All About the Full Moon In Aries September 30 2020

Shiva Rose is helping more of us tap in to the cycles and meaning of the moon. This week's full moon is full of passion and energy and we're unpacking it with Shiva below. Tap in further to the cycles of the moon with Shiva's insightful, The Moon and I.

This full harvest moon in Aries is quite a powerful way to illuminate what is underneath your consciousness. Full moons are a time to see what there is to see, and then release it along with the moon's phases.

This harvest Full Moon is auspicious since it is also a rare Blue Moon, as this month will be bookended by two Full Moons, with the other occurring on Halloween, October 31. That means that this full moon is a precursor to the blue moon on Halloween. They are book ends energetically.

The full moon accentuates everything that you’ve been working on during the waxing phase. Take time to reflect on what the full moon brings up for you. Most of us are 'deficient' in moon light -- the truth is that the light of the moon can naturally enhance our hormones and intuition. Get outside tonight and let the light of the moon shine on you. Let her light nourish your soul.

To Consider: The world may seem so volatile at the moment.
Aries fire can feel like it’s igniting that. However, 'Fire'
can also be passion. What are you passionate about right now?

The moon can affect the tides of the ocean -- and since our bodies are at times made of 70 % water -- the moon can greatly influence our personal 'tides' as well. We also now know, through biodynamic farming literature, that the moon affects the actual fluid. Think of the moon’s shifts in its journey as your own compass -- an inner compass that you can use to harness greater power as you too shift through the seasons.

The moon is always showing us the power of transformation and proving that nothing is forever.

Moods shift, lives shift, goals shift...this is part of being fluid and in the flow of a natural rhythm, in essence, being in harmony with one’s true self.

We are realizing more and more through scientific data that artificial light in our daily lifestyles and lack of real sunlight and moonlight can contribute to modern diseases. Plants and animals are able to recognize the circadian rythms naturally. We too need to tap back into that natural ability. With all the artificial lights we are bombarded with, including our computers and phones, our rhythms are beginning to wobble off kilter.

The moon reflects the sunlight -- interesting in relation to the polarity between masculine and feminine. Our modern societies are totally depleted of natural moonlight. Our pineal gland, where our human growth hormones are made and also where melatonin is created, actually needs the ultraviolet light of the moon to thrive.

There is power in harnessing the moon’s energies.The moon can help you along your path towards your tru goals, whether a relationship, shift in careers, health and more. The moon has 8 phases, and when we connect to them we have a better understanding of our own moods and rhythms within them.

Access Shiva Rose's The Moon And I Course:
"I am so grateful and honored to bring this course to you. I hope you will take a look at The Moon and I for ultimately it’s a a tool to help us all harness the beauty, magic, and power of la Luna’s wisdom. As she ebbs and flows, so do we. As she retreats into darkness then builds towards her fullness, so do we. As she honors intuition and fertility, so do we. As she yearns for a balanced state with the sea, sun and earth, so do we."

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The New Brew: Is Golden Coffee Your New Cup Of Tea?

We've been paying attention to a new style of coffee roasting called "golden coffee". It's roasted less than a light or blonde coffee, but a but more than straight up green coffee beans. Golden Ratio claims that golden coffee is five times less acidic than regular coffee and -- beyond the appeal of trying a new coffee trend -- that caught our attention right away!

While many of us can drink a black cup of coffee without issue, there are quite a few people who find coffee too acidic to drink everyday. There are also quite a few people who love coffee so much that they drink it for the flavor and caffeine, despite the fact that it upsets their stomach. If that's you, you're probably the perfect contender for giving up cold brew and going full-on gold brew in the mornings...

On Coffee + A Sour Stomach

Listen, coffee's appeal is multi-faceted: we love the unmistakable scent, the A.M. ritual and the feeling of settling down for a good chat or work session with our cup of warm, cozy caffeine. That said, dark roasted coffee, while it has become the norm, can irritate many of those with sensitive digestion, including those with chronic reflux  or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Coffee is on the short list of foods that can trigger GERD symptoms along with fatty foods, chocolate, spicy foods and carbonated drinks.

We may not have all the solutions to resolving your reflux altogether, but we do know that an extremely light roast of coffee could be just what you've been dreaming of if you've been forced to give up coffee with digestion issues or have simply been drinking it all along despite the upset (we've heard that this is common!).

What the Heck is "Gold" Roasted Coffee?

If you're dreaming of waking up to a great smelling cup of coffee again without all the acid, try a roast so light that it lands just one tick above green coffee beans themselves. Golden Ratio founder, Clark Nowlin of Austin, Texas, first tried gold coffee while traveling, but wasn't able to find this super-light "gold" roast anywhere in the States (even though it's already popular overseas), so he decided to make it more accessible himself.

Shared Nowlin, "I love coffee, but coffee didn't love me back. The 'burnt and bitter' taste didn't jive with my tastebuds. When I discovered gold roasted coffee, which is only now beginning to pop up in niche coffee circles around the US, my problem was solved. But there was nothing I could easily access at home. So I created my ideal version of gold coffee at home and for travel.”

When we first learned about Golden Ratio's ultra-light roasting process, we had just one big concern: would it taste and smell as good as the coffee we knew and loved. The good news is that, especially when iced, Golden Ratio tastes and smells like great coffee -- minus the heavy bitterness. 

Here's what else impressed us about Golden Ratio...

+ Like all TCM-approved brands, we wanted to know about Golden Ratio's sourcing and sustainability. Happily, we found that Golden Ratio sources from three distinct and ethically-run single origin bean producers in Nicaragua, Brazil, and Ethiopia.

Another strange, but sustainable flex we've fallen in love with from the brand is their easy tea bag format. Each portion of their coffee comes in an undyed organic cotton pouch that can be brewed hot or cold. Want coffee for two or more? Just add one bag per person to your hot or cold pitcher.

+ Gold coffee doesn't stain your teeth! Another funky side-effect of conventionally-brewed coffee is that it can seriously infringe on your teeth-whitening schedule. If you're the type that meticulously cares for those pearly whites, Golden Ratio could be a godsend. You can drink 'gold brew' with significantly less concern about staining your teeth.

+ One thing that can be confusing about coffee is that a darker roast doesn't equate to more caffeine. In fact, Golden Ratio actually contains 50% more caffeine than regular coffee depending on how weak or strong you brew it (with the pouch format, it's easy to adjust the strength to your personal preference). So, gold coffee delivers the flavor without the bitterness and the caffeine without the acid. This is a game-changer for some! 

Because so many people are secretly suffering their way through their daily caffeine intake with coffee that's too acidic for them, we're expecting extremely light-roasted or "gold" coffee to be a big trend in coffee shops in the near future. (We can't wait to hang out in coffee shops again!) 

