How to Make Collagen Peptides Gummies at Home! (Easy!)
Check out this easy way to make collagen and gelatin gummies at home! This recipe takes about 5 minutes to assemble, and 20 minutes to harden. It’s so easy! You’ll love it.
This recipe literally takes 20 minutes or less! You won’t need to buy collagen gummies ever again, and you can experiment with different gummy flavors depending on which juice you use! Once you get the hang of making these collagen gummies at home, you can mix up your recipe and add marine collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid peptide powder, beef liver peptides, and more, into the recipe!
Scroll down for the recipe and kitchen tools you need to make these collagen and gelatin gummies!
Shop the ingredients and kitchen tools you’ll need to make homemade gummies with gelatin:
*By using my link to shop you help support my blog. However I only want you to buy what you love and need.
Collagen Gummies Recipe (1 serving) and What You’ll Need :
1 cup of spring water or fresh juice of your choice (cherry juice, guava juice, beet juice, etc….)
2 scoops of Collagen powder
2 scoops of gelatin powder
Whisk
Silicone candy mold
Baking sheet (s)
Food dropper (optional)
Directions:
Mix 1 cup of spring water or fruit juice with 2 scoops of collagen powder and 2 scoops of gelatin powder in a stove pot.
Whisk the juice (or water), collagen powder and gelatin powder together.
Place the pot on the stove and continue mixing together on medium heat for 5 minutes.
When the collagen gummy mixture is fully mixed, use a food grade dropper (or pour, if you’re really careful!) to distribute the mixture evenly into the silicone candy molds.
Place the silicone molds on baking sheets.
Place the baking sheets into the refrigerator for 20 minutes to harden.
You’re done!
Store your homemade collagen gummy peptides in an air tight container in your refrigerator. Enjoy!
I hope you enjoyed making and love your homemade collagen gummies!
See more posts!
Turn Your Home into a Spa with These 4 Must-Haves!
Turn your home into a place of pampering with these 4 devices!
Here are a few devices that will help turn your home into a spa! Simple changes add up. I’m absolutely loving these few changes I’ve made at home that upgrade my wellness routine. Best of all, 3 out of the 4 (5!…see the bonus) are changes that you don’t actually have to DO, but once they are set up, you’ll still reap the benefits.
Mini-Fridge
A light pink skincare fridge set up in your bathroom and storing your favorite skincare essentials will elevate your daily routine! I have heard of storing skincare products in a personal mini-fridge in your bathroom for a while. It’s a thing in Japan and Korea. I’ve also stored a few serums and products in my regular refrigerator, so I never actually thought a mini-fridge was needed. Maybe it was a bit too extra.
However— how cute is this mini-fridge?? After taking the plunge in my commitment to a beauty fridge it has definitely altered my morning and night routine. Having your personal mini-fridge for your favorite skincare products keeps your essentials chilled and adds a touch of luxury to your daily routine. It also gives you the feeling you really are taking care of yourself. Plus, it’s so cute!
What’s inside my mini-fridge?
2. Shower Head that filters Fluoride and Chlorine
There are so many shower filters out there. I browsed a few shower filters and found that many filters filter chlorine and other unwanted materials, but it seems there are few that also filter fluoride. So, I did an internet search and found that this small company, Pure Water Freedom, removes fluoride and chlorine. Apparently, showering with extra unwanted material in your shower water adds up over time. It’s a nice feeling to add to your wellness routine to make you feel like you’re taking a pure shower water escape each time you take a shower.
3. fluoride water pitcher
Drinking pure water makes a difference in your body over time, too. Just as with the shower filter, there are so many water pitchers to choose from. However, it was harder to find a water pitcher that removes fluoride from the water. What you ingest and put into your body makes a difference over time, and it’s a nice feeling to know you’re drinking pure, filtered water.
4. Juicer
I love this juicer because it’s simple, it’s smaller, and it has an easy clean-up. There are so many amazing juicers out there, but what I needed was something simple, that I will actually use. Things I like to juice with this include celery juice, leftover vegetables for a vegetable juice, and I’m excited to try watermelon during the Summer. It’s super cute and doesn’t take a lot of space. I leave it on my counter and it’s a little routine that I actually use whenever I want.
BONUS <3
Now for the bonus! If you love Epsom Salts Baths, you’ll also love a Betnonite Clay Bath. Betonite Clay Baths are also detoxifying, while it cleanses the pores on your body. It’s like a sulfur mask facial, but for your legs, arms, and back. Love it.
shop more from this post!
I hope you found an idea or 5 to add to your home wellness spa! Let me know how you like it in the comments below.
XX,
Check out a few more posts!
Check out more #ootd posts!
Small Businesses to Buy From that You Will Love!
Check out some great small businesses to shop from!
In 2020 many small businesses have had to close up shop or give way to easier accessible bigger businesses. It’s important to help where we can and keep small businesses in mind, too. Sometimes that is easier said than done because they aren’t as easily found as large businesses. However, just because a business is smaller doesn’t mean the quality or customer service isn’t “on par” with bigger businesses. The majority of the time, it’s quite the opposite. Here are are a few ideas and hidden gems of where to shop for gifts, your own personal needs, or for fun!
Photo credit: Stephanie’s Soap Shop and @joannehawker.
For SOAP: Stephanie’s Specialty Soaps.
I randomly came across Stephanie’s Specialty Soaps on the Facebook marketplace and am so happy I did. These soaps are very well priced, I received my soaps as expected within a few days and they are made with minimal and natural ingredients. Not only is their customer service on par, but the quality and selection of their soaps are FUN and reliable.
