Your father was a renowned professor of plastic surgery. What was the conversation around aging like growing up? 

Our father was one of our biggest inspirations. My father specialized in burns and handled the most severe cases in wound healing and facial reconstruction, so he really never focused on outer beauty but inner beauty. How are you going to make an impact on the lives of others like he has been for so many patients and people during his lifetime.

What has your personal approach been to aging gracefully? 

Well, it has definitely changed from my 30’s to 50’s. How you see yourself in the mirror changes your inner dialogue. When we created Radical Skincare I was 42 and struggling with Rosacea which is the real reason Radical was born. Already I was seeing the signs of aging, though when I developed Rosacea it caused major insecurities with all of the redness, bumps, and swelling. I couldn’t use anything that would be performance-driven without irritating my skin horribly. With the guidance of my father and scientist, we were able to create the strongest anti-aging skincare design for all skin types and not cause irritation. We knew that wasn’t enough to focus on what we see in the mirror and realized that to make a true impact in the lives of others we need an inside-out strategy. We have studied and seen compelling research showing the link between skincare and self. The brain and skin have been connected since we were an embryo. You feel, and your skin reacts. For example, Stress+ Skin= Acne, and problematic skin.

Liz and I developed Radical Rituals created to help stop that negative self-talk, the importance of the breath, and helping to reduce cortisol levels to improve your mood so when we look at ourselves in the mirror, we are speaking with kind words, not by the words that the world says you should feel about aging. It has worked miracles on my confidence and how I see myself. It’s a game-changer. Lastly, Liz and I have always been committed to uplifting women in business and giving them the best opportunity to shine. Giving back to others is the best gift you can give yourself. My father and mother always said, “To be a difference, you must make a difference.” Hence, we created our Brand Partner program to give women a turnkey opportunity to create financial freedom and supported by an amazing community. Additionally, our Radical Impact Fund is committed to bridging the gap for women of tomorrow. Annually, we donate 1.5% of our sales to support women in need and their RADICAL dreams. This is the Radical heartbeat of our organization.

How has your skincare and body care routine changed as you’ve gotten older?

I would say that is has evolved as my skin has changed over time. I really began paying attention in my late 30’s.  I love the outdoors, so I had to focus on protecting my skin more. SPF was super important. Honestly, I should have done more in my 20’s and listened to my mom! 40’s Rosacea stopped me in my tracks and Radical rescued my skin with reparative, hydrating, and anti- inflammatory ingredients. It was my full focus to return my skin back to normal, so I wasn’t on medication but on a natural approach. 50’s has been more in brightening and the arrival of age spots so so my regime now incorporates brightening, gentle exfoliation, repair, hydration and anti-inflammatory Radical products.

What should people in their 30’s and 40’s be using to help prevent fine lines? 

It is so important to use and SPF daily to protect your skin and prevent fine lines. I would also use a product that has antioxidants and reparative ingredients, like our Advanced Peptide Antioxidant Serum which helps protect your skin from free radicals which are one of the biggest culprits for aging skin.

For those who want to avoid Botox and fillers, what skincare advice do you have? 

I understand wanting to avoid procedures that could affect the way you look and feel. I always recommend starting early to protect your skin from the sun. Be diligent there. I also believe it is so important to use a skin care regime that focuses on prevention, repair, and results. Invest in your skin. It is your largest organ that should be cared for daily. Also, embrace your beauty at any age. Be kind to yourself and know that beauty is from within.

Our Favourite Radical Skincare Products for Ageing Gracefully –

Skin Perfecting Screen SPF 30 –

As Rachel mentioned the key to ageing effortlessly is daily sunscreen use! The Skin Perfecting Screen SPF 30 by Radical is the perfect non-chemical sunscreen for daily use, because unlike a lot of other natural sunscreens this one isn’t thick and white. It uses non-chemical filters to protect against UVA/UVB rays and diamond encapsulation to deflect light and blue wrinkles. It also contains wonderful skincare ingredients that work wonders on the skin, and it is a perfect base for makeup. It contains coffee, which works to protect against skin damage and helps to heal any sunburn that you may have gotten (if you forgot to wear you SPF!).

Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads –

A key to glowing, clear, and smooth skin is gentle and continued exfoliation. The Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads from Radical deliver daily exfoliation but without the irritation and redness that sometimes comes with exfoliation. With AHA and BHA multi-fruit extracts, these pre-moistened pads gently exfoliate dead skin cells and enhance skin by promoting new cell turnover; giving your skin timeless beauty, healthy glow and radiance from within. There is no down time with these so you don’t have to worry about using them and dashing out after!

Rejuvafirm™ Resurfacing Serum – 

Vitamin A is one of the most important ingredients when trying to combat ageing with topical skincare. Radical Skincare created a natural alternative to retinol by using Bakuchiol and Lanablue, which are both natural and plant-based retinol alternatives. This serum delivers all the benefits of retinol but without the typical harsh side effects like skin irritation and photosensitivity. This serum also contains full spectrum CBD, which has amazing anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties to calm and sooth the skin. This serum really does it all! Plus, it works for all skin types.

Eye Revive Crème – 

Ageing often begins around the eyes from lack of sleep, stress, and screens so having a good eye cream is essential. Radical’s 4-1 rescue eye cream combats puffiness, dark circles, discoloration, and smooths the appearance of find lines and wrinkles. Plus, it delivers deep hydration to the delicate eye area, which plumps the area instantly. It really instantly cools the area, providing instant relief when you wake up with sore eyes. It is full of powerful ingredients that are unlike anything we’ve seen in eye creams before. It contains Mata’kite, which is a stone extract that delivers antioxidants and detoxifies at the same time – it is a general skin protector making it the perfect ingredient for around the eyes.

Anti-Aging Restorative Moisture Cream – 

Keeping the skin hydrated from the outside and inside, at all times is one of the easiest ways to ensure you are keeping a youthful glow. The brand’s Anti-Aging Restorative Moisture Cream is such a fantastic moisturizer for any skin type – even the most sensitive of skins. It is highly revitalizing that will help increase hydration, even and brighten the skin, and decrease fine lines. It is light but really packs a punch, which means it quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any oily residue. It will leave you glowy and not shiny – trust me there is a difference!

Waking up in Culitver Linens.

I have been waking up in these beautiful Culitver linen sheets. I have always made sure I am sleeping in all natural bedding to avoid synthetics on my skin, and these beautiful sheets are a new personal favourite. All of Culitver’s linen is OEKO-TEX® certified, meaning it has met strict global criteria guaranteeing that no harmful substances have been used during the manufacturing process.

Shower with Winden.

Moving on to my morning skincare routine, which is often a quick, cold shower to give me a kick. I have made the switch to plastic free hair care with Winden’s beautiful shampoo bars and I am in love with the scent and the fact that I can now clean my hair with zero plastic and a very light footprint! Their Signature Solid Shampoo is a low-waste way to gently cleanse and nourish the hair and scalp. This product eliminates single-use plastic from the essential hair cleansing step in personal care routines, and they are Leaping Bunny certified.

Oral care with Before.

After my shower I am brushing my teeth with the most incredible new toothpaste from Before. Unlike many conventional toothpaste brands, ​​Every ingredient, every material and every element of Before self care products is consciously chosen to ensure quality and sustainability is number one. Before’s 100% recyclable plant-based sugarcane tube is made from renewable materials and creates a 50% less carbon footprint than traditional plastic tubes. Plus 1% of our sales go towards protecting Mother Earth through our BeforeCares™ Foundation. My personal go to is the sensitive one, which remineralizes your tooth enamel and levels up your mouth health without harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients!

Skincare with Rowse Beauty.

