Shopping ListLONDON

The days are flying. Only two weeks left until WE are! As the crazy organizer I am, I haven't been doing much the last couple of days except planning, searching and adding pins to my Google Maps (what would I do without this phenomenal app?). As we're staying three nights in London (just booked the hotel last night!) there are a few things I wish to check out and hopefully buy, at least some of them.


But first out we're going for a day trip to Stonehenge. It's been on my list ever since I wrote an essay about it in high school. Everything unexplained and mysterious makes my heart skips a beat.

I've been thinking of buying it so many times, but never seemed to get to the point. It's just that some things I want to buy in a physical store. To see, touch and actually hold it in your hands feels much more special and has a different value. It becomes more of an experience and something you will look back on and remember everytime you use it. Also I guess it's cheaper in the UK as it's the country of manufacture? Anyway – the Rolls Royce of hairbrushes from MASON PEARSON.

I so need to update my lingerie. If it only wasn't so hard finding something that actually fits. Panties, no problem, but bras... Mama Mia. Mission impossible, most of the times. The dreamiest panties to wear down under? LA PERLA, no doubt.

The same goes with my sportswear – update required. Wish to find a pair of organic yoga leggings. Any suggestions? These ATM ANTHONY THOMAS MELILLO Yoga legging in lightweight modal seems oh so comfy.

No wardrobe is complete without a pair of classic go-to pumps. I still don't own those stiletto saviours, but these are by far the most perfect pair if you ask me. BB 90 pumps from MANOLO BLAHNIK.

It's been there since my teens, but though I've been so sick of the ring in my tragus the last couple of years (too big and ugly) I somehow decided to keep it. I want something much more discreet and sophisticated. This little diamond stud earring from MARIA TASH would be just enough spark but still look chic, don't you think?

Like mentioned, Chanel has launched a new EDP, Gabrielle, and I can't wait to smell it! Parfum from CHANEL.


Are you planning any trip soon? If so, what's on your list? xx

Pocket Bristle Brush from MASON PEARSON  –  Lace thong from LA PERLA  –  Modal Legging from ATM ANTHONY THOMAS MELILLO  –  BB 90 Suede Pump from MANOLO BLAHNIK  –  Diamond Stud Earring from MARIA TASH  –  'Gabrielle' Eau De Parfum from CHANEL.

The Healing ElixirGOLDEN MILK

After a lazy summer with nice food and too many drinks it felt so good to finally be back in business with my workout routine again. Went to my first class on Monday so now I'm all sore and can barley move, no kidding. But as they say: No pain, no gain. Tonight I'm off again and to prep my muscles so they cope I have cuddled up in the couch with a warm cup of Golden Milk.

For centuries this beautiful yellow beverage has been used both in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, but here in the West there still might be some who haven't heard about it before. If so or not, it's really worth repeating due to all its amazing health benefits.

The yellow color comes from curcumin, found in the main ingredient; the turmeric. In India they call it "The Spice of Life" which sums it up just wonderfully. Turmeric is one of Mother nature's most potent anti-inflammatory with over 600(!) potential health benefits such as:

– better digestion
– liver detoxifying
– lower blood sugar levels
– improved skin
– increased memory and brain function
– more flexible joints and muscles
– stronger immune system


So, as you can see this extraordinary elixir is a real must. I try to make sure I have at least one cup a day. Here's what you need:


GOLDEN MILK

1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp black pepper*
1/2 tbs coconut oil*
boiling hot water
plant based milk (I use organic oat milk)

If you prefer you can always add more spices such as:

Fresh ginger
Chili
Cardamum
Ceylon cinnamon
Vanilla 

I normally just put all spices and the coconut oil in a big cup, pour boiling hot water over and then top it off with oat milk. Just as simple as that! Remember to always use organic ingredients.

*Studies have shown that by adding black pepper the bioavailability (absorption in the body) of the turmeric is increased by 2000%(!). The coconut oil also helps to increase the absorption as the turmeric is fat-soluble. Therefore, to get the most out of this super spice, it's highly recommended that you include these two in your drink.

