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Vegan Almond, Date and Orange Brioche

Vegan Almond, Date and Orange Brioche

These light,  soft and sweet Christmas morning buns are perfect as a decadent breakfast or with ice cream a delicious dessert for the festive season. And remember to plan ahead as the dough needs to rise overnight!

Prepping time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 – 20 minutes
Rising time: 8 hours or overnight
Serves: 10 – 12

Vegan Almond, Date and Orange Brioche

INGREDIENTS: 

DOUGH 

  • 100g coconut oil (ghee or butter if not vegan) 
  • 1¼ almond milk (or plant-based milk of choice ) 
  • 1 Tbsp instant yeast 
  • ½ cup coconut sugar 
  • 1 tsp salt 
  • 3 ½ all-purpose flour 
  • 1 orange zest 

FILLING

METHOD: 

  1. In a large bowl whisk the flour, yeast, salt and coconut sugar together. 
  2. In a small saucepan add the milk and coconut oil/ ghee over low heat. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the coconut oil/ghee has melted. 
  3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the flour mixture and use a wooden spoon to combine and use your hands if necessary then add the orange zest before the mixture is combined completely. 
  4. Sprinkle a little floVegan Almond, Date and Orange Brioche5ur on a clean surface, scoop the dough out of the bowl and knead the dough for about 8 minutes. The dough should be elastic, not sticky. Form a nice round ball with the dough and put the dough back into the bowl. Cover with a clean dishcloth or cling wrap. Let it rise overnight in the fridge or for about 8 hours at room temperature. 
  5. The next day the dough should have risen twice it’s size. Scoop the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll out into a rectangular.  
  6. Use a knife to spread almond butter evenly over the entire surface of the dough. Then sprinkle over the chopped dates, coconut sugar, cinnamon and a pinch of salt. 
  7. Roll the dough up starting with the longest side facing you. Then use a serrated knife or unflavored floss to slice the roll into 10-12 pieces about 5 cm each. 
  8. Place the rolls into the lightly oiled muffin tin with the swirl facing up. Allow the rolls to proof on top of the oven while the oven preheats to 180C. Then bake for 15-20 minutes until light golden colour on top. 
  9. Once the buns are out of the oven place them on a cooling rack. Dust with icing sugar (or xylitol icing sugar) or drizzle with a little honey/maple syrup before serving either hot or cold.Vegan Almond, Date and Orange Brioche6

NOTES:  

If you don’t have a muffin tin, use a deep round dish or cake tin and pack the rolls tightly together. 

*Other filling options are chocolate almond butter and hazelnuts, coconut sugar and cinnamon, raisins/cranberries and walnuts with cinnamon.

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Floral Grapefruit and Sage Summer Mocktails

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Eco-Friendly Gifts for the Whole Family

Eco-Friendly Gifts for The Whole Family

As we gear up for the festive season, most of us are keeping our eyes peeled and ears perked for a hint about the perfect gift to give our loved ones. The year is ending, and as we plan to attend office parties, Secret Santa’s are being assigned accordingly. My own brother is a December baby, so every year our family weighs the option of either getting him one big present or splitting up the gifts respectively. 

Finding the perfect token to show someone you care is something we can all admit to struggling with. Here are some eco-friendly suggestions you can consider as we enter the most generous time of the year: 

AROMATHERAPY BUNDLE FOR THE SELF CARE FUNDI

Aromatherapy has proven to be effective in relieving pain, improving sleep patterns, and reducing stress and anxiety. If you’re not buying this for a loved one who practises mindfulness on a regular basis, someone you think might need to would definitely benefit from this gift. The bundle includes an oil burner, beeswax tealight candles and a few indigenous essential oils. Depending on what oils you get in the pack, you’ll want to top up on lavender, rosemary, as well as clary sage. Lavender treats anxiety, insomnia and restlessness. Rosemary can improve brain function and increase circulation, while sage works as a natural antidepressant.

GET SET GROW SET FOR THE SOMEONE WITH GREEN FINGERS

Gardening is such a relaxing pastime. Not only are you reconnecting with the earth in a very intimate way, but you also get a healthy amount of Vitamin D through exposure to direct sunlight (that doesn’t mind you wearing a protective layer of sunscreen by the way). This would be a thoughtful gift for someone who is passionate about their health and nutrition. It can be incredibly rewarding preparing a meal consisting of ingredients you have grown yourself. Because you’ve tended to it, you can ensure that non-toxic pesticides were incorporated into the gardening process. Give this to a friend or family member that is serious about avoiding GMOs. If your little ones are curious about growing their own treats too, My Eco Sprout has a strawberry popcorn set they will adore.

