Part 4: Physical Wellness
"How healthy are you?"
That's a loaded question, isn't it? There are many different aspects of health and wellness, ranging from emotional and spiritual health to physical health and everything in between. Still, it's pretty safe to say that you can't achieve many other aspects of wellness without being at least somewhat physically healthy.
Of course, this doesn't have to mean spending two hours at the gym every day (who has time for that?). Achieving physical wellness is more about taking practical measures to care for your body through diet, movement, and other simple habits.
Looking for ways to recognize, celebrate, and nurture your own sense of physical wellness? We've got you covered with some morning, afternoon, and evening rituals that your body will thank you for.
Let's start with a basic understanding of the "big picture" of wellness, which consists of these seven parts:
The way we see it, there's always going to be some room for improvement in at least one (if not several) of these seven dimensions of wellness. That's because life can be busy, crazy, and chaotic! The important thing is to always be striving for balance—and to recognize and take action when one of these aspects of wellness has perhaps been neglected.
For many of us who lead busy yet rewarding lives, cultivating that sense of physical wellness isn't always easy. Fortunately, we've got some simple morning, afternoon, and evening rituals that you can implement today to start improving your own physical wellness.
Come on, Bloomers...let's celebrate what our bodies are capable of!
The concept of physical wellness may seem simple enough, but it's actually more complicated than a lot of people realize. Yes, it's true that nutrition and exercise/physical activity are important components of physical wellness, but there's more to it than that. The amount of sleep you get, your physical hygiene, and even how you spend your free time can all have major impacts on your physical well being. The same goes for how often you visit the doctor for wellness visits and how much (or little) you consume alcohol.
As you can see, there's a lot that contributes to your physical wellness—but being mindful about your physical wellness and taking steps to improve it are important for a number of reasons. Most notably, your physical wellness affects many other aspects of your overall wellness. For example, if you aren't getting enough sleep each night, your occupational wellness is likely to suffer because you'll be too tired to do your work well.
Meanwhile, a lack of physical wellness can manifest itself in low self-esteem, which can have negative effects on your emotional wellness. When you take time to realize why physical wellness matters and prioritize your physical health, you can work towards that wellness equilibrium that we all wish to achieve!
So, what are some small daily routines you can implement to start improving your physical wellness without necessarily making any huge lifestyle changes in the process? We've got some ideas!
A great morning ritual can help you get things off to the right start, setting the tone for the rest of your day.
Rather than being harshly roused out of bed with a loud alarm clock, consider more peaceful and gentle ways to wake up for the day. There are plenty of free alarm clock apps that allow you to set a gentle, quiet alarm that will gradually get louder as time goes on. Consider choosing a calming song to wake up to—or even some peaceful nature sounds. You might be surprised at how much more pleasant it is to wake up this way than with a sudden and harsh alarm.
Once you're awake for the day, take a moment to do a full body stretch while you're still in bed. Not only will this feel great, but it will help to gently wake up your body and get the blood pumping.
Next, treat yourself to a nutritious breakfast; after all, this is the most important meal of the day! If you have time to whip up a balanced breakfast, consider an egg omlette stuffed with fresh vegetables and mushrooms. Short on time? You can always start preparing overnight oats the night before so that you can literally wake up to a complete and balanced breakfast waiting for you in the fridge. Yum! And with so many overnight oat recipes to choose from, you're sure to find a few that you love.
Consider pairing your breakfast with Matcha Purity Powder, which is a great way to hydrate and enjoy all the benefits of matcha at the same time. Our Matcha Purity Powder packets are easy to use and can help you free your mind, detoxify your body, and ground your soul.
Before you continue on with your day, finish your morning routine with a little meditation to prepare your mind for the rest of the day. Set some solid intentions for your day and, if you have time, work in a few stretches or yoga poses to wake up and nourish your body.