To notice the benefits it's recommended to take at least 1 tbs a day.

And a little friendly reminder – be aware when both preparing and drinking it. This yellow wonder stains extremely easy. In India it's also used as a fabric dye... Well, I told you it was a multi-tasker.


Enjoy and happy health! xx

Organic Turmeric Powder from KIKI HEALTH and NATURE'S LAB.

¡Adios Allergy!

Raquel Zimmermann for Alexander McQueen's Spring 2013 campaign shot by David Sims.

Spring is around the corner and I couldn't be more happy! Though I thought I should give a friendly reminder to all of you who nearly use to scratch their eyes out and can't make that nose stop running at this time of the year – 

Start having your honey! 

I have done this for quite some years now and it really works! It's such a relief to be able to enjoy the spring without being tired and a total mess.

Raw locally produced honey is a pure and simple saviour if you suffer from pollen allergy. No more sneeze thanks to bees. Could it be more wonderful? 

I've written about this before so read more HERE on how you do.

Happy spring! xx

You're A Star

The last couple of weeks I've been totally obsessed with everything astrological and how the sun, moon and the entire solar system affect our beings and behaviors. Every since I was I kid I've been mesmerized by the stars and what's out there. I nearly even applied to the Space Science high school in Kiruna, but changed my mind because it was so far away from home. Anyhow there's something appealing with not knowing, don't you think? It triggers our mind and imagination, makes us dream, but also question who and what we really are. Though there are times in life when we feel lost and blank. Like no one understands us, not even ourself sometimes. These moments you should always remember that there's no coincidence that you became the one you are. It's all written in the stars and if we're willing to it can give us guidance and clarity to move forward and become the best version of the one we are meant to be. For new perceptions and knowledge about yourself and the people around you I really recommend you to check out Astro.com.

Star pearl double earring from SNÖ OF SWEDEN  –  Star velvet sweatshirt from NOBODY´S CHILD  –  Astrology necklace from BROOKE GREGSON  –  Beauty dust from MOON JUICE  –  Shooting stars ring from OLE LYNGGAARD  –  Sun and Moon scented candle from FORNASETTI  –  Infinity Mirrors by YAYOI KUSAMA  –  Starter glitter-trimmed leather sneakers from GOLDEN GOOSE  –  Glittered suede cardholder from SAINT LAURENT  –  Eclipses Luminarium (1554) by Cyprian Leowitz.

How To Keep Skin Hydrated Through The Winter

We're right in the middle of it and let's face it - we'll be kept in its grip for three more month, more or less. I'm talking about the dreadful winter.

Harsh winds, temperatures below zero and dry indoor air. Fresh and beautiful by all means now when the sun is (finally) out, but the downside is how bad it can impact our skin. That glowy summer complexion is replaced by unflattering cracks and scales. Just writing it makes me shiver...

Luckily there are a few tricks to thwart the aforementioned. This is what I do:

DRINK WATER

Ok, this isn't latest news. We all know it, but do we really practice what we preach? To be honest I always tend to forget. I'm no fan of pure cold water. A cup of herbal tea/hot lemon water is more me, but that's more or less the same I suppose. Just remember to be a little extra careful with caffeinated drinks such as coffee and black tea as they are diuretic. So bottoms up, babes!

GOOD NUTRITION

Same goes here. The outside is a reflection of your inside. Pretty simple when you think of it. Indulge in watery foods such as soups, vegetable, fruits, berries and good healthy fats. Avoid eating too much salty, dry and crunchy food as these will soak up more of the necessary moisture.

SUITABLE SKINCARE
Do you slather the same cream on all year round? Think again. As the weather changes so does our skin. A lightweight lotion might do the job in the summer, but in a cold climate your skin calls for more. Here a serum comes into play! Unlike a moisturizer that stays on the surface of the skin (due to its bigger molecules) a serum can penetrate all the way down to dermis (where the skin produce its nutrition) and in that way boost, balance and strengthen your skin. If you haven't got any serum – run and buy! It makes ALL the difference.