KOMBUCHA BREWING STARTER KIT FOR THE HEALTH NUT

All you need to brew your own booch in one convenient craft box. The starter kit comes complete with a brewing bottle, the symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), and comprehensive instructions. Safe enough for the whole family to drink, kombucha gets to work on your gut to promote healthy digestion and liver detoxification. If you have a restless teen who is looking for a cool project to dive into, brewing this fermented probiotic will keep them occupied.

REUSABLE GROCERY BAGS FOR THE FORGETFUL SHOPPER

You’ve done your week’s shopping and you’re wheeling your trolley towards the till. While the cashier rings up your groceries, you reach down for your FTN hemp bag and then you realise you left it on the kitchen counter as you grabbed your keys and ran out the door. DOH! How about buying a few reusable grocery bags to stuff into each Christmas stocking this year? You’ll have to remind everyone to put them in their cars or handbags, of course, so they’re never forced to resort to buying plastic bags ever again

COOKING/YOGA/SELF DEFENSE CLASSES FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS IT ALL

We all have someone in our circle who is a bit of an enigma. They seem to have it all so you’re stumped as to what to get them. That person is my father; a practical man who only has what he needs. If you ever ask him what he wants and he’ll tell you he wants to be able to get what he needs when he needs it. It can be impossible shopping for people like that. So don’t. Gift them with experiences like helicopter pilot lessons or an all-access card to the aquarium. Since they seem to have acquired their fill in physical things, give them something they will remember forever – a memory.

The simple secrets to making gifts extra special

Robyn’s top picks: The eco gifts I’m most excited about this year

Homemade Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Jar

 

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A DIY Mother’s Day

“Mother is the name for God in the lips and hearts of little children.” – William Makepeace Thackeray

Mothers are pretty amazing – I’m sure we can all agree. So how do we adequately show our appreciation to the brave few who’ve hazarded one of the hardest jobs out there? The answer is we can’t. But don’t let that discourage you; there are many ways for us to get incredibly close, and Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity!

Gift vouchers, floral bouquets and brunch all sounds lovely, but if you want to give your mama a gift from the heart, consider rolling your sleeves up and making her something unique. Thankfully, most of us have graduated from pasta art and finger paintings, so we can make something really beautiful that our mothers will treasure.

A Spin on Flowers

As pretty as they are, flowers don’t last. Ensure your gift survives the week by swapping out a bouquet of roses with a tray of pansy or purslane planters. If your mom regularly whips up yummy treats in the kitchen, she’ll enjoy decorating her plates with these delicious edible flowers that have wonderful health benefits too.

If your mum has a sweet tooth, she can grab a lollipop made with edible flowers as she dashes out to run errands.

Why not upcycle an old bowl to make a gorgeous hanging planter your mama can grow herbs and spices in? Or remind your mommy how long lasting your love for her is, with a bowl of hardy succulents that will outlive any sunflower steeped in a vase of water would.

Not Your Regular Pillow

If we know anything about women, it’s that they generally love a creative assortment of scatter cushions. Whether they’re lounging on a bed, decorating the couch, or setting up a cosy reading nook, pillowscaping is an art form. Take your mother’s love of upholstery  to the next level. Make her a cuddle cushion out of your embrace so she can snuggle up to your proxy when she misses you.

If you’re not the only chicklet your mother hen cares for, it would elate her to see cuddle cushions of all her kids – but you are still the favourite. She knows it, you know it too.

Compile a pamper pack

Being a mother is a tireless job that never ends. Between all the late-night phone calls, impromptu babysitting requests and surprise baked goods, your mom might find the time for a relaxing bath. This is your chance to show her you care about her R&R time.

Make a bunch of bath bombs with lavender, chamomile, and other fragrances you know your mama will love. They’re difficult to get right, so settle for homemade bath salts if you’re not completely confident in your capabilities. 

Amp up her relaxation by converting antique tea sets into literal tealight candles. Raid your local thrift shop for crockery that will cost you pennies, and make them at home

Hook. Line. And here’s the sinker: if your mother is anything like mine, a custom tea blend would be the perfect pairing for a relaxing candle lit bath. The internet is a great resource for recipes and tutorials; make sure your tea is made of plants and spices that have healing properties. Who knows, you might make tea so good, you’ll start getting regular orders from your mother and her friends.

