Bare Faced Beauty- Lady Gaga’s New Look?

Organic cosmetics lovers It is not very often you get to see Lady Gaga without all her theatrical makeup, hair and styling, however the October Issue of Harpers Bazaar shows a new Bare Faced Lady Gaga with straight hair and not even the slightest hint of makeup.

Natural makeup is not Lady Gaga’s thing, although she states for the magazine that everything she is, without and without makeup and eccentric styling is natural for her as she’s still the same person inside.

Is Your Child Getting the Ideal Sleep for Optimal Learning?

The end of the Summer Holidays is already here and all those late nights and late risings are now heading out the window as the time fast approaches to get kids sleep habits and sleep schedule back on track. Not only is important for helping get them to school on time, but poor sleep can also lead to issues with school work, mood swings and health.
With help from Alberta’s Chiropractors in Canada we’ve compiled the following advice for helping kids back into that natural sleep routine for school.
1. Once you’ve set a sleep schedule, try and maintain it. Don’t use weekends to catch up on sleep, or slip out of the schedule, as it will have a jet lag effect and catch up with the kids on Monday.

2. Establish a relaxing bedtime ritual quiet time before bed to help them unwind, bath, story or reading time will help their mind settle down to sleep.

3. Maintain a relaxing sleeping environment, all electrical switched off or out of the room. The room should be dark, and video’s laptops, TV’s and Blackberry’s should be out of the room

4. Avoid large meals close to bedtime, as children may struggle to sleep as their body works to digest their food.

5. Avoid high sugary foods, snacks and drinks, including caffeinated ones like Fizzy drinks, up to 6 hours before they sleep.

6. Make sure you have the right pillow and mattress for your child, this is essential. A mattress should be comfortable supportive, and be flexible and adapt to the body’s shape whilst still providing firm support. An Organic mattress without harmful chemicals is important for longer term health benefits, so we recommend a natural latex mattress, which has no metal in and is therefore electromagnetically neutral. Pillows are also very important- for side sleepers, the head, neck and shoulders should remain level with the mid and lower spine. For back sleepers, the head and neck should remain level with the upper back and spine. Avoid pillows that are so thick or thin they angle the head and neck away from the body. We Recommend the Lana all Natural Latex Organic Mattress for children who sleep on their side or the Coco Lana for younger children or children who sleep on their back or stomach.

7. The best positions to sleep in are on the back and side which allows your head, neck and spine to relax into their natural alignment, sleeping on your stomach doesn’t allow you to do this and can cause stiffness in the morning.


8. Read more: http://www.thenownews.com/health/Help+your+child+well+rested+learning/5331844/story.html#ixzz1WbRhcxLq

Brave Woman helped by Nail polish & Lipstick whilst facing Breast Cancer

The headline sounds flippant but it’s not meant to be. To have life altering surgery that can affect your looks for life and to battle for your life at the same time is no simple joke, and for one brave woman, whose life is all about beauty, what helped her most through this massive upheaval and change was a positive attitude, a glamorous wig, bright red lipstick and a lick of nail polish.
Sophie Beresiner is Beauty editor at Look magazine, and I was moved by her story. Diagnosed at only 31 years old with breast cancer she had to endure a mastectomy and heavy chemotherapy in order to come out the other end Cancer free.
But at a time when you can feel your worst, Sophie has some really important words of wisdom that I’d love to share with our readers
Beauty is my business, so to be peering at my post-chemotherapy, naked eyelids in the mirror every morning, willing on the reappearance of my loved and lost lashes, is a world away from my ordinary life.
“This is what I now know; no amount of mascara can help when thinning lashes turn into no lashes, but a simple imprint of the brush can cheat them from afar. Even nails do not go unscathed where chemo is concerned -- it attacks all fast-growing cells -- but dark polish is a good camouflage…
Oh, and superficial doesn't even come into it. At a time when huge importance is placed on keeping a positive attitude, the confidence-crushing effect that cancer can have on appearance is definitely not something to be glossed over”
We prefer to recommend the natural toxin free kind of cosmetics because life’s too short to risk your health.

Read more: http://www.independent.ie/lifestyle/independent-woman/health-fitness/red-lipstick-a-wig-and-glamorous-nail-polish-got-me-through-breast-cancer-at-31-2854752.html#ixzz1W2vcs47D

Paying Homage to Our Earth Mothers

Still Point Farm Festival Oregon, saw the hosting of an annual event that pays tribute to Indigenous Grandmothers in the second Mother Earth Festival of its kind.
The festival sported a mix of healing, massage, and the sale of organic makeup, natural products and also the sharing of the message regarding global wisdom of the Earth, and the importance of water, peace on Earth and a clean world.
Grandmother Agnes Baker-Pilgrim aged 87 says Grandmothers everywhere “you are the wisdom keepers and we'd like for you wherever you live to know that your children, they honour you because you are the wisdom keepers of the family and in your community. Just because you’re grey headed is no sign your kids can put you back in a rest home or something,” she said.

Baby Beckham gets the Best Start with Breastmilk

Organic Cotton Bra wearers will be thrilled to know that Victoria and David Beckham are proudly advocating that breastfeeding tis the thing to do, as little baby Harper Seven gets to experience that close special bond with mummy that only breastfeeding can provide.
David Beckham says “it’s an incredible thing”, and now that Victoria is obviously using a breast pump, David is getting to feed baby too.