My skincare routine at the moment is very simple with Rowse’s natural products. Born as a tribute to nature, ROWSE  has sustainability at its core, using only nature’s ingredients and trying to transform them as little as possible. Organic, vegan and cruelty-free.They are advocates for traceability, working with partners who responsibly source and manufacture ingredients. A personal favorite is the organic hemp oil from France which I find so soothing on my skin in the morning. 

Coffee time with Terra Kaffe.

Coffee has always been a huge part of my daily routine — I love the ritual of it. The smell of coffee brewing, to me, is the smell of a new morning, and I have always loved making coffee at home because of it. When my husband and I moved to our farmhouse in Maine, we knew we wanted to invest in a coffee maker that would become a staple for us, and when we finally found Terra Kaffe, we were beyond thrilled. The understated aesthetic was perfect, and we loved that it was a young brand that combined the culture of Berlin and Brooklyn (two cities we love) into one machine that has multiple features to create anything from a simple espresso to a frothy latte at the touch of a button.

This Earth Week, I want to talk about brewing our own coffee at home, to deal with the issue of waste with our take-out habits. It is estimated that 2.5 billion single-use coffee cups are discarded globally every year. This equates to a staggering 5000 every minute. I also love that our Terra Kaffe machine uses actual coffee beans instead of the espresso pods we are burning through rapidly. I recently learned that 29,000 single-use coffee pods end up in landfill every single minute — that’s over 120,000 tonnes of waste each year. Plastic coffee pods take, on average, 500 years to break down, directly polluting ecosystems.

Terra Kaffe has been a way to create the delicious coffee drinks we love to have without any of the waste, and we are filling it with Canyon Coffee’s organic beans to create a truly sustainable beverage. I can not recommend enough making Terra Kaffe a part of your household! I also  always go for an organic coffee bean, and right now Canyon Coffee is my go to as I love both the taste and the ethos of the company. 

First of all Shayna, can you introduce yourself? And tell us a bit about your first sparks of interest in sustainable living?

Hi, my name is Shayna Terese Taylor. I am a chef, wellness entrepreneur, influencer, and now a farmer. I have always had a passion for taking care of things. Even as a kid, I would nurture my stuffed animals with great care. As I got older, my friends even started calling me “Momma Shay.” A nickname that has stuck with me for as long as I can remember.

I love nourishing people. Not only with love but also with inspiration, food, and education about natural ways to feel our best. This inherent part of my soul began to flourish when I decided to go to culinary school for college. It was during this time that I started to express my love and care through food. I became extremely passionate about the quality of ingredients. And how important it is for not only a chef to create incredible dishes, but also for how the meal makes you feel after consuming it.

I had always been a foodie, but during that time, I also started to struggle with my gut health. Which led to skin issues and a weakened immune system, resulting in frequent illness. That’s when I started applying all the things I was learning in culinary school. To create healthier dishes that would help me recover from my own health battles while still enjoying delicious food.

I became more knowledgeable about ingredient substitutions that were detrimental to my gut. As well as understanding the quality of produce and the relationship we have with food in terms of feeling our best. Naturally, when you care more about the Earth and where our food comes from, you start to think about all the ways you can do your part to help it thrive and minimize the damage that humans have caused over the years. I started looking at what I was buying. How I could encourage sustainability. And I continued to educate my family, friends, and community on how they could also give back.

That’s when I discovered not just organic farming, but regenerative and biodynamic farming. I realized that the quality of the soil where the vegetables are grown is the most important factor. In obtaining the highest quality, best tasting, and most importantly, nutrient-dense food. Even when it comes to sourcing meat. Factors such as the grass and hay the animals are eating, whether they have a life of roaming free and grazing as they are naturally supposed to do, are key to their nourishment. This ensures that when they become food for us, it’s beneficial instead of detrimental to our bodies. Avoiding issues such as antibiotics, non-organic feed, and a stressed, malnourished life.

How did you begin to see the connection between personal health and the health of the natural world around you?

Most of what I understand and know today is self-taught. Out of pure passion to give my body the best possible nourishment it needs to flourish and feel its best. Going through a lot of stress as a child coming from a divorced family, I realized that my emotional state played a big part in my healing journey. Just like I treat my body as a temple that I am blessed to have, I also realize that this body is fortunate enough to live on this beautiful Earth. Seeing how humans have destroyed the environment and caused so much damage to our planet has made me just as passionate about caring for nature as I am about caring for my own body. Because in the end, both need to be nourished and in a good place to feel our best.

And what was the impetus for your big life shift in moving to a farm in Italy?

When I was 19, I took my first trip to Europe. I remember so vividly that the food just tasted so much better than the food I had at home in the US. This became more and more relevant the more in tune I became with my body. I would go to Italy and eat all the bread, pasta, and cheese, and come back to LA skinnier and less inflamed than before I left, when I was on a strict diet, eating no gluten, no dairy, no sugar, and being afraid of everything.

This is when I started to deep dive into why, even when sourcing the best quality ingredients in LA, my body was so inflamed, while in Italy it wasn’t. Second to that, living in the US my whole life, between the two biggest cities, LA and New York, I was really over the busyness and loudness of the lifestyle, and loved the simplicity and nature of the countryside in Italy.

I also always dreamed about having a farm and growing all my own ingredients and products that I could sell one day through my brand. So, I decided at the end of 2021 to sell my home in LA. Put all my stuff in storage, and go to Europe to see where it would take me.

How has living in a more rural location and so much in nature impacted your mental health?

I have always been a pretty calm person, but living in nature every day, being around animals, and getting my hands and feet in the dirt has made me feel more grounded and connected with myself than ever before. So many people are afraid to spend time alone. Especially in silence. But it is the best way to go deep inside your soul. And understand all the parts of yourself that you may have lost along the way in life.

I have also noticed that when I lived in busy cities, my nervous system was on overdrive. Almost always due to all the overstimulating energy around me. And I always felt like I had to be doing something, and that resting wasn’t acceptable, which led me to being chronically tired and not knowing why. Being in the countryside in Italy, I always feel peace around me. When I go outside, I can drop into the healing and calming power of nature.

We saw a post of yours that said that something that drew you to Italy was how much the culture celebrates simple sorts of living…can you speak a bit to this?

One of the things that drew me to Italy, specifically Umbria, is how much the culture celebrates simple living. In Umbria, there is a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world, a connection to the land, and a focus on living in harmony with nature. The concept of “la dolce vita” emphasizes taking pleasure in the simple joys of life.

The Italian culture places a high value on community and connection. Family and friends are cherished, and spending quality time with loved ones is one of their top priorities. There is a slower pace of life. Where people take the time to connect with each other. Share stories, and cultivate meaningful relationships. This sense of community and connection fosters a sense of well-being and fulfillment. And it aligns with the holistic approach to living that I am so passionate about. There is a strong emphasis on food and enjoying meals in a leisurely manner. Savoring the flavors and the company of loved ones. This approach to food and dining promotes mindful eating and a deep connection to the land and its offerings.

Living here has taught me to slow down, be present, and find fulfillment in the little moments. It has also reinforced my belief in the importance of living in harmony with nature. Valuing community, and embracing a holistic approach to life.

Your farm there looks just incredible. Can you tell us some of the first things that impacted you deeply when you began to grow your own vegetables? Become immersed in the lifestyle of farming, etc.?

I have always been very connected with the land, even with my smaller garden in Los Angeles. When I moved to Italy though, this connection felt heightened and heartfelt. I think because this land is so untouched, it has brought an especially profound sense of awe and appreciation for the cycles of life. And the interconnectedness of all living beings. What has struck me the most though is the sense of community and shared experiences with farming here with other Italian farmers. The local farming community embraced me with open arms, generously sharing their knowledge, wisdom, and camaraderie. Working alongside fellow farmers, exchanging ideas and stories, and celebrating their bounties of the harvest season together created a strong sense of belonging and interconnectedness. It reinforced my belief in the power of community. And the importance of fostering meaningful relationships in the pursuit of a holistic and sustainable way of life.