Upcycle

Very few things will excite an eco-mom more than an impressive upcycled gift. Get the little ones involved with this cost effective present of converting a mason jar into a framed vase. Slap a fresh coat of pastel paint on a vase with a picture of the family on it, and the woman of the house will think of you all when she’s tending to her indoor plants.

Why not give your old bedding a second chance by using it to make bedtime eye mask. Printed lavender sachets would be a great gift too. Not only is she keeping her closet smelling fresh, but she’ll have cute picture of her loved ones waiting to surprise her every time she opens the cupboard door.

Mother’s Day Recipes: A Menu to Spoil Mom

 

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ForEVA Straws, The Straws That Last Forever. My Story.

By Megan Johnson, Founder and owner

The ForEva straws were discovered while I was on vacation in Bali. I knew that this business was going to work when my experience was too coincidental, and it seemed to be a sign from my late grandmother, choosing the name ForEva Straws. You see, it is a ForEVA Straw and not Forever Straws. My late grandmother’s name was Eva Johnson and she raised me from birth. She was my best friend, my sister, my pillar of strength, my everything.

On the 13th of January 2017, I was in Bali on vacation with a good friend Valissa. I had, what is known as ‘The Bali Belly’. At dinner, on this evening I played it safe and ordered a soft drink (which, to date, was the best decision of my life). My drink arrived on the table with this beautiful piece of stainless steel. This can only be described as my ‘Uh Huh Moment’. Never in my life had I ever seen a stainless-steel drinking straw. I could not believe my eyes, I could not understand why we were not using these gorgeous straws back home in South Africa. My mind was made up that very moment, SA was in need of these. And I was bringing them home.

I got back home, did research, sourced the straws, trademarked the name, registered a company, set up a website and got ready for our launch at the Coffee & Chocolate Expo Monte Casino 2017, which happened to fall on my late grandmothers’ birthday the 18th July. A true celebration was in order.

Prior to the discovery, I was unaware of this global crisis and the damage that single-use plastic is doing to our planet. Honestly, I used plastic straws and other plastic items almost every day. After the discovery the use of plastic straws by myself, my family and my friends has become an absolute no. Using reusable products is becoming a lifestyle now, this journey has changed my life. I am not perfect, but I am getting there, one straw at a time, one bag at a time, one cup at a time. Every little bit counts.

As we move into fully comprehending the damage that single-use plastic does; just imagine every person on the planet using a stainless steel or alternative straw as opposed to single-use plastic… the volumes are quite scary.

To date, we are in over 100 stores nationwide and 5 internationally. Our vision is to eliminate all single-use plastic straws. And this is the difference we want to make, even if it is just a little one. In 2018 we launched The ForEva Foundation, which is a ‘Give Back’ initiative where a portion of our profits goes towards making a difference through education, a female empowerment program and other upliftment initiatives. We also work very closely with Miss Earth South Africa on various give-back projects and on educating our youth about sustainable living, the many alternatives to single-use plastic, as well as how to recycle and get creative with plastic.

I am honoured and blessed to be able to run a business that provides a sustainable product that contributes to saving our planet, and in the same breath creating a legacy for my grandmother. As is with any “trend”, people tend to leverage a need in order to make a profit, and so are getting into the straw business for the sake of making a profit. ForEva Straws are here to make a difference, to change lives, to change mindsets, to educate, to develop and to contribute.

Get your very own ForEva straws through Faithful To Nature.

Find out more about these magical eco straws be visitng their website. Or follow them on social:

Facebook: @ForEvaStraws Instagram: @foreva_straws Twitter: @ForEvaStraws  

What Our Number 1 “R” Should Be Right Now: Refuse

My Top 5 Takeaways from Zero Waste Home by Bea Johnson

6 Reasons Why #PlasticMustFall

 

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Christmas Gift Ideas that Won’t Hurt The Earth

Christmas Gift Ideas that Won’t Hurt The Earth

So you’ve spent all month prepping your home for an eco-friendly Christmas. You’ve finally gotten your father-in-law to use the compost bin properly, and, following a tense few days and a stern lecture, your niece has agreed to keep her showers down to seven minutes. Stretching yourself thin to create a festive atmosphere has come at an expense – you’ve run out of time to buy gifts for your family. Don’t fret. Even last minute gifts can be environmentally responsible.

Here is our list of some great gift ideas that will spread the Christmas and eco-friendly cheer:

GIVE IN THE NAME OF A LOVED ONE 

Everyone has a family member that they can’t seem to buy anything for because they appear to have everything. That person is my father. I’ve spent a fortune on festive ties, paperweights, books and crystal decanters only to see them be put in storage. A few years ago, I started donating the money I would’ve spent on neglected cufflinks. My father so appreciated that I was helping those in need in his name that he encouraged I keep doing it.