Moreover, I recommend you to invest and put some extra money in a good skincare routine. Personally I use cleanser, serum, eye cream, lotion and night cream. All natural and organic, of course.

Especially now during the winter it's good to take an extra look at the ingredients. Alcohol and water based products tend to dry skin out. Avoid using if you want to be on the safe side. And last, but not least – stay consistent! Morning and evening. No cheating.

SAUNA

I can't praise it enough. A hot steamy sauna not only do wonders to your skin, but to your whole being. Instead of me writing a Bible about all the benefits, just google it to find out. I have a sauna almost everyday!

HUMIDIFIER 
As the temperature drops so does the humidity. If you have some real trouble fighting the freezing (and sneezing) you might consider buying a humidifier. Unfortunately I don't have one myself (yet), but it's said to do wonders, especially during winter.



Good luck and may your skin stay smooth and soft! x

PS. Sharing is caring! What are your tricks to a healthy skin? DS.

ActivatedPUMPKIN SEEDS

After my hair mineral analysis, one thing I had to increase was my zinc intake. I got suggested by my nutritionist to eat pumpkin seeds. 

They contain a lot of...

Zinc (50% of your daily need in only 100 gram) are rich in protein (25g/100g) and the coveted Vitamin E (which keeps your skin young, fresh and elastic and prevents wrinkles to occure).

So, what about this activating thing?

Well, you sure can eat them as they are, but if you want to make sure your body absorbs the good stuff you have to first let them soak in salted water and then dehydrate them again. 

Nuts, seeds, grains and legumes all contain an anti-nutrient (phytic acid). It serves as their physiological protectant, a safeguard until germination. When a human eat them it binds to minerals in the gastrointestinal tract. This can cause irritation and digestive strain as we don't produce enough of the enzyme phytase to break this acid down. So, like the name tells you (ANTI-nutrient) it can contribute to nutritional deficiencies if not prepared the right way. 

By soaking in salt water followed by low temperature dehydration these phytates and enzymes are easily neutralized. This method increase the bioavailability of important nutrients and active helpful enzymes. 

To put it short?

If you, surprisingly, have read this far you hear there is some real science behind this. Simply explained – to avoid digestive problems, nutritional deficiencies and to make sure your body absorbs the nutrition when eating nuts, seeds, grains and legumes you should always soak before you eat them. 

This is how you do it:

Activated pumpkin seeds

Organic pumpkin seeds (or other of your choice)

Colander

Big bowl (glass or stainless steel)

Salt of your choice (I prefer sea salt or Himalaya)

Cooking pot

Food dehydrator (or oven)

~

Pour up all pumpkin seeds in the colander.

Rinse them thoroughly in lukewarm running water until water is clear.

Shake the excess water off.

Put the rinsed seeds in a bowl and sprinkle them with some salt.

Boil up water in a cooking pot and let it cool a bit.

Pour the lukewarm water over the seeds.

Let them soak for a minimum of 8 hours.

~

When the soaking is done, 

pour the seeds in the colander and rinse them thoroughly again.

Spread them out evenly on one layer.

In a dehydrator:

Dry at 41˚C/105F (to make sure all enzymes are preserved) for around 12 hours.

In a oven:

Haven't tried, but I suggest you let them dry at the same temperature.

Check a little now and then when they feel crispy and dry.

Then they are ready.

Remember! Seeds and nuts are high in fat. 

Avoid them to turn rancid – store in your fridge!

Bon appétit!

Healing Honey

Aaaa... Aa.. Aaatjooo! 

Those who are familiar with this know what I mean. The nose is running and the eyes are itching. 

Spring is around the corner and so is the pollen season. Blooming trees and green grass by all means (of course we've missed it!), but unfortunately this period can be a real pain in the a-s to some of us, me included. As the au natural lady I am I won't go near any pills, drops or anything pharmaceutical what so ever. 

My remedy? HONEY. 

Pure raw local honey, a teaspoon a day (starting a few months before everything starts to burst and bloom), and I can enjoy the spring breeze, without a single little sneeze! So amazing. Like I use to say - nature has everything we need.