And your farm is biodynamic. Can you tell us a bit about what that means? And why it is important to you to operate this way?

When I first stumbled upon the concept of biodynamic farming a decade ago, it really resonated with me. It wasn’t just about growing vegetables, but about adopting a holistic and regenerative approach to agriculture that honored the wisdom of nature. This method of farming recognizes that the soil, plants, animals, the moon, and humans are all interconnected and part of a larger ecosystem that should be nurtured and respected.

It’s about working in harmony with nature, rather than against it. Utilizing organic and sustainable practices that promote the health and vitality of the entire farm ecosystem. Also, It’s important to me to embrace the inherent intelligence and wisdom of nature and recognize that we are mere stewards of the land. Entrusted with the responsibility to care for it. It’s about fostering a deep connection with the natural world and understanding that our actions as farmers have a ripple effect on the health and well-being of the entire ecosystem.

You have the most adorable assortment of animals – how do they come into the biodynamic farm?

Yes, I currently have my two dogs that I had in LA (Oliver and Panda). I’ve also adopted a stray cat named Muse, and I got five ducks, three bunnies, and two sheep dog puppies. Next week, I am getting 20 chickens and two roosters. The ducks are incredible because they eat all the bugs and insects that can harm the garden, and their droppings fertilize the soil. Moreover, they eat all the vegetable scraps I have until I have my compost up and running.

The bunnies don’t really tie into biodynamics, but I wanted to save them from the market. Now I just love having them. They will also be great for the classes I want to do with kids here on the property in the future.

I got the sheep dogs from a neighboring sheep farm. They had a large litter of puppies and were trying to find homes for them, so I decided to take them. They are important to protect all the animals on the farm and eventually help herd and protect the sheep we will get for the farm.

And how does your connection to them show an alternative form of love for you?

In biodynamics, I believe it’s important to recognize that these relationships with the animals goes beyond a transactional relationship. They’re my first animals that will assist me (beyond just unconditional love from my two dogs!). But, it’s still important to me to build a bond based on mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation. It’s about recognizing that animals are unique beings. With their own individual personalities, energy, emotions, and contributions to my home and farm. They play a vital role in the natural cycles of the farm. Providing manure for fertilization, helping with pest control, and contributing to the overall balance and harmony of the farm ecosystem. While their roles are so important, I believe they’re here to live happy and healthy lives. And I will ensure they will do that here in Umbria.

Can you tell us a bit about Shayna’s kitchen and your goal with the sort of food you want to put out into the world?

Shayna’s Kitchen started as a blog and a place for people to get healthy gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and corn-free recipes. It was also a place where I would vet brands and product companies and share who I believed was doing things right. In 2019, SK then launched our first-ever product, Matcha green tea, which has grown so much over the years.

Now, with the purchase of the farm here in Italy, we will sell biodynamic olive oil, wine, medicinal herbs and supplements, and teas that are all grown on my own land. I started SK because as a consumer myself, I had a hard time finding companies that sold the best quality products that also care about the planet. I thought to myself, “I wish there was one place I could go that had all the essentials.” And that’s what I want SK to be, a place you can trust that has all you need to start your own health journey while also doing good for the planet.

How important do you think what we eat is for both personal and planetary health?

As a holistic chef, I hold a deep conviction that our food choices profoundly impact our personal and planetary health. Food is not just fuel for our bodies, but a vital source of nourishment that connects us to the earth and each other. I believe in the wisdom of nature and the importance of honoring it through our food choices. Choosing whole, locally sourced, organic, and sustainably produced foods is not only about what’s on our plate, but also about how it’s grown, harvested, and distributed. It’s about supporting regenerative farming practices, reducing our ecological footprint, and promoting equitable and ethical food systems that benefit all beings involved. By being conscious of what we eat, we can cultivate holistic well-being for ourselves and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable planet. 

What does it mean to you to be a “holistic chef”?

Being a holistic chef is about more than just taste and presentation. It’s about using whole, natural, and minimally processed ingredients that nourish our bodies and support our well-being. Also, It’s about being mindful of the impact of food on the environment and supporting sustainable farming practices. It’s about honoring our heritage, fostering community, and using food as a tool for promoting health, sustainability, and connection – to ourselves, to others, and to the planet. Ultimately, being a holistic chef is about creating meals with intention and mindfulness for the interconnectedness of all aspects of food – from farm to fork, and beyond.

And what inspired you to start your organic CBD brand, Bottle and Stone?

My journey as an influencer really began with people asking me about clean products I used and loved. As CBD gained popularity, I dove into research to find a brand I could genuinely recommend to my community. However, I couldn’t find one that met my standards of responsible growing, harvesting, and production practices.

This inspired me to create Bottle & Stone, a line that aligned with my values of holistic health and well-being. With Bottle & Stone, I am dedicated to providing my community with a reliable and high-quality option that they can trust. I believe in the importance of educating my community about the potential benefits of CBD and how it can be integrated into a holistic approach to wellness.

Transparency and trust are extremely important to me, and I am committed to offering products that are safe, effective, and promote overall well-being. As my company grows, my passion for educating and empowering my community about the benefits of CBD continues to drive me forward.

How do you think CBD can help with things like eco or climate anxiety?

CBD is an amazing (and natural) anti-anxiety tool. It is derived from hemp plants, which make for good renewable energy sources that do not pollute the environment. We currently live in a time where industries are now looking at using hemp in their production for a more sustainable approach. Hemp is also extremely easy to grow and requires very little upkeep. It replenishes the soil nutrients as it grows, while also being sturdy and disease-resistant.

When thinking about how a product like CBD can help reduce things like eco or climate anxiety, I would think of it as you are doing your part by using a natural product that causes no harm to the planet. It actually does so much good! Even though small changes like using CBD might not feel significant in the grand scheme of things, by purchasing CBD products, you are supporting an industry that has the ability to make a large impact on climate change and take steps forward.

Finally, to wrap up this Earth Day, what does sustainable living mean to you?

Sustainable living means honoring the interconnectedness of all living beings and the environment. It’s about using regenerative and organic practices that promote the health of the soil, plants, animals, and humans alike. It’s also about fostering biodiversity, protecting natural resources, and reducing our ecological footprint. Sustainable living is a holistic approach that encompasses how we grow and produce our food, how we consume and waste, and how we interact with our environment. It’s about making conscious choices that align with the principles of sustainability for a healthier, happier, and more harmonious relationship with Mother Earth.

As a holistic chef and biodynamic farmer, sustainable living is at the core of my philosophy. It’s about nurturing the land and animals with care, using regenerative practices that promote soil health and biodiversity, and supporting local communities. It’s also about educating and inspiring others to make conscious choices that align with the principles of sustainable living. I believe that by working in harmony with nature and making mindful choices, we can create a better future for ourselves, our communities, and our planet. 

Words by @shaynateresetaylor

If you want to know more about Shayna Terese Taylor:

@shaynas.kitchen

@bottleandstone

I try my hardest to do make sustainably conscious decisions every single day – from the food I eat, to the clothes I wear, to the toys my 13-month-old plays with. Like everyone there are aspects of my day that are just not sustainable, but I like to try and focus on the things I can do! Every day is very different – especially as a working mom of a very active baby, but the following are a few simple sustainable choices I make in a day while I’m in LA with my family. 

Sometime around 6:00 AM –

My mornings start whenever Ayla decides it’s time to get up…often it is before the sun has come up! Before I can get myself ready, I get Ayla ready for the day. I put on her Dyper Diapers and an organic cotton outfit, usually from either Baby Mori, Kate Quinn, or Petit Bateau. 