Moving into the afternoon, things can get a little more hectic. You might have work deadlines to meet, errands to run, or kids to care for. Maybe you're dealing with a combination of all these obligations! Regardless, it's important to set some time aside for your physical well being. The good news is that you don't need to dedicate a ton of time to engage in an afternoon routine that's beneficial to your body.
For starters, if you work at a desk job or otherwise spend a lot of time sitting during the afternoon, be mindful of your posture. Poor posture can have a negative impact on your health and wellness. You might even consider using a standing desk or sitting on an exercise ball at your desk to promote better posture and circulation.
If you find that you feel a bit of a "slump" in your mood and productivity going into the afternoon hours, you're not alone! That's why this is a great time to incorporate a little lively music into your day. Consider creating an afternoon playlist that you can turn on to motivate you and possibly even get your body moving. You might be surprised at what a difference a little upbeat music can make in your mood and productivity.
Still feeling a little down? Treat your body to another Matcha green tea for that boost of energy your body needs.
If you have time, make an effort to get outside at some point during the afternoon. This doesn't have to mean going for a mile walk in your neighborhood; even just taking 10 minutes to enjoy your Matcha green tea on your front porch can help to rejuvenate your mind and body.
As the sun begins to set, it's time to start thinking about your evening routine. Your evening ritual can help you finish the day strong while setting the foundation for an excellent night of sleep.
A nutritious dinner is important—but try to finish your last meal at least a couple of hours before you plan on going to bed. Eating too soon before bed can interrupt your sleep. Likewise, it's a good idea to get into the habit of shutting off your television and silencing your phone an hour or two before bed. Not only will this help your mind "shut off," but will reduce your exposure to blue light that can otherwise make it difficult to fall asleep.
Before you go to bed, get into the habit of doing some breathing exercises or even a guided meditation to help give some closure to your day and prepare your body for rest. Many people find it helpful to list a few things they're thankful for or a few positive events from the day. You can simply list these in your mind or even take the time to write them down; whatever works for you!
A little effort goes a long way when it comes to cultivating a greater sense of physical wellness. And while it's true that exercise (from simple yoga and stretches to cardio) can improve your physical wellness, it's also important to focus on your nutrition, sleep, and other habits.
Put these morning, afternoon, and evening rituals to the test to see how they can improve your own physical wellness. And of course, feel free to personalize these routines in any way you see fit. We hope these simple yet effective rituals help you live your life in full bloom!
]]>Part 4: Social Wellness
These days, it seems like many people's idea of "socializing" is staring at a phone screen and scrolling through social media feeds. In fact, according to DigitalMarketing.org, the average American spends more than two hours on social media each day.
But what if you're looking to reach a deeper sense of social engagement—one that goes beyond "likes" and "reacts" on a screen? What if you want to nurture your own relationships, connect with others, and get to know yourself better in the process?
If so, then it's time to focus on your own social wellness, which is one of the seven key dimensions of overall wellness.
There are seven dimensions of wellness in a person's life:
In a perfect world, you'd be able to strike a balance of all seven of these pillars. In reality, trying to maintain perfect equilibrium is an impossible juggling act. Still, that doesn't mean you shouldn't strive to achieve that balance; the more in-tune you are with each aspect of your overall wellness, the happier you'll be.
The goal of this post, then, is to help you focus on one of these dimensions: social wellness. By having a better understanding of what social wellness entails, why social wellness matters, and how to improve your own social wellness, you can take measures to enhance your own life.
According to the University of New Hampshire, achieving social wellness means "having positive connections with friends, family, [...] and anyone else." This involves not just maintaining healthy relationships with others, but being able to effectively communicate, problem-solve, and treat other people with respect.
The idea here is that by having healthy relationships with other people, you can actually improve your own overall health and wellness. That's because studies have found that people with a strong network of friends and loved ones tend to experience less stress and anxiety, have healthier immune systems, and actually live longer lives. Meanwhile, being surrounded by a great social network (and not just the ones you have online) can help you boost your own self-esteem and confidence.