Making Your Dorm Room Eco-friendly with Organic bedding

University is just round the corner now that your results are out and your places are in, the next step of the journey has to be getting ready to furnish your Dorm room. It doesn’t take much imagination or effort to get things environmentally friendly.
Here’s our top tips to getting your room GreenDon’t rush out to buy appliances, see if you can share appliances with room mates , you may be able to pay them towards the cost and share. Always look for energy efficient products

Reuse boxes when packing, if possible get them from your local shop and then recycle them, it will cost you less!
Pack your stuff in re-usable bags , you can use the bags later when you go shopping for groceries
Buy organic sheets for your bed and organic bedding if your parents can help out with the cost. They will stay with you for a long time and will make you feel special when you tuck into bed at night, plus you’ll be saving the planet from all the pesticide pollution that goes into non organic cotton. Make sure you order it early enough so that it gets to you in time for Uni.
Avoid plastic plates and cups, go for good old ceramic stuff that is better for the environment.
Shop for stuff at discount stores or second hand shops, you can pick up some real bargains and recycle them in the process too, such as rugs, furniture, desk stuff and decorative things , you just need a creative eye!
Use recycled paper notebooks and pens, and always use recycled copier paper for your assignments.
Buy Eco friendly cleaning products for your dorm room, so that when you have to clean up its still Green!
Buy your text books from second hand books shops if possible or even Amazon used. You can often get ones in very good condition.
Above all enjoy your-self, and study hard!! Good luck!

Natural Makeup looks Out for Autumn

The Nude lip gloss look of this summer is out for autumn as the new fall looks steer towards Strong eyebrows, thick lashes and red lips. Organic makeup is not at all out of the running though, as those dark stormy looks can be achieved just as easily with natural organic makeup as it can be with high street brands. In fact organic makeup brands such as Inika and Nvey eco sport stunning vibrant shades created by natural mineral pigments.
To tame the intense look, Natashia Paul of Wink Eyelash bar suggests that we should use, a metallic shadow as a highlighter dabbing it into the inner corners of the eyes using it sparingly and with a brush. She loves Gunmetal which is also one of Inika’s fab shades! To go party! Glamp it up by brushing metallic shadow across the eyelid the lash line using a dense compact brush.
Fill in eyebrows with a brow liner, but avoid drawing them in. To create a greater effect, use concealer above and below the brow to help them stand out.
Go for those deep dark red shades of organic lipstick. Apply the liner with a brush first and then fill in, use concealer around the edges to stop colour bleeding.
For your lashes go for faux lashes, either individual or strip lashes will do the job and can take up to 10 years off your appearance as they open up your eye and give your face a new focal point.

1 out of 3 women need to switch to Organic Cosmetics

Organic makeup junkies won’t be surprised to hear the results of a new survey showing that 1 in 3 women refuse to leave the house without makeup on, whereas 3 in 10 wouldn’t even pick up the kids from school without a touch of lip gloss!

The majority of pressure to do this comes not from Men but from our own needs and insecurities about looking good in front of other women. Most of these habits are picked up from our own mothers. So if you want to have a positive influence on your own health and your daughters, encourage them to look their best and really care for their skin by using healthy organic cosmetics. At least that way you are causing minimal damage. Make sure you give yourself a makeup break, every week; you don’t need it when you’re at home.

The key is to wear a little makeup and not look overdone, it can be more unflattering than no makeup at all!

Switch to a Metal Free Bed for Perfect Sleep

Organic mattress lovers will be interested to know how they can improve their sleep.
We are surrounded by technology everywhere we go, and often it becomes a part of our bedroom too; mobile phones under the pillow as we sleep, or a stereo next to the bed, or even a laptop on the floor or TV on the wall! All of these products emit radiation as well as electronic pulses that can interfere with the subtle electronic pulses in our brain.
Constant use in our bedroom environment can leave our bedroom feeling charged with negative ions that also cause our body damage, add to that a metal bed or the metal springs in our mattress and we could be distorting the energy in our room to the extent that could put our immune system in a permanent state of stress, the long term effect on our health therefore being affected. Even Low levels of this electro-magnetic smog and radiation pollution can distort the impulses in our brain and cause things such as headaches, nausea, muscular tension, night sweats and in the worst case, heart palpitations.
The solution is to switch to a mattress that is metal free; a metal free mattress is electromagnetically neutral and will result in a more peaceful sleep. Switch to a wooden bed and if you can, remove as many electrical gadgets from your room at night and invest in a calming and peaceful bed time routine, such as a few moments of deep breathing, meditation or reading a book. A salt lamp is also excellent to burn to counteract negative ions in the air with positive ones. Even if you are already keeping your bedroom gadget free, an electronically neutral metal free mattress will ensure that you really do get away from the stresses of the day when you go to bed.

Top Tips for Creating a Healthy Bedroom

Organic mattress lovers will be interested in IBTimes UK’s top tips for making sure you have a healthy bedroom.

As they rightly point out you do spend half your life in your bedroom so making sure that it is ecologically good for your health is essential.
1. Pillows – IBTimes UK suggest that getting rid of artificial synthetic fabric pillows is essential such as petroleum based foam or polyester, as these emit VOC compounds that can cause headaches, nausea, eye, throat irritation and possibly asthma attacks. Choose natural products such as natural latex instead.

2. Mattress – Opt for a natural latex mattress or organic cotton mattress because normal mattresses contain over 71 chemicals. To begin with they contain fire retardants (polbrominated biphenyl ethers, or PBDE’s), they also contain stain and moisture resistant chemicals that are toxic to humans. They also contain Formaldehyde. PVC was also used in Baby mattresses but watch out when you buy a mattress that it is PVC free as it was banned in 2009. It’s also important to change your mattress every 10 years due to Dust mite faeces which can build up in an ordinary mattress. So if your mattress is aging, better change it soon. An organic mattress contains no VOC chemicals, PVC Phthalates or any of the other toxic chemicals present in normal mattresses.