While we are in LA, we usually go into the garden with my mom and the family dog to play and check on the plants. Being in nature, caring for my plants, and picking fresh produce are my favourite things to do – I could spend an entire day in the garden if I could. 

Once she is either with a family member or down for her first nap, I start focusing on my sustainably minded self-care routine. My morning beauty ritual starts with brushing my teeth with the Before Company SuperMint Sensitive Toothpaste, which I love because my teeth and gums have become super sensitive since I gave birth to my daughter. It is a low abrasion toothpaste that is free of hydrogen peroxide, SLS free, paraben free, cruelty free, and plastic free. Their chic tubes are made from plant-based sugarcane, and it is 100% recyclable. 

Use code ReveEnVert20 for 20% off your entire order from Before!

While I sip on my organic iced coffee, I move on to skin. I’ve used Goldfaden MD’s products for a little under ten years now and I’ve fallen back in love with their line recently. I never wash my face in the morning, but after a splash of cold water I go in with their Needle-Less Line Smoothing Concentrate Serum, which is full of plumping and hydrating botanicals – hyaluronic acid, seaweed extract, red tea Extract and more.  You can really feel the effects instantly with this product. Then I go in with the Vital Boost Even Skin tone Daily Moisturizer, which has become my morning essential for brightening and hydrated my sometimes very tired and dull skin. It is ultra-hydrating but won’t clog your pores – it will actually work on fading any blemishes or dark spots you may have. I break out very easily and this product hasn’t broken me out once. To finish, I pop on a pea size amount of Bright Eyes, the legendary eye cream from Goldfaden – I’m on my third bottle of this for a reason. If my skin is feeling really dry, then I’ll add the amazing Flueressence face oil, which gives the skin the most beautiful dewy glow – perfect for under makeup. 

Time Outside –

When I have the time and the weather permits, I love to be outside. If I’m not hiking or at the beach, then I’m in my garden taking care of our fruit trees and vegetables. I recently planted tomatoes, salads, chilis, peppers, courgettes, cucumber, and more so that my family in LA can eat mostly from the garden – one of the most sustainable things we can all do if you have the space to do so. When I have any issues in my garden – pests or lack of nutrients – I use Arber. Arber make plant care that is 100% safe for our environment and for us so you can use everything on your edible plants without worry. 

I’m really lucky that in LA we have an outdoor shower that sits under a rosemary and jasmine bush – a bit of heaven! Luckily with this shower there is no water waste as all the water feeds our garden post shower. Because the water goes into the garden, we are super careful (as always) with what we use. I love the Salt & Stone Body Wash because it is 100% clean and full of ocean botanicals, antioxidants, and hydrating ingredients so it cleanses without ever stripping the skin. 

Ending my Day –

I love ending my day with a natural and local glass of wine. When I’m in California, I always reach for a wine by Stolpman Vineyards because they are committed to conscious farming, dry farming, and sustainable employment. They prefer native fermentation and minimal manipulation. When the weather is warm I always reach for their Estate Rose, which is absolutely delicious. Floral, fruity, and zesty.

Information towards Earth issues can make you feel more and more restless. But you can decide, and you can turn an existential fear into an action. The most useful tool is to find the way to face an anxiety, since all struggle, soon or later, has to be faced to overcome.

Ether, air, fire, water, earth, planets, all creatures, directions, trees and plants, rivers and seas, they are all organs of God’s body. Remembering this, a devotee respects all species.

Meet Diaperkind -

Before we Talk about the Solution, Let’s Talk About the Diaper Problem -

In the US, one baby alone uses around 3,000 disposable diapers ever year and depending on when that child is potty trained, that can be around 8,000 diapers per child. That number becomes increasingly more worrying when you remember that around 400 million babies are born every single year in the US alone…This means that Americans go through and dispose around a trillion diapers every single year. Diapers are the second most generated waste product by weight with only clothing and shoes being the first most thrown away. Conventional diapers take hundreds of years to break down, which means all these diapers are just sitting in landfill. 

Not only is the physical waste of diapers such a problem, but many conventional diapers contain harmful ingredients that should not be going anywhere close to our precious babies or into our precious Earth! Let’s chat about a few of them: 

Tributyltin (TBT) –

“A biocide used to prevent the growth of bacteria. It’s poisonous to marine life as well as humans. It damages fertility, unborn children, and our organs. TBT can be fatal if inhaled and doesn’t degrade. TBT remains in our ecosystem and is entering our food chain.”

Plastics/polymers –

“Mainly polypropylene and polyethylene, but also includes polyester, polyurethane, and polyolefin. They’re the primary materials used in product packaging, household products, and the production of plastic grocery bags, respectively. Most of a diaper is composed of these non-recyclable plastics.”

Phthalates –

“While they’re used to soften plastics, the diaper’s adhesives, dyes, and perfumes also contain these chemicals. People of any age can have adverse reactions to phthalates, but unborn babies and young children are potentially more susceptible.”

How the Diaperkind Service Works -

The Shop -

Thank you so much to our friends at Diaperkind for making this editorial possible! 

Meet Homecourt -

A few of their star ingredients –

Upcycled Rosewater –

Utilizing waste from the primary distillation, their perfumers recover additional olfactive components via an additional filtration process, revealing altogether different, fresher facets of the flower.

Sustainably Harvested Eucalyptus –

Working with leaves from felled trees (used for lumber) or via rotational harvesting, their suppliers do not use harsh pesticides to grow their crops, which is gentler on the environment and, ultimately, our skin.

Fair Trade Patchouli Fraction –

They partner with fair-trade suppliers in Indonesia who produce patchouli oil via an exclusive fractioning process that extracts and leaves behind the highest quality parts of the plant, lessening the overall environmental impact.

Our Favourite Products -

Resetting your Side Table -

Brought to you in partnership with our friends at Homecourt!

Radical Skincare’s Anti-Aging Range

Founded by Liz and Rachel in 2011, Radical Skincare creates consciously clean that truly works magic on the skin – regardless of your age. Their range is full of clinically proven ingredients that the brand is incredibly transparent about, so you know exactly what is going onto the skin and the benefits. While all of their products are amazing, I have a few suggestions for this Mother’s Day. Their Radical Rejuvafirm Facial Oil is such a special product as it is a superhero for all skin types, so it is such an easy gift to give to any mom in your life. It detoxifies the skin, calms redness and inflammation, and addresses any sun damage. After one month of use, individuals using its star ingredient (Arctic Winged Kelp) saw an incredible change in their skin. To pair with the oil, gift the amazing Anti-Aging Restorative Moisture Cream, which is full of nutrients and antioxidants that have a really instant effect on the skin. The cream increases hydration, brightens the skin, and smoothes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is perfectly lightweight so it absorbs really easily, making it perfect for any skin type.

Terra Kaffe’s Super Automatic Espresso Machine, TK-01

Practical and chic, the TK-01 is perfect for the mom in your life who loves their morning cup of coffee. Born in Berlin and raised in Brooklyn, Terra Kaffe is raising the bar on espresso and more. They have created a super automatic espresso machine that saves you time by automatically grinding your beans and delivering an unrivalled coffee experience. It is so user-friendly with an impressive touchscreen and programmable settings, so you always get your perfect coffee. The water used in the machine goes through a filter to ensure the best taste possible. They’ve thought of everything with their TK-01. You can even seamlessly pick how you like your milk — foamy, silky, or somewhere in between! They offer a way for conscious coffee lovers to maximize coffee flavor and minimize unnecessary waste. The machine itself is beautiful — beautifully designed and fits seamlessly into any kitchen.