How To Drink Gold Coffee

You can brew gold coffee anyway you like: super-powered to full strength hot and black...well, gold. You can brew two pouches cold in a big pitcher full of ice and sip on iced coffee all afternoon. Or, our favorite , brewed hot, but made a little weak (just pull the pouch earlier than you normally would a bag of tea) and topped with a lot of almond or oat milk.

Golden Ratio also makes Chai Spiced Gold Coffee! If you're a dirty chai drinker (chai tea or syrup added to regular coffee or espresso) you're going to need to try this. Golden Ratio adds fair-trade cardamom, cinnamon, all-spice and cloves to their low-acid gold coffee -- and nothing else. Consider this the smart girl's alternative to the pumpkin spiced latte. This combination of spices is more than just a fall flavor bomb, chai is also packed with ingredible nutritive benefits that upgrade your morning routine in a major way.

Finally, if you're weaning yourself off those sugary, highly-acidic coffee shop lattes, Golden Ratio also makes a Vanilla Flavored Coconut Gold Coffee that's totally natural (they decided on vanilla flavoring after realizing that whole vanilla beans were way too strong-tasting!) We love this blend with its hint of monkfruit steeped full strength and drank with plenty of warm almond milk!

Golden Ratio is offering 20% off, plus free shipping on all orders through October 2! Order just two flavors for yourself to start and see how it affects you (the brand offers a full satisfaction guarantee) or set up a subscription a subscription to enjoy to-your-doorstep convenience regularly. The Midas Membership (kinda cute) is their flexible subscription program that lets you decide your own frequency, provides an ongoing discount and also gets you exclusive access to new product samples before they hit the shelves. Note: Vanilla Flavored Coconut Gold Coffee is totally sold out and will be back in stock on October 10. You can still pre-order, but if you don't want to wait, order the Chai and drizzle in a little honey if you take it sweet!

This story is brought to you in partnership with Golden Ratio. From time to time, TCM editors choose to partner with brands we believe in to bring our readers special offers. The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs.

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Why Fauci Takes Vitamin D: It’s Critical for Immunity + How to Know if you are Deficient

While your immune system relies on adequate levels of nutrients to keep it functioning at its best, advice on taking vitamin D and C as a preventative treatment for COVID-19 has been remarkably absent from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during the pandemic. Why? Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian, Brigid Titgemeier breaks it all down with us below... 

Vitamin D Deficiency & COVID-19

The CDC treatment guidelines state: “there are insufficient data to recommend either for or against the use of vitamin D for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19.”

However, vitamin D gained traction recently after Dr. Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, told Jennifer Garner in an Instagram Live that he personally supplements with both vitamin D and vitamin C. 

So what does that mean for you and your family during the pandemic and as we approach flu season? 

While the CDC cannot state that vitamin D can treat COVID-19, there is strong research to show that adequate levels of vitamin D are important for improving how the immune system works to fight off infections such as acute respiratory infections. 

In the last six months there has been additional research published to examine the link between vitamin D and COVID-19. In August 2020, there was a randomized clinical trial published that also explored this link. They had two groups: one group that was admitted to the hospital with COVID-19 and given vitamin D and the other group that was admitted to the hospital with COVID-19 and was not given vitamin D. The study demonstrated that those who were given vitamin D had a significantly lower risk of needing ICU treatment and a lower risk of mortality from COVID-19. 

Take Your Health into Your Own Hands By Getting Tested

Most Americans are vitamin D deficient and low levels of vitamin D have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension, diabetes, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, fractures and certain cancers. Symptoms of deficiency may include fatigue, muscle weakness and depression, but physical signs of deficiency are rare. While most people are walking around deficient in vitamin D without even knowing it, low levels will lead to health effects that are more significant. This is why getting your vitamin D levels checked routinely by your doctor is so important! 

Based on data collected from a national nutrition survey, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is about 41.6%, with the highest rates seen in Black (82.1%) and Hispanic (69.2%) populations. The higher the melanin count in your skin, the lower a person’s vitamin D absorption, which is why it’s especially important to have your levels checked if you have darker skin. Other groups of people that would have a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency include: 

• Those that do not get outside for a minimum of 15 minutes per day without sunscreen. This does not mean to avoid using sunscreen but since sunscreen can block vitamin D absorption, try to set aside 15 minutes that you consider not wearing it. 
• Anyone that carries excess weight, which can decrease absorption. 
• People on medications that have been shown to lower vitamin D concentrations such as laxatives, steroids, anticonvulsants, HIV medication and more. Those with a medical condition such as celiac disease or Crohn’s Disease that can lead to poor fat absorption, which impacts vitamin D because it is a fat-soluble nutrient. 
• Those who live in cities that are not close to the equator since it lowers exposure to UV-B, which will lower your skin's ability to make vitamin D. 
• Older adults who need more vitamin D because they experience a 75% reduction in skin production of vitamin D by age 70. 

From a public health standpoint, there is a real concern for many people that are on Medicare since a vitamin D test does not qualify for coverage in many instances. In some cases, you will likely need to advocate for yourself to get your vitamin D levels checked. 

Ask your doctor to order a serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D test to ensure you are in a good place going into flu season. According to the CDC vitamin D guidelines, anything less than 30 is deficient, levels between 30-50 are generally considered inadequate, and anything greater than or equal to 50 is considered generally adequate. They state that anything greater than 125 is linked to adverse effects. Many guidelines will not recommend going above 80 ng/mL. A general range to aim for is 50-80 ng/mL. But always work with your doctor or registered dietitian to determine what is best for you. 

Support Optimal Vitamin D Levels

The clients in my nutrition practice, @beingbrigid, will tell you my first line of defense is to try to get 15 minutes of natural sunlight exposure and increase vitamin D rich foods in your diet. These foods include: wild sockeye salmon, canned sardines, oysters, herring, mushrooms, egg yolk and some fortified milk products. 

After evaluating lab results, I also explore adding a vitamin D supplementation. I recommend Metagenics D3 5,000 + K because it is a high quality, third party tested brand of vitamin D3. For some, 5,000 IUs will be too much vitamin D. For others that are on blood thinning medications, the vitamin K combination in this supplement may make this particular formulation not the first choice. This is why it’s always best to check with your doctor or registered dietitian for what is best for you. 

The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs.

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The Dirt On Climate Change: Why We’re Watching Kiss The Ground On Netflix

We've been anticipating the release of the new Kiss the Ground documentary on Netflix (out now) for months. And, although, like most documentaries, it may not be as easy to slip into as a few of the more binge-able series or movies on the platform, we urge you to take the time to watch.

Kiss the Ground is a story about Regenerative Agriculture, a topic we've explored here and there on the site, but that Sundance Award-winning filmmakers, Josh and Rebecca Tickell and their cast of top celebrities, farmers, doctors and environmental pros dive into full-board.