Animal shelters and halfway homes always fill up this time of year, and I don’t doubt that they’d appreciate any financial assistance to feed and care for those that need them. When you cultivate a generous spirits, especially during a period when it’s better to give than to receive, you set a precedent people can’t but not follow.

 

SPONSOR AN EXPERIENCE 

In all honesty, I like people giving me things as much as the next person but what I’ve noticed about every Christmas is that I amass so many useless things. Between the advent calendars, the Christmas crackers and the stockings we hang on Christmas Eve, I have 5 horrendous plastic horn blowers, a pair of novelty New Years glasses, a bubble machine, streamers, and a handful of other toys and trinkets I loathe having to get rid of. And this is before I’ve even my actual Christmas presents! Circumvent that waste entirely by purchasing tickets to the theatre show instead.

When you sponsor an experience instead of buying a gift, your loved one will forever associate the memory of eating at their favourite restaurant, thanks to a coupon or gift card, with you. It beats them feeling guilty about throwing out the desk fan you got them when they move house.

 

GIVE THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING 

A house without indoor plants is not a house worth living in. Other than improving the quality of your air, and adding a pop of colour to your interior, the benefits of incorporating some foliage into your home are endless.
Get your loved ones anything from a hardy fern tree, or stress-free succulent, to a thirsty bamboo palm. It’ll look pretty, and tending to something to ensure it grows is a great form of therapy.

 

DIY PRESENTS 

Put the pasta and the glue away if you’re not a five-year-old, we’re talking about serious stuff here. People always roll their eyes at homemade presents because they often look and feel like a last-minute cop-out. It doesn’t have to be.

If you’re a whizz in the kitchen, whip up a batch of preserves or fill a few jars of your famous butter cookies. Those good with arts and craft can glue together a scrapbook or hammer together an adorable birdhouse. Use your talents to show your loved ones that you care and they won’t notice that their gift doesn’t come with a receipt.

 

PRO-TIP: RECYCLE WRAPPING PAPER 

Am I the only person who is tired of seeing yucky wrapping paper? There are so many environmentally responsible alternatives that make buying that tacky glossy stuff is unnecessary. I’ve taken to wrapping gifts in sheets of newspaper. What makes it really fun is I’ll always pick sheets from my pile with the most scandalous news headlines and see if anyone notices. If the recipients catch on, it becomes a fun game of who can find the most outrageous ‘Tokoloshe Stole my Husband’ type story. If they don’t, at least I can chuckle to my own private joke. And at the end of all the gift unwrapping – bundle up the newspaper and pop it in the fire for some extra kindling. 

 

We’re a week away from Christmas and the festive cheer is getting even cheerier. If you’ve ever had to wade through busy shopping malls to get last-minute gifts for friends and family, you know how frustrating it can be. What are some of your favourite eco-friendly gift ideas that we can run out and get in time for Santa’s housecall?

 

Boxing Day Bliss Bowl

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Orange Glazed Butternut with Buckwheat Stuffing

 

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Faithful to Nature Turns 12: Robyn Shares Her All-Time Top 12 Eco Products

Faithful to Nature is celebrating its 12th birthday this October 2018! Yes, we’ve reached a cosmically historical number on our journey of growth.

As we all know “ONE” is the first number of the number list. It represents birth, new beginnings and self-motivation. The number “TWO” is representative of, believe it or not, faith and belief. It signifies one’s purpose and the emotive meaning behind action. While focusing within the realms of peace, harmony and duty.

WOW. Having said this, we can’t imagine how our 12th year could’ve have been a more significant and memorable one. Throughout our journey there has been one unfailing factor that has fed life into our growth, and that has been our faith to nature.

And the meaning behind the number “TWELVE”, you ask? It is to leave old habits behind and look forward to new things. With this in mind, we implore you to join us in ditching the plastic straws, the chemical-laden cleaners, and other toxic tools, to inspire a world where our actions are to the best of our own benefit, and that of Mother Nature’s.

In celebrating 12 years of greener, healthier living, we bring you our inspiring founder’s top twelve eco products of all time – these are the Faithful to Nature goodies she simply cannot go without!