I ordered pumpkin cheesecake soaps and they look and smell like pumpkin cheesecake. More of Stephanie's Specialty Soaps include peppermint mocha soap, Halloween gift soap, pumpkin pie soap, lemon loaf soap, and more...
Their email: specialtysoaps@yahoo.com and phone number: 903.624.0330.
2. ETSY.COM
Etsy is the perfect website to buy jewelry, gifts. home supplies, purses, and so much more, all from independent small businesses.
Jewelry sellers, I’ve bought from on Etsy are Moods in Gold, Turrin, and MLStudioJewelry. (Jewelry is pictured in the top picture of this post).
Cute patches: Natural mind, PatchParlor , and MyVintageChildren.
Photo credit: MyVintageChildren.
Dry Erase Board: PrimeBoard.
Pampas Flowers: Hitomigift.
3. Streaming WORKOUT VIDEOS: Amandakloots.com.
Amanda Kloots also sells cute jump ropes and tshirts for your workout needs.
What are some of your favorite go-to small businesses? There are sooo many more to choose from, you just need to keep an eye out for these gems. Please leave a comment below of your favorite small business. Happy shopping!
xx,
RECENT POSTS:
Find me on Instagram! @ooohlalastone
A Good Morning Detox Drink!
Add a few more beneficial ingredients to a warm morning lemon water drink!
What is the first thing you drink when you wake up in the morning? I know for me, a lot of the times it’s coffee. When I’m feeling healthy, it’s warm water with lemon. BUT…I discovered a new and improved recipe for the healthy-warm-water-with-lemon-morning-drink in the version of a lemon morning drink 2.0.
I found this morning detox drink recipe from Clarisa AntiAgingDermatology's Youtube channel. *Side note…if you’re interested in holistic antiaging skincare and wellness methods, skincare, supplements, and more, Clarisa AntiAgingDermatology’s Youtube channel has a wealth of information, you must check it out. I appreciate her channel because it is HONEST and she tells it as it is (for example she told the truth in avoiding most cosmetic lasers because the technology travels to the fat layer of the skin, which most doctors won’t tell you…!)
ANYWAY— back to this Morning Detox Drink a la Clarisa Antiaging Dermatology’s channel. Clarisa explains how it is important to wake up in the morning and start the day off with a detox drink, to clear out your system. She explains in easy terms by comparing your body to a car, in that a car that is getting rusty and (unclean) eventually breaks down sooner than a car that is running smoothly, with minimal rust. This is like your body, the more worn out it becomes with old waste left behind, the faster it will deteriorate and age/rust.
SO… that’s why we want to start off each and every day with a healthy morning detox drink.
First, start off with your usual warm water and one whole lemon.
Also add:
1 tBsp Manuka Honey OR ORGANIC HONEY
(I chose Manuka honey) Manuka honey “offers potential as a prebiotic, containing a non-digestible food known as oligosaccharide, which helps to improve levels of ‘good’ bacteria in our digestive system including bifidobacteria and lactobacilli populations.” Source.
A dash of Cayenne
One study found that consuming 1 gram (g) of cayenne pepper in a meal increased core body temperature slightly. This, in turn, would burn additional calories. In some cases, participants also had less desire to eat fatty, sweet, or salty foods after consuming capsaicin. Source.
1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has various healthful properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. What’s more, evidence suggests it may offer health benefits, such as aiding weight loss, reducing cholesterol, lowering blood sugar levels, and improving the symptoms of diabetes. Source.
1 tsp turmeric powder
Currently, there’s no evidence that turmeric or curcumin directly influence longevity, but thanks to their ability to fight inflammation, protect your body against free radicals, and potentially delay brain degeneration and other age-related diseases, turmeric and curcumin may be effective anti-aging supplements, according to past research.
Antioxidants help protect your body against damage caused by free radicals, a class of highly reactive atoms that are generated in our bodies, as well as in environmental pollutants like cigarette smoke and industrial chemicals. (34) Too much exposure to free radicals can mess with the fats, proteins, and even DNA in your body, which may lead to a number of common diseases and health conditions, including cancer, arthritis, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. (34) Therefore, antioxidant-rich spices like turmeric may play a role in protecting you from free radical damage. Source.
CHECK IT OUT!—> Do you know how to grow your own organic turmeric? Check out Happy DIY Home’s “Complete Guide to Growing a Turmeric Plant at Home” and get started now!
That’s it! That is the recipe of the improved warm water and lemon morning drink 2.0! I hope you like it!!
XX,
CHECK OUT MORE RECENT POSTS:
DISCLAIMERS:
I am not a doctor, physical therapist, dermatologist, or nutritionist. My blog posts are not meant to give advice but purely to share my own experience and to entertain. I do my own research and ask my doctor before starting any wellness routine, and recommend that everyone does the same. I cite references taken from my own online research and post them to routines that I choose to move forward with. What I use may not work for you. We all have unique health conditions and concerns. Always do your own additional research.
4 Easy Beauty or Wellness Routines You Can Make in Your Kitchen!
Have you tried any of these 4 easy beauty treatments?
Below are 4 easy beauty remedies you can buy from the grocery store. Each remedy is easy and effective to incorporate into your lifestyle. How about give one of them a try?
FOR AN EXFOLIATING AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FACE MASK—
use organic full fat plain greek yogurt.
The natural probiotics and lactic acid found in organic plain greek yogurt are what will benefit your skin in the use of a face mask.
Benefits of using plain yogurt as a face mask:
Studies show that probiotics can also help strengthen our protective moisture barriers, boost hydration and possibly turn back the hands of time.
Skin issues stemming from chronic inflammation — like acne, eczema, rosacea and even premature aging — can be addressed by incorporating topical probiotics, which can destroy harmful viruses, fungi, and bacteria before they stir up trouble. NY Times, Dr. Whitney Bowe, a New York City dermatologist.