Juem’s Comfortable and Multi-Purpose Underwear

Whether the mom in your life is pregnant, postpartum, nursing, or just loves comfortable yet chic underwear – then Juem is the perfect choice. Juem creates pieces that will last a woman through different stages in her life as they use beautiful maximum stretch material that also happens to be incredibly comfortable. As someone who owns a few of their bras, I can confirm that you hardly know you have them on. I love their nursing bras as they make breastfeeding on the go so seamless, with an easy clip. Their briefs and shorts are also perfect for everyday lounging. An underwear set by Juem is the perfect gift for the new mom in your life!

Eye Care and Bodycare from Goldfaden MD

Created in 2013 by Dr. Gary Goldfaden and sisters-in-law Lisa and Lauren Goldfaden, Goldfaden MD has been a long-time favourite skincare and body care brand of mine. My mother has been using the line since it first launched 10 years ago! The brand truly has something for everyone making it an easy brand to buy gifts from. One of my favourite products from the brand (I’ve gone through at least 4 bottles of it) is the Bright Eyes Eye Cream – something every mom needs in their life, regardless of their age. It works very quickly and visibly brightens the eye area and reduces any puffiness. Another product that is a no brainer gift is Goldfaden’s Body Surge Body Moisturiser, which seamlessly hydrates even the driest of skins. It also tightens and firms the skin, leaving the skin looking smoother and more radiant. I always love to gift a body scrub along with a body cream, so you are really giving that mom in your life a whole ritual. Goldfaden makes an amazing body scrub, the Doctor’s Body Scrub, which contains ruby crystals that polish dead skin away while ingredients like fruit enzymes work to infuse the skin with antioxidants to promote smoother and younger looking skin.

Homecourt’s Cleaning Bundle

Currently a favourite of the entire REV team, Homecourt’s cleaning and homecare products are clean, nontoxic, smell incredible, and genuinely work! The brand sells all of their products separately but their bundles are such a fantastic gift and they are available in a variety of scents – stepped rose, neroli leaf, cyprus mint, and cece, which is Courtney Cox’s signature scent. In the bundle you’ll find their hand wash, hand cream, dish soap, surface spray, and their incredible candle. We love that the brand promotes caring for your home and yourself!

A Bottle of Wine from Sophie James

You can’t go wrong with a beautiful bottle (or two) of organic wine as a gift. We love Sophie James Wine because her wines are made from organically farmed and US grown grapes. Her bottles have no added sugars and contain no harmful or unnatural additives. They always focus on quality over quantity so they have small production. While they have their wine club, which you can sign up to be a member of, they also sell a limited quantity of wines outside of that. From Pinot Noir to Cuvee Nouveau to Sauvignon blanc – there is a bottle for every mom in your life!

About the Brand -

Meet Terra Kaffe, the maker of our CEO Cora’s new favorite coffee machine. Terra Kaffe started in Berlin in 2018. This company, born in Berlin and raised in Brooklyn, is making waves in both tech and coffee.

Before we start the machine review, let’s highlight Terra Kaffe’s focus on ritual, design, education, and sustainability. These are all things we here at Rêve En Vert are always looking for in new brands. Making coffee is a beautiful moment. Their roasters offer a chance to pause and enjoy a busy day. Their design is meant to cut down on waste whilst maximizing the flavor of beans. Working with a like-minded brand is a joy. We can’t wait to explore more with our co-founder Cora as she uses hers on her new farmhouse in Maine!

“When my husband and I moved to our farmhouse in Maine, we wanted a coffee machine that we could rely on. Finding Terra Kaffe made us so happy. It was the perfect choice for us.”

– Cora Hilts, Co-Founder & CEO of Rêve En Vert 

Reasons Why We Love it:

A Great Alternative to Coffee Pod Espresso Makers!

I was thrilled to find Terra Kaffe. We wanted a coffee machine that didn’t use plastic capsules, made great coffee, and matched our farmhouse kitchen style. My husband and I have busy jobs and work from home. A quick morning coffee or afternoon boost is essential for us. So, we looked for a machine that could make me a cappuccino and my husband Jamie an espresso easily. Meet the new TK-01! It’s been a joy to have in our home. This machine gives us what we wanted and avoids the waste I faced with other espresso makers.

Avoid Micro Plastics In Your Coffee!

Why are we so committed to drinking coffee at home? Well first there is the environmental impact of take-away coffees. The US alone throws away more than 50 billion coffee cups every single year. 99.97% of coffee cups you get given out at coffee shops can’t be recycled. Also, many of these single-use cups have plastic linings. This means that when you use them, you may accidentally ingest micro plastics. Also, many of the espresso pods we use aren’t recycled well. This means millions end up in landfills every year. I love the simplicity of whole coffee beans, and Terra Kaffe is one of the few machines we can use with them with no superfluous waste.

Barista Style Coffee At Home!

Terra Kaffe’s TK-01 Coffee Machine enables you to have the taste of a barista-made coffee at home. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be too skilled – their machine is so user-friendly. The TK-01 machine grinds beans on its own. It makes your favorite coffee. Choose from lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, or my favorite, the Americano. You can change your espresso shots, milk levels, temperature, and pressure.

This way, you get your perfect drink just the way you like it. You can use whole beans or pre-ground coffee and it is 200% cheaper than using coffee pods. Most at-home coffee machines use pods. We learned that 29,000 single-use coffee pods go to landfill every minute. That adds up to over 120,000 tonnes of waste each year. Plastic coffee pods can take about 500 years to decompose. This pollutes our already fragile ecosystems. No need for that kind of waste with Terra Kaffe! Plus, we’ve found from experience that espresso really does not taste as good in pods as it does from fresh whole beans. Not to mention the bean grounds we just put right into our compost or garden for zero waste brewing!

Available in different colors!

The machine is available in black or white. Its neutral look fits any kitchen or home. It’s both chic and minimal. We went for white which has been a bright and much loved addition to our countertop. For anyone now curious, Terra Kaffe even offers a 30 day at home trial, so you can make sure it is right for you! The TK-01 is priced well compared to many machines. It saves you money after just one year, instead of buying daily coffees. Visit their website to use the savings calculator. It will show you how much you can save by using their machines.

Also there is a new Terra Kaffe Machine Available for Pre-order! -

Available for pre-order now, the brand-new TK-02 is set to begin shipping orders in fall 2023 with only a fully refundable $250 deposit to be paid now. This new espresso machine offers top precision, customization, and quality for your coffee. The machine itself is highly intelligent and will be connected to an app on your phone, so you can change all your settings remotely. This machine will be the first to do both espresso and true drip coffee without having to swap filters or anything else – just a simple press of a button. You can literally make your coffee before you even get out of bed. Sign me up!

Coffee Membership – something I would highly recommend -

Terra Kaffe has made drinking good, sustainably grown coffee easy with their bean subscription. They’ve curated the best of the best beans from different roasters, so you can try new flavors out each month. They also have an amazing bean calculator so you can easily figure out how many bags you need per month. Terra Kaffe selects great coffees to fit various budgets, tastes, roast styles, and more. They designed a system to roast coffee to order. This means customers get the freshest beans possible. You can’t always find this quality at a grocery store or some coffee shops! Subscribers to this coffee membership also save 10% on their orders. A win win and something we signed up for when we realized how great the selection was.

Cora’s Bean Picks -

Equator Coffees – Jaguar 

A complex blend that combines organic and Fair-Trade certified coffees from the world’s major growing regions: Latin America, East Africa and Indonesia. Founded in 1995 in a Marin County, CA garage, Equator Coffee has had a commitment to better coffee since day one. From one garage to nine cafés across Northern California, Equator delivers high-impact coffee rooted in quality and social responsibility.