Now that you have a better understanding of what social wellness is and why it matters, what are some proactive steps you can take to enhance your own social wellness? We've got some tips for you!
Start by taking inventory of the current friendships and relationships in your life. Which are the most meaningful to you? Which could use some nurturing? Taking the time to carefully assess each of your personal relationships may seem like a daunting task, but it's important for getting a better idea of where you stand in terms of your current social wellness.
As you assess your current relationships, you'll likely find that there are one (or several) that are the most meaningful to you. These may include a romantic relationship with a significant other, platonic relationships with close friends, and relationships with family members.
Likewise, you may also notice that there are some relationships that aren't as strong as they once were (for whatever reason that may be). Now, it's time to ask yourself whether you want to put any more effort into maintaining these relationships or simply accept that they have run their course. While it may seem counterintuitive to "cut off" friendships as a means of improving your social wellness, letting go of relationships that are no longer meaningful can help you focus more of your energy on the relationships that matter most.
If you're looking to grow your social circle, one of the best ways to do this is to take up a new hobby. No matter what you're into, there's a very good chance that there are other people interested in the same thing. You might even be able to find a local group that meets to engage in that hobby together, which presents a great opportunity to strike up some new friendships and grow your social circle.
For example, if you enjoy running, why not see about joining a local running group? This can provide you an excellent outlet to meet some new like-minded people while also saving you from having to run alone! By sharing your hobbies with other people, you can make new connections and enhance your sense of social wellness.
Likewise, if you enjoy practicing yoga in the comfort of your own home, consider taking a leap and signing up for a yoga class. Not only can an in-person class help you perfect your form in that lotus pose—but there's a good chance you'll make some new friends and grow your social circle in the process.
In addition to taking up a new hobby, volunteering can be another way to meet new people and exercise your social muscles. From volunteering at a soup kitchen to spending time at a local pet shelter, donating your time and services will not only enhance your social wellness, but your emotional wellness at the same time. Meanwhile, you'll get to enjoy that warm, fuzzy feeling in knowing that you are doing your part to help the greater good.
One common mistake that even the most well-meaning people can make when trying to enhance their social wellness is spreading themselves too thin. With this in mind, then, make sure that you're being realistic about your own social commitments and that you're not overwhelming yourself. The last thing you need is to find yourself feeling stressed out in other areas of your life because you're trying too hard to make new friends or maintain existing relationships.
By knowing yourself and how much time you can realistically commit to working on your social wellness each week, you can avoid spreading yourself too thin and having to cancel plans. If you aren't doing so already, consider using a planner or self-care journal to write down your commitments and make sure you're still taking care of other aspects of your well-being.
While there's no denying the importance of meaningful relationships with other humans, the reality is that spending time with your pets or other furry friends can be just as nurturing to your social wellness. If you have pets at home, set aside some dedicated time to connect with them; this may mean taking your dog for a walk (also an opportunity to meet new people!) or even snuggling up on the couch with your cat.
If you don't already have a pet, consider whether now may be a good time to adopt one. You might be surprised at how much bringing a dog into your home can encourage you to get out, stay active, and even meet new people who are also dog owners.
As you can see, there's a lot more to social wellness than having friends on Facebook or followers on Instagram. What really defines social wellness is having meaningful and healthy relationships with the people in your life, as well as being able to effectively communicate with these people.
From taking up new hobbies and volunteering your time to taking inventory of existing relationships, there are plenty of practical steps you can take to enhance your social wellness.
Just like any other aspect of wellness, cultivating a stronger sense of social wellness is something that will take a conscious effort and lots of energy on your part. However, being able to reap the rewards is more than worth it.
So...get to building and strengthening your social circle and see just how much of an impact this can have on your life! And remember, when you're living your life in full bloom, anything is possible.