Yogurt contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates your skin.
This study from 2011 may replenish moisture in the skin, thus helping your skin’s health.
What you need to buy and how to apply it:
Buy plain flavored, full fat organic Greek yogurt. It is important that the yogurt is without added sugar. Buying organic, if possible, will allow for a better quality of the yogurt and thus lactic acid and probiotics to be applied to the skin.
Simply apply the yogurt to your clean skin.
Wash the yogurt off after 10-15 minutes.
FOR A BODY SCRUB—
USE COFFEE GROUNDS.
Exfoliating your body in the shower with the coffee grounds left over in the paper filter after you’re finished brewing your morning coffee, is an easy way to incorporate an effective and natural scrub into your routine. Coffee grounds contain natural caffeine content, caffeic acid, which may help prevent premature aging in cells and boost collagen. Medical News Today.
Coffee grounds do not dissolve in water, which makes them perfect for scrubbing dead skin cells away.
WHAT YOU NEED:
Coffee grounds (the grounds that are leftover in your coffee maker after you finished brewing your morning coffee.)
Lavender essential oil (optional).
Coconut oil or olive oil.
Step 1: Brew coffee as usual
Step 2: After turning off your coffee maker, let the coffee grounds in the paper filter cool down.
Step 3: Add the coffee grounds to a jar.
Step 4: Add coconut oil or olive oil as needed (I don’t measure, I just eye it out). Generally, it should be a ratio of coffee grounds: olive oil or coconut oil, 3:1.
Step 5: Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the mixture.
Step 6: Mix the 3 together.
Step 7: Exfoliate in the shower and then store in the refrigerator after.
HELPFUL TIP:
Coffee grounds are an easy and great body exfoliater, however don’t allow the coffee grounds to travel down your drain. Seal off your drain when you exfoliate and then clean up the grounds from your shower. The grounds are too thick to travel down the shower drain.
FOR EYELASH AND EYEBROW GROWTH—
USE CASTOR SEED OIL.
Applying organic castor seed oil for hair growth is a long-time beauty ritual. I never tried it before until one month ago, and my eyelashes HAVE grown thicker (see results after one month below). To apply, simply take a drop of castor seed oil and coat your lashes with the oil. Do the same with a drop each for each eyebrow. The best time to apply is before bed, when your skin is rejuvenating. *I wish I had a “before” picture up close of my lashes, but I will update here again after another month.
Date: 4/3/2020
Castor Seed Oil Precautions
Hair matting. “….the hair becomes twisted, entangled as a hard stony mass resembling a bird's nest. The high viscosity of castor oil and long hair had contributed to the sudden felting of hair. This disorder of hair is irreversible and the hair should be cut off. Acute nature of this disorder will result in a serious psychological impact on the patient and the family.” Castor Oil and Hair Felting.
FOR your body—
DRINK warm LEMON WATER FIRST THING IN THE MORNING on an empty stomach.
Drinking warm lemon water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach has many proven benefits (sources posted at the very bottom of this post).
Warm lemon water in the morning on an empty stomach BENEFITS:
Helps maintain PH balance in the body.
Acts as a detoxifying agent.
Helps maintain digestive health.
Helps cleanse the liver.
Flavonoids from citrus fruits are often linked with benefits for blood circulation, insulin sensitivity and other aspects of metabolic health.
Lemon flavonoids also have the potential to reduce oxidative stress and damage, at least in rats.
Thank you for stopping by!
XX,
LAURA
IF YOU LIKE THIS POST, CHECK OUT:
DISCLAIMERS:
I am not a doctor, physical therapist, dermatologist, or nutritionist. My blog posts are not meant to give advice but purely to share my own experience and to entertain. I cite references taken from my own online research and post them to routines that I choose to move forward with. What I use may not work for you. We all have unique health conditions and concerns. Always do your own additional research.
FIND ME ON INSTAGRAM! @OOOHLALASTONE
Have a Relaxing Spa Night at Home with These Easy Steps!
It’s time to relax and unwind…
It’s time to relax and unwind…
Sometimes you just need to give yourself some self-care, relaxation and take some time to unwind. Outlined below are a few easy steps to relax and unwind your body for some rest and rejuvenation. Minimal “tools” are needed for this spa night at home.
What You Will Need:
Epsom salts
Lavender essential oil or your favorite oil (optional)
Water
Stretch strap, body roller, pressure point balls (optional)
Your favorite face mask
SPA NIGHT PREVIEW:
STEP 1: TURN YOUR PHONE OFF.
STEP 2: STRETCH OUT AND UNWIND.
Stretching is important to relax and unwind your body. You would be surprised how much we actually need to stretch once you sit down and do it. Afterward, your body will feel much better!
Caroline Jordan Fitness has amazing tutorials on Youtube for stretching out, no equipment needed. Just search “Caroline Jordan" on Youtube. Her stretch videos are my favorite on Youtube so far. After each session, I really feel like I got a GREAT stretch in. The equipment I use, I’ll link at the bottom.
Step 3: Bath/Spa Time
Time to relax in the bath! Turn on your favorite music or podcast and have your drinking water ready. Add Epsom salts into the bath, and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Enjoy!
Step 4: Finish your bath session with a cold shower.
This sounds like a very unrelaxing thing to do, but, there’s a reason why there are hot pools and cold pools for soaking in at Korean and Asian spas. Alternating from hot water to cold water is actually called Contrast Water Therapy (CWT). Studies suggest that CWT helps reduce muscle pain. Whenever I finish my bath with some cold water after hot water, my body feels even more relaxed. Fortunately, I am in good health and it works for me, however, if you have any doubts then just skip this step or check with your doctor. Sources cited at the bottom.
