Surf's Up! - The surf's up this month with the relevant topic on "Oil and Energy". We attended a lecture and presentation at the Colorado History Museum in Denver, February 28th on this important subject. It was sponsored by the Sustainable Futures Society, with speakers, guests, book authors, and experts in the field among others via a documentary film by Dr. Richard Heinberg. Dave Wann, presented ideas for creating more socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable neighborhoods. Also, he mentioned how new developers are building such communities which are closer to the local job markets and towns therefore cutting communting time. This new sense of community will reduce stress levels, and lead to raising healthier families. It was also discussed how existing neighborhoods could be changed to be made more sustainable. Another speaker and published author Dan Chiras pointed out that we could start at the local level, and in our homes by improving insulation. This basic step could save at least 25% more energy in most homes. Local utility companies across the States may also offer classes, or post suggestions on their websites with proven energy and water saving solutions in the area. Both speakers, wrote a book titled "Superbia", with 31 ways to create local sustainable (as in supporting and maintaining neighborhoods). This is not to be confused with biodiversity which is a way for the UN (United Nations)to monitor and regulate other countries Land and it's ownership via regulations and treaty.
Leaving the presentation, and after going through some of the literature and books on display we left with a sense of new awareness. Driving through the heavy traffic in order to reach our original destination we managed to smile and I thought outloud, "I never imagined that all that Sun and Wind I enjoyed with fond memories at the beach, will one day perhaps heat most homes and be an incredible energy source". To think that we thought we were just having fun in the sun, now it turns out that we were also laying on a gold mine. Summary from the event=We could all make better products that last, conserve, do other things such as recycling, changing light bulbs, insulating and managing waste so that is does not hurt the soil. Toxic paints and products should not be tossed in the yard. Ask your local waste management how to dispose of such products.
Fashion- Coming back again and again is the color Kiwi, Chartreuse or lime green. It is back again in shoes (mostly sandals), tops, swimsuits, and I am not exaggerating even in prom cocktail dresses. Since this color does not favor many in a complete solid try to combine it with other darker colors. This will be more pleasing to the eye. Also, this color may look even better on tanned or olive skin. This is a trendy color however it has come out each season for the past 3 years. It's different and some individuals prefer that look. There is a darker version that goes more toward a light olive or a green dark olive.This choice is easier to wear and very popular. Men, for example would almost always go for the dark tan or olive color, specially in beach shorts. Next time you tan or use a bronzer try one of your favorite green combinations above. It looks great!
Nature & Technology- This is the time we start thinking about skin exfoliation. Spring is on its way and we may need some extra help besides a sponge or wash cloth. Exfoliation is the process by which the skin sheds the dry outer layer that gets clogged with impurities and opens the pores thereby allowing it to breathe. Skin care body brushing and body scrubs are used to help exfoliate the skin more efficiently. This helps get rid of the dry flaky and scaly build-up of skin dry cells on the surface that are often the result of excessive hot or cold. At a professional salon the added benefict is the massage movements done along with it, however you may prepare a scrub at home that will help you in between your visits. Next month we will discuss in more depth the benefits of lymphatic drainage body brushing techniques and more on the lymphatics. There are many basic scrubs that may be prepared at home, however just be careful after use so that the oils or left over product does not cause someone to slip. When done after bath or shower please make sure the bathroom surfaces are clean and free of any oils. If not comfortable it may even be better to just try the dry skin body brushing for exfoliation. Many who may have limited body movement or who have elderly relatives may help them with the manual body brushing instead. Here are some basic recipes for exfoliating scrubs.
Almond Scrub-2/3 cup of ground almonds, 1/3 cup of oatmeal, mix with aloe vera, water or yogurt. Salt Scrub-1 cup of sea salt, 1 cup of olive oil, about 4 drops of any other favorite essential oil you may have, squeeze of lemon juice optional. Sugar scrub-2 cups of sugar, 1/2 cup of olive or almond oil, 2 drops of vanilla or almond extract. Note: Salt scrub is the most popular