Here’s looking at you 2017 🎉 We ready #bestswimwear #quay...

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The Benefits of Taking Curcumin Daily + How To Make Golden Milk

Turmeric is like Beyonce; it's hard to imagine something it can't do. We're learning more about what makes this healing spice such a superfood by breaking down a key component - curcumin. Holistic wellness coach, Nicole Granato, is telling us all about it, and sharing an easy tonic recipe so we can easily reap the benefits of taking curcumin daily...

What You Should Know: The health benefits of curcumin are pretty close to magic. Curcumin in the main substance in turmeric and is known to be one of nature’s best anti inflammatory additions to any diet. Inflammation can be extremely harmful when it is chronic and long term. There was a study recently out concluding that chronic inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic disease. Curcumin is strongly anti inflammatory and is so powerful it matches the effectiveness of some anti inflammatory drugs! While this is not a drug it is a bioactive substance that fights inflammation on a molecular level.

Why You Should Try It: While curcumin can be a relief for many disorders and skin issues it is highly effective as a preventative to disease and infection. Using this superfood as a preventative is just as effective as using it for a cure. Some of the top benefits of taking curcumin daily include: more restful sleep, clear skin, relief of muscle pain, improved hair growth, improved digestion, increased energy, improved memory, cleansing to the digestive system, fights years and bacteria, prevents yeast infections and UTI, helps clear symptoms of PCOS, improves fertility, calms the nervous system.

Let's Get Together: There are many ways you can take curcumin. I suggest taking a teaspoon in a drink or tea daily or by capsules! While you can ingest it through food making a commitment to it daily through a simple ritual is always the most beneficial. Below is a simple curcumin tonic recipe I love...

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Shaved Zucchini Salad With Caviar + Lemon

Green juice might be a new year's day staple, but New Year's Eve is all about caviar and champagne. We recently attended a gorgeous gathering here in the Hollywood Hills for ROE Caviar, where the foodie masterminds of Heirloom LA created a menu dedicated to the surprisingly nutrient-dense delicacy.

The menu included all things caviar from classic roasted fingerling potatoes to uni tacos, but we thought this shaved zucchini salad seemed especially Chalkboardy for New Year's Eve.

Pop champagne and keep this super delicious and luxe veggie dish in mind...

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This Veggie Breakfast Bake Will Turn You Into A Morning Person

when your blender needs a little "me" time, this breakfast bake from healthy blogger and Our Body Book contributor, Taesha Butler, hits all the tenets of a perfect morning meal: clean, convenient and exploding with fresh veggie goodness. Whip it up in a flash the night before, and start the next day powered by protein and nourished by plants. Our bellies smile at the thought alone...

If you eat a filling and nourishing breakfast, your body will have all the fuel it needs to keep you grounded, sane and plugging along until it’s time for a healthy nourishing lunch. Sounds like a great idea, but many of us don’t have the time 7 days a week to leisurely make a hearty breakfast.

This "rise and shine" breakfast bake is my answer to the issue of what to eat for breakfast when I need something with a little more oomph than a smoothie. It’s loaded with colorful veggies, lovely starchy sweet potatoes and protein-rich eggs. Add a little turmeric for a dose of anti-inflammatory goodness and pop this one-dish-wonder into the oven.

I love to bake it as part of my weekly meal prep process so I can reheat it in a flash during the week; or I’ll make it for Sunday brunch and enjoy the leftovers for days after. It’s really the perfect make-head breakfast to help you and your family start everyday on the right, nourished foot.

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The Toxic Truth Every Beauty Lover Should Know

We talk a lot about natural beauty products and toxic ingredients - and it's no cute hobby. Unfortunately, just because an ingredient is allowed in the products we use everyday doesn't necessarily mean that they are safe (see one example here). As consumers, we've got to be our own advocates and do a little bit of our own homework - we'll keep trying to help you out there!

The good news is that natural products are having a real moment these days and the options for stylish and safe beauty are better than ever!

If you're still on the fence about how much all this natural beauty mumbo jumbo really matters, we thought this recent study was quite compelling. Check it out..

In a recent collaborative study between UC Berkeley, Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas, and a team of youth researchers, one hundred teen girls swapped their conventional beauty products for products free of chemicals like phthalates, parabens, triclosan and oxybenzone.

According to the study, after just three days urine samples showed a dramatic change in all of the women's toxic loads, including a decrease of 27 percent in phthalate, commonly used in fragrances, a 45 percent decrease in parabens, used as preservatives in cosmetics, and a 36 percent decrease in triclosan, found in antibacterial soaps and some brands of toothpaste, and benzophenone-3 (BP-3), found in some sunscreens under the name oxybenzone.

Find the results of this study as creepy and compelling as we do? Here's how to protect yourself and make smarter choices in the products you use every day:

Scratch that| Learn more about common, but potentially toxic beauty ingredients here: The Dirty Dozen - 12 Ingredients To Avoid

Find new faves| Find great natural beauty products to swap in: Check out all of our natural beauty coverage and reviews

rate your products| Search your current favorite products and find out how they rate: See the EWG beauty database

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5 Realistic Resolutions For A Non-Toxic New Year

Whether you're into the idea of New Year's resolutions or not, a new year always seems to help us reevaluate our daily habits. The ladies of MADE SAFE are helping us take a closer look at a few potentially toxic habits we may take for granted and sharing easy ways we can lighten our toxic load. These non-toxic resolutions are worth committing to...

We’ve all been there: making sweeping New Years resolutions we don’t have a chance of keeping, always with good intentions but not always with attainable goals. This year, make a resolution you can keep — and keep it simple. When it comes to detoxing our bodies, avoiding harmful chemicals is powerful. Even the smallest steps can make a difference. Need proof? Check out this study on girls who switched cosmetics for three days and showed a significant drop in hormone-disrupting chemicals in their bodies. Or this study on how people who stopped eating canned food and food packaged in plastic for a few days showed a 60% drop of the hormone disruptor BPA in their blood.

Below are five easy resolutions to choose from that can make a difference for your health. Happy detoxing!

Green Your Cleaning

Conventional cleaning products can contain some very strong chemicals – including harmful ones. Common chemicals in cleaners have been linked to a range of human health harm, including reproductive problems like fertility issues and birth defects, hormone disruption, breast cancer, allergies and asthma and other respiratory problems.

To clean a little better for your health, look for products with all ingredients listed on the label and look for the MADE SAFE seal. We really like Meliora products because we know they’re made from clean ingredients. Try to use a single multi-purpose cleaner where possible. Cleaning product companies have convinced us that we need a different product for every surface, but usually a multi-purpose cleaner is all you need for general cleaning – and it reduces your exposure to the myriad chemicals in all the rest of those cleaners you’d otherwise be using. You can even try mixing your own solutions with plain old vinegar, lemon and baking soda.

Grow living things

According to the World Health Organization 17% of lung cancers are linked to indoor air pollution. Not outdoor — indoor. In addition, studies show that toxic chemicals like phthalates and flame retardants settle in house dust. However, house plants are renowned for adding a breath of fresh air (so to speak) to mitigate toxins in our homes, there are seven plants identified by NASA as effective for purifying indoor air.

Detox Your Hair Color

Hair dye is one of the most notoriously toxic products on the market and can contain harmful chemicals like toluene (linked to liver damage, kidney damage, birth defects and pregnancy loss), resorcinol (linked to organ system toxicity and hormone disruption), p-phenylenediamine (linked to skin sensitization and cancer) and lead acetate (linked to neurotoxicity).

Instead, check out the revolution that is Hairprint. Rather than a hair dye, Hairprint restores grey hair to its natural color. Yes, you read that right. And not only does it restore natural color, it restores the natural texture of hair. And it does all this with green chemistry, which uses benign nontoxic molecules to achieve better results than synthetic chemicals.