According to Kiss the Ground, "Regenerative Agriculture is a system of farming principles and practices that increases biodiversity, enriches soils, improves watersheds, and enhances ecosystem services. It aims to capture carbon in the soil and aboveground biomass (plants), reversing current global trends of atmospheric accumulation and climate change. At the same time, it offers increased yields, resilience to climate instability, and higher health and vitality for farming and ranching communities."

In other words, Regenerative Ag is about saving our soil. Amidst so many heated arguments about our planet, global warming and the industries that contribute to it, our food system and the economy that surrounds it, could it be that the simple solutions to most of our most modern ecological woes are right down in the dirt?

"There are more microbes in a teaspoon of healthy soil
than there are people on the planet!"

The documentary argues that Regenerative Agriculture could reverse global warming and address many of our biggest economic, healthcare and farming issues in one fell swoop. The arguments are compelling, hopeful and darn right practical-sounding.

We'd love to hear your opinion on the documentary and about Regenerative Agriculture as a whole. As wellness lovers, we're hopeful about a philosophy like this one that promises to address and correct so many modern ecological ills without damaging the economy. We're struggling to find holes that need poking, but sure they're there. We'd love to hear from you. -- watch the doc and leave your comment below.

To give you a taste of what Regenerative Ag is all about here are 4 principles (among many) from Kiss The Ground's site that explain more about the approach. Many of them are in alignment with environmentalist, Paul Hawken's plan in his book, Drawdown which, like the doc, relates much of "global warming" to soil degradation, modern farming practices and the mismanagement of our land. As dire as that all sounds, the term regenerative means "the process of renewal, restoration, and growth"  and is used here as hopefully as it sounds. These are key terms you'll learn more about in the doc...

Increase "Carbon Drawdown" | Food can be grown in ways that build healthy soil and draw carbon out of the atmosphere (sequester carbon). Remember photosynthesis? Plants use the energy from the sun to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and water into oxygen and carbohydrates (sugars). Plants then release some of these sugars into the soil to feed microorganisms. In turn, the microorganisms make otherwise inaccessible nutrients available for plants!
More carbon in the soil = less carbon in the air!

INCREASE BIODIVERSITY | Growing a diversity of plants -- especially on farms -- helps cultivate nutrient dense soil, increase soil carbon, and reduce the risk of pests and diseases (Read: reduce the need for chemical pesticides).

recreate ANIMAL INTEGRATION | Remember Old MacDonald? He had all kinds of animals on his farm, but most farms today have none! Including animals in the farming system closes the "nutrient loop" and reduces the need for imported fertilizers (As in, the animals make their own!). Deciding which are the right species of animals to incorporate depends on each farm’s unique ecosystem and climate.

keep ROOTS growing deep | Keeping living roots in the ground year-round (or for as long as possible) provides a steady source of food for organisms in the soil. In turn, soil microorganisms help prevent soil erosion, increase water infiltration rates, and provide plants with key nutrients.

We have to admit, that these four points might not sound as exciting as they truly are without more context. To that point, we urge you to give Kiss The Ground a mindful watch.

Read through all our Regenerative Agriculture coverage with farmers, ranchers and doctors here for more! 

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Inside The New Oeste Home: A Chat with the Creatives Behind Our New Favorite Desert Oasis

Last year, we heard that two creatives we love were joining forces to overhaul a home in the desert and we were immediately intrigued. Designer Claire Thomas (who also happens to be co-founder of our fave, Sweet Laurel) and director of photography, Yayo Ahumada have both been featured in or partners behind many TCM stories and events.

We knew that their latest creative collab, a desert oasis named Oeste Home, would live up to our lofty expectations and, oh boy, did they deliver. The stunning home, just a few hours from L.A., is available for stays through airbnb and, perhaps even better, live on Instagram for constant design and travel inspo.

We talked with both Claire and Yayo about the new space and how it came to be below...

What was the overall inspiration for oeste home? 

 

Claire: There are so many, but the root of it was my friendship with Yayo. It was inspired by our travels throughout Mexico, and the variety of culture, art, and experiences we've enjoyed there. Some rooms are referencing Luis Barragan and Mexico City, another is inspired by the colors of San Miguel de Allende, and another by the creation myth of Mezcal. I've worked as a director for almost a decade now, and love production design, so my approach to a space is always "How will it shoot?" Yayo, as a DP, is always focused on what the light is doing, so together we really zeroed in on how to make the house as amazing an experience in person as it is on screen or in a photo.

Yayo: My many, many trips to Mexico with Claire and my love of everything Morocco. Claire and I just kept saying yes to all of the crazy, amazing ideas and bold design choices. The fact that we are both visual creators really shows in the space. It’s a testament of how well Claire and I work together.

Your favorite piece in the new home?

Claire: Ah this is a hard one. Every room has something special about it. I guess I'd have to say the comal light fixtures. On one of our trips to Mexico, Yayo and I had dinner at Pujol, and I noticed these beautiful plate sconces. As we travelled south through Oaxaca, we admired the clay comals used to cook tortillas and I asked Yayo if he would turn them into a light fixture. We packed a few in our suitcase and after a few weeks of tinkering he created these. They're so gorgeous - when the light is off, they are beautiful wall art, when the light is on, the create the loveliest ambient glow.

Yayo: The Comal light fixtures. The feeling of "it works!" is indescribable. But also the triangular tile indoor window breezeway was another piece that is so unique and getting the engineering right was a challenge which makes it so that it's a one of a kind structure.

there are so many great moments in the space, from the outdoor tub to the built-in couch. What it your Favorite place to sit...

Claire: I saw a triangular seating bench on a rooftop patio in Marrakesh and loved the idea for seating - so much more comfortable that a stiff backed wall. I measured the angle on an Eames lounge chair (it's 115 degrees btw!) and we built the outdoor seating area to match it. It's the perfect spot to sit in the morning for breakfast or at night to admire the stars.

My favorite place to sit inside would have to be the circular window in the main bedroom. I knew from the beginning there would have to be a round window somewhere, and when I saw the view on the other side of the master wall, that had to be the place. You can watch the sunset perfectly between two mountains - it's just stunning.

Yayo: There is a hanging chair right on the pergola on the patio outside and at night time you can look up and spin slowly as you see the stars and the Milky Way through the ocotillo lattices on the roof of the pergola, it’s a very special moment every time I get to sit there and admire the sky/

i Love the wood cabinet doors in the white kitchen! tell us more...

Claire: Whenever we travel to Oaxaca, Yayo and I stay at the same Airbnb with the most gorgeous kitchen. Concrete boxes, wood doors, and a pile of fruit on the center island. I basically tried to bring Oaxaca here. The counters are Laguna concrete slabs by Concrete Collaborative in Blonde and the doors are by Semi Handmade in Tahoe. I kept the hardware simple by using burnished antique knobs by Rejuvenation. When guests stay, we always have bowls of fruit in the kitchen, and want to create that same feeling of abundance as we experienced in Oaxaca.