3. Bed Linen – Buying normal cotton may sound like the healthiest option, next to synthetic materials, but cotton is considered the world’s dirtiest crop. 16% of the world’s pesticides and insecticides are used on growing cotton which is bad for human and animal health. Buying organic cotton is healthier for the whole plant and yourself. Organic cotton, sheets, or hemp ones are best, but make sure that ecological dies have been used otherwise it egates the point really!

4. Shoe free zone – Avoid wearing shoes in your bedroom as they bring toxins, germs and bacteria from the outside world into your room.

5. Electricals – Electronic devices in the bedroom can interfere with sleep, leave phones, laptops, ipads, and t.v’s out of there, or at least especially not near your bed>

6. Creating Ambience – Ambience is good, it gets you in the mood to relax and unwind, use Soy Candles instead of Paraffin wax which emits VOC’s!

For any help creating a greener bedroom contact us at www.buyorganics.co.uk. We have a complete range of bedding that will raise the health barometer in your bedroom instantaneously.

Emma Watson Loves Organic Skincare Products!

Organic skincare lovers will be thrilled to hear that Harry Potter’s Emma Watson is also a massive fan of Organic Skincare, her favourite being a £5 Figs and Rouge Balm. She proves that organic skincare has got a special kind of magic that is wooing the young and style conscious in their quest to have good skin.

Our latest range of SAVE organic skincare and organic hair care is excellent for younger teen skins and, is very easy on the pocket whilst also giving users fab results without any rubbish ingredients that may clog pores or cause rashes.
Who said organic skincare had to be expensive!!

Is your Organic Shampoo doing more than Just Cleaning your Hair?

Organic shampoo users will not be surprised to hear that approximately 70% of shampoos, cosmetics and soaps could be endocrine disruptors and should be avoided where possible according to Dr’s at Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York.

Your endocrine system is essential for keeping your hormones behaving normally and damage to this system can ultimately cause problems with weight, mood, sleep and many other daily body functions. Endocrine disruptors in cosmetics can mimic the effect of hormones and affect the performance of the gland that produces them.

So if you love your body and your health, switch to organic skincare, organic shampoo, conditioner and also an organic body lotion or oil in order to avoid the nasty effects of these products. This is especially important for growing teenagers as they develop.

Cosmetology Instructor recommends Chemical Free Organic Cosmetics

An article this month online at times free press showed that more women are turning to chemical free organic cosmetics.
India Cox found that turning to natural cosmetic such as mineral makeup, she was able to calm her skin down and prevent irritation which was causing breakouts that even her dermatologist could not solve.
Many women are turning away from chemicals in their cosmetics and turning to organic makeup.
“Most makeup has chemicals and assorted nonorganic ingredients to create the effects wanted,” said Rhonda Shackelford Castleberry, senior instructor of cosmetology at Chattanooga State Community College. “Unfortunately, sometimes these aren’t the best for your skin, and some people even find that they are allergic to the ingredients in regular cosmetics.
“When the ingredients are natural and organic, you are basically getting the purest of ingredients to apply to your skin. There is a health surge going on nationwide, and people are paying more attention to what they put into [and onto] their bodies.”
She recommends that you should still check labels for hidden chemical ingredients, but at least this way you can enjoy looking your best without worrying about what’s going on your skin.

Men stop sharing your bed, oh and you too Ladies!

Organic matttress fans will be tickled to know that the latest research today suggests that men who share their bed with a partner do not get a good night sleep and their performance is reduced the next day. According to the study, women are not affected so much as they sleep more deeply at night.

At first I was scoffing in surprise but then realised that the study does acknowledge that both partners sleep poorly when sharing a bed, but men just fare worse off. Maybe it's a bit like man flu!

Natural sunscreen still important despite advances in skin cancer medication

Whilst earlier reports this year signalled that skin cancer rates were tripling amongst younger people, good news hailed earlier this month that a new drug called Vermurafenib can slow down skin cancer and allow sufferers to live much longer than chemotherapy.
The drug works by acting on a faulty gene, BRAF found in half of terminally ill patients whose cancer has spread to other organs. This is no doubt the beginning of a wave of new medications that may save many lives.
Although this is good news, it is important not to lose sight of what’s really important and that is that we still need to protect ourselves when we go out in the sun. Natural sunscreen is a vital product that we should be using on a daily basis to protect ourselves against harmful UV rays. In fact, daily use can also cut down free radical damage and delay signs of aging.

As a general note it is important not to assume that yet again we can pop a pill to fix the problem created by poor lifestyles. Our current culture of fixing things when they go wrong rather than preventing ill health by concentrating on staying well through exercise, good diet and real food supplementation is the wrong path for us as a species. For your stock of health natural and organic sunscreen visit http://www.buyorganics.co.uk and stock up before going on holiday and before the summer heat wave arrives

How to get chemicals out of your mattress

An article today in the San Francisco Chronicle shared some top tips to getting chemicals and poisons out of your mattress.

Choosing a chemical free organic mattress or organic futon should be a number one priority on every ones list because of the following facts

Polyurethane Foam is one of the number one ingredients in mattresses these days, and off gassing from polyurethane foam can release harmful petrochemicals into the air as you sleep. The Petroleum based chemicals used in making foam are polymers and urethane, which contains an Isocyanate compound. The Isocyanate compound is one of the main culprits that causes illness, asthma and other diseases. Memory foam mattresses use an Isocyanate called TDI (Toluene Di-Isocyanate), which has a strong odor and over time seeps through a mattress, and into the air. These chemicals in mattresses releases hydrocarbons that evaporate into the air we breath throughout a mattress' lifetime. These hydrocarbons are powerful carcinogenic chemicals, attacking and severely damaging the immune and nervous systems of adults and children. United States Department of Labour, claims that the health effects of an Isocyanate exposure include irritation to skin, mucous membranes, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.