For those of you who don’t dye, try Hairprint’s chelating wash to cleanse your scalp from years of chemical buildup and hard water deposits so you can start with a nontoxic shampoo or no-poo routine all year long.

Go Fragrance-Light

Let’s be honest: Going fragrance-free in this day and age is impossible, with air fresheners in public bathrooms, signature scents in hotel rooms and fragranced everything, from toilet paper to markers to cosmetics. And this is something of a problem, because fragrance can contain some harmful chemicals like phthalates, synthetic musks and even styrene, a known carcinogen.

The good news is that you can control fragrance in your home and personal-care products. Ditch air fresheners, look for fragrance with essential oils and shop for products like those from Alaffia, S.W. Basics, True Botanicals, Annmarie Skin Care and Kosmatology.

Reduce Plastics

This one’s kind of like fragrance — it’s nearly impossible to avoid plastic in our everyday lives. But studies show that plastic is loaded with toxic chemicals. In fact, some studies suggest that almost all plastics have estrogenic activity and therefore could leech endocrine disrupting chemicals, whether it’s labeled “BPA-free” or not.

Opt for stainless steel bottles, like the ones from Pura Stainless that can work for the whole family, from babies to kids to adults. Also opt for food products stored in glass over plastic and store leftovers at home in glass or ceramic containers as well. Remember to never ever heat food in plastic containers or pouches.

And with that you’re already off to a healthier new year. Without hours of fasting, this is the easiest detox ever, right?

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Would You or Wouldn’t You: Underwater Spin Bikes For All

You’ve flowed through multi-sensory yoga. You’ve jump roped your way out of jet lag. If you’re like us, you probably think you’ve tried every fitness fix under the sun.  And you may have heard about studios in NYC that are offering in-pool spin classes, but would you try aqua-cycling yourself? 

AQUA Studio is a boutique fitness studio that promises to be unlike any spin class you’ve ever taken in your life. Founded by Paris native Esther Gauthier, the European-inspired studio’s classes – “AQUA cycling” - focus on lymphatic drainage and improved circulation along with the kind of calorie burn and cardio benefits you’d expect out of a cycling class. Their secret weapon is a pool filled with 85-degree salt water and – yes – a swarm of spin bikes.

Here’s the deal: the bikes are fully submerged in four feet of heated salt water, which means that the bottom half of you is, too. Upon first glance, these look like bare-bones bikes. But wait – where’s the resistance knob? And where’s the flywheel? Nope, no way to “tap it up” in this class. You choose a resistance level, then for 45 minutes, you pedal against the resistance of the water. According to AQUA, this helps you lengthen and tone your legs in a super low-impact but high-intensity way.

We have to admit, the idea of pulling out our swimsuit in the middle of December sounded less than appealing (don’t worry, workout shorts and a sports bra will work just fine), but AQUA was a welcome change from our usual fitness routine. Besides being unique, it somehow felt way more chic than the workouts we’re used to (gotta love that French flair!). Plus, if you’re anything like us, staying bundled up 24/7 during the winter months can get you out of touch with your body and the way it looks and feels. There’s something about baring it all and literally diving in with a group of like-minded women (classes are gender-specific) that makes “AQUA cycling” an unexpectedly body-positive, fem-powered fitness experience.

What do you think, readers – would you or wouldn’t you take your spin class for a swim? Is this the most unique fitness experience you’ve heard of, or have you taken an out-of-the-ordinary class lately that we’ve got to know about? Tell us in the comments…

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New Year’s Resolution #1: Smile More 💋 A miracle in a...

New Year’s Resolution #1: Smile More 💋 A miracle in a can.. or tube. Buy the cult favorite on our website #bestswimwear #shoplinkinbio http://ift.tt/2ij9ffN

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The Reset Button Smoothie We All Need Before 2017

pause, blend, sip, repeat. This clean, creamy smoothie recipe from registered dietitian and blogger babe McKel Hill of Nutrition Stripped is a perfect way to get our head back in the game after a whirlwind holiday season. It's made with brazil nuts and almond butter for protein, maca for balance and has a luxurious texture that reminds us nutrition is about total nourishment - enjoyment included.

The smoothie is part of McKel's upcoming 21 day reset program, designed to elevate and reset heath on a holistic level. Her program which launches just after the new year comes with an e-book, recipes, goal setting resources and educational tools, to help reclaim wellness as a complete picture. Try it out for a structured but non-strict way to get back to balance, or just grab this smoothie recipe for a taste.

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5 Self-Care Beauty Rituals To Recover From The Holidays

Nestled in the wild heart of NYC is a green beauty oasis known as CAP Beauty - basically a candy store for natural beauty obsessees who know the glow starts from the inside out. The ladies of CAP have never disappointed us with their glowifying recommendations, and the list below follows suit: From cleansing powders to soothing soaks, we're sharing top picks for products that help us re-boot after the holidays, and keep us feeling our best well into the new year.

The holidays are filled with all the things we love: parties, gifts, delicious food, family and friends. But post-holiday can sometimes leave us feeling a little less than fantastic if some of our healthier habits have dropped off. Read on to find out some of our favorite (and most delicious) ways to get back into the game of health for a happy and healthy 2017!

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The Ultimate One Day Wellness Reboot

there's no shame in indulging over the holidays and letting life be lived! However, if - like many of us - the post-holiday whirl has you feeling out of balance there are a few simple tools you can use to get back in a good groove. Holistic nutritionist, Kristin Dahl, is sharing this one-day wellness recovery guide, for both mind and body - basically a self-loving, body-nourishing command+Z to get us back on track as smoothly as possible...

It’s that time of year when we begin to become conscious of our overindulgences and reflect on intentions we set a year ago at this time. Planning a cleanse and kicking your wellness into high gear is easy, but how can we create sustainable wellness that will last all year long?

Taking a day to “reset” our body allows us to tune into the areas of our that life need support. This simple act of tuning-in creates a stronger mind-body connection that often inspires the implementation of more wellness-centered practices into our everyday life.

The following guide is the perfect jumpstart to your wellness regime, and it’s something to come back to whenever you’re feeling like you need to reclaim balance and reboot your routine.

MORNING

*The morning is a very important time to set the tone for how you want your day to go. Create a daily routine that supports you and your lifestyle; make adjustments whenever you need.

Tech Break: Allow yourself an hour to ease into the day and ground yourself before offering all of your energy to your phone. Give your life space away from technology so that you have more of yourself to offer and, in turn, more to offer to the world. I find it’s helpful to shutdown several hours before bed and take full days or weekends away from technology!

Upon Waking: Drink warm lemon water. Mix 8 ounces of warm water with ½ a lemon squeezed in + 8 more ounces of room temperature water. Not only will this help to hydrate your body but lemons are also loaded with vitamin C, which is needed to alkalize the body, rebuild tissues and cleanse internal organs. Focusing on hydration first also stimulates the bowels and supports digestion throughout the day. For proper hydration, shoot for half your body weight in ounces daily. If you can bear it, skip the morning joe and substitute green or tulsi tea – or stick to just one cup of coffee with a tablespoon of MCT oil. Sipping on nettle, burdock or dandelion tea helps support elimination and liver detoxification. Ginger tea with lemon is another great option!

Meditate: Set yourself up for success and quiet your mind with a ten-minute meditation upon waking. If you're not sure how to begin or your mind is as rapid fire as mine, try guided meditations. Beginning your day this way helps to connect the mind and body and reduces anxiety, stress and overwhelm throughout the day. Most people report benefits from meditating as little as three minutes. Do this anytime you have a few extra minutes and especially when you are faced with challenges. The pause creates a space for less reaction and more grace when faced with stress or adversity.

Eat: Have breakfast within 30 minutes of waking, unless you head straight out to exercise. This will help to regulate your blood sugar throughout the day. Start the day with a combination of healthy fats and protein to give your body sustainable energy throughout the day. One of my favorite on-the-go breakfasts is a blueberry smoothie with almond milk, 2 scoops of protein powder and MCT oil. It’s quick, easy and delicious.