]]>Seven Dimensions of Wellness
Part 3: Intellectual Wellness
What is the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset?
Simply put, an individual with a growth mindset believes that intelligence & talent can be improved, whereas an individual with a fixed mindset believes that intelligence & talent are fixed.
Said another way, a person with a growth mindset looks for opportunities to grow, embraces & adapts to change, accepts setbacks & mistakes as part of the learning process, and enjoys striving to achieve & beat their goals; a person with a fixed mindset fights change & refuses to try new things, feels ashamed about their “failures”, and doesn’t enjoy striving for goals.
What does this have to do with intellectual wellness?
We believe it has quite a lot to do with intellectual wellness because mindset & outlook can completely alter the result of any challenge or change you may face during your lifetime.
Those with a positive outlook on learning are dramatically more likely to succeed and enjoy the process along the way, compared to those that approach challenges & change with a negative outlook.
The Greek philosopher, Heraclitus, was quoted saying, “Change is the only constant in life”.
Whether it’s a small change like taking a new route to work due to construction or exploring a new place while on vacation, or a larger change like starting a new job, moving to a new place, or learning a new skill, change is all around us.
...So why not approach change with excitement & enthusiasm?
Each potential challenge you face is simply another opportunity to learn & grow - it’s an opportunity to improve your intellectual wellness.
Intellectual wellness is being open to new ideas, thinking critically, and finding new ways to be creative. It’s a person’s ability to engage in mentally-stimulating activities in order to expand their knowledge.
Intellectual wellness includes an individual’s entire knowledge base, from book smarts, to street smarts, social skills, interests & hobbies, community involvement, and cultural knowledge.
And although there has been much debate about whether or not someone can improve their IQ, when it comes to intellectual wellness, there is no denying that it is possible to expand your intellectual wellness.
Here are 5 ways to improve your intellectual wellness and keep your mind sharp!
We know...life can get a little crazy sometimes, so finding time to read isn’t always possible.
Do your best to make time every day to read, even if it’s only 15-20 minutes. If that’s not possible, start by reading on the weekends and then slowly introduce it in the evening hours during the week as a way to wind down before going to bed.
And don’t just read personal development books, read for pleasure and choose a book that’s outside of your area of expertise or current knowledge base. Reading can improve your intelligence by stretching your mind to be creative, introduce new perspectives, and explore new topics.
Plus, frequent reading has the added benefit of improving your vocabulary and gives you interesting topics to discuss among friends & family!
Have you heard of the term neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the ability of neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganization. In other words, neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to modify, change, and adapt to new inputs & experiences.
And learning a new skill is a great way to keep your brain active, help it form new connections, and improve your intelligence & intellectual wellness.
Some great resources for learning new skills include online learning platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, MasterClass, and Coursera. Most classes featured on these platforms are relatively inexpensive (some are even free) and include everything from photography, animation, and design to marketing, copywriting, and even programming, web development, and artificial intelligence.
Music has a powerful impact on our minds and the way we think. From helping you meditate & set your intentions for the day ahead, to helping you concentrate while working, to pumping you up during a big workout, and even unwinding after a stressful day, music has the ability to change our brains!
But, did you know playing an instrument has even more of an impact on your intellectual wellness compared to just listening to them?
Playing an instrument is a true exercise for your brain. It strengthens it in ways you never thought possible - from changing your mood, to increasing your sensory & motor skills, allowing you to connect more to others, and more.
Plus, it’s kind of cool to learn how to read music, have an understanding of chords & clefs, and even be able to express yourself through music!
Just like learning a new skill improves your neuroplasticity, learning a foreign language also keeps your brain active and challenged.
Foreign languages help improve your thinking skills and memory abilities. In fact, learning a foreign language is one of the most effective & practical ways to increase intelligence, keep your mind sharp, and keep your brain “young”.
Plus, in addition to increasing your intelligence & intellectual wellness, learning a second or third language can lower your risk of brain “aging”, dementia, and Alzheimer’s.