Hidden fire retardants are the other issue as San Francisco Chronicle points out, The government here as well as in the U.S requires that mattresses must be flame retardant. PBDE, Polybrominated Dipheyl Ethers are commonly found in mattresses especially older ones and mattresses made in China. As the foam decomposes over time, harmful PBDE in older mattresses can pollute your bedroom. According to an EPA study in 2008, PBDE is especially toxic to brain development, leading to damage in learning and behaviour. This is not all that maybe in your mattress though. Melamine, TDCPP, APP and pentaBDE as well as cynanide may be sleeping with you at night.

Senator Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey believes that Fire Retardants should be eliminated from all mattresses, he says, " America's system for regulating industrial chemicals is broken. Parents are afraid because hundreds of untested chemicals are found in their child's body." Many parents bring their newborn or toddler into their bed, unintentional harming their children. The EPA and the Agency of Toxic Substances and disease registry does claim that, " children do differ from adults in their susceptibility to hazardous chemicals, including carcinogens and neuro-developmental effects of the fire retardants commonly used in baby mattresses" This unfortunately doesn't just apply to America but to the UK too. But you don't get many high profile MP's fighting the case for consumer safety in the UK.

The latest advice from some bodies regarding cot mattresses recommends that we use ones with a pvc cover to avoid cot death, if nature intended us to cradle our babies in pvc, surely it would grow on trees! San Francisco chronicle points out that PVC waterproofs fabrics but has petroleum chlorine in it which is a known carcinogen.

At buyorganics we specialise in organic mattresses and organic futons without any chemicals toxins or poisons. We are trying to make your sleeping environment safer by recommending a safer choice of foam fill - botanical latex which comes specifically from plants, namely the rubber tree. The way it is formulated for us using the Dunlop method, nothing artificial, chemical, toxic or poisonous is added providing you with a 100% plant based mattress that is naturally hypo allergenic, and dust mite repellent. This combined with nothing but natural fibres and no chemical or toxic fire retardants is better for yours and your children's health all round.

 

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/06/14/prweb8554183.DTL#ixzz1PLQWNJOq

 

 

 

What an Ethical Designer says about Natural Makeup and Great Shoes!!

Natural makeup and organic clothing lovers will be thrilled to hear that Ethical Designer Orsola de Castro is in her own words an eclectic and simple dresser who points out that our buying habits are more driven by desire then need. The beauty in her work is that she creates clothing from fabrics that would otherwise be thrown away.
She is equally reserved and simple in her choice of makeup opting for a natural makeup look with red or orange lipstick and very little else. Paired with a fabulous pair of shows, she says you can feel untouchable!!!
Ethical Designer Orsola de Castro writes in the Observer Sunday 12th June
Check out natural organic makeup on sale at www.buyorganics.co.uk

Bed Bugs – Is Biocide in your Mattress Really Safe?

The latest addition to the market by a popular mattress manufacturer is a new Anti-Bug mattress that contains a Biocide guaranteed safe for humans with a 100% bed bug mortality rate.

As a natural mattress consumer this would raise more questions for me than it would settle my anxieties. I can understand the need for this product maybe in high turnover places such as hostels or hotels, but still…. sleeping on a mattress that is not only laced with flame retardants, but now also Biocide on which you would normally, at home anyway, spend half your life, may not be safe for long term health, especially for small children.

I also wonder how they can guarantee that it is safe for humans, is it that no humans have died, or that no humans have developed cancer or asthma or breathing difficulties from being exposed to this Biocide on a daily basis! Will they compensate you if you do fall ill? Or will they just say that it's unclear if the mattress had made you ill? How do you guarantee something like that?

Even though bed bugs do come with their own problems, here is a quick guide to taking care of the problem as naturally as possible so that you can still sleep on a natural mattress and not have to worry about Bed Bugs– Yes it's a bit more of headache, you may need to use chemicals, but a little careful attention could get rid of them for good, and as long as you're careful, you may be able to avoid getting them back.

Remember that bed bugs are not the same as dust mites, and a few precautions can help prevent you bringing them home. For instance, make sure you check pets are free of them and that you are not harbouring them when coming back from travelling. Do not open luggage on furniture or beds, wash everything in very, very hot water and hoover all luggage thoroughly, even in the seams.

If you have them at home already and need to get rid of them, you will have to take fast drastic action. Hoover everything as much as you can, include all your furniture, creases of pillows, seems, corners etc. As for everything else, wash or dry clean as much as you can, clothes, bedspreads, curtains, bedding, throws, pillows, duvets in the hottest water possible. If you can't wash it or steam it or dry clean it then leave it in the baking hot sun (has to 113 Fahrenheit).

If this doesn't work – get the professionals in!!! But at least then you can sleep on a pure natural mattress and not pollute your body on a nightly basis!!

John Masters Organic Haircare products favourite of Hollywood Stars

Hollywood glam is all about the hair and makeup. Only the best are trusted to glorify the locks of the rich and famous! Well Rachel McAdams proves that John Masters Organic Haircare is one of the top ranges favoured by the Elite.

Get her look with Bourbon Vanilla & Tangering hair Texturiser only £19.20 at www.buyorganics.co.uk Whilst your there pick up some fab John Masters Organic Skincare at bargain prices until stocks last.

 

Making your Zoya MOD colours last longer

The latest fab colours from Zoya natural nail polish collection, which include the Phoebe, Mitzi and Lolly are best worn with the zoya base coat and top coat for longer lasting performance, without these may chip more easily!! Just thought we'd share a bit of in house experience with you!!