* Remember that digestion begins in the mouth: chew, chew, chew! Taking deep breaths before, during and after meals and putting your fork down every few bites helps to keep you present. This way you will avoid overeating and stay connected to how much your body really needs.

Move: If possible, head straight out to workout after your meditation (this makes for zero excuses to fit in exercise!). Otherwise, have breakfast and get moving. Moving your body early in the day ensures that you will never miss a workout. This also gets your blood flowing, skin glowing and provides your body with extra energy to face a multitude of tasks throughout the day.

*Drink away from meals: It’s best to drink water 15 minutes before you eat and 30 minutes to one hour after you eat. Drinking during meals dilutes digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid, slowing down the digestive process. Drinking away from meals helps to reduce excess gas and bloating.

MID-MORNING

Enjoy a large glass of water and a handful of raw unsalted almonds. Almonds will help curb any cravings with a small dose of protein.

MIDDAY

Eat: Avoid the afternoon slump by eating a medium sized lunch. Load up on a variety of colors, especially dark leafy greens and some protein and healthy fats to keep you energized and keep your metabolism fueled. A soup and salad combo is the perfect option, topped with some type of plant or animal protein.

Move: Go for a light 10-20 minute walk outside after lunch.

MID-AFTERNOON

Snack: If you’re hungry, slice some vegetables, like carrots or celery, and dip in some hummus.

Sip: Drink a large glass of water!

Meditate: Break for five minutes to mediate or practice some deep breathing. This will help keep you centered, connected to your body and mindful about your choices.

EVENING

Eat: Keep it simple while focusing on whole-food, plant-based ingredients. Create a complete protein meal by combining lentils and grains for dinner or have a variety of leafy green veggies topped with animal or plant proteins. Add a variety of herbs to enhance nutrition and mineral content.

*Aim to eat 2-3 hours before bedtime. That way, you’ll stay in alignment with the natural rhythm of your body. Late evening is for resting and digesting.

Move: Go for a light 10-20 minute walk 30 minutes post-meal. This will help to support the digestive process.

Wind down: Create a bedtime routine for yourself - nothing stimulating at least one hour before bed. Turn off all screens, read, listen to a book on tape, meditate, stretch and practice deep breathing.

Bathe: Pre-bath, spend 5-10 minutes massaging yourself from head to toe with oils. Then hop into a detox bath. Fill your bathtub with hot water, add in 2 cups of Epsom salt and a few drops of essential oils. During the colder months, I love hopping in a spicy mustard bath! This will help to promote sweating, stimulate the lymph system and move toxins out of your body. Lavender is the perfect essential oil to calm the mind and prepare the body for restorative sleep.

Sip: Have a cup of chamomile tea, which soothes and relaxes the central nervous system. Peppermint tea and fennel tea also help to relieve excess gas and bloating.

Create a gratitude practice: End your day by writing down or sharing at least five things you are grateful for. Expressing gratitude helps remind us of the incredible abundance and opportunity available to us in our lives. Creating a gratitude journal or jar to reflect on when times get tough can be a beautiful and supportive way to reconnect to what matters most.

Sleep: The body regenerates itself at night. Shoot for eight hours: 10 p.m. - 6 a.m. or 11 p.m. - 7 a.m. is best!! We get the most beneficial hormonal secretions and recovery by sleeping between the hours of 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Getting on a regular schedule will help regulate your circadian rhythms. This will give your adrenals a chance to regenerate and offer you lasting energy throughout the day. When we don’t get enough sleep, it stresses our hormones and creates imbalance in the body. It also increases the hunger hormone, ghrelin, and causes cravings for carbohydrates and sugar.

* Sleep is the secret ingredient for feeling and looking your very best every day!

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 program.

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NYC Bite of the Month: Fermented Lentil Pancakes at Pondicheri

Our ongoing obsession with smoothies, toasts and breakfast bowls has often swayed us away from more exotic AM offerings, but one look at this modern Indian breakfast spread from Pondicheri Cafe in NYC has us thinking twice. Kat Odell went to check out their superfood menu - complete with fermented lentil pancakes and so many power-packed spices we're not sure we can ever look at breakfast the same way again...

What I ate: Pondicheri’s (gluten-free) beet uttapam Indian breakfast: a tray containing a beet-stained fermented-rice and lentil pancake, with coconut sesame masala and a fried egg; alongside coconut salad, potato cake, turmeric soup and cilantro chutney.

Why I ate it: Because breakfast is one of my favorite meals of the day, and I am always looking for non-American ways to mix it up. Houston, Texas export Pondicheri’s menu is rife with exotic embellishments like a saffron raita, carrot paratha and cardamom pancakes — a super fun and flavorful way to mix up your usual a.m. refuel.

Why You need it: Traditional Indian cuisine reinvented with an almost California-esque spin. Dishes here are often gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian without even trying, making Pondicheri an ideal spot for pretty much any group of friends, especially those with restricted diets.

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Let Go The Latkes: Mikaela Reuben’s Almond Sweet Potato Fritters

To latke or not to latke? That's never the question. These sweet potato fritters from private chef and nutrition expert, Mikaela Reuben, are the perfect healthy sub-in for that deep-fried Hanukkah tradition. Even if you're not celebrating, these little bundles of plant-based deliciousness make for a quick and clean appetizer, snack or side that satisfies on all levels.

Want more Mikaela? (How could you not?) After whipping up a batch of sweet potato fritters, explore a few other amazing veggie'd recipes from her here.

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How Giada De Laurentiis Stays Balanced + Stress-Free

We're all about those cozy kitchen vibes these days and this month, our Guest Editor, Giada De Laurentiis is queen of the domaine. (Dig into her notes on Martha Stewart and parmesan pasta here.)

Giada's picture-perfect recipes are inspo enough for this food-focused season. What we love even more is how she keeps her busy life in balance with healthy habits we recognize from our own daily routines: From a daily yoga and deep breathing practice to a dark chocolate habit we 1,000% relate to, we're chatting with Giada about how she stays cool in the heat of the kitchen - on set and off.

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One Veggie, Four Ways: Carrot Top Pesto From Botanica

Food doesn't have to be complicated to be great, and food makers don't have to follow rules to kill the game. That's the philosophy behind the new Botanica restaurant, market and magazine launching early in the new year. Heather Sperling and Emily Fiffer, are proving with their new Silverlake digs that when it comes to healthy eating, color, flavor and good feels can still take priority - and if their recipes prove anything, it's that they've got that formula right.

Below, they're sharing four carrot recipes that'll fancy up this humble veggie, including a pesto that recycles those carrot tops you may not have considered before...

Moroccan Carrot Salad: Hands down, this is one of the best dinner party dishes in our arsenal. It comes together in a snap and can be easily adapted if you don’t have everything on hand. As Stefon would say, this salad has everything: color, crunch and chew; tart, sweet and saline. It’s light enough to serve as an appetizer and stands on its own as a main. Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend that takes a variety of forms depending on its origins. Most of the time it includes a combination of black pepper, coriander, cumin and a mishmash of warming spices (cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice). If you have a full spice drawer, it’s worth making yourself a batch. In a pinch? We’ve got suggestions for substitutions below.

Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts and Chermoula: The thing about carrots is that the possibilities are endless when it comes to creative combinations. This dead-simple recipe comes together quickly and is excellent for entertaining (you can easily scale it up or down). Bonus points for being pretty as can be on a plate. Chermoula is an herbacious green sauce with African roots (Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria) and a weird and wild flavor profile. It adds spice, brightness and depth to roasted veg, fish and meat, and does especially wonderful things to carrots, whose sweetness is only enhanced by chermoula’s complexity. This dish is flexible and bends to your needs: Serve it as is to kick off your meal, or nestle the carrots in a bed of hearty, lemony grains for a vegan main event.