Step 5: Moisturize.
Treat the skin on your body, too! Moisturizing after your bath, while your skin is still damp, helps lock in moisture to your skin. Use your favorite moisturizer, my favorite is a Shea Butter moisturizer.
Step 6: Face Mask
Time to apply your favorite face mask. My favorite is a sulfur-based face mask, however, it depends on your skin type and what works great for your skin.
After this simple, relaxing routine, you will feel relaxed and rejuvenated in no time.
XX,
Laura
PRODUCTS USED:
PRESSURE POINT BALLS
TRIGGER POINT FOR QUADS, THIGHS, ETC.
Stretch strap <3
LIKE A DEEP MASSAGE, BUT FOR YOUR BACK (ROLL ON IT)
DISCLAIMER:
I am not a doctor, physical therapist, dermatologist, or nutritionist. My blog posts are not meant to give advice but purely to share my own experience and to entertain. I do my own research and ask my doctor before starting any wellness routine, and recommend that everyone does the same. I cite references taken from my own online research and post them to routines that I choose to move forward with. What I use may not work for you. We all have unique health conditions and concerns. Always do your own additional research.
Find me on Instagram! @ooohlalastone
Morning Chocolate Bone Broth Smoothie!
You will love this chocolate bone broth recipe.
You may have heard of bone broth soup, but have you heard of a chocolate bone broth smoothie?
I decided to try a morning chocolate bone broth smoothie after I watched Dr. Axe’s video “Dr. Axe’s Morning Smoothie” (video posted below). Raw cocoa, blueberries, organic unsweetened coconut milk, cinnamon, and goji powder (or acai powder) are ingredients I already know and love. I appreciate the fact that bone broth protein comes from a source of pure and natural protein, and, I never tried it before. I didn’t know you could add bone broth into your morning smoothie….in a chocolate flavor….and I LOVE chocolate, so I gave it a try.
Dr. Axe’s morning smoothie tastes chocolate-y and amazing, and I’ve been enjoying having it with my breakfast the last week! I like how I can pack in a ton of nutrients into a smoothie and feel good the rest of the day.
RECIPE, “Dr. Axe Morning Smoothie”:
1 cup frozen cherries or blueberries.
1 cup coconut milk or almond milk.
1 teaspoon of Chia Seed powder.
Bone broth protein in ancient nutrition- Chocolate flavor.
1 tablespoon Goji berry powder or acaii powder.
Add a little cinnamon
1 tablespoon raw cacoa powder.
1 scoop MSM powder (not in Dr. Axe’s video tutorial).
I also added in a teaspoon of MSM powder into my smoothie due to the benefits documented of MSM:
*Sources posted about MSM at the bottom of this post.*
MSM supplementation appears to benefit skin health and gene expression. #1
MSM appears to dampen the release of inflammatory molecules in response to exercise, resulting in a less incendiary environment, allowing cells to still have the capacity to mount an appropriate response to an additional stimulus after exercise. #2
Initial human exercise studies have suggested that MSM supplementation may reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress and muscle damage. #3
“Dr. Axe’s Morning Smoothie”:
PRODUCTS USED:
Hope you enjoy your chocolate bone broth morning smoothie!
Xx,
Laura
If you like this post, check out:
Sources:
Dr. Axe’s Morning Smoothie | Ancient Nutrition, Youtube.com
https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-017-0181-z #3
Disclaimers:
I am not a doctor, physical therapist, dermatologist, or nutritionist. My blog posts are not meant to give advice but purely to share my own experience and to entertain. I cite references taken from my own online research and post them to routines that I choose to move forward with. What I use may not work for you. We all have unique health conditions and concerns. Always do your own additional research.
I am an Amazon Associate. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I am providing links to products I mentioned in this post for your convenience. I personally use these products. They work for me but might not work for you. So please do your own research.
I purchase all products used in my posts and I am not sponsored by any company.
6 Cute Hats for Sun Protection that aren’t Beach Hats and Perfect for Los Angeles!
Cute hats w/ UPF 50+ fabric!!!
ADDITIONALLY—
CLICK THE VIDEO BELOW AND FOLLOW A SIMPLE TUTORIAL ON HOW TO IRON ON AN IRON-ON PATCH TO A BUCKET HAT.
6 cute hats that are casual and easy to wear during Fall/Winter in Los Angeles. 5 hats contain upf 50+ sun protection!
It’s important to protect your skin from the sun year-round, even during the Fall/Winter months. The problem is the difficulty in finding cute hats with UPF 50+ fabric that aren’t beach hats! When Fall and Winter arrive, pairing your favorite wide brim beach hat with your leather jacket just doesn’t look right.
It was surprisingly hard to find cute bucket hats and casual hats with UPF 50+ fabric! However, I found 6 hats off Amazon that are casual and cute and WILL work with Winter and Fall outfits! (See them all below!)
—>What is UPF+ fabric and why is it importanT for Additional sun protection?
UPF is like adding sunscreen SPF to your clothing.
UPF measures the amount of UV rays that penetrate fabric and reach your skin. UPF measures both UVB and UVA rays, while SPF measures only UVB.
What you need to know: A fabric must have a UPF of 30 to qualify for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. A UPF of 30 to 49 offers very good protection, while UPF 50+ rates as excellent.
Most beach hats have UPF coverage, but most bucket hats, or any other type of hat, don’t contain UPF fabric.
REVERSIBLE WIDE BRIM DENIM/CREAM BUCKET HAT WITH UPF 50+
This bucket hat has a wider brim, which offers more sun protection, AND contains UPF 50+ fabric. The denim is a nice touch since denim can easily pair with many outfits. The cream on the reverse is a nice contrast. Made of cotton.