Organic Maternity Wear for the Super Slim & the Big and Beautiful

It's not normally the case as the most common sizes in the shops are between 10- 14 even when you're pregnant, well what about the rest of us who care about living well and also like a bargain and to treat yourself with Organic Maternity Wear?

Well ladies, in our summer clear out sale we have organic maternity wear jeans that are size 6!!!! So for any petite ladies out there who are pre-pregnancy size 6, these will be perfect for you. Currently on sale for £12 reduced from £61.26!

With summer coming it's also important to feel comfy and cool. We have some fabulous organic maternity wear bamboo tops in white, black, baby blue and red, all in size Large. These are typically for women who are a 14-16 pre- pregnancy size and fit beautifully, use them to layer or on their own, but they are so super comfy and wisk away excess moisture when you're feeling hot!

Also on offer for the bargain price of £5 are our organic maternity wear bamboo Belly Bands. Not designed for supporting the bump, but more designed to help your tops last longer as they ride up your belly, the belly band covers it up! Walla!!

Organic maternity wear that's perfect for the Indian summer that's predicted…..

 

 

Kristen Stewarts Natural Makeup Wedding Look in ‘Breaking Dawn’

Bella Swan's final curtain call as a human see's her attending her wedding with non-other than a completely natural makeup look that so befits her character. Without losing any of the glamour required for the moment she a beacon for the saying 'less is more!'

 

To get the same natural makeup look we suggest going with a mineral powder instead of heavy foundation, with a slightly rosy organic blush on the cheeks and a pale shade of organic lipstick. Add dark eyeliner above the top lashes only and use a smoky grey or brownish eyeshadow to create almost vampire eyes! We still love Inika eye shadows! Finish with lashes of Black mascara!

 

The word on the net is that Kristen Stewart wore her hair in a loose bun with two braids wrapped around her head. Sounds perfect!

 

To get the look and do it cheaply, check out our organic makeup sale, whilst stocks last

Why an Organic Futon Mattress May Help Your Back!

I was recently approached by a customer looking for a Coir mattress to ease their back pain. As with many customers who come to us, they had been sleeping on a Tempur/ Memory Foam mattress that was making sleeping a bit of a nightmare for them.

It transpired that the Gentleman's best night's sleep had been on a firm futon style mattress that they had experienced whilst they had been visiting India. Although they didn't want to invest in a more expensive coir and latex mattress similar in size and depth to a traditional UK natural mattress, we concluded that the organic futon mattress was the best alternative, price and comfort wise. It was in fact what he had been inadvertently looking for.

Organic Futon mattresses are made to traditional Asian methods, on which people have been sleeping for decades. Created from completely natural fibres such as thick organic deshi cotton, linen, wool or horsehair, these organic futon mattresses have the option of either a firm coir layer in the middle, or natural botanical latex or just pure fibre they provide you with the healthiest night's sleep.

Our back requires a surface that is neither too soft nor too firm. A very soft or unsupportive mattress will not allow you shift your posture in the night easily and may cause strain on joints and the back leading to inflammation and soreness. This can also happen with older mattresses as they start to sag, and some of our customers have reported this feeling with memory foam mattresses. An excellent alternative to memory foam is botanical natural latex as it is not squishy like memory foam due to the absence of petrochemicals, it is totally plant based and springs back easily, allowing you to turn without being sucked into the mattress but distributes your weight across the surface evenly. An organic futon mattress is an excellent choice because they provide the back with unrivalled support and comfort.

Another advantage of the Organic futon mattress is that it is a healthier mattress to sleep on compared to other standard shop sold mattresses. The natural fibres wick away moisture making it less suitable for dust mites to breed. Air flow and permeability is also superior to standard mattresses ensuring that bacteria are discouraged. Lastly, the lack of fire retardant chemicals, petrochemicals, boric acid, glues or formaldehydes means that your body is saved from toxic pollution.

Natural fibre organic futon mattresses provide a firm sleeping surface. Many would call this Orthopaedic. Orthopaedic literally refers to the surface being firm and doesn't really mean anything else. Organic Futon mattresses provide this firmness whilst supporting your back and joints as you sleep and creating a healthy sleeping environment. Options are available to soften or firm an organic futon mattress by adding inner core layers of either natural botanical latex or coconut coir.

Do You Rest Enough?

Organic mattress lovers will be interested to know that proper rest is more than just a matter of getting a good night's sleep! Expert Dr Davidicus Wong advises that adequate rest is essential to our overall health, mental wellbeing, happiness and longevity.

 

Although 8 hours of sleep is essential to this formula, other forms of rest are also essential to help us cope with the pressures of multimedia, social networking, work and multi-tasking. Rest can take the form of spiritual rest such as yoga and meditation, physical and mental, rest such as taking a relaxing walk to the sound of pleasing music.

 

Make time every day to let your body re-coop or you could pay the price with your health later. Another great health tip, followed by many of our parents and a good lesson in life, go for a walk after having your dinner and before going to sleep. This maintains a healthy weight and fits with your body's natural rhythm.

Why Are Women Still Dying of Toxic Shock Syndrome?

A television programme by award-winning investigative reporter, Karen Hensel was aired Tuesday 17^th May on WISH/WNDY-TV:

http://www.wishtv.com/dpp/news/local/marion_county/toxic-shock-i-team-8-investigation-attracts-attention

 

The segment asks the question "Why more than 30 years after this story first made headlines" are women still dying of Toxic Shock Syndrome?  Dr. Philip Tierno, PhD at New York University Medical Centre who has been at the centre of the debate for 31 years, carried out independent research into TSS when 38 women died in one year after using Rely tampons and as a leading scientist has stated that "the incidence of TSS is probably the same" as it was 30 years ago and called again for all synthetics, including rayon, to be removed from tampons citing 100% cotton tampons as a safer option to help reduce the risk of TSS. 