Spiced Tomato, Coconut and Carrot Soup with Lemon-Cilantro OiL:There are few better feelings than opening your fridge after a long day, ravenous, only to remember, “Hell yes! I have soup!” This one in particular screams comfort. Part-Indian, part-Middle Eastern, 100% healthful, it comes together in just about 30 minutes. Best of all, it takes serious advantage of your pantry. Do like we do and make a giant vat for the week. We promise you won’t be sorry. Though it’s delicious on its own, the cilantro-lemon oil is what takes this soup over the top — we highly recommend it. Have leftover cilantro-lemon oil on hand? Don’t let it go to waste: Drizzle on roasted vegetables, fried eggs or fish; thin with olive oil and boom! It’s vinaigrette; stir through yogurt for a delicious dip; or toss with cooked grains for an added layer of flavor.

Carrot Top Pesto: This pesto bucks tradition in every way. It’s free of cheese and pine nuts, with nary a basil leaf in sight. And yet: It’s still pesto, and it’s undeniably delicious. The best part? Carrot tops don’t cost a thing (simply ask a farmer at your market and they’ll oblige) and are sustainable (they ordinarily get chucked). The serving possibilities are endless — just add more or less olive oil, depending on what result you’re going for. Thinner, more drizzly versions are great for tossing with zucchini noodles; thicker iterations can serve as a dip or tartine spread. Note: The quality of your nuts really matters here. Get the best you can find — you want them to shine! [olists num=1][olists num=2][olists num=3][olists num=4]

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20 Edible Projects For Lazy Winter Days

There's no time for DIY like these cozy, cool months. But we don't actually want to clutter our lives with questionable Pinterest projects. Instead, we're getting crafty in the kitchen with the food projects below, as fun to make as they are to munch on.

A few of the ideas here are actually practical for everyday life - think homemade kombucha and hemp milk to show that grocery bill who's boss. Others will add a special touch to a night in with friends, like floral-infused cocktail syrups and superfood chocolates to accompany. The rest of these food projects, from tigernut bread to naturally rainbow-ified pasta, are simply entertaining to attempt, and rewarding no matter how the end result looks (can't say the same for that spray-painted thing).

Next time you find yourself homebound and bored, pluck some inspo from our list of food projects below, and let us know what you're making!

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The Gross Reason We May Never Eat Shrimp Again

During the holidays, we're about moderation, not avoidance. But one creepy email headline later and we we may be avoiding this classic holiday party staple for good.

Shrimp - as in cocktails, skewers and every other festive favorite - is on functional medicine master, Dr. Josh Axe's short, but clear "never list".

We recently read his illuminating - and disgusting - article all about shrimp and how it is prepared and quickly shared it around the office to everyone's dismay. According to Dr. Axe, shrimp, the most commonly consumed seafood in the United states, can be linked to neurological damage, infection, allergies and illness.

Here are a few of the gross article's horrifying highlights: The FDA only inspects about 2% of imported seafood, and 90% of the shrimp we have in the US is imported. Many shrimp farms are run under such poor conditions that farmers are required to flood their product with antibiotics and pesticides - though shrimp can develop resistance to these and still become contaminated with life-threatening illnesses like E. coli. The anti-fungal chemical used on shrimp eggs is connected to disease as well.

What do think? Are these facts about shrimp nutrition and farming something to take seriously? Read though Dr. Axe's article and let us know in the comments below!

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 program. 

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Eat Your Colors: A Festive Way to Feel Better During The Holidays

We've been Dishing out holiday gifts all season long, now it's time to treat our bodies with the same spirited generosity. Dr. Lisa Davis of Pressed Juicery’s Medical Board is talking us though a festive way to eat and drink healthier during the holidays - all we have to do is remember to eat the colors we see everywhere in December: red and green. Simple enough! Here's the science behind this playful approach to serious nourishment...

Ever hear the phrase “eat your colors?” It’s not just a catch phrase: Science supports this advice. The natural compounds (phytochemicals) that support cell health are what give yellow, orange, purple, white, red and green fruits and veggies their luscious colors. In keeping with the two most festive colors of the winter holidays, here’s a closer look at the reds and the greens...

How Red + Green Enhance Our Health

Red and green plant-based foods add a few particular advantages:

Red foods, such as tomatoes and red peppers contain lycopene - a phytochemical that, according to the Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine, may help prevent breast cancer, prostate cancer and others. Lycopene is an antioxidant, a substance that helps keep your cells free of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by free radicals - molecules that circulate around your system and cause your cells to wear out prematurely. Over time, that can mean a weakened immune system and premature aging. Antioxidants sweep up these free radicals and minimize their damage. Alpha and beta carotene are other antioxidants that give foods such as carrots and sweet potatoes their brilliant, red-orange color. The body breaks down these compounds to form the active form of vitamin A, key to healthy eyes, bones and immunity.

Green foods pack as many nutritional gifts as Santa’s sleigh. In those velvety dark, leafy greens such as spinach, chard and arugula, you get beta carotene as well as lutein and zeaxanthin — phytochemicals that help prevent age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in older people. Dark green cruciferous veggies like kale and broccoli give you indoles and isothiocyanates - compounds that amp up the production of enzymes that clear toxins from the body. Studies are exploring how a diet rich in insoles and isothiocyanates can prevent cancer.

Deck Your Plate to Feel More Jolly

Getting a good supply of antioxidants is especially important when the holidays are in full swing. A lot of people are dealing with busy schedules, lack of rest, skipped meals and trays full of refined sugar and other inflammatory foods. No wonder the holidays can leave you with a free-radical hangover!

Here’s a tip for holiday parties: Fill your plate halfway with red and green veggies (or any other color), and divide the other half between lean protein and whole grains. Once you’ve filled up on the healthy stuff, you can go for the treats, if you’re still inclined.

During the week, slicing up some red and green pepper, carrot sticks and broccoli florets and packing them into Ziploc bags, or other portable containers, can help ensure you get your colors when you’re making the holiday rounds.

Raise a Glass of Red+ Green Goodness

When the pace revs up and you’re racing from the airport to the office to the mall to your kids’ concerts and pageants, you may not have time to prepare a big salad of greens or a lovely tomato-rich main dish. For a cup of good cheer, try getting your inflammation-fighting colors of the season in juice form. Fresh-pressed juices can be a fast and tasty way to get the antioxidant power of red and green when you’ve got to grab and go. A vitamin-packed bottle of good juice in your car’s cup holder will likely do as much for your stamina as a large coffee, and without leaving you feeling wired and tired.

Imagine enjoying the holiday season and starting the New Year with happy memories, more energy and healthier cells: Think red and green, and eat (or drink) your colors all December long.

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 program. 

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Spiced Hot Chocolate That’ll Boost Your Metabolism

there's not a quicker path to cozy than a cup of hot chocolate. Often paired with Christmas cookies and other indulgences, why not spike your hot chocolate this season with a few extra ingredients that'll boost your metabolism and help you process sugar too?

This clean spiced hot chocolate from integrative and functional nutritionist, Jennie Miremadi, takes the classic cup to another level. Warming spices like cayenne give a boost to our metabolism and immunity and cinnamon helps to level blood sugar and boost the healing properties of the cacao. All the spices work together to add an unexpected layer of flavor that is absolutely addicting. Make this simple drink a holiday tradition!

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Truffles + Cocoa Tea: Our Day On A Caribbean Chocolate Farm

When you get the invite to explore a chocolate farm in the middle of the Caribbean you don't think twice. When we landed on the island of St. Lucia earlier this month, it was half to explore the island's wild beaches and half to venture into the ordered acres of cacao farm that belong to the world-renowned, sustainable Jade Mountain Resort.