Yayo: I never thought I’d own a custom fridge that has the wood fronts like at Oeste, it feels like such a luxurious design choice and I am all about it. The first time I got to cook in that kitchen was really the moment this crazy amazing project was finished.

Can you share your favorite "before and after" moment?

 

Claire: I think either the living room or the den. The living room was entirely clad in wood paneling and just so dark. I knew I wanted a big bench and an indoor planter. There's something about an indoor planter that feels like a flex. Originally I was going to plant a bunch of soft, tall grasses, but Yayo talked me out of it for fire safety, which...yes, much more practical.

I also think the cacti look gorgeous and add some structure to the space. The bench is made entirely out of Concrete Collaborative Terrazzo, and when we found out that doing a custom fireplace would break the budget, I reached out to Retro Bum, my favorite source for vintage fireplaces. I used Retro Burn to find my avocado fireplace at the Kitchy Cabin, and I texted the owner to see if he had anything white and more futuristic rather than MCM looking. This fireplace was perfect!

The den was once a garage, then a work room, and now it's an epic theater thank to Yayo's projector system. Boys love this room -- they all react to the red. My favorite part of this room is that almost all of it is from my parent's storage unit or thrifted. The couch, the chairs, the rugs -- it's all finding a second life here.

Yayo: There was not a part of the house that was not radically changed, but, if I had to pick, I’d say the patio pergola and the master bedroom.

The pergola because I had to figure out how to build it right as the lockdown hit. And the round window in the master bedroom is the perfect example of how me and Claire's mutual ideas mixed to create something incredible. I knew I wanted a round window looking into the mountains and Claire wanted to do built-in bookshelves so we did both at the same time! It was Claire’s idea to make the round window a place you could sit and read a book and of course get your obligatory Instagram shot!

What was your Biggest learning from this project?

Claire: Ughhhh...that I'm bad at math and should never do tile? The last few months of the renovation was a huge 'will power' moment for us. Yayo ended up finishing and building so much of the house he could have a second career as a handyman at this point. The man started this process with the skills to figure out wifi, hang pictures on the wall -- that kind of thing, and now he knows how to run plumbing, electrical, well engineering, and how to deal with a rattlesnake.

I learned that my ambitious optimism can work when you have incredible friends to pitch in and help. We wouldn't have been able to do it without our friends spending their weekends literally shoveling gravel to help us get to the end vision.

Yayo: If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. Even if that means re-do'ing a bunch of stuff and spending hours watching You Tube videos.

I must have made at least 100 Home Depot trips. The badge of honor was that, towards the end, every single time I was at Home Depot a customer would ask me for help. I should have taken a before and after photo of myself!

 

This house looks like such fun. What is the perfect meal to have in this home?

Claire: Tacos! I would make carnitas tacos with fresh salsa verde and mezcal cocktails.
For before dinner: muddled strawberries, lime, chili salt, and mezcal
For after dinner: a mezcal manhattan - sweet vermouth, mezcal, and bitters with a cherry.

Yayo: Mole, tacos and a giant serving of guacamole using the awesome Molcajete we brought back from Oaxaca. To drink, Claire's mezcal manhattan above!

 

Let's talk about the pink exterior for that desert pink moment...

Claire: Our contractor thought I was a complete psycho. "PINK??? REALLY?" Every time I'd go up there. But I couldn't be happier with how it turned out. The color is Rose de Mai by Dunn Edwards and is the exact color the hills turn at sunset.

I believe in taking big swings, and I wanted the patio to feel celebratory, fun, and inspired by Mexico. In Mexico, color and decoration is woven into everything. Having a hot pink house is no big deal. There's a vibrancy and love of color that I admire so much in Mexican design, so being able to articulate that here was incredibly fun. Paired with the patchwork tile wall by concrete collaborative, non-slip tile floors by Fireclay, and my favorite swinging chair by Costa Coast -- it's the part of the house that gets people the most excited to stay there.

Yayo: One of the contractor’s kept saying “I would never do this” to some of the big, bold, choices in the house. And I kept telling him “That’s why this house is awesome, because people don’t want to make big, bold choices.” This is why people love going to Mexico and Morocco, but now you can experience it close to home.

 

What are your favorite spots to visit in the area?

Claire:

Enjoying the property itself can be really fun: Our property is filled with wildlife, so we like sitting in the master window or in the living room while rabbits, road runners, and quails wander past the windows. Take a walk on our property to experience acres of native plants. At night, turn off the house lights, grab a blanket, and star gaze (you can see the Milky Way!).

For a real hike, Sand and Snow Monument is over 100,000 acres of pristine Sonoran desert landscape that is home to 12 endangered species and cultural heritage sites.

Pioneertown, once the backdrop for old westerns, still stands and provides a gorgeous drive through incredible rock formations leading to this quirky, fun location.

Desert Christ Park is filled with odd art installations, and this is one of the best. Joshua Tree National Park is magnificent and the Integratron provides a sound bath and a new perspective.

Frontier Cafe: An organic cafe with excellent BLTs, potato salad, and more health minded food.
C & S: A classic diner with excellent waffles.
Pappy and Harriet’s: An incredible saloon with live music, chili fries, and beer in the heart of Pioneer Town.
La Copine: Delicious farm to table cuisine with an excellent wine list. 8 Star Cafe: Cute Korean cafe with golden fish waffles!
Yucca Kabob: Delicious mediterranean food.
Jelly Doughnut: The best apple fritters and Thai iced tea.
La Palapa: Great Mexican food with delicious salsa. Desierto Alta: A chic little bodega with the best snacks.
Wine and Rock Shop: Our favorite shop in the desert! A wonderful array of wines, gifts, and un expected treats.

Want more design and travel thrills? Explore all our favorite design inspo here. 

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The Right Skincare For Every Stage Of Your Monthly Cycle

We cycle through four distinct hormonal phases each month. With our endocrine systems constantly in flux, it can be difficult to know what our bodies need to get to that elusive state of balance.

We asked LA-based holistic aesthetician, Hayley Wood aka Therapeutic Skin Coach, to talk to us about how to manage skincare when our hormonal cycles are wreaking havoc. From lifestyle adjustments to a few powerful products, here's how to manage skincare through your monthly cycle...

The Follicular Phase

This phase starts on the first day of menstruation. During this phase, the pituitary gland communicates to specific hormones to start producing egg cells in the ovaries again. The follicular phase is often 13 days long and rebuilds energy levels after shedding the uterine lining. For the most part, women don’t seem to experience too much of a fluctuation in their skin during this time unless they are incredibly depleted in certain vitamins and minerals, or have not been experiencing a lot of PMS symptoms caused by excess stress.

This is often the result of excess cortisol, adrenal fatigue and/or even thyroid imbalance if stress isn’t managed daily. The results of these imbalances also have a more lasting effect on the skin, which may be classified as a hormonal imbalance. Typically, the follicular phase is one in which we start to feel better and more energized, so our skin reflects this shift beautifully.