2. REVERSIBLE WIDE BRIM BUCKET HAT WITH CUTE EMBROIDERY UPF 50+
This wide brim reversible bucket hat is super cute! I’m not a huge fan of embroidery, but this hat turned out to be one of my favorites. The design gives off the feel like you’re traveling to Mexico, or Palm Springs. The fabric contains UPF 50+ fabric.
3. BLACK BUCKET HAT WITH UPF 50+
This black bucket hat has a shorter brim and contains UPF 50+ fabric. This hat is one of my go-to’s since it goes with most everything and is casual and simple.
4. REVERSIBLE COTTON BYCKET HAT WITH UPF 50+ (BLACK + GREY)
This reversible wide brim bucket hat contains the UPF 50+ fabric and has a pretty contrast of black on one side and grey on the other. I plan to iron on a patch on the back to give it a little more personality.
5. CUTE SHINY LIGHT PINK RAIN HAT. *NO UPF 50+ INCLUDED. but STILL CUTE.
This shiny light pink bucket hat is actually a rain hat. It’s glossy, simple, and chic. The color says khaki online, but actually it is light pink in person. There’s a shiny black one, too, which I have my eye on.
6. BLACK FLOPPY HAT WITH TAN BOW IN COTTON, UPF 50+
This lightweight floppy cotton hat with UPF 50+ is elegant and chic. I could see myself wearing this to a brunch. The cute tan drawstring in the back is for tightening, just in case you need to ride in a convertible ;)
These 6 hats are easy to wear during the Winter and Fall months in Los Angeles and will offer you the sun protection that a beach hat does! Hope you enjoyed them!!!
Xx,
Laura
Sources:
Disclaimers:
I am not a doctor, physical therapist, dermatologist, or nutritionist. My blog posts are not meant to give advice but purely to share my own experience and to entertain. I cite references taken from my own online research and post them to routines that I choose to move forward with. What I use may not work for you. We all have unique health conditions and concerns. Always do your own additional research.
I am an Amazon Associate. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I am providing links to products I mentioned in this post for your convenience. I personally use these products. They work for me but might not work for you. So please do your own research.
I purchase all products used in my posts and I am not sponsored by any company.
How to Use an Aerial Silks Trapeze! Plus—Benefits, Pros and Cons!
An anti-gravity routine for home!
Aerial Silks Trapeze:
A relaxing, anti-gravity exercise routine for home!
Stretching, hanging and posing on an aerial silks trapeze is one of my favorite things to do at home.
Aerial trapeze is a form of anti-gravity exercise, which has a host of benefits (which is posted below). It also feels amazing to stretch out after a long day, and once you get started, you will want to stretch on this daily. The trapeze is actually easier then it looks once you get the hang of it. After you have given it a shot it becomes addicting!
Simply hanging upside gives gravity a chance to elongate, relax and stretch out your back. Gravity pulls our back down daily in the opposite direction while we are sitting and standing upward, and hanging upside down releases it.
There are a ton of different positions on the trapeze I like to stretch to and benefit from.
Check out the chart below for more stretching poses. There are tons more positions to explore on Pinterest, try searching “yoga trapeze positions.” Also, there are videos I sometimes like to follow along to on Youtube.
History of Inversion Therapy and Zero-Gravity Positions
*Citations included. The corresponding sources are linked at the very bottom of this post.
According to this journal on Inversion Therapy & Zero Gravity, inversion therapy was actually used for health benefits back from Ancient times. In 3000 BC the humans used inversion poses and it shows on the first drawings discovered by archaeologists. “They use value of inverted poses of the body to re-balance the body, to increase blood circulations, stimulate the brain, relieve pressure on abdominal organs. In 400 BC The Father of Medicine, Hippocrates hoists up a patient on a ladder with ropes and pulley to harness the force of gravity in an effort to stretch patient and relieve their ailments.” (1.)
Inversion therapy on an aerial silk trapeze is a form of zero gravity concept (weightlessness) developed by NASA for astronauts. Gravity is the cause of many compressive negative effects on the body over time, such as sagging organs, compressed joints, and discs, varicose veins, baggy eyes, decreased height of half-inch every 20 years, and a long term effect of pulling the body downward. Scientific research showed that zero-gravity positions minimized the huge gravitational stresses astronauts experience during takeoff. Also, inversion postures (a form of zero-gravity positions) help relieve and neutralize the negative effects of gravity on the body by allowing proper heart, back, and leg alignment. (1., 2.)
Pros + Cons and Precautions of Inversion Therapy
It’s really important to understand the pros and cons before starting any form of wellness routine or exercise. Below, I have listed a few points I have found through my own research before continuing with the aerial silk trapeze. Of course, do your own research before beginning and ask your doctor. There might be something that is left out from the points below that pertains to you.
Pros:
Inversion therapy is used to cure back pain caused by degenerative or herniated discs, spinal stenosis or other spinal conditions. (1.)
Inversion therapy increases the space and reduces pressure between the vertebrae and nerve roots in the spine. (1.)
Inversion therapy helps sciatica, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, muscle spasm, and even lymphedema. (1.)
Inversion therapy can result in a realignment of the vertebrae, rehydration of the invertebral discs, relaxation of the muscles and reduction of recovery time. (1.)
Inversion therapy has been shown to stimulate venous return and the lymphatic system, increase oxygen flow to the brain, help maintain our original body shape, help maintain correct posture, contribute to overall general good health, and avoid prolapsed internal organs. (1.)
Increases joint mobility and flexibility. (1.)
Increases mobility of the spine. (1.)
The weightlessness position takes the forces of gravity away from the spine and produces relaxation of the spine and extremities muscles. (2.)