Onyx Coffee – Monarch

Monarch is a bold medium roast, which Onyx recreates year-round to keep it fresh with the seasonal growing conditions. It is sugar-dense with notes of bittersweet dark chocolate, a mulled wine sweetness, molasses, and a hint of dried berries. Onyx is our first independent roaster representing the American south, based out of Northwest Arkansas. They were co-founded by Andrea and Jon Allen in 2012 and are well-known in the coffee industry for their numerous coffee awards, coffee excellence, and transparency. Onyx’s motto has always been “Never Settle for Good Enough.” 

Olympia Coffee – Big Truck 

The blend’s ingredients change seasonally, but to keep the flavor fresh, Olympia carefully selects beans in their prime, so the notes of sweet chocolate and ripe berries stay consistent year-round. Terra Kaffe’s first roaster partner from the Pacific Northwest (the specialty coffee capital, some might say), Olympia exists to “improve the quality of life of our farmers and staff by providing quality service to our community.” From cultivating these relationships with coffee farmers to the roast of their beans, Olympia values quality in everything that they do.

Thank you to our friends at Terra Kaffe for sponsoring this editorial!

If you liked this Terra Kaffe review be sure to check out….

Our review of Canyon Coffee roasters in LA

Our 6 mindful morning rituals

Meet Halo Coffee a biodegradable coffee pod alternative

First of all can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about where your dedication to sustainable living comes from? 

Hi! My name is Kyra! So nice to meet you : ) I live in a tiny rural hamlet in The Netherlands but I was born on and have my roots firm in the rocky earth of a small Caribbean island called Curacao. This is where I spent the first handful of years of my life, on a large plot of land overlooking the kunuku (countryside) and the sea. My father had designed and built the home himself. It was tiny, modest and off grid. The electricity came from a small windmill. Our fridge and stove ran on propane. We did not have light switched nor did we have a washing machine. We did not have computers or a tv. The sun would set around 7 pm every evening at which time the world would turn pitch black and the magic of the starry sky and the milky way appeared. This start of my life has deeply impacted me. To be surrounded by the elements constantly, in deep contact with Earth. My purpose in life is to connect everyday more and more deeply with my nature, Earth and all who reside on her. To really live ‘ I am Nature’. And when I temporarily forget, to re-member this Truth with buoyancy.

Where did your interest in naturopathy come from and how were you convinced of it’s effectiveness?

When I was 7 years old I read a childrens book called ‘Juniper’ and from that moment on I knew I wanted to become a ‘nature doctor’. After highschool I did a gap year in Australia and this is where I met a lady who was a naturopath. Things immediately clicked and I realized Naturopathy held what I always thought being a ‘nature doctor’ was. One month after my return to The Netherlands I started my 5 year education as a naturopath. I have always believed in a holistic Earth-based way of healing and living and had seen the powerful results in clients. But the true conviction came through embodiment, when I had my very first personal experience with its potent powers, self-healing diagnosed infertility.

How do you think our modern lifestyles have taken us further from natural living and affected our health in ways we might not consider? 

Our indoors, screen filled, rational, work focused, industrialized, urban and global minded life has changed how we interact with every facet of our existence. Our connection to Earth and being outdoors, our connection to the Sun, light in general, to physical work and rest, to soul, to food, to others, and much much more. The modern structure of our life has resulted in a sense of disconnection. People are feeling anxious, depressed, burned out and lonely. They feel disconnected from themselves and each other. They feel so disconnected from the truth that they too are animals and Nature that I now hear many humans say ‘we are a plague that harms the Earth. We need to protect the environment from humans. Earth is better off without us.’ This is the ultimate proof of our disconnect. We have verbally placed Nature outside of us and are fencing it off.

Do you feel eating a more plant focused diet can help with health? 

I was a vegetarian for 25 years, including 3 years of eating vegan. At the same time I had and have always advocated ‘body knows best’, deeply and honestly listening to the cues and wisdom of the body. It was easy for me to listen to my body, except for when it came to eating plant-based. I had dogmatized vega(n) eating and become stuck in my conviction that this was who I was and what was healthiest and best for me. Through my dogma I failed to listen to the signals my body was giving me: it wanted me to include more animal products and meats. I ignored the cues for a long long time. Coming up with all sorts of rational sustainable health excuses. Until last year when I had gone through many layers of unlearning old stories and beliefs and re-membering universal Earth Truths. I had to conclude: I can not but start listening unconditionally, live Truth to the fullest and thus do what my mind feared most but my body and soul demanded: start eating meats again. It was a challenging process but it was exactly what I needed. My body healed what it wasn’t able to finish healing before. My vitality returned in ways I had not felt before and my hair started to grow thick and full. I realized the real reason I started eating vega(n) was out of fear. It was an unconcious fear based decision. Fear of death, fear of pain, fear of being a ‘bad’ person, fear of being out of control, fear for the state of the world. Eventually I realized this and how this fear based mentality was holding me back, in a state of perpetual survival. It did not serve me any longer. So I let go of it. And it has been monumental. 

And what about eating seasonally and locally? 

Food is information. It sends messages to the body about (un)safety and authentic pace and time. Where it is grown, when and how all affect us. Food grown here (locally) now (in season) tunes the body to the here and now. It is nourishing on a deep level, both in nutrients but also way beyond. It provides us what we need to be nourished at this very moment, in this very place. Food grown in a regenerative way will make it much easier for a person to flourish on. 

I believe eating locally and seasonally, in deep connection to our food and surroundings, is essential to living a well nourished life. And when we thrive, so does everything around us.

Do you have any tips for people who are looking to eat more sustainably with less budget? 

Growing (some of) your own vegetables, herbs and fruits is a great start. We used to live in an appartment with a balcony. This is where I started growing our own food, on about 7m2. We grew kilos of tomatoes, leafy greens, carrots, peas. We grew our own strawberries and herbs. I used the pots I had an was gifted. The only investment I needed to make were the organic open-pollinated seeds but the produce we harvested was so much more valuable than the monetary cost of the seeds. We since moved from the appartment in the city to a rural home on 1/10 th of an acre. Between april and november I grow about 70% of all of the vegetables we eat in the most organic (regenerative) way.

When it comes to meat I believe in respecting the wholeness of the cycle of life, in eating the full animal. Chicken breast and steak are very high in demand and very expensive but bones and organs are used very little and thus fairly inexpensive to buy. Bones and organs are some of the most nutrient dense cuts though. From these I make our own bonebroth and liver pate.

How can simply slowing down our lifestyles help with health?

Wow. Where to start! As a therapist I see many women struggling with this. We are taught to want everything men have also. A succesful career. Goal oriented. A go go go mentality. Our rational mind often leads or dominates our day. But at the same time we want to start a family and be mothers. The juggling might cause overwhelm. We feel we need to manage our household like we manage our job. Our life ends up more practical than magically soul ful. 

I observe how this affects women on many different levels. Clients come to me with low energy, low libido, difficulty getting pregnant, hair loss, tiredness, anxiety, feeling empty, burn out, menstrual irregularities, inability to find connection to Self, the body and others such as their partners and much more. Reconnecting to the body instead of solely the mind, to receiving instead of taking, to a slower pace aligned with (our) nature and Earths cues instead of the rush of this modern society will impact health and wellbeing GREATLY.

How important is gardening to your own personal health and well-being? 

Working outside with my hands is essential nourishment and medicine. The soil, the garden, Earth, teaches me about Truth daily. 

What does self-sufficiency look like for you? 

I do not really believe in self-sufficiency as no man can live or thrive on their own. We need true connection, support and attention: a tribe, a clan, a small community. I might grow most of my fresh food. But I am not able to grow our grains or raise our own meat. For this I need community. For me this looks like a beautiful dewy web. The threads are the connections between people from our direct community. Many of these might grow food. The surplus harvested can be gifted to others in the community who have little. When someone has too much wood they might exchange it with someone who does not have enough to get through winter but can offer something else. One might have the skills and experience another could use. My neighbour could knit me a sweater and I might offer her canned goods. A hand on a shoulder or a chat and a homecooked meal for a village elder. The web gives life buoyancy, capacity and resilience. It offers belonging, wonder and sparks of magic. It allows for the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.