Jade Mountain is the tropical resort our Chalkboardiest dreams are made of. We'll be talking more about the award-winning design-first property after the New Year, but for now, we knew we had to share this brilliant raw cacao truffle recipe before the holidays. These truffles are ultra-simple, decadent and packed with vibrant nutrition. Since there are so few ingredients (just three!) aim for the best quality you can find and you'll be impressed by how incredible these heavenly bites truly are.

On the farm, chocolate is harvested from the tree, dried and fermented. In the kitchen, it is ground, roasted and tempered in a seductive process that brings the raw cacao into it's full glossy glory.

For most locals on the island, chocolate is best enjoyed as cocoa tea - a superfood drink we were shocked we'd never heard of. In St. Lucia, most homes have their own way of making cocoa tea, but it is some version of raw cacao rolled like dough with local spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.

A chunk of the cocoa tea is used at a time, boiled in water and mixed with coconut cream or sipped straight for some of the darkest hot chocolate you've ever tried.

This simple truffle recipe was just one of many chocolate recipes we made with the culinary team at Jade Mountain led by James Beard award winner, Chef Allen Susser. After touring the property's cacao farm (over 600 acres!) and harvesting cacao pods fresh from the tree, we walked through the intense process that chocolate goes through to be ready for consumption. These truffles were one of our favorite rewards of the day...

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6 Meaningful Gift Ideas According To Meghan Markle

We love a lady with good taste, and Meghan Markle has plenty of it. We've dished on Meghan's picks for New York hangs in the past, plus her Living Well With... feature (see them all here!) and she's featured our editor's inspiration via her blog, The Tig, too.

We're sharing Meghan's last minute picks for gifts that give back below. If you're still shopping consider these six ideas that are both tasteful and generous. We love the idea of gifting something that benefits a mission close to our loved ones' heart...

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On Infrared Saunas + Deep Detox With Shape House’s Sophie Chiche

sweating is the most important detox mechanism our bodies have, but most of us don't do it enough to reap the deep benefits. Shape House, an infrared urban sweat lodge with several locations across LA (including a brand new one in West Hollywood!), has turned the au natural experience into one of luxury - and we love it for the  as much as the results.

Founded by vibrant Paris-transplant, Sophie Chiche, the Shape House mini-empire is a product of a heath crisis and healing story that will blow your mind. We're sharing her inspiring wellness journey, and some firsthand insight into the amazing results of an infrared sauna habit. Learn all about the Shape House experience in our first sit down with Sophie here, and dive even deeper with our recent interview below...

The Chalkboard Mag: How did you first discover your passion for wellness?

Sophie Chiche: Wellness was always a quest for me: how do I live a little better? Think better? Feel better in my body? It's been a lifelong quest, and what I've found is that to maintain that is as much of a quest as finding it. I was born in France. I moved to the states in search of more wellness, more consciousness and a life that was better than the one I came from. Coming to Los Angeles was the obvious choice, as it's a city that's always on the edge of new wellness things; there is a mass interest in finding new ways to discover yourself and finding more efficient ways to get there. I felt ill-equipped in France - I didn't have the tools and felt doomed and miserable, like I couldn't do anything about it. I visited the states and found I had better conversations, and gained a sense that there was something I could do differently to not feel so disconnected, to be well.

TCM: When did you become aware of infrared therapy and the benefits of sweating?

SC: It makes perfect sense to me to sweat, as a preventative way to stay healthy and a way to maintain health. There are toxins in our bodies, and sweating is a very smart method of getting them out; our bodies were literally built to do it. But I come from a family that treated sweating as a thing to be avoided. We are smart people - always wearing glasses and reading books, not running around - and I got to 320 pounds as a result.  I first discovered infrared technology being used in France to help heal broken bones. It helped fuse the bone back into place, and helped the body recycle cells and accelerated the healing process. That was 35 years ago. Fast forward 30 years later: I was going to a wedding in Paris, and I had lost a lot of weight through diet and exercise but needed to shed a final few pounds to fit into my dress. I learned that they turned this infrared technology into a cosmetic process where your whole body would benefit from it. I started sweating and never looked back.

TCM: What is the appeal of going to an infrared sauna? How does it fit into a holistic wellness plan?

SC:  Sweating the way we do at Shape House is very efficient, providing lots of benefits in just one hour: better sleep, mental clarity, rejuvenated skin, increased relaxation and weight loss. To be clear, sweating isn't instead of working out - it's a piece of a complete healthy lifestyle. I remember hearing once that it took 20 times more energy to get a rocket off the ground than it does to keep it in the air. The same goes for exercise. It's much harder to start up again after you stop, even just in the short term. If I can't work out one day, I can always go sweat and keep my momentum going.

TCM: Why is it important to detox in this way?

SC: A basic comparison is this idea where we are maintaining our cars: If it has any blinking lights - we need gas, or oil or air - you take care of it as fast as possible. But we don't do that for our bodies. Aging happens when our bodies accumulate too many toxins and give up on cleaning itself out, as it's built to do. Little bits are fine, but it adds up. People say I can't believe x, y and z are happening to my body - but you don't just get sick overnight. It was years of not taking care of yourself. Sweating undoes that damage. I witness it daily. It's pretty striking. People walk in looking like they're not taking care of themselves - their skin tone is dull, their eyes aren't clear - then you see them walk out and you barely recognize them. Just from one session! The natural aging process is beautiful if you don't look sick.

TCM: How is Shape House different than other infrared saunas?

SC: A lot of thought went into designing the experience, rooted in my own experience at other places. I did a lot of research on myself: I sweat every day for 200 days. I lost weight. I felt amazing. I eventually started to get doctors involved and together we worked to optimize the process. What's the right amount of minutes? Temperature? To eat or not to eat beforehand? We were trying to discover the specific science to back up the obvious experience I was having. We then tailored the experience, curated it, to be very comfortable and beneficial. We make the bodies work and at the same time you're watching TV and someone makes you an aromatic cold towel to make it more comfortable. We give you warm tea and fresh oranges after. I also love that I can hang out with my friends while that's all happening. The unity aspect is a big part of the appeal - we sit around and share this experience together. It's very basic and primal, and we don't always have the opportunity to just sit and spend time together, to heal together. It's amazing.

TCM: Who benefits most from going to infrared saunas?

SC: I can't imagine someone not benefitting, that's what I find so magical about sweating. Wherever you are on your health journey, sweating makes you feel better. Toxins lodge themselves in different ways for different people: migraine, chronic back pain, digestive problems etc. My experience watching 30,000 people sweat over the past few years is that I've realized  lot of it is fixable. It's like taking the trash out of the house. How many people benefit from that? How many days can you stay in your house without taking out the trash. We need to remove what the body doesn't need to optimize what it does naturally.

TCM: If there is so much healing potential, why doesn't everybody detox like this?

SC: Our culture has made sweating to be a thing to be avoided at all costs, a thing to be ashamed of; it doesn't smell good, its unhygienic, its a cultural stigma we have to go against. Shape House is all about doing it more efficiently, and making you comfortable about you own sweat. That's the highest of my missions: when people come and sweat regularly, they discover a new comfort with themselves. We need more of that in the aging conversation; we need to teach people to embrace themselves wholly, especially in LA. If you gave me the opportunity to return to my 20s and 30s I wouldn't, because I've become a much more interesting person because of the life I've lived. I want people to start shifting their conscience and understand that they can feel better by doing simple things like sweating, and can maintain their feeling well while they're feeling well. You don't have to be sick to start.

TCM: What do you tell people who think it's all too good to be true?

SC: I'm protected against those people because they don't come to me. The ones who come are the ones who are willing to try it and the results speak for themselves. I say try it and tell me how you feel. I can't help you if you don't like heat, but other than that you either don't come at all of you do and realize how good you feel after. It's just common sense that your body will operate better when it doesn't have toxins aka poison in it.

TCM: How does not showering after a session boost results?