The direct benefits of the inversion therapy are improving of the lymphatic system and increase of venous return produce facilitation of the autonomic nervous system and its baroreceptors increasing oxygen flow to the brain centers and remove of the waste products into the venous system, inhibit the spasmed and tight muscles in scoliosis, spinal muscles spasm leading to improve of original body posture and decreasing of recovery time. (2.)
Removes wastes from the spine. (4.)
Decreases inflammation (4.)
Increases blood circulation through surrounding muscles. (4.)
Cons and Precautions:
It can be dangerous, and even deadly, to hang upside down for too long as blood pools to the head. Start hanging in a moderate position for 30 seconds to 1 minute at a time. Then increase the time by 2 to 3 minutes.
Listen to your body and return to an upright position if you don’t feel well. (4.)
Invert for a short period of time (static 1 - 3 minutes, intermittent 5 - 10 minutes per session. (2.)
It takes time to adjust to inversion therapy. It’s best to start off in shorter increments (slowly building from one-minute sets to three) to get used to the process. This can help reduce side effects such as dizziness or muscle strain. Be careful not to overdo it. (4.)
Invert slowly then return slowly and progress slowly. (2.)
Invert only to a comfortable angle. Full inversion to 90 degrees isn’t required for all patients. (2.)
If you have inner ear problems, glaucoma, or a retinal detachment, an inversion table can make it worse, even to the point of causing bleeding from the eyes if there is too much pressure. You should also avoid inversion if you have a heart condition, fracture, osteoporosis, or hernia. (3.)
Even if it is helpful, the effects of inversion therapy won’t be long-term. (3.)
It can increase your blood pressure. (3.)
It can make some pre-existing conditions worse. You should also avoid using an inversion table if you have a heart condition, fracture, osteoporosis, or hernia. Inversion can be dangerous for those who are overweight or pregnant. (3.)
There’s no evidence to support that inversion is more beneficial than performing inversion in standing or sitting positions (4.)
I love my aerial trapeze and basically have it hanging all the time so that I can use it whenever in passing :) Below is linked the aerial trapeze that I have used the last 2 years, and am happy with. Of course, there are many different brands to choose from, too.
What you’ll need:
Scroll down for further reading in “SOURCES.”
Xx,
Laura
Disclaimers:
I am not a doctor, physical therapist, dermatologist, or nutritionist. My blog posts are not meant to give advice but purely to share my own experience and to entertain. I cite references taken from my own online research and post them to routines that I choose to move forward with. What I use may not work for you. We all have unique health conditions and concerns. Always do your own additional research.
I am an Amazon Associate. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I am providing links to products I mentioned in this post for your convenience. I personally use these products. They work for me but might not work for you. So please do your own research.
I purchase all the products used in my posts and I am not sponsored by any company.
Favorite Organic Fruit & Vegetable Delivery Box <3
This large organic fruits and vegetables delivery box saves you money (only $22 per box), time, AND helps out the environment!
Imperfect Foods Delivery Box
I recently found new organic fruit, vegetable, pasture-raised meats, and dairy delivery box that I absolutely love. The Imperfect Foods box is filled with different organic fruits and vegetables that they change up weekly and is delivered right to my door every Monday (for my location)! This is a perfect way to switch up the variety of nutrients in your life from fruits and vegetables, especially if you normally shop for the same things, like me!
Because of this delivery box, I learned how to make Zucchini chips, and have tried and discovered new fruits and vegetables I would not buy at the store. Also, this large organic box filled has actually saved me money! Each of these boxes is only around $22!
The box is by the company Imperfect Foods. Imperfect Foods collects the fruits and vegetables that are tossed out by farmers due to a slight imperfection in either the shape of the vegetable or a blemish on top and then boxes them up and ships them to you. The farmers normally would toss these “imperfect” organic vegetables out into the trash because they can’t be sold in stores due to their imperfections.
The quality is still as great as any other organic fruit or vegetable, it tastes the same! And who really cares what your vegetable looked like when it’s chopped up anyway?
My Zucchini Chip Experiment <3
xx,
Laura
Literally waiting for my next Imperfect Foods box! Imperfect Foods texts you when they are almost outside your door!
INSTA: @ooohlalastone
Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Lavender Lemon Powder with Vitamin C
There are lots of exciting collagen beauty, collagen powders, collagen gummies, and more, now in the beauty industry. One way you can benefit from collagen is by adding collagen powder peptides into your water with slices of lemons, pink grapefruits or limes!
Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Lavender Lemon Powder with Vitamin C
Collagen powders and collagen beauty waters are all super popular in the beauty industry at the moment. Cool collagen waters, collagen gummies, collagen supplements, collagen face masks, collagen dissolvable tablets, collagen serums, collagen deep creams, and collagen infused lip masks can all be found in Sephora, Whole Foods, boutique beauty brands, and even Costco.
Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Lavender Lemon Powder contains 120mg of hyaluronic acid already in it, and it also contains 1,246mg of Proline. After you mix the collagen powder into your water, add vitamin C into it, this will help your body absorb the collagen even more. Some vitamin C options to add into your collagen water are lemons, limes, and pink grapefruits. The lemon flavor of Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Lavender Lemon Powder is already nice to work with for adding some extra vitamin C into.
According to this study by Nutrients, COLLAGEN POWDER health benefits include:
Improved skin laxity.
Decreases the appearance of wrinkles.
Repairs collagen fibers and helps reorganize the collagen fibers that became disorganized.
Oral administration of collagen peptides increased the collagen content and ratio of type I and type III collagen in the skin.
Skin benefits and effects take about 6-12 weeks to notice the effects.
Collagen taken with hyaluronic acid can have a beneficial effect on chronologically aged skin.