 

Tierno's original research, which was peer reviewed and published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 2:140-145, 1994, included Natracare 100% cotton tampons and all brands of rayon tampons available in the USA. His research led Tierno to report that …."In sum, women who are without protective levels of antibody to TSST-1 and use non all-cotton tampons are at the greater risk of TSS."  In part due to this new investigation, Rep. Congresswomen Carolyn Maloney, who has for the last 13 years repeatedly tried to pass legislation for tampon safety in the USA, has called upon Dr. Tierno to help put together another bill as she feels "it's time women have definitive answers about the potential risk these products pose to their health".

 

Natracare would like to encourage you to talk to your colleagues, friends and customers about the dangers of Toxic Shock and know the symptoms. As a trusted brand of organic and natural feminine hygiene for over 22 years, Natracare has been providing women with a healthier choice of feminine hygiene to include certified organic 100% cotton tampons, organic and natural, chlorine and plastic-free pads and liners, and organic cotton wipes. On Sale now at www.buyorganics.co.uk

 

Natural Beds in Un-Natural Positions Won’t bring you Good Sleep!

Room layout can be a tricky thing! The majority of rooms in British houses are quite small, so space is not always available to place your natural bed in the most ideal position.

The Position of your bed is however a very important factor to getting a good night's sleep. As a firm follower of Feng Shui principles, I have always been concerned about the placement of furniture in my home, much to my families' dismay; they are however used to it now, and also believe in it after seeing the results.

Feng Shui is the Chinese Art of Placement, it advocates that Chi Energy (the Energy of Life) if channelled correctly can enhance our lives and assist us to reach our goals.

Depending on how Chi Energy enters your bedroom mostly through doors and windows, and flows through the room, it will either hinder your sleep or enhance it. If for instance the Chi Energy enters your room very fast because it is flowing straight up the stairs and into your bedroom door without being slowed down by having to go round a corner for instance (a bit like this sentence!), then a natural bed anywhere in line of the doorway will receive fast flowing chi energy that is not conducive to sleep. Placing a natural bed directly facing the door (as if your feet are pointing out towards the door exit) is known as the coffin position for obvious reasons. This is not a good place to put your natural bed to get a good night's sleep. If it can't be helped, then place an object between the door and the bed such as a plant to slow down Chi Energy.

Also a bad idea is to place your natural bed in between two facing windows as this brings illness. As Chi Energy flows right through one window and out the other it takes positive Chi Energy away from you too quickly. If this position can't be helped then block one window by using something like room divider.

Wherever you place your natural bed, the number one rule is for you to be able to see the door; this is an empowered position that allows you to see what's coming into your life. If your natural bed is placed in a position where you can't see the door then ideally place a mirror on the wall in a position that allows you to see the doors reflection whilst you are lying in your bed. If this is impractical then you may be able to hang a gazing ball almost like a disco ball in your room that allows you to see its reflection that way.

 

 

 

 

 

Why an Organic Cot Mattress is Essential for a Green Baby!

 

An organic cot mattress is one of the must have essential items for parents trying to 'go green' according to an article yesterday by Fox News.

Alan Greene , author of Raising Baby Green The Earth-Friendly Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Baby Care states that this is a must have item. "The first thing I would choose is an organic mattress because a baby's face is so close to the mattress all day."

This is because of chemicals present in conventional mattresses. Synthetic mattresses may include an array of chemicals including flame retardants, polyurethane, foam, polyester, plastic and formaldehyde. These are all absent in an organic cot mattress. Greene also stresses that children sleep on their mattress more than 12 hours a day so making sure that they are not exposed to chemicals that are not good for them is important.

Avoiding chemical exposure is also really important. "Things get exposed through the skin," Dr Benjamin Kligler a board-certified family practitioner and director of research at the Continuum Center for Health and Healing in New York City says . "It's not just about what you eat."

Amongst other essential steps to Greening your baby are avoiding nursery decoration and construction work at home whilst pregnant, making sure you choose environmentally friendly cleaning products, watching what you eat by reducing fish consumption is also important, as Mercury in fish can be toxic to baby. Choose BPA free baby bottles and breastfeeding as much as possible, and also keep baby on an organic diet by avoiding non- organic beef, milk, potatoes, and apples.

Greene says "I do suggest using a bottle that is bisphenol-A (BPA) free. Studies in animals have found it's very clear that BPA is an endocrine disrupter."

Use Nude Makeup to look Amazing

Organic makeup lovers will be interested to know that Makeup expert and Fitness enthusiast Deborah Ferrari recommends the use of Nude makeup to get amazing flawless skin every time. She says that nude makeup helps women feel natural and stylish as can boost confidence.

For best results she recommends testing the makeup on a small area of skin to blend the colour correctly and get it as close to your natural skin tone as possible. Deborah Ferrari's natural make up tips suggest that women always go for high quality and branded products from trusted brands as these use the best ingredients. She also suggests that women should go for a concealer that matches their skin tone and gives their skin a 'creamy' look. Women can also apply mascara to their eyes for a full and rounded look.

Grab some great natural and organic makeup at bargain prices in our spring sale at buyorganics!

Make it Bold this Season with a statement lipstick colour!

Organic Lipstick lovers will be raring to go with dynamic strong and vibrant colours this spring and summer, as they dazzle with natural formulas that reflect this season's catwalk look.

"This spring, strong statement lips lead the way for that 'casual glamour' look. A vibrant lipstick is not to be reserved just for the night, casual glamour is for the day or night and the trick is to keep the skin looking fresh and light so the lips can be the focus of the face," says Daniel Sandler, top make-up artist.