SC: We offer showers, but recommend avoiding showering for a while after a session. The first reason is that the temperature of the bed (160 degrees) and the temperature of a shower are dramatically different. We worked so hard to get your body to break a sweat and your body is still working for hours after you sweat. It's a lot of work, and asking your body to stop instantly doesn't make sense. The second reason is because by letting you sweat this way, we release a lot of collagen and vitamin E. You kind of marinate in this stuff that's really good for you. The toxins that come out of your body would only affect you if you were breathing it in, so it's not an issue to leave the sweat on your skin - it's actually very beneficial. Your skin knows how to protect itself. You won't see irritation, just glow and nourishment.

TCM: What does your personal wellness routine look like now?

SC: Having lost the amount of wight I've lost - well over 150 pounds - my routine is one of emotional balance and physical balance. I like to box - that's my thing. I was doing yoga for a long time and wanted something more, so now I box 2 to 3 times a week. I sweat 2 to 3 times a week. I dance at least once a week. My diet is very clean and balanced. I don't do any substance that alters my state of conscious ever: no coffee or alcohol or sugar. Coffee is the most surprising thing to people, but I just don't need it. When I sweat, I have so much energy, and people ask what I do when I get tired, and I say I rest. I simply respond to what my body needs. I have 50 times more energy than the kids I work with who use coffee to start the day and wine to wind down. I don't do either, so my body doesn't 'need' it.

TCM: Who inspires you and your wellness mission?

SC: I can't pin-point any one person... I came into all of this with an interest in bettering myself. I had a complicated upbringing; I felt as though I didn't matter and I ended up gaining weight because of it. The stuff you do when you don't care about yourself is very destructive, but when you start caring, you become your own inspiration.

TCM: What are the next steps? Where do you see Shape House in 5 years?

SC: As long as I feel the way I'm feeling right now - which is engaged and fascinated - I will be doing the same thing but more: more stores, more books, more healing. If I become disengaged, I'll have to re-evaluate, but I am committed to living a life I cant wait to wake up in the morning and go do. I wake up every morning excited to talk to people, to help people. I'm very privileged to participate in a life where I am directly involved in other peoples wellness journey. I don't ever want to lose sight of being excited to wake up in the morning and make a life better.

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The 4 Best Meditation Apps To Stay Sane On-The-Go

Hanging with the fam over the holidays? Say no more. We're breaking down four of the best meditation apps out there to help you stay sane and emotionally stable - no matter what your mother says.

If building a consistent meditation practice has been stop-and-go (or just plain frustrating) we empathize; it's not easy to clear your mind for a second, never mind a full session. Meditation apps are an easy and super accessible way to build up endurance and lock it all down in a routine. Discover our four favorite meditation apps below, with something that every level of practice - and attention span - will benefit from...

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Build A Flavored Water Bar For Holiday Parties

Need a few more wellness ideas for the holidays that won't scare your houseguests? Here's one: keep a "water bar" or infused water station set up right alongside your home bar.

We love the infused water station idea we created for IKEA last year and still think it's a great idea! Attention must always be paid to good hydration, but during the sugar and alcohol fueled days of holiday party season, it's best to double down.

Check out our flavored water station from last year for inspiration and blitz your stash of glassware to stack up glasses and make hydration a priority. We're particularly fond of our blackberry and sage carafe, but check out both of these flavored water recipe roundups as well.

Lastly, Helen Johannsen's entertaining tip on creating abundance is key here (we love that bar cart!). Put it all together and you're ready to host a balanced, hydrated and healthy holiday gathering with very little intimidating wellness weirdness.

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4 Crazy Simple Recipes To Boost Immunity Daily

As the seasons change so does our body's ability to handle them. We have plenty to say on the topic of immunity (check out some of our fave advice here) and are excited to add one more resource to our collection: read below for a few easy-access recipes and hacks from women's wellness guru, Nicole Granato, that'll help boost immunity daily. From an apple cider vinegar tonic to an easy nutrient-dense quinoa bowl, we say no way to getting sick this season...

TAKE A SHOT OF ALOE: Aloe vera strengthens the immune system; it is packed with vitamin C, vitamin B and folic acid. Aloe also aides in detoxing. Take one shot of aloe vera first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to keep digestion strong and boost immunity.

Sip Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix 1 Tbsp ACV, 1 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 Tbsp honey and drink 2-5 times a day. Discover all the amazing uses for wellness staple ACV here.

Supplement with Spirulina: This immunity savior is a natural cyanbacteria powder that is extremely high in protein and an an incredible source of antioxidants, B vitamins, vitamin C, iron and calcium. You can add this to your smoothies, coconut water or even coffee. Many people struggle with adjusting to the taste of spirulina, as it is very strong; in this case I suggest high quality capsules.

Eat Immunity Boosting Meals: All it takes is a few simple shifts to turn a basic meal into an immunity boosting one. Try the quinoa salad recipe below for an easy lunch full of nutrient dense, seasonal ingredients.

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5 Healthy Meals a Holistic Nutritionist (Actually) Eats

When it comes to getting down and nerdy in the kitchen, holistic nutritionist, Kelly LeVeque is one of our go to gals. We'd happily sip on her functional smoothies all day, but as solid food needs to happen too, we've asked Kelly to share a few of her go-to healthy meals for your average weeknight dinner. Below are five - one for every day of the week - perfect for getting back on track after a season of Christmas cookie overload.

From cauliflower rice to Asian-inspired beef and broccolini, bookmark these balanced healthy meals and get cooking! Still hungry? Find more recipes and healthy eating insights from Kelly here.

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Ayesha Curry On Healthy Holiday Indulgences

Deck the halls and keep the kids off the walls. For the moms and dads of little ones who love sweets (aka every parent?), the holiday season can be a challenging time. This recipe from the adorable Ayesha Curry strikes a perfect balance; adults love the clean protein and kids flip for the candy-like caramel coating. Yum!

As the wife of NBA golden child, Stephan Curry, and mama of two minis, Ayesha's cookbook has quickly become a go-to for mindful mamas who are looking to make healthy, munchkin-approved meals the whole fam can enjoy. Following her passion for food and family, Ayesha has also recently paired up with adorable disposable dinnerware co, Cheeky (check out our party with them here) to help to assuage childhood hunger across the nation. Learn more about the new Cheeky Kids partnership here and get Ayesha's crazy-good glazed chicken recipe below...

I like to let my children indulge around the holidays, but I try to always be mindful of what ingredients they are putting into their bodies! Instead of decorating cookies with tons of sugary frosting, I like to use healthy alternatives, like cream cheese sweetened with honey, agave or maple syrup. Healthy substitutions are always a great alternative in our household. But remember, a little indulging is always acceptable around the holidays!

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Ready, Set, Host: 5 Functional Tips for Last Minute Entertaining

We've spent weeks bookmarking ideas to take holiday hosting to the next level. An elegant water bar or well-styled tablescape will instantly elevate a festive gathering - but what if you lack the luxury of fore-planning?

This guide to last minute entertaining from the ladies of Darling Magazine is guaranteed to offset the stress of impromptu hosting. Study these five tips for creating an atmosphere of comfort and ease, and rest easy knowing you're prepared for anything this crazy season throws your way!

Keep Your Casa Clean. Always have your home ten minutes from ready. This requires a bit of daily upkeep, but makes a world of difference for hosting unexpected guests. Instead of needing to Tazmanian-devil your way through a cleaning spree, keep the common living space free from clutter or mess. That way, the only things that need immediate attention will be leftover dishes in the sink or countertops to wipe down. Staying on top of those larger-mess-tasks will keep stress levels to a minimum.

Have A playlist on lock. Music sets the mood, and when you don’t have time to think about choosing the perfect list, it’s helpful to keep a few in your back pocket. With impromptu gatherings it’s best to stay on middle ground, meaning nothing too disco but nothing too drearily slow, either. Think easily enjoyable acoustic or jazz and you’re on the right track.