ROBYN’S TOP 12 FAVOURITES:

1. Oh-lief Natural Aqueous Cream

 

 

 

 

“Gentle and effective for the WHOLE family – a product we seriously cannot do without!” – Robyn Smith

2. Oh Mega Cashew Nut Butter

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Add some cinnamon and banana and it’s just nom, nom, nom for all the troops!” – Robyn Smith

3. Back 2 Nature Face Wash

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Ticks every ethical box (plastic-, palm oil- & cruelty-free; made locally, is vegan AND all natural) and still trumps every cleanser I’ve ever tried.” – Robyn Smith

4. EcoEgg Laundry Egg… with a hint of fresh linen

 

 

 

 

 

 

“In terms of cash spent, quality of results & eco-friendliness, this is hands down the best & most effective detergent I have found. Brilliant!”  – Robyn Smith

5. Boody Women’s Brazilian Bikini Underwear – Black

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Once you go bamboo, you stay bamboo! The quality of Boody’s clothing essentials never fails to deliver!” – Robyn Smith

6. Wazoogles Vanilla Sky Superfood Protein Shake

 

 

 

 

 

 

“We all love starting our day with this delicious ‘unicorn magic’ ;)” – Robyn Smith

7. Simply Bamboo Adult Toothbrush

 

 

 

“Truly works like a charm and doesn’t cost the Earth. The whole tribe are happy!” – Robyn Smith

8. Akan Moringa Capsules

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Massive gratitude to the mighty moringa and its noticeable boost in my energy and health.” – Robyn Smith

9. Happy Earth People Red Lentil Fusilli Pasta

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“A vegetarian mama’s dream come true!” – Robyn Smith

10. Earth Products North Atlantic Dulse Granules

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Massive health benefits with a mild flavour makes this an essential immune-boosting ingredient in my family’s meals.” – Robyn Smith

11. Giovanni Nutrafix Hair Reconstructor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“My guiltiest indulgence by far, but golly the results are mind-blowing!” – Robyn Smith

12. bam+boo All-In-One Baby Nappy – Giraffe & Monkey

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Reusable nappies that are so clever and so pretty, I want to tell the world about them!” – Robyn Smith

We hope you derive as much joy from using these products as Robyn does! Happy green living, and thank you to you, our incredible community of eco warriors, for supporting Faithful’s journey to reaching another birthday milestone!

 

Read more from Robyn: 

In Living with Wu Wei, Robyn Shares How She Found More Joy

Robyn Gets Personal About Trash

Dealing With Stress: Robyn Shares Her Story

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Eco Gifting for a Mindful Mom

Gifting mom_web

With Mother’s Day less than a month away, it’s worth taking the time to consider an eco-friendly gift your eco-warrior will appreciate. She spends a great deal of time making sure you’re happy and healthy (by being environmentally conscious, she’s doing the same for the planet too). So it’s worth spoiling her with something that will set her heart alight. There are environmentally friendly offerings for mothers with green fingers, moms who like to be the hostess with the mostess, vegan mamas, yogi mums, and all the wonderful variations in between. Here are some fantastic gift ideas to treat the leading lady in your life.

 

SPROUTING KITS AND MICRO GARDENS

Tap into your mother’s maternal instinct by getting her sprouting seeds for a personal vegetable garden or potager. She’ll take a great deal of pride in watching her micro garden bloom and reap herbs, spices, fruits and vegetables that she can use. Because they’re relatively affordable, you can start your special lady off with the basics. Get her a reusable sprout bag or a mushroom kit so she can cultivate a collection of her own produce, ensuring you all enjoy the tastiest farm-to-table ingredients when you pop round for dinner.

 

ORGANIC COSMETIC

The beauty industry is notorious for torturing animals in the name of vanity. In recent years, cruelty-free cosmetics brands have been on the rise, providing a conscious alternative to makeup and cosmetic products. Most of the products are made from natural, biodegradable products that harm neither the planet nor our favourite four-legged friends. Make your mama’s eyes sparkle with a bold chemical- and cruelty-free mascara. She’ll smile a whole lot wider if you buy her organic lipstick. It might not be the fountain of youth, but an anti-aging serum made of avocado oil, olive oil and carrot extracts will be a welcomed addition to your mother’s beauty regiment.

 

SELF-SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS

In the spirit of minimizing carbon footprints, getting your mom into sustainable living wouldn’t hurt. An air-tight compost bin will turn all of her kitchen scraps and unused produce into organic waste that she can use on her potager or in her vegetable garden outside. Compost bins are compact and can slip into any available space in your kitchen.