How did you approach pregnancy in a sustainable way? 

Hahaha, well I simply bought very little baby stuff. The items I did buy were second hand. Like wool baby clothes and a linnen baby carrier so I could have my girls close at all times. We cloth diapered and paired back in general. 

And now looking forward, what is some of the work you do to raise conscious children? 

Small children are like parrots and pick up on your energy. What they see you do they will repeat. How you feel is how they will feel. I live my life the way I feel is most connected and aligned. I thus lead by example. Furthermore I believe kids are much more wise than adults. They have not yet received the conditioning we’ve had. There’s so much to be learned from children. I do not need feel i need to teach them anything but more so to guide them towards becoming the full expression of themselves. 

Finally, what are your top three tips for anyone wanting to look more holistically at their well-being?

I have two to share today!

1.Body know best. Your body is wise beyond words. It speaks in sensations. It feels safe when you listen, affirm and respond to these. If you have not yet developed a sturdy relationship with your body, start here now.

2.Matter follows consciousness. Every thing begins with a thought, a belief, a convictions, a story which then turns into repeated action which then tuns into concrete matter, like a partner, stuff or symptoms and dis-ease. Want to change the matter in your life? Start changing the stories you’re telling yourself.

www.kyraskitchen.com

Instagram @kyraskitchen

First of all, can you tell us a bit about what led you to wanting to start a sustainable beauty business? 

I worked for the small independent designer, In God We Trust in my early twenties. At IGWT we were producing everything either in-house or in the garment or diamond district in New York. I became really interested in ethical manufacturing during that time because I was able to see the benefit of creating high-quality products that supported the local economy. 

I carried those values over when I started my jewelry company (Rebecca Mapes, formerly Winden Jewelry) in 2013. As I became even more involved in the process of making jewelry and running a business, I began feeling concerned about the environmental impact of the products I was producing. My focus on ethical manufacturing grew to incorporate sustainability and I tried to make the most sustainable version of jewelry possible. 

In 2018 I launched a hair accessories line in an effort to provide my customers with products that had a more accessible price-point. I later developed several products made using the scrap material from that hair accessories collection. 

Throughout this time my shopping habits as a consumer mirrored my interest in sustainability as a business owner and that’s what led me to the point of creating a business with a sustainable mission. 

And why were shampoo bars something you wanted to create specifically? 

As a consumer, I’m always looking for ways to lower my carbon footprint and my plastic waste. 

When I first tried solid shampoo, I really loved it and I wished I had discovered it sooner (think of all the plastic bottles I could have saved from the landfill!?). But I also soon realized that solid shampoo needs a storage solution to protect it from water, otherwise it becomes goopy and messy, and it’s honestly a bit gross (not to mention nearly impossible to travel with). When I looked for solutions to this problem I couldn’t find any that met my needs. Every brand on the market suggested storing the shampoo away from water, yet they weren’t providing viable solutions to make that happen. A leading shampoo bar brand recommended that customers wrap their shampoo in a towel and then put it in their suitcase when traveling. 

I initially planned to develop a storage solution for solid shampoo but when I realized that none of the solid shampoo brands really spoke to me (someone that values the environment, design, and product efficacy), I decided to create a solid shampoo as well.

How much of an impact does the hair-cleansing industry have in terms of plastic pollution? 

I’m not sure what percentage of plastic waste is created specifically by the hair care industry but the cosmetics industry produces about 120 billion units of plastic-containing packaging per year. The worldwide plastic waste issue is obvious. What’s really alarming to me is that the cosmetics industry contributes so heavily to that waste and that only nine percent of all plastic is recycled. My goal is to address categories beyond hair care in the future. 

We’re combating this issue first and foremost by offering an effective product that isn’t packaged in single use plastic. Additionally we take plastic waste created by the food packaging industry and make it into new products like our solid shampoo storage system (Clean Case). Our Signature Solid Shampoo and Clean Case were designed to make the experience of using solid shampoo better. 

What about in terms of chemicals? 

There is a lot of fear-mongering marketing going on in the cosmetics industry and I think it’s an unethical marketing tactic. This is why I try not to demonize ingredients and I avoid using free-from claims at Winden. At the same time, I realize people avoid certain ingredients for reasons that are important to them and that’s why we created a glossary of ingredients with links to our sources. Ultimately, consumers should look for additional sources (besides brands) for information on chemicals/ingredients. I don’t say this to demonize other companies, even brands with the best intentions will sometimes fail customers. My favorite resources for unbiased information about cosmetics are the Cosmetics Ingredient Review and The Eco Well. We hired The Eco Well to look over our copy and help make sure our claims are accurate and we’re not using fear-mongering to sell our products. That being said, Winden isn’t perfect, and I am personally always learning, growing and trying to do better.

Where and how are your shampoo bars produced? 

Our solid shampoo is manufactured at an FDA Registered, GMP, and ISO 13484-compliant facility in Florida. The ingredients are combined and then poured into a mold and compressed to form the cylindrical shape.

Can you tell us a bit about what makes your shampoo bars effective for those who may have experimented in the past with results they weren’t thrilled with?

If you’re just getting started on your solid shampoo journey I would personally skip the step of trying solid shampoos that are made with saponified oils. While I’ve heard that if formulated correctly, this type of shampoo bar can work, every one that I personally tried gave my hair a waxy residue and nearly turned me off from using solid shampoo entirely. 

I would look to brands like Winden, Ethique, Rowse, or Dip which all use surfactants like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate to create the foaming agent that helps water mix with oil and dirt so that the excess can be rinsed away. This is the same ingredient system used in liquid shampoo products.

The key to getting solid shampoo to lather the way that you’re accustomed to is first, getting your hair soaking wet. Once your hair is entirely saturated with water, glide the shampoo along the length of your hair until the lather that you desire has formed. 

Our formula specifically, cleanses without stripping hair of essential moisture or leaving behind any residue. It’s made with Moroccan lava clay, which is a mineral-rich red clay from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. It has been used by women in North Africa to cleanse hair and skin for centuries — the name itself is derived from the Arabic word meaning “to wash.” Clay might not seem like an obvious choice as a shampoo ingredient, but it’s incredibly effective. We chose this for our Signature Solid Shampoo because the present minerals (silica, magnesium, potassium, and calcium) work as great natural detoxifiers and cleansers.

Beyond that, just like one might have a liquid shampoo preference, it may take a few tries to find the solid shampoo that works best for you/your hair type. This is why we offer $8 travel sizes, so customers can try out the product before investing in the full-sized version. 

How do you hope this small step of making a switch to a more zero waste bathing option can have a wider impact on our lifestyles? 

When you make the switch from a conventional product to a more sustainable one, I think you can’t help but consider the other products that you use in your daily lives and wonder if there are good alternatives. Sometimes choosing a more sustainable option feels like a sacrifice. My intention is for Winden products to feel like an upgrade rather than a sacrifice. Winning products are not only the most environmentally friendly option but the best option. 

Finally, can you tell us a bit about how starting Winden has made you more conscious in your own day to day life? 

I had already been trying to be a conscious consumer before starting Winden but I think something I learned from this process is that shame and guilt don’t further sustainable missions. I really want Winden to be accepting and encouraging rather than shaming and elitist. I want you to belong. When I first started becoming interested in sustainability there were a lot of conversations that made me feel like I didn’t belong in the movement because I didn’t eat only a  plant based diet and still used dental floss, toilet paper, etc. I now take a more nuanced approach to sustainability, each conscious choice furthers the movement. Eating less meat, buying recycled toilet paper, and dental floss that comes in a refillable container is still good. It isn’t all or nothing. I’m not perfect but I can still make a difference.