BONUS: Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen already has 120mg of Hyaluronic Acid in it :)
According to this same study by Nutrient, EATING OR DRINKING PROLINE (which is abundant in collagen) also improved skin laxity. Proline also has these health benefits:
Proline has a beneficial effect on chronologically aged skin in terms of skin laxity.
Proline has a beneficial effect on collagen content and ratio of type I to type III collagen.
Collagen could increase the collagen synthesis of fibroblasts
Proline intake has a beneficial effect on chronologically aged skin by increasing the collagen synthesis of skin fibroblasts.
BONUS: Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen already has 1,246mg of Proline in it :)
According to this journal by Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, the health benefits VITAMIN C:
Vitamin C accelerates bone healing.
Vitamin C accelerates tendon healing.
Vitamin C increases type I collagen fibers and scar tissu formation.
Vitamin C increase type I collagen synthesis.
Four of 5 studies found that vitamin C was effective by stimulating biochemical pathways associated with collagen synthesis.
TIP: Add lemon, limes, pink grapefruit, or another fruit with high vitamin C to your collagen beauty water :)
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
There are lots of exciting collagen beauty and health products now in the beauty industry. One way you can benefit is by adding collagen powder peptides into your water with a slice of vitamin C! It’s a refreshing and effective way for your body to absorb the benefits of collagen. Enjoy your collagen beauty water!!!
Xx,
Laura
Spa Night at Home by Yourself Essentials
#relax #restore #rejuvenate
Spa Night At Home by Yourself Essentials
photo by Christian Mackie
Full Body Spa Night from the Inside Out
One of my favorite things is a spa night at home. Below, I will go over a 3-step day spa routine and the long-term benefits backed by research of each step in this at home spa experience. The spa essentials recommended for each step are linked at the very bottom of this blog post. This 3-step spa routine is a simple way to bring the spa home.
photo by Marks of Mana
Here’s How We Will Bring the Spa Home
Step 1: Stretch.
Bullet points taken from International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy’s article and this pubMed study. Physical benefits of stretching include:
photo by Laura Stone. Using a stretch strap.
Increases muscle length.
Aligns collagen fibers during muscle healing.
Increases connectivity in muscles that are aged.
Will allow blood to flow to the areas that are stretched. *This will prepare you for the next step, step 2 in your spa night at home (BELOW).
Recommended Spa Essential: A stretch strap. *Spa essential linked at the bottom of this blog post.
A stretch strap will give you an even deeper stretch. Stretch straps are super easy to travel with after a long day of sitting in a car or plane. Here, I also mention a stretch strap in my blog post Packing Light for a Girls Trip! Which Products I Picked!
Step 2: Infrared Sauna Blanket Treatment.
Bullet points taken from this study from the National Institute of Health , this study by Mackay Medical College and this study by Dr. Cheng-Lung Lee, the health benefits of an infrared sauna blanket include:
photo by Laura Stone
Far infrared sauna heat penetrates deeper into fat and the neuromuscular system than traditional warm sauna air.
Decreases cortisol levels (stress levels) in the body.
Growth hormone (HGH) increases during and after a sauna session (this is an anti aging hormone).
Reduces inflammation in the body.
Far infrared sauna’s are effective in “scavenging superoxide anions in blood.” This means it has an anti-oxidative effect in the human body, even through the blood.
Step 3: LED light therapy facial mask. Listen to your favorite music while enjoying the many benefits of benefits of LED phototherapy.
Bullet points taken from The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology and this study at the Department of Dermatology at the National Medical Center , LED phototherapy has many benefits and has an “excellent safety protocol.” Some of the benefits of LED light therapy include:
photo of Dermashine PRO 7 Color LED Face Mask
Acne clearing.
Wound healing.
Psoriasis.
Skin rejuvenation.
Collagen synthesis.
Growth factors.
Extracellular matrix production by activating cellular mitochondrial respiratory pathways.
Lifting and tightening of the skin.
No adverse effects were reported with LED lights.
Brightened skin tone.
Improved skin texture.
Recommended Spa Essential: Dermashine PRO 7 Color LED Face Mask. *Spa essential linked at the bottom of this blog post…..This is the LED face mask I have. My review on the Dermashine PRO 7 Color LED mask is I love how there are 7 options of wavelengths to choose from, and this mask so easy to use.
Bonus Recommended Spa Essential: Alpha Lipoic Acid 5% (30ml) by The Ordinary. *Product linked at the bottom of the blog post.
Apply Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) on your skin before your LED phototherapy session. According to The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, “Photodynamic therapy with ALA has been used to treat a range of conditions, including from pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions and photoaged skin.”
THE SPA ESSENTIALS. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
I hope you enjoy your spa night at home by yourself and enjoy how you can bring the spa home with these spa essentials. This 3-step spa routine is very simple, yet delivers research-backed and long-term results. Cheers to your spa night!
Xx,
Laura
Insta: @ooohlalastone
DIY Coffee Body Scrub!
3 ingredient DIY coffee scrub
~Lavender, Coffee and Coconut Oil Body Scrub~
I love this body coffee scrub and it’s so easy to make! It’s definitely an easy, lazy DIY coffee scrub. We’re going to approximate the amount of the 3 ingredients used. Play around with the consistency you like! If you’d like a more moisturizing scrub, add more coconut oil. If you prefer it like a sugar scrub, add more coffee grounds. It’s really that easy!
If you’re a coffee lover, this will put to use the leftover coffee grounds that are left in the coffee filter after you make your morning coffee!
The coffee grounds exfoliate, and the caffeine content in the coffee promotes blood flow.
The coconut oil moisturizes your skin.
The lavender essential oil adds an aromatherapy and relaxing experience to your scrub.