Dynamic Yoga

Cashmere hoodie from FILIPPA K SOFT SPORT  –  De-stress mind bath and shower oil from AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES  –  Kore stretch-jersey leggings from OLYMPIA ACTIVEWEAR  –  Yoga mat from ECO-ION  –  Cross-back bra top from FILIPPA K SOFT SPORT.

And so it was Monday again. A fresh new week to seize. Personally it didn't start the best way possible as I overslept, but thank heaven I work with my mum and have a job I can control myself, more or less. I just love it! 

Otherwise it's been a quite soft start to the week – surprised my auntie on her birthday and shaked some booty at tonights dance class. 

And tomorrow new things are coming up! I'm starting a new yoga class – dynamic yoga. So excited to see what it's like. Right now I really feel for exercising and moving my body. I cross all fingers this feeling will last for once. Wish me luck! xx

Body Language

To lose yourself in the music, feel the adrenaline and sweat pumping and just forget about the world around you... Oh, how I love to dance! Tonight I really rocked at my dance class. It was so much fun and I nailed all the steps so well. You know, the feeling when life is on your side-kind of thing. If only there were more classes available I would attend them all. It's such a great way to work out. Instead of actually feeling the heaviness all you can think of is the rhythm, what emotions awaken inside of you and how they come into actions in your expressions. Pure love.

And, working out also means you need some extra refueling. Being honest I'm the worst person ever remembering to drink enough water. And yes, there you have it – remembering. I just forget. Never feel thirsty. Plain cold water is the worst. I nearly hate it. Uuuuh. I prefer warm stuff so I try to make big cups of hot herbal tea. That use to help, but it so hard to simply remembering. 

How about you? Do you drink enough water? What's your tricks to stay hydrated? 

This little raisin girl really needs them.

Shake That Ass

Karlie Kloss photographed by Mario Testino for American VOGUE July 2012.

One thing I've been thinking of lately is that I seriously need to get better at working out! I love the feeling afterwards, to be completely exhausted and clear in mind. Even the sore muscles the days after feel good. Nothing wrong with the post things as you can hear, it's the pre-stuff I need to work on – to actually get changed, jump in those trainers and head out and sweat my ass off. Shouldn't be so hard I guess? Well, at least I've started to take dance classes twice a week, but that's just not enough.

What are your tips and motivations? What do your workout routines look like?

"If you can't eat it, don't put it on your skin"

Latest issue of STYLEBY and a sneak peek of our new coffee table. Yes, indeed, but then we have that pink tube (my facial cleanser) in the middle of the picture. It's nearly finished so today I've spent hours(!) looking for a new regimen for my pretty little face. Right now I'm in a period when I feel for some luxury and to really pamper myself a little extra.

I've read about it before and had almost forgot its name, but luckily I found it again – DR. ALKAITIS. This skin care line is really one of a kind. The products are all 100% natural and raw, hand crafted and made with the finest selection of organically grown plants, herbs, fruits and seeds. I'm so curious to try them out so I seriously think I will place an order this week. Because I'm worth it, right?

DR. ALKAITIS Organic Purifying Facial Cleanser  –  DR. ALKAITIS Organic Replenishing Serum  –  DR. ALKAITIS Organic Day Creme  –  WELEDA Almond Soothing Cleansing Lotion.

My Weekend

Had a light lunch on my balcony when the sun finally peeked through.

Got invited to my cousin's sauna raft. So relaxing and peaceful!

Picked the first strawberries in mum and dad's garden.

... and enjoyed them with banana pancakes. So yummy!

After working like crazy for the last couple of weeks (or even month to be precise...) it felt amazing to spend a night at mum and dad's this weekend. I so needed those 10(!) hours of sleep, that bare footed walk in the forest and all those good laughs. Home sweet home ♡

How was your weekend?

Great Greens

So, here they are! Hemp Powder and Barley Grass, both organically grown of course.

Hemp powder contains all essential amino acids, is rich in omega-3, -6 and -9 and is also high in protein, which is perfect for vegans/vegetarians and for those who want to cut down on animal protein. Very suitable for people with sensitive stomachs and/or other allergies as it's also easy to digest.