Do you enjoy crossword puzzles or sudoku?
Word puzzles, number puzzles, and even certain board games (like Scrabble) are a great way to exercise the brain and increase intellectual wellness. They also help to increase your memory and help you form new connections.
And you thought crossword puzzles and sudoku were just something for children and grandparents...not anymore!
Debating might just be one of the best ways to develop true proficiency or expertise on a particular topic.
Why? Because in order to debate a topic well, a person must have a good understanding of both sides of the argument. That means you’ll need to do your homework and research if you want to be able to successfully make a compelling point!
Debating can help you become a better critical thinker, better articulate your thoughts, think on your feet, practice good conflict resolution, show empathy, keep your emotions in check, and even give you an expanded worldview.
And it doesn’t have to be a formal debate either, a simple social interaction among friends can work to sharpen your knowledge of particular topics.
When it comes to improving your intellectual wellness, we encourage everyone to be a lifelong learner.
And with the amount of online training platforms, audio content, books, and documentaries that we have access to these days (in a lot of cases for absolutely free), it’s never been easier to learn a new skill or explore an interesting topic!
Remember, perfection and speed are not the goals.
As Dr. Carol Dweck (the psychologist responsible for coining the term “growth mindset”) outlines in her research, it’s important to focus on the process, rather than the outcome.
It doesn’t matter how quickly you adapt to change or how fast you learn a new skill, what matters is the effort, strategies used, persistence, and resilience that you demonstrate during the learning process.
In other words, enjoy the process, don’t be lazy, and most importantly, view mistakes or “failures” as insights from which you can learn & improve upon in the future!
Learning new things shouldn’t feel scary or daunting, it should be fun & exciting!
Not only are we improving our intellectual intelligence, we are keeping our brains active, reducing our chances of dementia & Alzheimer's, and improving our overall wellness.
So, next time you’re faced with an interesting puzzle or challenge, are you going to approach it with a growth or a fixed mindset?
Seven Dimensions of Wellness
Part 2: Spiritual Wellness
What is spirituality, and how does it resonate with you?
“Spirituality” can be a loaded word for many people - it can sound a little heady, unrealistic and overly-esoteric.
But at its true core, spirituality is something that is deeply personal to you, and only you. You have the unspoken power to define its parameters and the role it plays in your life.
Spirituality may be a broad concept, but its open-endedness allows for so many layers of different perspectives to be had. And as humans, the more we are challenged to new viewpoints and cultures, the more we are able to diversify our ways of thinking through the lens of love and compassion.
Whether we choose to bring in religion or not, spirituality is a universal human experience. The “spirit” refers to the foundational dimension of human life - it’s the interconnectedness of who you were, who you are, and who you are meant to be; it provides a deep sense of self and why you were brought into this 3-D world.
Spiritual Wellness is an ongoing process of self-discovery that shapes the deepest parts of us - our values, beliefs, feelings, and our general outlook towards life. Being mindful of our spiritual wellness can cultivate our connection to something bigger than ourselves, and help strengthen our relationship with the innermost parts of ourselves.
As we always say, health and wellness is multidimensional. But don’t you agree - that we are way more than just our physical bodies?
Spiritual Wellness is the component of well-being that tends to get overlooked, but it is the key underbelly player that has the power to improve the relationships between all of our wellness pillars.
And remember, spirituality is not a linear process - it’s an evolutionary process that takes much trial and error throughout our personal journey. Some attributes will work well for others while it won’t for some, so it’s all about making it digestible and resonant to you.
Begin your spiritual wellness practice today not by adding just another task on your “to-do list”. Take a moment to step back and be an observer of your life - how balanced is it? What can remain the same? What’s missing? Create, assess, adjust. And create again. No path will ever be for nothing, it will always be useful data that can guide you toward your ultimate goal.
And the best part? All of these answers are within you.