The number one takeaway of this stage is to help the skin feel supported. We can do this by adding vitamin-rich and hydrating ingredients that encourage the skin’s natural ability to regenerate. Over-treating skin with harsh actives (such as AHAs and retinol) could deplete your skin more. In other words, think about feeding your skin instead of stripping it. This is what I recommend...

Sonage High Impact Vitamin C serum | Lightweight water-based Vitamin C Serum harnesses a unique liposomal delivery system to hydrate the skin. The extra boost of citrus-derived Vitamin C reduces the appearance of dark spots and evens skin tone. CHECK OUT

Laurel Whole Plant Organics Antioxidant Serum | This moisturizing and brightening serum features a whole plant blend of gotu kola, comfrey, calendula, nettle, and rosehip oil that stimulate collagen production, reduce sun damage, and encourage healthy cell reproduction. CHECK OUT

Odacite’s Blueberry Jasmine Serum | A treasure trove of antioxidants, blueberry seed oil helps promote free-radical defense as it improves skin tone and texture. Jasmine oil rejuvenates dry and dehydrated skin, promoting a soothed, soft complexion and combat feelings of anxiety. CHECK OUT

The Ovulation Phase

This phase starts once your menstrual and follicular phases are over. This is often the fourteenth day of your cycle. The now mature egg cell is prepared to be released from the ovary to the fallopian tube. Once the pituitary gland communicates this function, the body will secrete the hormone needed for ovulation. This is also the opportunity to conceive or the signal to avoid intercourse. Most standard birth control pills are created to trick the body into skipping this step to prevent pregnancy. At this time the body tends to peak in hormone levels, as well as temperature, which can be associated with breakouts during the next phase of our cycle.

On a skin level, the reason you may experience imbalance is because of actions taken in this stage — eating non-supportive foods, overextending without proper stress management, ignoring the overall body temperature or little-to-no rest/reset time. All of these habits can trigger overcompensation by our skin for detoxification. It will work on one or more of its primary functions as a filter to shed excess waste, a barrier to protect from environmental triggers and regulation of body temperature. The skin will start to feel stressed when working on all of these functions at once.

The ovulation phase is not always when we can physically see an imbalance, but it is the perfect time to set yourself up for skin success. Take preventative action to avoid skin stress. Add a gentle, calming mask to your routine that will balance the primary functions of your skin. This is what I recommend...

Sonage Tulsi Soothing Tri Clay Mask | This calming clay mask extracts toxins and impurities from the skin while delivering minerals to maintain a smooth, fresh complexion. It features three mineral-rich clays with a trifecta of healing Ayurvedic herbs. CHECK OUT

MV Skincare Signature Mineral Mask | Rich in silica, zinc and magnesium, this mask is softening, strengthening and gently exfoliating. CHECK OUT

Sonage Pom Crush Detox Mask | If you tend to become excessively oily and are prone to congestion, give this mask a try. It includes a combination of several gentle but effective fruit enzymes, and is a great way to naturally break down the excess build-up so your skin doesn’t overdo it. CHECK OUT

The Luteal Phase

This phase starts right after ovulation and is typically when many feel the most intense skin shift. Hormone levels peak and immediately drop to help prepare the shedding of the uterine lining if conception didn’t take place. Along with monitoring overall nutrition to make sure the body feels supported during this stage, it is also a time when brain activity can feel sluggish. The need for an afternoon nap may feel exceptionally strong.

Because we don’t live in a culture where our schedules are designed to optimize time and focus per phase of our menstrual cycle, it can feel like we are all overcompensating. We opt for a quick fix to help us stay alert and present. This can mean more caffeine or an increase in stimulating foods. If the body is feeling slow or sluggish, this can mean that our overall system needs more rest.

The best piece of advice I give my clients is to try to get more rest. Otherwise, skin cells may deplete from their overall radiance. Go to bed early. Avoid excess blue light which can trigger hyperpigmentation. If our hormones are not supported (since all of our cells have different circadian rhythms) when we’re pushing ourselves too much, add hydration to your cells. This can help your overall appearance and energy. I recommend these products to rejuvenate tired skin...

Osea Malibu’s Hyaluronic Sea serum | This lightweight, non-greasy moisture boosting serum smoothes wrinkles & fine lines and replenishes dry, thirsty skin. Hyaluronic Acid is considered to be nature's most powerful moisture magnet, as it draws in moisture and delivers intense hydration that plumps skin and gets you glowing. CHECK OUT

Sonage NMF hyaluronic serum | Hydrating hyaluronic acid gel serum works as a "water-reservoir" to protect against dehydration. Plumping and rejuvenating humectant leaves skin smooth and silky. CHECK OUT

De Mamiel Pregnancy Oil | This gentle, hydrating daily cleansing oil purifies the skin from the pollution, toxins, and stress of modern life. This formula infuses its natural protective layer with deep regenerative nourishment and the soothing and fortifying benefits of carefully selected phytonutrients. CHECK OUT

The Menstrual Phase

During menstruation, it’s really valuable to simplify your care and allow your skin to do what it does best: self-heal.

What is most important during all the cycle phases is to make sure you are connecting your whole body. The primary reason we experience skin imbalance directly connects to a blockage in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is essential for eliminating excess dermal waste and stagnant proteins in the skin. If this system is blocked due to stress, tension or a lowered immunity in our body, it will cause build-up or blockages on the skin. This will present in the form of breakouts, wrinkles, inflammation or even hyperpigmentation. Here's what I recommend...

Gua Sha | A good practice of at-home gua sha and overall lymphatic system support (like a rebounder routine and/or dry brushing) will make a big difference for glowing and vibrant skin throughout each phase of your cycle. CHECK OUT

Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator | This spray is rich in aloe, healing herbs and natural astringents like lavender and witch hazel. Using this product indicates to the skin that you trust its functions and gives it the space to reset. CHECK OUT

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Hydrating Cider Popsicles For A Warm Fall Season

A popsicle? In autumn? Hear us out - these simple herbal popsicles will deeply nourish and ground you, helping to fuel you through the seasonal transition. Plus they taste amazing! Like tart, warming cider… frozen.

This clever and functional recipe comes to us from whip-smart clinical herbalist, Lauren Haynes, founder of Wooden Spoon Herbs. Listen as she breaks down each ingredient -- these are worth stocking up on in bulk for pops, tea and all kinds of deeply nourishing herbal recipes...

Nettle | A veritable vault of nutrition, containing vitamins from A to K, protein, and a bevy of minerals from selenium to zinc. It’s great for nourishing the adrenals and promoting energy after a long summer of playtime.

Oatstraw | Super high in calcium and magnesium, oatstraw helps fortify the myelin sheath, which is essentially the insulation around the wires that are our neural networks. It fortifies and helps rebuild the nervous system.