Nowadays the majority of all people are too acidic due to stress, pollution and a bad diet. So, to eat more alkalized food and workout regular is good advices if you want a healthy body.

Barley grass is one of the most alkalizing foods that can be found! Moreover it's detoxifying, a booster for your immune system and it's also said to contain an enzyme, P4D1, which repairs the DNA in our cells. The result? We remain young and healthy for much longer! 

Well, as you can hear these two powders are packed with lots of good stuff. The list of benefits could go on for much longer. To put it short – it's SUPER FOOD!

Beauty Food supplement from BODYISM  –  Organic Hemp Protein Powder from MANITOBA HARVEST  –  Organic Barley Grass from PURE SYNERGY ORGANICS.

Superfood

A few days ago I finally got down to action and ordered something I've been thinking of for a loooong long time – superfoods! It's important to give the body some extra support to maintain the balance after the treatment and apart from that, who says no to extra energy (as it's said to give you)? Well, not me. I need it all! So, stay tuned and I'll show you more when they arrive. Can't wait!

The New Me

A few months ago I went to do a Hair mineral analysis. Unfortunately the test results showed I have way too high levels of Copper which in turn lowers other important mineral levels such as Zink, Potassium, Manganese and so on. According to my Nutritionist, this is something I'm born with as the mother transfers her levels to the child during the pregnancy. And looking at it, it's not so strange. Growing up (and then continue to live) in an old house with copper pipes has its results, unfortunately.

And also the fact that I, at the age of twelve, decided to become a vegetarian didn't make the situation any better. It only got worse, but who was I to know all this back then?

Though my new diet involved beans, legumes and those meat substitute stuff it didn't take long until I discovered my first bald spot on the back part of my head. Small as a cent, so I didn't care that much. It was just something temporarily, I thought, and my best friend back then had also lost some hair so it somehow brought us closer and it felt kind of cool having the same thing as her.

Life passed on, it grew out and I older.

My healthy habits increased. I started to follow a diet based on my blood type, of course not to loose weight (I was too skinny already), but just because it felt so good and it wasn't so much different from what I was eating already. I felt so fresh and well, like nothing could stop me. Then one night, while combing my hair, something would soon be questioning my surmised statement of well-being.

In a second I was thrown ten years back in time. With the same fright I could feel it. But this time there were two of them. To my horror they didn't stop at the size of a cent this time. They were about to grow even bigger.

Beans and blood type diets by all means, but this time I really felt that I had to find out what was wrong. Why didn't my hair want to stay?

It's a real since all these minerals and vitamins, but after a few weeks of consideration after my consultation (I'm scared to death of pills and such stuff) I finally realized I actually have to deal with this before it gets even worse. Reading about Copper toxicity is really scary... Allergies, hair loss, Schizophrenia and in the worst cases even suicide(!) don't sound so appealing, uh? So, said and done – after some research I finally found some supplements that felt right for me (of course after recommendations from my Nutritionist and the laboratory doing the analyze).

For two months these five bottles were my buddies. It's funny, but at the end of the treatment I actually felt kind of melancholic. It was finally over, but now I had to leave the ones who had helped me bringing the real me to the surface. Cause yes – I feel completely changed as a person! At first it felt a bit scary when I felt that things were changing inside me, when the excess Copper was starting to leave my system. Who will I meet? Who is this person? It was like getting to know someone new, seriously.

But guess what? This new person happens to be very happy, the hair has started to come back and for the first time in her life she feels a true, deep and sincere lust of life.



That's my story. At first I was a bit unsure if I should be this personal, but then I really felt that more people have to know about this – how important it is to have balanced mineral levels and the effect it has on our mood and well being. No one deserved to feel like I've done on and off. It's not pink ponies and rainbows if I say so. I'm thankful towards myself for doing this. It can seriously change your life.

So, if you have the opportunity – I really recommend, from the bottom of my heart, that you do what I did. Find a Nutritionist that you feel comfortable with and let them do a Mineral analyze of your hair. It's so worth it.


Take care, xx.