Below, we share 4 practical rituals you can implement to boost your Spiritual Wellness.
Creative expression is an essential piece to our inner spirit. From yoga, dance, music and writing, these modalities have a way of expressing our experiences when words fail to do so. For the movers and shakers of the world, movement is a beautiful medium that invites the expression of the human body to a vulnerable and therapeutic space. For the thinkers and prolifics, writing can be an artistic way to release all unserving thoughts to flow onto the paper.
After a long day of work, your mind can be caught in a bind that can create feelings of overwhelm and confusion. Dancing it out can alchemize that built-up tension, while journaling can help make sense of your emotions in a clarified way.
What are some of your unique forms of expression that you can practice on the daily?
Dharma refers to your “soul’s purpose”. Finding your soul’s purpose is about having a genuine curiosity in seeking truth - not universal truth, but your truth. That truth will take space in your intuition, and will transcend everything you do in life.
We live in a generation where every bit of information is readily available. We consume news, read articles, take in facts, ideas and concepts everyday that come from a source outside of ourselves. What information feels true to you? What doesn’t? As much as we “take in”, it’s important to look within on a deeper level to see if the data you’re intaking serves you in a positive or negative way.
Once you have your own core set of truths, now it’s time to embody it!
A simple tip is to focus on embodying “the essence” of something rather than focusing on the material outcome. For example, if you want to manifest happiness, shift your mindset on embodying pure bliss as if it already belongs to you. If you want to manifest money, don’t have your eyes on the cash prize, but embody the full essence of what it means to be (financially) abundant.
Many believe that you become something by changing and transforming, but your transformation is as a result of first, becoming. 🤯 (Sahara Rose)
Seek your truth.
Clarify your truth.
Embody your truth.
For more information on one of our favorite thought-leaders and "Embodiers" of their Purpose and Truth, visit Sahara Rose's website here.
Living in a fast-paced world with constant distractions and tasks to cross off, slowing down seems like an impossible feat for our busy lives. But, with the thought of “impossibility” already looming over our heads, we’re already creating that energy for it to truly not become possible. There’s an art to it - and this art takes much practice, much discipline and an unwavering commitment to yourself.
Carving out time to commit to your well-being can help you become more present and just simply be - just you and the moment, baby.
You can journal, meditate, ground yourself with some breathwork, or spend time with nature, reveling in the simple brilliance it has to offer. Or even make a nice warm cup of matcha to rejuvenate the soul.
Start a matcha ritual today!
[Note: Our Matcha Go-To Sticks are the perfect place to start for those looking to effortlessly add matcha into their everyday ritual ]
The world is your oyster when we “create” our own time. And the more we do it, the more we can infuse positivity when it comes to sharing our own energy and time, wherever we go.
At a surface level, it may seem like the same thing happens in your everyday life. You wake up, make your daily cup of caffeine, work, workout if you have the physical and mental capacity, eat, sleep, repeat..
But what about the in-between moments?!
Those in-between moments are really when the magic happens. Storyworthy is a book by Matthew Dicks, who challenges his readers to find “story worthy moments' “ in their everyday lives. Believe it or not, we experience notable moments all the time, but we can only see it if we are truly present.
Matthew Dicks offers an amazing process by which a person is to seek for and document the stories that already exist in their lives. You create an excel sheet with 2 columns, and simply log in the date, and write 1~2 sentences of the most impactful thing that happened to you that day. With this daily exercise, you’ll start noticing patterns, and feel more connected to how you show up each day in a new and powerful light.
Activate your spirit by always looking for the magical moments in life - the more you continue to look for that spark of magic in your day-to-day scenes, the more magic will continue to shine back at you.
For more insightful information on Matthew Dick’s Homework for Life, click here.
All in all, spiritual wellness is all about creating balance in your life, getting rooted in your life purpose, and creating a culture around that. Just as much as how our physical bodies need to move to develop strength, our spirit yearns for the same kind of thoughtful activity to feel a sense of belonging in this world.