We love Sante's organic lipstick shades of Pink Tulip and Cherry Red to get the Gwen Stefani and Christina Aguilera look.

Daniel advises using colours that suit you and applying them properly.

"Practice makes perfect," he says. "My top tip is to prime the base brush with a little water to speed up application and help prevent bad blending."

What to Definitely Buy Organic!!

Following on from the interesting article on what you shouldn’t buy Organic, the Huffington Post brings us a follow up on what we definitely should buy organic.

This list is a no compromise guide to safe shopping so that you know that you are buying what really counts when it comes to organic.

The 1st on their list is Beef. "Research suggests a strong connection between some of the hormones given to cattle and cancer in humans, particularly breast cancer," says Samuel Epstein, M.D., professor emeritus of environmental and occupational medicine at the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Public Health.

Oestrogen like agents used on Cattle increase your chance of developing cancer adds Ted Schettler, M.D science director at Science and Environmental Health network.Persoonally i think this applies to all meat!!

When you buy beef that is certified organic you’re not only cutting out those hormones, you’re also avoiding developing antibiotic resistance.

The 2nd on the List is Strawberries. This super food has been found with over 13 pesticides on it according to the Environmental Working group. "Strawberries have a large surface area and all those tiny bumps, which makes the pesticides hard to wash off, so you're ingesting more of those chemicals," explains Marion Nestle, Ph.D., a professor of nutrition and public health at New York University and author of "What to Eat."

Also choose Organic peaches, apples, blueberries, and cherries over non organic varieties

3rd on the list is Cookware. Although I don’t think you can buy this labelled organic, there are simply more healthy versions.

Traditional “non-stick cookware contains fluorochemical called PTFE that breaks down to form toxic fumes when overheated," says Olga Naidenko, Ph.D., a senior scientist at the EWG. "Those fumes can coat the inside of the lungs and cause allergy-like symptoms."

Tests by EWG showed that in 2 minutes on the stove, non-stick cookware surfaces can heat up beyond guidelines after which they emit toxic gases. These then pollute our food and the air we are breathing. Better options are stainless steel, ceramic or cast iron.

4thly and surprisingly is Popcorn…The inner linings of microwave-popcorn bags may contain a toxic chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, which is used to prevent the food from sticking to the paper. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state that PFOA is a likely carcinogen.



"We don't know all of the hazardous effects of PFOA yet, but we have some evidence of a link to cancer, as well as to effects on the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems," says David Carpenter, M.D., director of the Institute for Health and the Environment at the University at Albany. Make your own on the stove!!


5thly, is garden Pesticides. For the plain and simple reason that they are suspected carcinogens according to EPA data and that long term exposure may cause brain and nervous system changes. Not only are you breathing the chemicals in, but you bring them indoors and onto carpets via your shoes," says McKay Jenkins, Ph.D., a journalism professor at the University of Delaware and author of What's Gotten Into Us? Buy and good organic gardening book to show you natural alternatives to spraying everything with chemicals

6thly are common household cleaners which potentially expose you to harmful chemicals on a daily basis. Ammonia and Bleach for instance can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory tract, they also contain phthalates which disrupt normal hormonal activity in the body says EWG senior scientist Becky Sutton, Ph.D.

Research on Phthalates is not totally clear, "the greatest concern is how early-life exposure will affect male [reproductive] development," Dr. Carpenter says. There's weaker evidence, he adds, that phthalates affect the nervous and immune systems

Natural cleaning products like Ecover, bio-d and method are just as good at cleaning but without the side effects.

7th on the list are water bottles. Avoid hard re-usable plastic water bottles as they contain BPA or bisphenol A another endocrine disruptor according to the National Institute of Environmental health Sciences. "For adults, the biggest concern with BPA is that it may increase the risk of breast cancer in women and reduce sperm counts in men," says Dr. Carpenter, who explains that BPA can leach out into the water in the bottle. To be safe, sip from an unlined stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottle

8th - Food Storage Containers. More BPA! Which can leach out of the containers into your food! "The leaching is increased during heating, but it also leaches to a smaller degree even when cold foods are stored," Dr. Carpenter explains. Glass containers are your safest -- not to mention planet-friendly -- bet. Both Rubbermaid and Pyrex make glass ones with BPA-free plastic lids

9th Milk- Dairy products account for 60 to 70% of the Oestrogens we consume through our food due to the hormones that comes from the cows. In addition about 17% of cows are treated with the hormones rBST (rBGH) which stimulates milk production by increasing circulating levels of another hormaone called insulin like groth factor (IGF-1)

"Elevated levels of IGF-1 in people are associated with an increased risk of cancer, including breast cancer," Dr. Schettler explains. The use of rBGH is banned in Europe and Canada. I am still researching if this includes the UK. If anyone knows, please let me know! Although research is doesn’t yet definitively say that drinking rBGH-treated milk increases your IGF-1 levels Dr. Schettler says it's advisable to buy milk that hasn't been treated with it. So try and find milk that's organic so its free of antibiotics but also labeled rBGH-free, rBST-free, or is produced without artificial hormones. Not so easy in the uk!

10th on the list- Ok celery is next on the list! Celery tops the chart as coming out most contaminated in pesticide tests (EWG). This is due to the porous stalks, they retain a lot of what’s sprayed on them. Also switch to organic bell peppers, spinach and potatoes which also score really high for pesticide contamination.

11th on the list is Tomato Sauce or paste. Most people will go for a can, but this is dangerous due to BPA. The lining on the inside of food cans that's used to protect against corrosion and bacteria may contain BPA," explains Cheryl Lyn Walker, Ph.D., a professor of carcinogenesis at MD Anderson Cancer Center and past president of the Society of Toxicology. Swicth to glass jars of boxed tomato sauce. Nearly all brands tested in 2009 contained BPA.