If you would like to stick with organic skincare, simply keep your 3 ingredients organic! :)
What you’ll need:
Organic coconut oil
Organic lavender essential oil
Organic coffee grounds
Coffee Maker
Jar
Directions:
Brew your morning coffee.
Add leftover coffee grounds to your jar.
Add about 1tbsp - 2tbsp of Coconut Oil to the jar with coffee grounds.
Add a few drops of lavender oil to the coconut oil and coffee grounds.
Mix all 3 ingredients together.
Each time you make coffee, keep adding the coffee grounds to the jar, and continue replenishing your coffee scrub jar.
I especially love the smell of coffee, lavender and coconut oil while I’m exfoliating with this scrub in the shower.
That’s it! Enjoy!!! :)
X O
Laura
Pin it! Save it to your collection.
Easy DIY Healthy Detox Tea Recipe!
Metabolism boosting. Detoxifying. Natural caffeine content. Simple vegan recipe for beginners!Oolong Tea Metabolism and Detox Recipe!
Save this recipe to your Pinterest!
This recipe makes 2 large mason jars to refrigerate for the whole week :) In this recipe we will brew the tea using a coffee maker!
This is a detoxing tea great to drink first thing in the morning to stimulate your metabolism. It also aids in digestion to drink before eating.
***This recipe is not a replacement solution for any health ailments. It is simply a metabolism boosting and detoxing drink with a high antioxidant content! :)
BENEFITS OF THE INGREDIENTS USED:
Oolong Tea-Filled with antioxidants such as calcium, manganese, copper, carotin, selenium, potassium, and magnesium and detoxifying alkaloids. Helps improve mental alertness, helps manage stress, increases metabolism, and contains a natural caffeine, and more.
Apple Cider Vinegar- Helps stabilize blood sugar and insulin. Helps detoxify your liver and lymphatic system. Great free radical protection from inside the body, and more.
Ginger- Improves digestion, reduces inflammation in the body, reduces blood sugar, anti-microbial properties, and more.
Lemon- Helps create digestive enzymes in your liver, high in vitamin C, high in antioxidants, and more.
Scroll down for a step-by-step gallery and the directions! Products are linked for your convenience.
What You’ll Need:
1) 3 Oolong tea packets.
2) 6 lemons
3) 2 large pieces of ginger
4) 2 shot glasses of apple cider vinegar
Directions:
1) Take your 3 Oolong tea packets and simply rip the tea bags open to use the tea inside the packet.
2) Sprinkle the oolong tea into your coffee maker, where you would normally put your coffee.
3) Fill the coffee maker with the maximum amount of water it can hold.
4) Cut 2 large pieces of ginger and place inside the coffee maker before brewing.
5) Now turn on your coffee maker.
6) After the tea is finished brewing, allow the tea to cool down on the counter before adding the lemon and apple cider vinegar.
7) Once cooled, distribute the brewed tea into 2 large mason jars.
8) Now, squeeze 3 lemons into one jar and 3 lemons into the other.
9) Add a shot glass of apple cider vinegar to each jar.
10) Shake each jar. You’re done! Place the jars in the refrigerator for the week.
Enjoy!
X O,
Laura
Chia Seed Pudding! Easy Vegan Breakfast Recipe!
Vegan. Low carb. Could be a breakfast or dessert! Make individuals for the whole week! :)Chia Seed Pudding DIY Vegan Recipe
Vegan, Low Carb and Sweet
Perfect for breakfast, or even a dessert
Save this recipe to your Pinterest board!
I just made Chia Seed Pudding for the first time this week and already know this will be a daily breakfast and dessert for me. Since I don’t like eggs, and I’m vegetarian, my go-to breakfast has been oatmeal for the last 2 years. But, I needed a change, and something that wasn’t too heavy, but where I still felt full.
Ok, so this whole recipe of throwing it together took me about 15 minutes to make.
Ingredients (1 serving):
Chia Seed Pudding:
-Coconut Milk, unsweetened (3/4 Cup)
-Coconut Nectar (1 tbsp) *or maple syrup/fav sweetener
-Chia Seeds (1/8 Cup)
-Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
Toppings:
-1 Apple
-Cinnamon (not measured)
-Cocoa Nibs (not measured)
Directions:
Add coconut milk into each bowl.
Add chia seeds into each bowl.
Add vanilla extract and coconut nectar. Stir mixture.
Allow the pudding to sit on the counter for 5-10 minutes and stir mixture every few minutes.
Finally, cover each bowl with foil, or a top, and place in refrigerator overnight.
Tip: If the mixture is too liquid-y, you can add more chia seeds to thicken it.
Tip: In the morning, you can put any toppings you want on top your pudding. I chose apples and cinnamon with cacao nibs. However, other ideas are strawberries, blueberries, your favorite fruits, shredded coconut flakes, or granola.
Scroll down for linked products used in this recipe and a gallery!
Chia Seed pudding and morning coffee <3
Healthy lifestyle and wellness tip—>
If you’re wondering what Coconut Nectar is, it is the sap from the flower of a coconut tree. Coconut nectar has a low glycemic index, which means it does not spike your blood sugar compared to agave, or maple syrup, or processed sugar. Coconut nectar has 17 amino acids and a ton of other beneficial minerals in it. I buy mine at Whole Foods, Sprouts or Pavilions. It comes in 2 flavors, Blonde or Amber…I use both! (For this chia seed pudding I used Amber just because that’s what was in my cupboard at the time :) )
Hope you love chia pudding as much as I do!!!
XO XO,
Laura
Your guide on how to wear lime green this Summer 2022. Plus current fashion trend pieces (Summer 2022) in shades of lime green for you to shop.