Always Have a Bottle chilling. It may be challenging to know the drink preferences of all your guests ahead of time, but a simple solution is to keep a bottle of Prosecco chilling in the fridge at all times. It’s a middle-of-the-road beverage as far as people’s tastes are concerned and it’s not as precious as champagne. Serving up glasses upon arrival is a sweet way to kick off the gathering.

Stash serve-ready Bites. Stocking a fridge for the perfect charcuterie board is costly, not to mention trying to keep perishable items on hand for any unforeseen events means a lot of spoiled food. So opting for an array of frozen desserts is the easiest and most economical option. Things like macarons or mini cheesecake bites are both aesthetically pleasing and endlessly delicious.

Light Up those candles. Scented candles are a simple touch that creates an inviting ambiance . Place one candle in the living area - but not directly next to food - and another in the bathroom. Choose seasonal scents that are recognizable but not overpowering. It’ll be the finishing, subtle touch that encourages guests to relax. Check out a few non-toxic faves here!

Are there any other hostess tricks you use when preparing for unexpected guests?
Let us know below...

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How Giada De Larentiis Hosts Holiday Parties With Sanity + Style

With a DNA-deep zest for life, food, and family, entertaining is basically an Italian birthright. We're not surprised that our December Guest Editor, Giada De Larentiis, loves the holidays - or that she has a few fun ways to make hosting them an easy and delicious endeavor.

What does surprise us though is that someone who is as pro in the kitchen as Giada doesn't rely on fancy recipes to make a holiday party special (through these cookbooks are never too far away). A festive Frangelico cocktail, good lighting and great cheese are just a few of the super simple tricks Giada keeps up her sleeves.

Below, we're learning about more ways the adorable kitchen goddess keeps her cool around the holidays, including her favorite fail-proof appetizer, essential table accessory and a go-to outfit that's as pretty as it is practical. For even more entertaining tips, be sure to check out Giada's brand new lifestyle site (more on that here!)...

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6 Steps to Make A Beautiful Edible Centerpiece

We've been obsessed with Heirloom LA's uniquely wild crostini boards ever since we first laid eyes on one. But making a board into a centerpiece never crossed our minds til we saw this photo and we've not been able to shake the genius idea since. The tablescape by Casa de Perrin is beautiful on its own, but Heirloom's edible centerpiece makes it something completely extraordinary.

There is no one way to get this look, but we're sharing a few key styling tips below - and a recipe for perfectly crispy herbed toasts to transport all the deliciousness from table to face. Gather even more edible centerpiece inspo from this beauty here.

Walk the Plank. Or at least buy one. You can purchase a long wooden plank (or several shorter ones that can be lined up) at any hardware store for just a few bucks. The goal is to have them fully covered in delicious snacks, so don't worry too much about how it looks.

Get Cheesy. Choose three to five cheeses with varying textures and colors. Mix hard cheeses with soft cheeses, as well as cheeses with contrasting rinds that you keep intact when slicing. Don't forget the vegan cheeses too - our favorites come from Kite Hill.

Mix It Up. Include raw, seasonal bite-sized fruits, but don’t make your guests work to eat them. Remove pits from dates, slice your citrus, set free your pomegranate seeds, etc.

Have A Jam Sesh. Incorporate cooked fruits like jam and pate de fruit. See recipe below for a quick and easy persimmon jam.

Be saucy: Don't be afraid of sauces and dips for boards like these! Paint and dollop them right into the mix or place tiny bowls into the centerpiece as Heirloom has done above.

Consider Delivery. Choose crackers and breads in different shapes and sizes, and then place them throughout your platter as accessories rather than uninteresting heaps. The crispy herbed toast recipe below adds another special - and flavorful - touch to the centerpiece set-up.

Pull It Together. Finish with edible flowers and fresh herbs. Plug them into any spacial gaps on the board. The intended look is one of abundance, so don't be shy!

The post 6 Steps to Make A Beautiful Edible Centerpiece appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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Love & Salt’s Gluten-Free Hazelnut Bundt Cake

The humble bundt cake might not be the sexiest holiday dessert, but no one can deny that it's a classic - and a crowd pleaser. Pastry chef, Rebecca Merhejasty, of L.A.'s Cal-Italian Love & Salt restaurant is sharing her recipe for a seasonally inspired hazelnut bundt we actually adore. Gluten-free makes it healthier than most, while a respectable dose of real butter makes it the perfect edible gift for those who can't imagine a holiday cake without it...

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Dear Santa… *hint hint* 🙏🏻 @LSpaceswim HARTLEY + VERONICA...

Dear Santa… *hint hint* 🙏🏻 @LSpaceswim HARTLEY + VERONICA @bestswimwear  #SantaPlease #LSpaceswim http://ift.tt/2gTMVtw

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What You Didn’t Know About CBD

What do you picture when you hear "cannabis chocolate"? Go ahead and giggle - or shutter at the thought - then take that image and let it go. Times are changing, and the mainstream wellness world is benefiting from cannabis in amazing ways even the straightest-edged among us can get in on.

Products containing CBD, a cannabis derivative, are now popping up everywhere with science-backed promises of natural healing: From oil that super-charges immunity to raw chocolates that squelch stress and anxiety. If it sounds too good to be true - or too sketchy to be trusted - you're not the first to think it. There are a lot of misconceptions about CBD, but we're here to help clear the air with a few facts from Kendra Mark, CEO of 2Rise Naturals, and a breakdown of three (non-psychoactive) products we think are worth exploring...

We currently have a national fad happening around cannabinoids like CBD. While extremely effective for a myriad of health issues, we are still only in the infancy stages of understanding the full brilliance of the hemp and cannabis plants. Speculation that a broad spectrum extract containing more of the essential oils, terpenes, omega fatty acids, and chlorophyll seems to be the future of the industry: A future where producers allow the plant to determine its healing potential rather than a human.

While many companies are forging ahead with their decision to use the term “CBD” on their products, there remains legal debate whether this is a safe choice moving forward. CBD is still considered a Schedule 1 drug according to the DEA, yet it is legal on the state level in all 50 states. Some companies are making the decision to move forward in the industry by removing the term “CBD” from their products and marketing and using a term similar to “hemp oil or hemp extract”. These products are essentially the same type of product as the ones that are being called “CBD”. In fact, they are more accurately named because a hemp extract containing CBD is going to have other cannabinoids and plant material present in the formula. Here are a few other facts you should know...

CBD will not get you high.CBD can actually reduce undesired psychoactive effects from consuming THC: Biochemists refer to CBD(cannabidiol) as a negative modulator for THC. Meaning, CBD actually negates some of the psychoactive effects of THC. Consuming CBD actually blocks some of your brain’s receptor sites that interact with cannabinoids, meaning that THC will begin to have a dramatically decreased effect on them. Additionally, a 2011 review published in Current Drug Safety concludes that CBD “does not interfere with several psychomotor and psychological functions.” The authors add that several studies suggest that CBD is “well tolerated and safe” even at high doses.

Your body already loves it. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants like echinacea, flax, and of course, hemp. However, plants aren’t the only source of these wonderful phytonutrients. Cannabinoids also exist naturally in the human body, within the Endocannabinoid system- a system which regulates proper functioning of your cells, and so much more. Cannabinoids can even be found in breast milk!

CBD is adaptive. CBD will effect each individual differently based upon their level of inflammation in the body, ability to produce naturally occurring cannabinoids, and absorption rate. If someone is in acute or chronic pain, they will require more than someone who is generally healthy. The same guideline must be applied across the board. Self-experimentation and intuitive judgement is required to know what amount of CBD is necessary for any individual. A good starting place is 10-15mg of active ingredients and increase or decrease as needed.