If your mother loves the great outdoors, she’ll leave little to no trace of going off the beaten track if you get her biodegradable crockery at cutlery. She can use the bowls, plates, forks, knives, and spoons multiple times if you’d like. However, if she happens to leave something behind when she takes her next camping trip, she won’t lose sleep wondering whether an unsuspecting forest creature is choking on a discarded straw. It will have already begun its decomposition by the time she’s parked her car back in the garage.

 

CRUELTY-FREE APPARELS 

Your fashion-forward mother doesn’t have to sacrifice her sense of style because of her moral compass. Nowadays, popular clothing brands and eco-friendly celebrities are spearheading the use of natural material and products. Not only do organic materials minimize the risk of allergens but, more often than not, no animals were harmed in the making and testing of the products and some items are even biodegradable. Vegan leather bags and clothing provide animal-lovers with a conscious substitute.

 

HOMEOPATHIC AIDS 

Many believe that herbs, fruits, vegetables and spices have the abilities to cure illnesses and ailments. If your mother is one such a person, surprising her with a collection of essential oils would definitely be appreciated. Sandalwood has relaxing, soothing and cooling properties. It also eases swollen lymph nodes, it clears chest infections and combats insomnia. Frankincense has rejuvenating properties that help dry skin.

Perhap your mother’s favourite place is her kitchen? A healthy recipe book wouldn’t go amiss. Whether it’s a collection of gluten-free recipes, raw plant-based dishes or The Juice Lady’s Guide to Juicing for Health, helping your mother make better food choices for her vitality will definitely show her that you care.

 

Mothers are like superheros. Their love is unconditional – and so is their patience. They work extremely hard to make sure we are safe, warm, dry and taken care of. Mothers would take food from their own mouths if their child was hungry. Your mother has made many sacrifices for you, and although you’d love to give them the world, surprising her with just one of these gifts would make her day.

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Take The ‘Litter’ Out of Glitter: Biodegradable Glitter at Your Fingertips

Biodegradable-glitter - mirror and moon at Faithful to Nature

Become a part of the guilt-free glitter revolution!

Planning a little ones’ next birthday party? Or perhaps you’re piling tents, camping chairs and fairy lights into your hatchback and heading off to an offbeat music festival? Either way, you can do your bit to take the ‘litter’ out of glitter with the latest innovation in body art and crafts. Now you can shine bright like a diamond while keeping it environmentally conscious with vegan-friendly and cruelty-free biodegradable glitter.

Why the need for biodegradable glitter?
Plastic, which standard glitter is made from, has been polluting our oceans and desecrating our marine life for over 100 years. We’ve all seen the sobering images of turtles deformed by plastic six-pack rings, or with straws stuck in their nostrils. Even tiny specks of glitter, which never break down, find their way into the digestive systems of seals, penguins and coral – causing irrevocable harm. Eco-friendly citizens, and environmentalists, were just about done with glitter, until a group of creative conservationists conceived the idea of using natural products and compounds to make a biodegradable substitute. Thanks to them, glitter-lovers can still sparkle, but not at the expense of Mother Nature.

What is it made from?
Unlike normal glitter, made from the pesky plastic particles found in most grocery bags and drinking bottles, biodegradable glitter is produced from plant cellulose. This natural material is extracted from eucalyptus trees – one of the fastest and tallest growing plants on the planet. The ingredients used to make glitter shine are basic minerals and starches.

Biodegradable glitter is, holistically, a more conscious substitute. The eucalyptus found in the product is an antiseptic with antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it highly effective in treating skin conditions like acne and scarring.

Is it really biodegradable?
Yup. Biodegradable glitter is made from all natural goods – even the colours added to the specs of glitter come from the earth. So as soon as it makes contact with water, heat, oxygen and other microorganisms, the sparkly product will begin to break down. The speed of this process varies depending on whether you’re throwing shapes on a dancefloor in the middle of the Karoo desert or partying up a storm, closer to the coast. Weather conditions and climate play a huge factor, but producers of biodegradable glitter have gone to great lengths to ensure no hazardous material goes into the product. Because all the components are 100% natural and sustainably farmed, the glitter is safe for humans and animals to digest if accidental consumption ever occurred.

How do I apply and remove it?
Most biodegradable glitters are packaged as loose glitter, as opposed to the sticky glitter glue-type products sold for arts and craft purposes. This means that you’ll need to apply an adhesive to make sure the glitter stays on your face and doesn’t float away with the breeze. Many biodegradable glitters will stick to cream- or gel-based products like moisturizer, sunscreen or lip balm (un-petroleum jelly works well too). If you’d like to continue the natural way go for products like coconut oil, beeswax, aloe vera gel or shea butter.