Hibiscus | Packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants, supports cardiovascular and liver health, and is amazing for hydrating the body.

Cinnamon | A warming spice that is full of antioxidants, supports healthy blood sugar levels, and promotes blood circulation. Perfect for chilly fall days.

Autumnal Calming Pops
Makes 12-15 popsicles

¼ cup dried nettle
¼ cup dried oat tops or oatstraw
½ cup dried hibiscus flowers
2” cinnamon stick
¼ - ½ raw wildflower honey
2 droppers of your favorite herbal tincture (optional: my Solar Power Energy is perfect here)

In a quart jar or infused, pour nearly boiling water over your dried herbs. Cover and steep for an hour. Stir in your honey and pour into popsicle molds. Let them freeze for 4+ hours, until frozen solid. To get the popsicles out, run warm water over the mold until they come loose. Enjoy while sitting in the sun!

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Inside My Skincare Routine: Esthetician + Beauty Entrepreneur Tami Blake

Tami Blake of Free + True Skincare is a former ballerina, pursued her MBA as a young mother, and is now the beauty entrepreneur, esthetician and certified formulator behind her own clean skincare brand. While she credits her success and personal strength to her background in ballet, we wanted to know to what she credits that skin. Riffle through the beauty pro's medicine cabinet and daily routine in our beauty series here...

My skincare style: My skincare style is meticulously easy and effective so that I can get on with my day. Whether I’m adopting a skincare fast, reset or full blown at home facial, I know intuitively how and when to change up my routine if needed. This has a lot to do with my experience as an esthetician and a skincare formulator. 

My skin type: Combination skin

Why clean beauty matters to me: 

I see beauty products in the same way I do nutrition. Whole foods and clean supplements nourish, strengthen, and repair the body with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Whole botanical skincare boosted with high tech actives can make a huge difference in skin health. When I formulate skincare, every ingredient serves a purpose for the skin. There are no cheap fillers used to keep costs down -- every ingredient brings value to the skin. As a cosmetics formulator and esthetician, I’ve learned how to analyze formulas to find out where the value is. Quality, pure, and safe ingredients yield superior results. 

Beauty obsession of the moment: A rose quartz gua sha. CBJ Beauty Secrets makes my favorite. 

Favorite health habit for beauty:

Living a well-rounded, holistic lifestyle is key to maintaining a natural glow. Minimizing processed sugar in my diet and drinking my daily superfood latte keeps my energy levels high and my immune system strong. My daily morning meditation keeps my mood balanced and gives me a level of self-awareness to recognize when I am feeling stressed. Lastly, roller skating is my new happy place. It’s something that I do 3-4 times a week and it keeps me glowing (and going) all day long. I believe that when we take care of our mind, body, skin, and spirit, our natural beauty shines through.  

Favorite daily products:

Kari Grain Lip Whip 

Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

Free + True Bright Side Vitamin C Serum

UnSun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen

Enviromedica Terraflora Immune Probiotic 

The Healing Place Apothecary Black Rum Natural Deodorant Balm

Free + True Body Prophet full-body serum

My daily skincare routine:

I love starting off with a gua sha facial massage and an omega-rich face oil. Gua sha promotes healthy lymph flow while tightening and toning the skin. With regular, consistent use, the results can be phenomenal. Then I apply my skincare.

I cleanse with our Marigold Morning Creamy Gel Cleanser, hydrate with a layer of hydrating serum and follow with the new Vitamin C serum, Bright Side. It’s a potent formula that I’m super proud of and provides amazing results by brightening, evening out skin tone, and promoting collagen production! 

Do you use a facialist or dermatologist? 

As an esthetician myself,  I feel like I’m always working on my own skin. My at-home skincare routine of daily gua sha and weekly exfoliation keeps my skin glowing. When I have the time, I see my facialist for a little microcurrent pick-me-up.  

Want more skincare routines? We've got you covered. 

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The Easiest Way To Start A Yoga Practice (For Real This Time)

In honor of National Yoga Month, Yoga Wake Up is offering their best deal yet — 25% off when you subscribe for a year! Plus the first 7 days are FREE. $39.99 (originally $53.99)

Meet the him and her behind Yoga Wake Up, Lizzie and Joaquín Brown. Yoga Wake Up is best known as the "yoga alarm clock" thanks to the app's multitude of in-bed yoga routines designed to remove every obstacle between us and 'yoga every damn day'.

These days, the benefits of yoga are well-known. But, whether it's time, budget or an insistence that yoga is too 'boring', many of us have yet to tap into to one of the most potent forms of mind-body therapy available today.

With more of us learning to workout at home than ever before, we drilled down on all these app founders have to offer for those of us who are looking to get in enough movement, are ready to explore meditation or are wondering how to simply wake up in a better mood...

The App: Yoga Wake Up

The Founders: Lizzie and Joaquín Brown, partners in life!

Can you tell us what Yoga Wake Up is all about in a nutshell?

Yoga Wake Up infuses our days with movement, breath, gratitude, and mindfulness, from the minute we wake up.

We love that your app offers so many in-bed classes! Talk to us about how that idea was born?

Joaquín: Audio-guided “bed yoga” is quite unique to us!

Yogis often say they have their best ideas on the mat so it’s no surprise that the idea for Yoga Wake Up came about in a yoga class! It was my first time in Jen Smith’s Spirit Yoga class. She had the lights low and whispered for everyone to make themselves comfortable with blankets and a bolster, imagining that they 'were still in bed'. She then gently eased the class through poses on the floor until they were brought to standing in tadasana, announcing "good morning".

I wondered, “What would the world be like if we all woke up like this?”  Within days, Yoga Wake Up, the 'yoga alarm clock' was born.

What does an in-bed class on the app usually entail?

Lizzie: Most of our bed yoga sessions begin in bed -- obviously. You’re usually sleeping, so the first 30 seconds start out with soothing music to gently rouse you awake.

Then a certified yogi eases you into gentle poses while still in bed like supine twists or cat cow while dosing you with something positive to enlighten your day and inspire something special.

Sessions are between 5-15 minutes, because we know you’re busy and ready to get going. You can choose sessions that keep you under the covers longer or ones that guide you onto your feet! Everything feels easy and delightful, and a few sessions even get you dancing, but you’ll have to try them to find out which ones.

What are the 3 biggest hindrances to a good yoga routine in your experiences? 

Distraction. We just watched The Social Dilemma on Netflix and it drove home what we already know-- our social media apps are masters at getting our attention. Most yoga classes don’t allow smartphones for a reason -- an at-home practice ought to have similar ground rules.

Yoga Wake Up is accessed from mobile only, so interruption is always a possibility, particularly when no one’s watching or holding you accountable.

+ Consider deleting social media from your phone or turning off related notifications that get between you and your daily yoga practice!

Time. When we’re busy, it is easy to say, “I just don’t have time for my yoga practice.” That’s why we offer so many sessions that are between just 5-20 minutes!