Last but by no means least on the list, and one close to our heart is mattresses. Most mattresses are treated with possibly toxic flame retardants called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which have been linked to learning, memory, and behavioral problems, according to Lunder.

The EWG advises opting for products that haven't been treated with brominated fire retardants and choosing less-flammable materials, such as wool. Organic mattresses use tightly weaved fabrics such as organic cotton and naturally flame resistant organic wool to achieve fire resistance naturally. Organic mattresses are also a more popular choice for people with allaergies.

Where does the latex come from in buyOrganics Latex mattresses? And how pure is it?

We often get asked about the purity of our latex in our latex mattresses by customers who find it really frustrating trying to figure out whether other online companies are selling really pure latex mattresses like ours or are just making empty claims.

Now with new regulations in place, it is no longer possible to make empty claims so we thought we’d show you directly what goes into the making of our latex and where it comes from.

The latex in our Boomarang brand latex mattresses comes from a company called Latex Green. They are a 100% natural latex foam manufacturer based in Columbo, Sri Lanka. The Rubber only comes from a specific planation and they have over 60 years’ hands on technical experience in Rubber technology and manufacture. Much more expertise than could be presented by a small, new or un-established company. The trees from the plantation remove 143 metric tonnes of Carbon Dioxide from the environment in 1 year alone. Meaning that your latex mattress is not only chemical free and pure, but is green in combating Climate change as well.

The process used is a Dunlop process rather than the Talalay method. General expert consensus is that this traditional method of latex production produces much sturdier latex foam and subsequently latex mattress which is more durable than the Talalay method of production. The Talalay method also allows for the introduction of chemicals so it is more difficult to assess the latex’s purity.

The Dunlop process at the Latex Green factory uses a high tech U.S foaming machine in which air is blended with latex to achieve the required density and hardness during its foaming and gelling process.

As a 100% natural latex manufacturer with customers who are particularly looking for a 100% pure product only, they choose their ingredients carefully.

The pure latex foam is then vulcanised using a steam cure technique that uses a highly energy efficient machine with design engineered pin moulds that keep the latex undisturbed through the process. The following multi washing cycle uses only pure clean drinkable water to wash the latex. The final stage involves a soft condition drying mechanism which is unique to latex green to enhance the natural feel of the end product.

The latex is quality controlled for correct hardness, weight and look so that you can be assured that the latex that goes into your mattress has been checked to ensure that it is in perfect condition before it goes into your mattress.

There are no toxic or synthetic fire retardents or other artificial additives or chemicals used in the latex foam or in any of the processes at Latex green, subsequently there are absolutely none used in the final production of our latex mattresses. The foam has subsequently been certified by oeko tex and our final latex mattress production involves the use of only natural fibres without any fire retardants or toxic glues. Where gluing of layers is required only natural rubber solution is used.


How can we be sure? If you paid for veggie burger and you got a beef burger you’d see, taste and smell the difference wouldn’t you?

With certifications and a fully transparent supply chain, we can see where our fabrics and materials come from so that when we assemble the components without the addition of anything impure we know with 100% confidence that what we are providing the end consumer is what we say it is.

See the video of production here

Keen DIYers may adopt latex mattresses in home improvement schemes

Latex mattresses could become popular among homeowners who are looking to make the most out of DIY tips while improving their property.

According to the Cayman Net News, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands is currently offering an interior design course as part of its Continuing Education programme.

The news source stated organiser of the sessions Lisa Ebanks teaches both theory and practical work, offering tips of the trade in the process - such as the use of colour.

She told the publication: "We learnt it is not good to use red in bedrooms if you have high blood pressure," before adding: "Blues are good for the bedroom."

And those inspired by her remarks to spruce up their living area may want to invest in a latex mattress in the process.

The Ramsey mattress - described as the finest luxury natural latex mattress in the market today - is available on buyOrganics and is created with pure chemical-free latex.

Tips may help natural makeup users simplify the morning routine

One expert has offered tips to mothers who want to speed up the time spent in front of the mirror when applying their natural makeup.

According to lilsugar, mums often have to compromise how long they spend getting ready for the day ahead as a result of certain time constraints.

However, speaking to the publication, makeup artist at the New York Paul Labrecque salon Taymour offered mothers time-saving advice for putting on their chosen cosmetic products.

He explained people should make use of powdered foundation, as it is easy to apply, while suggesting eye makeup be kept simple with an all-over colour.

In addition, the specialist stated a good concealer could make a big difference.

"It covers under eye circles when you've been up late, conceals broken veins and can serve as an eye shadow base if necessary," Taymour noted.

Those who would like to take heed of his advice may want to invest in organic products from buyOrganics, which do not contain harmful chemicals such as lead and parabens.

Brides-to-be may offered natural makeup tips

Brides who want to get the most out of their natural makeup on their wedding day may want to take advice from one expert at the Washington Times.

Writer Tim Quinn suggested that certain cosmetic products, such as moisturiser and primer, are essential for any lady heading down the aisle in order to avoid looking "chalky" in pictures or having too much oil seep into other aspects of their makeup.

"The camera picks up more detail than our eyes do, so wearing highlighter all over your face won't make you look angelic - just greasy. Keep it to a soft glow around your eyes," the fashion specialist explained.

He added that the bride could take a photograph of themselves before the ceremony to make sure they look their best on film, making any appropriate adjustments before stepping out of the door.

Website buyOrganics currently offers a wide range of natural makeup, including lipstick, cleansers, face cream, masks, scrubs and toners.