When decorating your face, make sure to avoid your eyes, nose and mouth.

Removing the biodegradable glitter is super easy. Use some baby oil or an oil-based make-up remover to get the shimmering body art off. Again, when removing the biodegradable glitter, make sure to wipe up and away from your eyes to avoid the specks of glitter getting where they shouldn’t.

Where to go?
Right here. Biodegradable glitter has become extremely popular and is incredibly easy to find. Some of your favourite ethical cosmetic brands have made the switch from using plastic glitter in their products, to opting for biodegradable glitter. Mirror Moon has 15 different biodegradable glitter pots to pick from, as well as an aloe vera application gel.

We just love that looking good doesn’t come at a cost to the earth. So, let’s take this new found eco knowledge and be a part of the guilt-free glitter revolution.

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12 Tiny Christmas Cracker and Stocking Giller Gift Ideas to Inspire Change

Stocking fillers and those little knickknacks that end up in Christmas crackers have a tendency to gravitate towards the  “stuff” end of the spectrum. Many of the cracker gift fillers are badly made plastic toys that end up in landfills after their short-lived and barely amusing purposes have expired. This year, why not make sure that the things you add to the festivities, no matter how small, are gifted with intention. This is our selection of tiny stocking filler gift ideas that have the ability to inspire real change.

1. Organisation for crafty types

These nifty chalkboard-like stickers can turn any pantry or craft or hobby shelf into an absolute dream. Personalisation is key for crafty types right? And these stickers will encourage the reuse of glass storage containers too!

2. Sassy cat eyes

Natural make-up and a little glam combined into one? This charcoal eye pencil promises smooth, sultry eyes and lasting kindness to the planet and your skin. It might inspire the switch an en entirely au natural beauty box.

3. Chap free hands

Our hands do so much for us and get very little thanks so a, erm, handy, little tube of nourishing ointment is almost always highly appreciated. And compared to what most stores sell at their checkout aisles, this stuff also possesses remarkable abilities to heal scars and little cuts.

4. Good-for-you choccies

During a time of year when everything is on the decadent side of the spectrum, finding some raw chocolates packed with antioxidants, in your Christmas stocking is a real treat. The lucky person on the receiving end may even decide to cut preservative rich processed chocolate out for good after having tasted these.

5. Lovely lip service

This nifty olive and beeswax lip balm that sits snuggly in your pocket is a gem of a stocking stuffer for any girl who loves her look to be natural and nude. And the cute, plastic-free tin it comes in can be used for all sorts of tiny bits and bobs or for gifting jewellery later down the line.

6. Green footprints

The kindest most sincere gift you can give anyone is a little carbon neutralising love for the planet on their behalf. It’s the most beautiful gesture and will remind them to make kinder choices for the planet whenever they look at their eco Greenpop keyring.

7. Cheerful chompers

Toothbrush time is tough enough for little ones but give them a nature friendly little chap like this biodegradable Kuala toothbrush and they’ll be smiles all-round. It will also teach them how much impact they can make in even the simplest areas of their lives.

8. Seed good thoughts

Your kind but festive paper wishes don’t need to live on because it’s the words that matter not what they’re written on after all. These growing cards embedded with seeds will remind people that even the tiniest bit of waste could flourish into something better if used with intention.

9. Wax on wax off

A true ocean lover will really appreciate that the stuff they cover their boards with shouldn’t harm the ocean they swim in. And because this toxic free surfboard wax works so well they’ll definitely be telling their mates about it while waiting for the next set to roll in.

10. Spiritual adornment

This lovely wooden beaded wrist wrap may be just what someone in your life needs to reinvigorate some self-loving meditation or yoga practices to their daily rituals. And who knows, having a reminder of mindfulness always ‘on-hand’ may help them to carry it through into their daily life.

11. Homely aromas

The gift of natural fragrances that don’t come out of a spray bottle is already a wonderful gesture to the earth. The lighting of nag champa incense is also a gentle reminder to a loved one to slow down a little and enjoy the simpler things in life. By inspiring them to make the switch long term, you’ll both be doing the environment a kindness.

12. Suck-free sipping

If you really want to gift something that will make a huge impact, plastic-free straws are a life-changing gift. Once you start using these, you become deeply grateful for a waste eliminating choice that you can carry with you everywhere you go, so it’s a much-appreciated gift down the line.