We want this practice to be convenient so that you can always find the time, even if it’s just 10 minutes of meditation in the morning. Its effects are cumulative.

+ Give yourself at least two weeks with the app -- even if just for 15 minutes a day! -- and we bet you will start to notice the mental and physical health benefits of making a daily practice part of your routine.

Access. We’ve all been there; you’re ready to embark on a healthy new habit and you set your goals high! Then life gets in the way.

+ With hundreds of audio-guided sessions at your fingertips, our goal with the Yoga Wake Up app is to make a daily practice more accessible for more people than ever before. Most sessions don’t even require a mat! Just you. And a commitment to connecting to your breath.

What is it that you think finally gets people 'hooked' on a daily yoga routine? Have you found a specific length of time that's needed in order to cement the habit?

We think it comes down to how the practice makes you feel.

Any seasoned yogi can remember how difficult it was to get started. Your hands hurt in downward dog (which is supposed to be a resting pose?!) and you’re not quite comfortable in your body yet. We suggest giving Yoga Wake Up a try for at least a month.

Commit to waking up with us daily for even just 5 minutes (we love Justin’s A Cup of Morning Grace and Niki’s Me-Time Moment). Watch as you start feeling more present and calm in those first minutes of your day.

The first changes you notice may be physical -- less low back tension or less tightness across the chest and shoulders. Once the emotional changes kick in, you’re hooked. Then it becomes all about the yoga you’re doing off the mat, throughout your day in how you treat others, how you show yourself love and how you feel when you show up to your mat everyday.

Did you design Yoga Wake Up with the yoga newbie in mind?

When you first download the app we take you through a series of questions to get to know you, so we can set you up for success with your new yoga routine.

It’s important to feel empowered coming into the app, so we immediately gift two free audio-guided sessions tailored to your needs and preferences, such as beginner or experienced, or in bed yoga versus yoga on your mat.

Most sessions are created with all levels in mind, and since they are audio guided, our teachers are quite skilled in describing how you should feel in each pose, so there’s little room for error.

If you came to us for handstands, well, we’re just not that kind of app - our content is designed to feel like moving meditation. When we record a session, we ask ourselves, “Is this yoga anyone can do?” It’s so important to us that our customers walk off the mat and into their day with a sense of accomplishment.

What are some ways users are engaging with the app that you really love?

We are so personally touched by our reviews and honored to be a part of those first waking minutes; that sacred time from sleep to wakefulness is such an intimate time for us all.

When we began in 2015 we thought we had created a solution to the dreaded alarm clock. These last few years, during the rise of social media and the subsequent increase in depression and anxiety, we’ve been honored to provide a healthier, happier start to the day! Waking up with yoga and meditation, instead of scrolling social media or the news is a complete gamechanger. We couldn’t be more thrilled to provide such a unique alternative.

And for the seasoned yogi? Which classes did you recommend?

Just as a beginner can find sessions tailored to their needs, our seasoned yogis can choose from a robust selection of more active sessions as well.

We recently launched a daily livestream featuring our most popular teachers for 45 minutes. The program was created with a daily yoga practice in mind with the exertion level gradually winding up and then back down throughout the week. These classes offer something more challenging for our seasoned yogis but we hope beginners will try them too. Class “meets” everyday at 8:00 AM (PT) and replays up to 24 hours.

Expect to break a sweat Tuesdays with Vance and Wednesdays with Derek. Then follow those up with Niki’s Thursday class focused on care and repair. Currently, the live programming is only available to YWU Subscribers.

We also have the class that started it all by Jen Smith on Sundays at 10:00 AM (PT) and we offer workshops on select Saturdays.

Which class are you most excited about lately?

New Orleans native Mark Berger is visiting us in Los Angeles this week and recording an exclusive 7-part Storytelling Bedtime Series on the deities such as Krishna, Ganesha and Shiva. We have no doubt they will be pure MAGIC!

Can you share some great tips or favorite equipment for those full-on classes at home?

I swear by my TriggerPoint GRID foam roller and keep it nearby for some extra TLC post-class when I am already feeling warm and open.

We’re also firm believers in yoga props and Manduka is our preferred choice for quality and cost. Beginners will want to have two blocks, a strap and a bolster nearby but a hand towel or a stack of books can make suitable at-home substitutions!

Yoga Wake Up is offering its best deal yet— 25% off when you subscribe for a year!
Plus the first 7 days are FREE. $39.99 (instead of $53.99)

This story is brought to you in partnership with Yoga Wake Up. From time to time, TCM editors choose to partner with brands we believe in to bring our readers special offers.

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10 Lifestyle Changes That Could Reduce Your Cancer Risk By 50%

There may be a lot we don't yet know about cancer prevention and healing, however, you may not realize that there are quite a few things we do know about cancer and key risk factors we can alter right away.

Dr. Lorenzo Cohen and Alison Jefferies, M Ed. are the creators of the Anticancer Lifestyle Program, an online course informed by years of research and work with patients and top physicians at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Cohen is  Director of Integrative Medicine at MD Anderson and Jeffries is the author of Anticancer Living: Transform Your Life and Health with the Mix of Six.

We asked Cohen and Jefferies to share core tips from their learning and they've shared this list of ten questions on factors that could decrease your cancer risk by more than fifty percent, as well as improve your odds of surviving and thriving after a cancer diagnosis...

It is now clear that how we live in our bodies, in our communities and the broader world — how we eat, sleep, work and play, manage stress and face life’s challenges, create our support networks and make choices about our environments — has a profound effect on our health and wellness; and on cancer in particular.

A healthy lifestyle along with continued attention to positive behavior changes decreases cancer risk, supports cancer treatments, and generally helps you feel better.

7 Cancer Risks To Consider Addressing Now

01. Am I at a healthy weight? Overweight and obesity are associated with increased risk of 13 different types of cancer and accounts for 40 percent of all cancers diagnosed in the United States. Obesity is linked to increased mortality risk from the most common forms of cancer in men (prostate, kidney, colorectal, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and liver)
and women (colorectal, ovary, breast, cervical, kidney, endometrial.

02. Do I smoke or use nicotine or tobacco products? Tobacco is responsible for about
30 percent of all cancer deaths worldwide (though death rates from tobacco- related cancers in the United States have dropped significantly in recent years; tobacco-related deaths continue to rise in the developing world).

03. How much do I drink? Alcohol is listed by the National Toxicology Program as a known human carcinogen. The more someone drinks, the higher their risk of developing certain types of cancers including head and neck, esophageal, liver, breast, and colorectal. In 2009, an estimated 3.5 percent of cancer deaths in the United States were alcohol related.

04. Do I exercise daily? Exercise regularly – at least 30 minutes a day, 5-6 days a week, and children need at least 1 hour a day.

