling my best. There was a lot of grumbling after eating, I felt tired and my skin looked stressed. When your digestion is not optimal, you’re not absorbing the nutrients that your body needs in order to thrive. You might see dull skin, hair breakage – it’s really common and some simple changes can make a big difference.

I did a food reset which really helped, and now I focus on healing my gut, rebuilding with probiotics and lots of bone broth. Pooja shared this recipe with me, it’s part of her reset program and I think you’ll love it too! Together, we’re building up a series of recipes, #RESETEATCLEAN created by a nutritionist to nourish your body, with simple and delicious food.

This gingery apple-cider drink is for your gut health.

It’s great for the morning to give your system a good boost, or you can drink it before a meal. With better digestion, you’ll feel the difference and it shows from the inside out!

Unprocessed apple cider vinegar (ACV), with the mother, is full of healthy probiotics that support a healthy gut and system.

Ginger, cinnamon and cayenne are spices that load your body with antioxidants and give your system a kickstart.

The combination tastes like Fall, warm and spicy – it’s not overpowering at all. I think it’s delicious! I’d love for you to try it too, hopefully it helps you if you happen to have a gut disorder, but remmeber that you can also visit the IBS Clinic for more tips regarding this health condition!
Ginger Digestive Drink
1 glass of water

1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

Pinch ground cinnamon

Pinch ground ginger

Sprinkle cayenne pepper

½ Tsp coconut palm sugar or yacon syrup to sweeten (only if required)
Mix all ingredients, stir and drink 20 minutes before lunch or dinner to help aid digestion
November 1, 2015
When I saw the price tag I did a double take

I’m in a trendy area in Singapore, window shopping, when I see this beautiful body scrub. My first instinct is to read the ingredients – it’s all natural, made with coffee and sea salt, coconut oil… mmmmm!

And then I see the price. It costs $60…

ouch!

When I think back to what got me started into this wellness journey – it was out of pure frustration. I’d just learned that the trusted skincare brand I’d been using on my three-year-old daughter was full of weird and unnerving ingredients.

I was upset at myself for not knowing sooner. I was nervous about making more mistakes.

So, I hit the stores, determined to buy all-natural skin care. But the reality of how difficult that was soon hit me. I lived on a tight budget, in an already expensive city. Natural products were sold as a luxury, and even though I desperately wanted to use safe products for my family – I couldn’t afford them, not as an everyday option.

It seemed completely unfair that we should have to choose between using toxic commercial products, or breaking the bank going natural. I was thinking, “How can that these be our only options?” Honestly, at that point – I wasn’t just frustrated, I was angry!

They say that necessity is the mother of invention and it must be true.

I took my frustration and poured it into learning. I spent years figuring out how to make natural living a reality for our family. Soon, the frustration turned into passion and a happy obsession. And I haven’t stopped since.

For a long time, I only bought natural products as a treat. Today, I’m proud to say that natural beauty is not just reserved for special occasions. Everyday, I use the finest oils infused with nourishing herbs to moisturise our skin and hair. My children bathe in herbal baths… they smell of real flowers!

Because sometimes SelfCare Sunday comes early! ? Fill yourself up and then get right back in there! Healing Bath: Muslin Bag filled with ground oats, elderflower & coconut milk powder.

A photo posted by Little Green Dot (@littlegreendot) on Oct 7, 2015 at 3:51am PDT

It feels luxurious, but it’s completely accessible and I’m driven to show everyone how to do the same.

I know so many parents who struggle to provide their families with safe skincare. I’ve heard people say over and over again that they’d love to use more natural products, but can’t afford them. And I get it, because I was there.

I want you to know that the most empowering thing that I ever did was to not accept this as my reality – and to take action.

Take matters into your own hands

I’ve learned that making your own skin care is a real, practical and simple solution. Even though the idea of finding skincare in your kitchen or the produce aisle of the supermarket seems playful – don’t underestimate it! When you begin to learn the process, you’ll see you can create better skin care than most of what you find out there on the shelves.

It changes everything.

You’ll never again walk into a store and feel like you need to buy toxic skincare or struggle to afford natural – because you know how to care for yourself.

Stop skimping on the self-love!

Have you noticed that when you buy an expensive natural skincare product, you’re precious with it. The bottle says to use two pumps, but you use one. Maybe skip days just to get the most out of it! We’ve all done that right?

With your homemade product, you enjoy the same quality – but you’re lavish with yourself! You’re treating your full body, everyday. Every single inch of you deserves the best oils and nourishing ingredients. You walk out of your house with your head up, and when you start the day that way – watch out!

Back to that $60 scrub. One day, standing there in your naturally glowing skin – you may very well discover a natural brand that you just fall in love with. Their process, the ingredients, their story. It’s happened to me, many times!

If you choose to buy this product and bring it home – it’s not because it’s your only choice…it’s only because you WANT to.

As a maker, you know the effort that goes into making whole-food skincare. You understand the ingredients and can immediately spot an authentic brand who love what they do. It’s beautiful to support these amazing makers who are aligned with your values. You’re making an empowered choice – and that feels very different.

So, if you’re struggling to bring natural beauty into your life – start by making one recipe!

Check out this video (and don’t forget to subscribe to my channel) to see how to make your own beautiful body scrub – with my secret blend that creates a richness that I know you’ll love!

When you try it, leave me a comment and tell me what you think. And if you need advice or want help getting started, email me, I read every message.

October 17, 2015