The benefits build. Your body will build up a storage of CBD in the body, which is unlike most chemicals. Unlike alcohol, which is usually absent from the blood stream and body within 24-48 hours after ingestion, CBD is fat soluble and may stay bound to the cells of the body for weeks. [olists num=1]

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 program. 

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3 Holistic Supplements To Beat An Energy Slump

Until we figure out how to add an extra hour to the day, we'll always be on the lookout for natural ways to power through that 3pm slump! We're continuing our series on supplements with holistic health coach, Summer Sanders, by exploring three potent all-natural to increase energy, build stamina and turn us into generally happier and more efficient human beings...

Energy supplements are the most important ones! In order to function at a high level, we need energy. Drinking too much coffee and using overly processed forms of caffeine can really harm your body and wear down your adrenals. Using plant-based energizers that support your whole body is the best way to get enduring energy and longevity - without the dreaded diagnosis of adrenal fatigue. TCM Editor's Note: Learn all about adrenal fatigue here! 

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 program. 

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5 Natural Products This Beauty Buyer Swears By

When it comes to discovering new natural beauty gems, we fancy ourselves treasure hunters of sorts: we love diving below the radar, digging around and surfacing with something intriguing, effective and always green. That same passion has earned Jessica Richards - founder of Brooklyn's coolest clean beauty hub, Shen Beauty - her rightful 'cool hunter' reputation and a solid gold star in our beauty books.

With a path that's taken her from Vogue to a current role as Free People's beauty buyer, Jessica's eye for fab products is one we can trust. She recently dished out her shortlist of must-haves on Free People's BLDG25 and we're excited to share it below. Read on for five TCM-approved picks this treasure hunter swears by...

Before I was even introduced to Jess at our recent Beauty and Wellness event, she was on my radar. Hair pulled back in a chic low bun, revealing even more of her radiant and naturally glowing skin, as if a sunbeam was hired to follow her around the store. Seriously, this New Yorker shone. Jess lives in Brooklyn, where she is also the founder and owner of beauty boutique, Shen Beauty.

“What began as a neighborhood haven for undiscovered, organic lines and exclusive British imports soon started attracting consumers from Manhattan, Europe, Asia and beyond. Jessica is renowned in the industry for her considered, relevant curation, and has been featured in the New York Times, Vanity Fair, Interview, Allure, Harper’s Bazaar, The Huffington Post and Goop,” reads Shen Beauty’s website. To say Jessica is experienced and knowledgeable is a considerable understatement. She knows what is in each product, how it will affect the body, how to use it, what to expect from it, and how it may — and should — personally pertain to you.

During the event, I kept finding myself gravitating toward Jess, being reduced to an inquisitive toddler in her presence. As someone who is currently attempting to make the jump to all-natural beauty products, I was a constant eruption of questions. She patiently walked me through each product, resulting in my leaving with three pieces, all of which I use nearly every day. I also bought three of the products featured below. Jess is the real deal — utterly honest, she will not try to just sell you something. She wants you to feel beautiful, inside and out. Here are five natural products she swears by...

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We 💛 California #bestswimwear #california #beach...

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7 Essential Kitchen Gadgets for Healthy Newbies

Every December we resolve to live a little healthier. Making more meals at home is the easiest way to hit our goal - but only if we're equipped with the right tools to start! Whether you're just getting acquainted to your stovetop, or have a relationship with cooking that's simply lost its spark, this streamlined list of essential kitchen gadgets from Food Matters is the perfect launching point into a healthier, happier (homemade) year ahead.

Ok so we get it.  Cooking isn’t everyone's “thing”. To many of us, cooking feels more like a chore than anything else. To others, cooking is one of the many splendors of life. If you’re not a fan of chopping, or you simply want to make life a little easier in the kitchen, stay tuned! We have a list of gadgets and tools to make your time in the kitchen just a little more enjoyable. Get ready to save time cooking and spending more time enjoying your delicious creations!

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The Ultimate Crystal Gift Guide from Energy Muse

The gift of good vibes isn't something you can buy, but crystals and gemstones that lift those vibes are. Whether you're shopping for a friend who brings their favorite rock to brunch, or for one who's always frazzled but hasn't started a personal crystal collection - yet - this guide from professional crystal healer, Heather Askinosie of Energy Muse, will help you pick the perfect crystal for everyone on your list...

It is said that giving is better than receiving, but what that old adage leaves out is just how amazing it feels to give when the person receiving that gift, exclaims, “This is absolutely perfect! I love it.” In that moment, what they are really saying is, “You get me.”

The perfect gift is not the most expensive or indulgent. Quite frankly, it’s often something that is simple, meaningful and personal. This is why crystals are the ideal gift: They come straight from the Earth, they each have a specific meaning, and they can be personalized to match every person on your holiday list.

Need something for the person who has everything? Get them something they may never have enough of - happiness. A sparkly crystal brings light and joy, and having received it from someone special will keep your friend smiling for years to come. Is your hopelessly romantic roommate looking for love?  Gift them a Rose Quartz to help them manifest the person of their dreams. Whether you’re looking for your boss, brother or boyfriend, I’ve got you covered! Think of me as your crystal matchmaker...

For the Cosmic Career Woman: This boss lady knows how to put in work, but does she know how to attract it? Gift her a Citrine Point to place on top of her business card. This will bring abundance and prosperity to her work.   

For the Lunar Lover: Like the tides, this friend is controlled by the moon. She bathes in the nurturing light of the moon’s positive energy. It only makes sense that you should gift her Moonstone, so that she can keep a piece of the moon with her always.

For the Starry-Eyed Artist: This loved one takes their direction from the stars. Inspiration is always just outside for this ambitious artist. This person exudes hope and creativity, and just needs a vessel to guide that imagination from the universe, through the self and onto the page. Assist that artistic process with Tangerine Quartz. It will help to remove creative blocks and ignite an inner fire burning to get onto the canvas.

For the Manifestor: In time, everything comes to this manifesting pro. No one can identify what they want, and visualize a path to that objective like this friend. Help them amplify their manifestation goals with Quartz crystal. Not only will help them in discovering what it is they want, it will program that manifestation and deliver an enhanced version of it into the universe.      

For the Yoga Fiend: This girl spends more time in warrior pose, than she spends in chairs throughout the day. She is a yoga all day and all night kind of person, which is why she could use a little extra energy to maintain her endurance. The Yoga crystal grid kit will join her crystal practice with her yoga practice, while raising energy and promoting balance at the same time.    

For the Barefoot Contessa: A casual chef, this friend is your favorite to visit because she loves to feed you, and you love to eat. Set this bon appetite bond in stone with a Petrified Wood plate. Wine and cheese nights will never be the same now that kitchen creativity has reached a new level with this one of a kind serving plate.

For the Rad Resistor: This fiercely passionate friend is not afraid to speak their mind, or fight for their beliefs. Aid their spiritual journey by helping them to harness their wild energy into something more powerfully direct. Epidote will ground this friend’s boundless heart, and give it the calm it needs to communicate.

For the Rockstar: You couldn’t live without the boisterous energy of this diva. Show her how much you love the light she brings by giving her a rock that’s just as flashy as she is. With its sultry beauty and the unique flash, nothing quiet captures this friend’s presence like Labradorite.    

For the Crystal Cynic: This friend may not believe in the metaphysical abilities of other stones, but the scientific research behind the benefits of Shungite will impress even their studied mind. Give it to them for its free radical reducing properties, and antioxidant promotion.    

For the Wanderluster: This jet setting friend just can’t stay still. For a sense of home no matter where they are, give them this token of light. Selenite will illuminate even their darkest journeys, and make sunny days on the road even brighter.

For the Hopeless Romantic: For the person who views everyone through rose colored glasses, gift them a crystal with a disposition as soft and sweet as their own. Nothing matches this person’s love for love like Rose Quartz. Rose Quartz to direct love out to the universe is the crystal soulmate every hopeless romantic needs.  

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