And there you have it – 12 awesome stocking filler or cracker gift ideas that have the power to really impact and navigate someone’s life into a better more holistic direction. We hope your celebrations are merry and bright and above all else that you gift in kindness to our beautiful planet.

 

Top 10 Stocking Stuffers

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Our greenies share their ultimate eco gift ideas

 

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12 Mindful Gift Ideas That Give More Than Just Stuff

Gift giving can be hard at the best of times. Some people have a natural knack for it and others are left feeling totally clueless. And it doesn’t even get easier the better you know someone. You might feel they have everything they could want or are just feel even more pressure to get something great the more they mean to you. Well, don’t fret because we’ve rounded up 17 gifts that give more than just their face value. Our hope is that with richer meanings behind the gifts you’ll identify with one that is perfect for your still giftless dear one.

 

1. Yoga mat and cork blocks

This isn’t just a gift for yogis. Sure every die-hard yoga lover would be grateful for more yogi gear but here’s where these gifts give more. A yoga mat could be a great way of gently encouraging someone you care for to invest in more self-love time and for that person that’s always wanted to start but lacks the confidence, yoga blocks are a great support, both in the beginner’s mobility and movement as well as in gesture – that yoga isn’t just for the perfectly skinny and flexible type.

 

2. Reusable menstrual cup

Okay, a reusable menstrual cup might seem really strange coming from a guy, but from girl to girl, there are few things as life-changing as a far better experience during your monthly cycle. You’re essentially giving your fellow Goddesses a lifetime of feminine freedom and greater synchronicity with our Earth. It’s powerful stuff.

 

3. Organic Chocolate

Chocolate is a no-brainer. But organic chocolate that is actually incredibly tasty is a wonderful gift for someone who has a serious sweet tooth but is looking to be healthier. It’s a gift of support and lip-smacking compromise that shows you care.

 

4. Himalayan Salt Lamp

Salt is wonderfully balancing for negative emotions but it’s also incredible at neutralising electromagnetic frequencies. So for the workaholic friend in your crowd, a salt lamp is the gift of stress-reduced desk days.

 

5. Fresh bags and beeswax wrap

Reducing our consumption and impact on the environment is only going to become of greater and greater importance. For anyone in your circle who just hasn’t made the jump to plastic-free living, the gift of fresh bags and beeswax wrap allows them to instantly say bye bye to those thin produce bags and clingwrap and hello to better fresher food. It’s especially appreciated by foodies.

6. Nutribullet

This might seem so obvious for anyone who loves to cook but what you’re really giving them on top of high-speed blending skills of any one of the Nutribullets, is incredible health packed smoothie potential and heaps more time to spend on other things they love.

 

7. Waka Waka Power Bank

For anyone who relies on their cell to do pretty much everything, this is an ideal gift – not only to supply their phones with more solar-harnessed juice but also to help them feel more prepared and independent for unforeseen life scenarios.

 

8. Heirloom Seeds

 This is not only a much-appreciated gift for the person whom you know has a love of all things ‘garden’ but could a be a lovely gift for a frazzled teen over the holidays. Growing veg from scratch not only imbues one with learning the ability to benefit from hard work but also becomes an immeasurable gift of gentleness and patience.

 

9. Coffee beans and hand grinder

For any worker bee who really enjoys a good cup of coffee, there’s nothing like taking their caffeine appreciation the next level. And once you’ve tasted freshly ground beans – little else compares. But the slow art of hand grinding just what you need every morning is also the gift of a beautiful morning routine that will help them slow down and savour the aroma of bean to grind coffee.

 

10. Matcha tea

For a health hero who loves getting in on a good trend, top quality matcha tea is an equally wonderful gift for slowing down time and enjoying the luxurious art of this nutritious beverage.

 

THOUGHTFUL GIFTING FOR LITTLE ONES

11. Mindfulness Bedtime Story

This is a wonderful gift for busy parents and curious children. The Boy Who Searched For Silence is one in the series of Conscious Bedtime Stories and will not only give a busy mom and dad more reading material at night but will very likely add a dash of introspection and inspiration to their evening storytime will bring a soul-soothing routine to the little ones.

12. Growth Chart

This is a really fun gift for little kiddies because they’re so in awe of their own growth but down the line, it becomes a rather special gift for the parents too as a reminder of their little one’s journey.
It might be odd that we’ve become a society more prone to gifting only on special occasions but every opportunity to give something from yourself can be a chance to give with intention. Those are afterall, the gifts that are treasured beyond the moment of unwrapping. Here’s to finding mindfulness in the giving this year.