First of all, can you introduce GAIA Riverlodge and your mission with it? 

Surrounded by the dramatic Five Sisters waterfalls of the Privassion River, GAIA Riverlodge is an eco-resort providing an authentic Belizean experience. In the most culturally rich and scenic regions of the country. Preserving the natural beauty and upholding the highest standard of sustainability. While still maintaining our signature relaxed approach and consummate hospitality is of the utmost importance. 

The Green Globe Certified, hydro-powered hotel fits seamlessly into the breathtaking rainforest. We pride ourselves on numerous ecological and community initiatives. Onsite, guests can take guided nature walks and tour the onsite organic garden. Or sit back and relax to the gentle sounds of birds chirping and water cascading just outside their private cabana. We have also curated a variety of offsite activities for guests to experience the local culture and learn about the Mayan history. 

What’s the history of the land and the story behind your coming to it?

After falling in love with Belize and opening our first property in 2006 on Ambergris Caye, Matachica Resort & Spa, I opened sister property, GAIA Riverlodge, in 2012 in order to provide a broader Belize experience to clientele. 

GAIA is located within two national parks. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve (MPR) and the Elijio Panti National Park (EPNP).

You are a Green Globe Award certified hotel – can you tell us a bit about what that means? 

Green Globe is the global leader in sustainable tourism certification. Twice a year we are evaluated on our economic, social and environmental sustainability to guarantee adherence to the highest standards. We are proud to be Green Globe certified.

How do you focus on maintaining biodiversity and protecting the wildlife whilst still welcoming outside guests to the land? 

The MPR is one of the oldest and largest protected parks in Belize. While EPNP was reserved in the early 90’s. Both parks are managed by the Forest Department. They seek to enforce the Environmental Protection Act for conservation and protection of natural resources with relevant stakeholders. In addition, the EPNP has been co-managed by the Itzamna Society (IS). A community based organization (2019), founded by locals of the adjacent village of San Antonio–a Mayan community. The IS has now implemented a Collaborative and low Impact Tourism Plan. Nearby resorts now have the ability to generate income for sustainable use. And maintenance of historical, cultural, and recreational hotspots within the park. GAIA is proud to share partnership with this effort. 

The property is designed to allow guests to experience and appreciate the natural beauty and surrounding environment. Features such as the fresh water natural swimming pools and private access to the waterfalls and trails. Expeditions and tours are offered by our passionate and nationally certified guides so guests are ensured an authentic experience.

How do you think creating a connection to the natural world through GAIA Riverlodge stays can lead to a commitment to sustainability for your guests? 

While at GAIA Riverlodge, you realize how infinitely generous nature can be. The sights and sounds of mother nature awaken the senses. It is more than the trees, jungle and mountains. It is the value of the rich biodiversity. The historic and cultural significance of the resources and the quality of life it can provide.

What does your farm to table dining look like? 

Farm to table has always been a way of life in Belize before it became trendy. With an onsite organic garden maintained by local expert Mayan organic farmer, Sam, guests have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the garden during a complimentary tour. In addition to the pleasure of tasting the freshly harvested fruits and vegetables in the restaurant.

Located directly above the falls, the GAIA Riverlodge restaurant, bar and lounge offer a fabulous variety of cocktails and culinary delights as well as spectacular views of the falls from the wraparound veranda. Their trained chefs have put together breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that highlight the variety of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in GAÏA’s own organic garden and fresh seafood from the nearby Caribbean – always with a unique Belizean twist.

How have you empowered and engaged with local communities whilst running the hotel? 

Community values have and continue to be integral for us. One of the key factors that set the properties apart is that they are managed and staffed by locals – locals who have become a part of our family. GAIA also offers guests the opportunity to connect with the locals through guided hikes to Xibalba, visits to Caracol Archaeological Site, guided canoeing in the caves of Barton Creek as well as tours to the San Antonio Mayan Women’s Center in a Mayan community nearby who promote the preservation of Mayan culture through demonstrating traditional pottery and teaching guests how to prepare local dishes such as corn tortilla, caldo and bollo.

We recently launched a new program with Kind Traveler through their “Every Stay Gives Back” initiatives. When staying at GAIA (or Matachica) guests are invited to donate $3 per night, which will go to the Cornerstone Foundation. The Cornerstone Foundation works to develop and empower people at the local level in San Ignacio and Santa Elena to solve issues and meet community goals. GAÏA is also a member of Pack for a Purpose, which gives travelers the option to bring school supplies to their destination for the local school. GAIA then facilitates the donation  of the supplies to El Progresso Community School. 

In addition, at the start of the global COVID-19 pandemic, GAIA, and its sister property Matachica Resort & Spa, implemented new community programs to benefit future guests and the Belizean community at large. These efforts included expanding GAÏA’s organic garden program to help feed those most in need, including the elderly community at the Octavia Waight Center in San Ignacio. Additionally, daily food baskets, including fresh produce, fruits and vegetables, were provided to the hotel’s local staff to feed their families and bolster spirits. 

How do you make sure that the design of your hotel and the rooms are reflective of your sustainable ethos?

Remote, private and sustainable by design, GAÏA effortlessly blends into the surrounding environment so guests can enjoy the rainforest’s intimacy. We also operate on hydropower and offer an electric tram to transports guests from the lodge to the river.  

The lodge’s signature cabanas and the Riverside Villa – tucked away from the main lodge for the couple seeking ultimate privacy – all feature Belizean hardwood flooring, bathrooms with exquisite hand-painted tiling, locally made Mahogany furnishing. Amenities such as Matouk and Frette linens as well as Haeckles bath products complete the balance between nature and comfort.

 Are there any other ways you have looked at sustainability for the hotel that you feel are unique? 

Because we are committed to preserving GAIA’s natural environment, most of what we do is unique to this place. From being hydro-powered to the Mayan farming methods used in our organic garden, we are dedicated to being authentic to the community and ecosystem we deeply value.

What are your hopes for the future of GAIA Riverlodge and its wider impact? 

Evolution is a constant at GAÏA and we’re continuously reimagining our offering of activities in order to deliver a unique, authentic and inspiring experience for our guests. 

For example, we’ve recently added the opportunity for guests to experience an authentic Mayan Ceremony performed by a Don José Magana and his son Ruben. Don José Magana is a Yucatec Mayan He’men (Mayan Priest and Traditional Medicine practitioner) who has embraced a lifelong calling to ensure the Maya of today remain connected to their roots and has done so by creating awareness that the Maya of today are still the creators and keepers of ancient skills, wisdom and knowledge. Now, guests searching to continue their journey into the rich tapestry of Mayan culture will be able to arrange Mayan Ceremonies and Cleanses through Sak Tunich performed by Don José and Ruben Magana at GAIA. 

In a globalized and hyper-connected world, we often lose the authentic experience when visiting a foreign country. We work incredibly hard to ensure our guests have an experience that connects them back with themselves, their travel partner and to the local Belize culture that surrounds them during their visit. 

Finally, can you give us your top three tips for sustainable, and even better regenerative, travel? 

1. Engaging with a destination’s unique culture begins with home base so be sure to stay somewhere that delivers an authentic experience. 
2. Localize. If it’s not available in your backyard garden, then try your neighborhood store, followed by your adjacent town’s shop and so on. Don’t just reach for your phone to order something. 
3. Slow down and enjoy your surroundings. You’ll be amazed at how fulfilling and energizing nature can be.

Follow Gaïa Riverlodge  @gaiariverlodge

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