The Green Year: 365 Small Things You Can Do to Make A Big Difference

admin — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:16:00 +0000

Using organic sunscreen. Buying beer on tap. Opting for eco-friendly hair dye. Simple things that can go a long way towards making a greener planet. That's the philosophy of Jodi Helmer’s book, The Green Year: 365 Small Things You Can Do to Make a Big Difference. While the more hard-core environmentalists among us invest in worm-powered composting, solar panels, or hybrid car, Helmer provides 365 small, easy-to-implement tips for even the most eco-averse.

The beauty of Helmer’s book is that most—if not all—of her tips require minimal cost and minimal effort, addressing a common concern that becoming "eco-friendly" is either too expensive, too time consuming, or a combination of the two. While I feared The Green Year would fall into the trendy, kitschy eco category that seems to be popping up everywhere, her attitude that living in an ecologically friendly way is best done in baby steps means her suggestions are likely to outlast trend status and become real lifestyle changes.

Admittedly, some of Helmer's tips are old hat, such as using LED light bulbs (but really, among 365 tips, you’ve got to expect that). Others, like turning down your thermostat, dining in instead of ordering takeout, and sending holiday e-cards may be things you do already—giving you an opportunity to pat yourself on the back.

Ultimately, Helmer's book may not be for some of the more devoted environmentalists. However, if your resolution was to "go green" this year, The Green Year is most definitely a must-buy. Just remember to recycle or pass it on when you’re done.

Written by: Gwen Emmons, March 26th 2009

The Inner Peace Diet: Attain Permanent Weight Loss and Pure Bliss in Just 7 weeks

admin — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:15:00 +0000

By Aileen McCabe-Maucher, Hugo Maucher

Alpha Books

I’m sixty-three years old and believe me when I say that throughout my lifetime I have tried just about every diet out there. I guess I have been obsessed about my weight forever…well, at least since menopause made it almost impossible to lose a pound! I’ve always considered myself part of the “new age” crowd ever since the '60s. So The Inner Peace Diet piqued my interest.

I soon discovered that The Inner Peace Diet is not your normal diet book. Written by a professional chef and a registered nurse who is also a social worker, the book is centered on the chakra system, and is written to bring your energy and life in balance. If you aren’t an expert on chakras, there is no need to worry. This book will explain everything that you need to know to take part in the seven-week weight loss plan. Each week of the diet centers around one of the seven chakras.

The plan is designed to focus on body, mind, and soul. Each chapter contains recipes, guided meditations, and exercises to help you attain inner peace and remove stress from your life, in addition to losing weight. I found a lot of the yoga postures to be slightly difficult for someone my age, but a younger person could really get into this program. (I have always felt that it is up to the individual to personalize any weight loss program to their own lifestyle and needs.)

The meals are easy to make and are not your ordinary fare: baked eggs Florentine casserole, pear yogurt bread, teriyaki fettuccine with watercress, and even healthy banana s’mores. So, I suggest that you read The Inner Peace Diet if you are looking for a diet that considers not only your body, but also your mind and your spirit. You can lose weight and get your life in balance!

Written by: Paula M. Ezop, March 20th 2009