Solar Eclipse

Listen up, lovers! The winds of change are blowing. Today, March 20th, could be the most intense day this year. We're about to witness a total solar eclipse, followed by the equinox, which ignites a major turning point and beginning into our lives. At the exact point of the eclipse, the moon will cross paths with the sun and create a burst of energy release. Many of us could feel a total system reboot, a resurgence of some sort, as eclipses often come with an intense and energizing energy. Something new is waiting so, let's head out and seize this rare and magical opportunity.

Happy weekend and new beginning! 

xx

♡

Love this.

via @rmsbeauty

BkrBottle

If there's one thing I'm really bad at it's drinking enough water. Such a simple thing (and we all know the importance and improvement it does on our body, skin, health etc, right?), but somehow I just tend to forget it. Now let's see if this bright beauty will get me gulping!

BKR Water Bottle "Gloss" from Eleven  –  BKR Water Bottle "Gloss" from The Trend Boutique



"Why not carry life's most essential molecule in the safe, green, and clean BKR Silicone + Glass Water Bottle in Gloss! This water bottle is 100% reusable + recyclable and a portion of the proceeds benefit the Obakki and Canary Foundation. This leak-proof, lightweight bottle is a definite must-have essential."  
– The Trend Boutique

Queen of Greens

It all started with this photo I posted on Instagram (@saemlstaint) a couple of weeks ago and when I heard my sister was coming by I thought this is the perfect time to both surprise her and try it out – to make healthy crisps!

We all know those two words seldom work very well together, right?

Well, in this case it's almost better to eat much than less cause these green leaves are smacked with some real super stuff. I'm telling you, it's not for nothing its been named "the queen of greens"...

Here's why you should try it:

Gives a strong immune system (vitamin C and powerful antioxidants), keeps your bones strong (calcium), has more iron than beef(!) per calorie, boosts your IQ level (folate), maintains good eyesight (vitamin A) and detoxes and cleanse your liver (fiber and sulfur).


So, what could possibly be a better Saturday snack than this? 




Kale crisps

1/2 bunch of fresh kale leaves
extra virgin olive oil 
sea salt and/or spices of your own choice
baking sheet 


Remember to always use organic ingredients!
You get better taste, a healthier you and a happier planet.
Always act with Love.

~

Preheat the oven to 150˚C/300F.

Tear the leaves up roughly.
The stem can be saved and used in a smoothie etc.

Carefully wash the leaves under running water and then spin them until they are thoroughly dry.
It's very important you stick to this cause otherwise there's a risk they become soggy and we surely don't want that, right?

When they are all dried and ready it's time to add the olive oil.
Careful as I am, I rubbed each and every piece in by using my fingers.
Don't drench them, just a fine coat is good enough.
As you go along, one by one, you place them out on the baking sheet.
Make sure to not overcrowd. One single layer is the way to succeed.

Finally sprinkle the kale with your desired seasoning before you put them to bake.
To make sure not to burn them, I suggest you place them in the lower part of the oven.

I baked mine for 6 minutes, but next time I'll bake them for a few less.
Just watch them. You'll see when they curl up and get a nice colour.

Before digging in, let the kale cool on the sheet for about 3 minutes.
This little trick will crisp them up even more!

Bon appétit!
xx

Power pendantCHAKRA

Seven stones, one for each chakra.

Crown: Rock crystal, Third Eye: Lapis lazuli, Throat: Aquamarine, Heart: Aventurine, Solar plexus: Citrine, Sacral: Carneol and Base: Garnet.

I've been drooling over this chakra pendant over a year (maybe even two?), but never got to the point ordering it. So typically me.. And so on Xmas eve, when almost all present were unwrapped, there was this huge(!) box left to be opened. Imagine my happiness when I realized that it was this little beauty that had been hiding in there. Since then it's been hanging around my neck. We've been inseparable. Can't. Be. Without. It. Feeling it towards my skin reminds me of all the invisible and amazing powers that constantly surrounding us, which in turn, helps me keep focused and stay strong. Thanks again, mum and dad! xx

Are your chakras in balance? Learn more over here!