05. Do I limit my sitting time each day? Limit sedentary behavior, as the harms of sedentary behavior and lack of exercise are equivalent to the health risks of smoking or obesity. 

06. Do I treat food as medicine? Eat a primarily whole-foods, variety-filled, high fiber, plant-based diet. Limit foods you know are not nutritious powerhouses (sweets and salty snacks), limit red meat, avoid processed meats, and maintain a balanced glycemic load.

Research confirms this approach will improve health and decrease risk of most non-communicable diseases while improving outcomes for those with cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

07. Do I use nontoxic products in my home and on my body? Limit your exposure to environmental toxins, especially endocrine (hormone) disruptors such as bisphenol A (BPA) and parabens. Hormone disruptors have been implicated in obesity, risk of cancer, and other illnesses.

Other chemicals we are exposed to on a daily basis have also been classified as carcinogens (Styrofoam, formaldehyde, and tricolsan to name a few).

08. Do I have a solid love and support network? Seek to foster, surround yourself with, and deliver love and support. Having the right support will allow success in changing difficult lifestyle habits.

Giving and receiving support also provides broad benefits, and can specifically affect how our cells function and express the genes that control our health.

09. Do I manage my stress on a daily basis? Engage in a stress management activity like meditation or yoga on a daily basis - in the morning, before bed, or when you need a “breather” in the middle of a busy day. This aspect of the prescription is critical, as chronic stress has not only been found to sabotage all good healthy intentions, but can negatively affect most biological processes, decreases the beneficial effects of healthy foods, and literally speeds the aging process. 

10. Do I get enough restful sleep each night? Try to get between 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night to improve your health, coping, mood, weight control, cognitive function, and more.  Children and teenagers need more than 8 hours of sleep a night.  More details are available at the National Sleep Foundation.

Set yourself up for success by engaging in some preparation. We recommend starting with love and support and then ensuring that you are managing your stress, as stress can sabotage your efforts to improve your sleep, diet, and physical activity habits.

Remember, in order to foster our own wellness we must be mindful about every choice we make as we engage in daily life.

Now that you know the pillars of anticancer living, consider the synergy of all areas and encourage others to join you. Although you may stray off the path from time to time, it is still right there beside you. Know it is not a straight line, but a winding road paved for your unique journey.

The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs.

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Wellness Disruptor Max Dresse On Launching A Brand During A Global Pandemic

We see untold numbers of new brand launches here at TCM. We can usually sniff out those who have "bottled magic" from that very first unboxing or glossy pitch email. Bellway is one of those brands, thanks to first-time founder, Max Dresse who has left a glittering trail of innovation in his wake with well-known brands like ALOHA and HelloFresh.

Two glaring facts inspired Dresse to launch Bellway at the top of 2020. First was the finding that over 95% of Americans don't get enough daily fiber. Second, was a review of the fiber products currently available,  most of which you'd find only in your grandmother's medicine cabinet.

We were immediately impressed when we received Bellway's product line, a simple and fitting solution that brought the chronic fiber deficiency issue to light and served up a delicious solution: great tasting powders in countertop worthy packaging.

And then, March 2020 hit. And what no one could have anticipated happened: the entire American population stayed home, over-snacked, under-exercised and watched the Tiger King. People needed a fiber supplement to course-correct their health like never before.

Bellway saw an unprecedented 314% month over month increase, selling out of top products, and scrambling to import organic psyllium husk from India during trade embargoes and tariffs.

In March, the brand closed their first seed round of $2M, all while re-organizing their team from the Rockefeller Center WeWork to homes across the country.

We invited Max to share all he's learned, from his career in wellness to his rapid fire experience with Bellway this year, in our series, What I've Learned So Far. Here's Dresse...

What I've Learned So Far: Bellway's Max Dresse

What I’ve learned about myself…

I’m a millennial -- FOMO (“fear of missing out”) is part of my DNA. Before the pandemic, I was constantly striving to experience new things while still starting Bellway.

A lockdown during a global pandemic is a FOMO nightmare. I was worried I’d struggle not being able to be out and about. But I experienced a whole new side of myself, being able to calm down and hyper-focus on my business. For me, that was a whole new aspect of mental health.

What I’ve learned about business...

Starting a business is a rollercoaster. You think you’ve prepared yourself all these years, but you’re constantly thrown into situations that nobody taught you about. For example, how do you launch a brand during a global pandemic?

What I’ve learned is to move fast and keep testing, testing, testing. When you see promising results in one test, go deeper and keep testing. At the same time, don’t over-test and make sure you scale on time.

What I’ve learned about people...

I thought that in starting Bellway we’d have to be very careful how we approach this taboo topic of pooping. I thought people would not be ready to talk about it and we’d have to go very general with language like “being regular”. But data showed that times have changed. People want to be real, and don’t have time for any b*shit. Literally! The more directly we talk about these problems, the better. Because in the end, don’t we all go to the bathroom?

What I've learned about this industry...

The vast majority of this country doesn’t realize that they don’t get enough fiber, but fiber can be integral to disease prevention (studies link a lack of fiber with some cancers, heart disease, high cholesterol, obesity and more).

Studies show that 95% of us don’t get enough fiber daily. Eating a salad a day is not enough -- the average salad only has 3g of fiber, while we need 30g a day. We would have to eat 10 salads a day to get to our daily recommended fiber.

There’s a lot of education that needs to happen, in order to start this fiber 'movement' and convince the remaining 312 million Americans to get 30g of fiber a day. That’s why we started Bellway - it’s never been easier to get your fiber!

What I’ve learned about wellness...

Different areas of this country still have very different ideas about what tastes good and what’s healthy. But it’s great to see that across the board people are looking for healthier options, less sugar and no chemicals. While it might not be mainstream everywhere, it's clear these better-for-you products will win long-term.

What I’ve learned about self-care...

There are so many ways to take care of yourself. What I’ve learned on this Bellway journey is that gut health is essential to mental health. In reading the emerging scientific studies coming out, I can see what we're learning about the gut-brain connection in my own experience. If my gut health is off it can send the wrong signals to my brain and I might have a bad day. I'm beginning to recognize those patterns in my own lifestyle and to think of gut health as self care -- it can be so simple!

What I've learned about adaptability and resilience during 2020...

2020 has been a year like no other. We’ve seen the global economy shifting, industries on pause, and longstanding businesses shutting down.

Here in New York City we were in one of the epicenters of the health crisis, and just a few days prior to the markets plummeting I had raised my seed round of $2M, which meant giving investors my word I would create value for them in this company.

Having worked at start-ups before, I’m used to taking on great feats, and pivoting on a dime, but it was surreal feeling the entire world do it at the same time. 

I hope we’ll come out of this year tackling all sorts of issues that we’ve neglected for too long, such as climate change or even the state of our own health. While this year I’m definitely grateful for what we have, it shows that just gratitude is not enough: we have to keep working to not only keep things the way they are, but make them better. 

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