Is Your Sofa Safe?

I often worry about the chemicals I use in my house.  I worry about what exactly is in the air freshener I use.  I freak out when my husband buys a Teflon skillet. But, I just read that another real threat in my house may be my sofa. My sofa?  A threat?  Yes. Since 1975, California has required that all furniture with foam such as sofas and baby products such as car seats be treated with flame retardant chemicals.  That standard, maybe because California is so large a state, became the standard for most other states. The problem is while … Continue reading

Detoxing Your Marriage

The other night, I watched Joel Osteen. He was talking about toxic thoughts. As he was speaking about the importance of detoxing your thoughts, something he said really struck me. Toxic Thoughts He was explaining how damaging bad thoughts can be. How they shut you down, stifle you, keep you stuck, and prevent you from living up to your full potential. Because bad thoughts are toxic ones and toxins build up over time, contaminating your mind, body, soul, and life. But by detoxing your thoughts, you can live a happier and more positive life and therefore a better one. But … Continue reading

Three Ways to Go Green In Your Kitchen Design

Environmentally friendly design elements can greatly enhance your kitchen. Whether you are doing a complete remodel or just a little updating, consider these three suggestions for building good design and saving the planet at the same time. Some of the suggestions will help you save energy immediately, while the others will make it easier to conserve your resources. Energy Star Choose appliances and products that meet Energy Star standards, and you’ll save energy by doing the things you normally do in the kitchen. There are many Energy Star products out there, from the standard refrigerators and other appliances we have … Continue reading

Is Your Family at Risk for Formaldehyde Exposure?

You may already be aware, but many people do not know that several different types of home building materials contain allergens, air pollutants, and even toxic chemicals like formadehyde. Many newer homes, newer furnishings, and newer wall and flooring materials contain chemicals that can become irritants or do even greater harm. The following materials should be checked carefully before use: Plywood Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Other pressed wood products (the adhesive used to bind them) Some paints, primers, and sealers Some fiberglass and foam insulation Some coatings used to make products stain resistant Flooring materials (including padding) Coatings used to … Continue reading

Dear Heather … What is Lymphatic Massage?

Dear Heather, I was listening to the radio this morning and there was a lady on there talking about lymphatic massage. She made it sound like it’s the way to go if you want to burn off cellulite and firm up even if you do exercise regularly – but what I wasn’t getting from the radio show was – what is lymphatic massage? Do you know what it is and what it’s good for? – Curious in New Mexico Good morning Curious in New Mexico, I did some research of my own after I got your question. Lymphatic massage is … Continue reading