When you take the time to nurture your spirituality, you can work to manifest greatness and align yourself to meet goals that are connected to your truth, your core values and beliefs.
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Part 1: Emotional Wellness
Wellness is not a passive state, it’s an active state of making choices, activities, and the pursuit of healthy lifestyles that ultimately leads to a state of holistic health.
Wellness is not a destination, but rather a way of living that leads to a healthier, happier, more fulfilled life.
There are 7 primary dimensions of wellness:
The “goal” of wellness should be to achieve balance or homeostasis in all seven dimensions of wellness.
That said, we certainly don’t expect you to always be balanced in your pursuit of wellness… We most certainly are not always in equilibrium, but that’s why it’s a goal!
The purpose of this post is to focus on just one of the dimensions of wellness, specifically emotional wellness. So without any further delay, let’s dive right in!
According to the National Institutes of Health, emotional wellness is defined as the ability to successfully handle life’s stresses and adapt to change and difficult times. It also includes the capacity to love and be loved, optimism, self-esteem, self-acceptance, and the ability to share feelings.
When you become the master of your emotions, you will be well-equipped to successfully handle the daily stressors life can throw your way in addition to rapid change and difficult times.
And if we are being honest, the past year has given us many an opportunity to practice good emotional wellness, while testing our mental health.
The COVID virus and resulting pandemic was one of life’s many challenges that can make striving for a well-balanced state of emotional, social, and physical wellness rather difficult at times. And to all of those that lost loved ones to this terrible virus, we send you our love.
Regardless of what challenges life throws your way, always remember love is the most powerful force. Love combined with a positive, optimistic outlook can get you through even the darkest of times.
And if you happen to be experiencing a dark moment right now, just remember, it’s the tough times that shape us, provide perspective shifts if you’re willing to look for them, and make the good times that much more enjoyable & well-deserved!
Life is filled with ups and downs, but as the saying goes, it’s what you make of them that really matters.
To help you build a stronger, more resilient state of emotional wellness, here are 7 of our favorite tips.
This is probably the most important tip (which is why we put it first). It’s a well known fact that life won’t always be easy and there will be days when you won’t be in the best of moods, but it’s nothing you can’t overcome!
Tips to develop a more positive mindset:
Mindfulness is about being completely aware of what’s happening in the present moment. It’s not always easy to be mindful when faced with tough times, but that’s why we practice.
Life gets busy sometimes, but it’s important not to let life pass you by...after all, you only live once, so you might as well enjoy it!
Mindfulness tips:
Everyone deals with feelings of inadequacy, self-judgement, and self-doubt, but the sooner you learn to accept & love who you are, the more others will be drawn towards you. Remember, you are your own worst critic!
Tips to accept & love yourself:
Sleep is one of the most underrated things in our society, but this is slowly starting to change. Capable of affecting all seven dimensions of wellness, sleep is absolutely vital to our emotional health.
Tips to get better sleep:
Stress comes in two common forms - eustress (good stress) and distress (bad stress). We can use stress to help us get things done right before a big deadline or get really dialed in before a big dance competition...or we can let it slowly deplete our energy reserves and wear us out.
In today’s busy world, stress management is extremely important to our emotional health.
Tips to help manage stress:
Humans are naturally social creatures. We need social interactions to help us feel connected, share experiences, and create memories.
Whether it’s taking time to talk to your significant other, getting together with friends, or calling a family member on the phone, it’s important to make time for these activities.
Tips for staying connected:
We encourage you to seek balance in everything you do. When it comes to your health & wellness, the ultimate focus should be to lead a well-balanced, healthy, and fulfilled life. That means enjoying the good times and making sure to spoil yourself a little here and there, while also giving yourself the space and ability to experience the tough times.
Tips to help you seek balance:
Remember, life isn’t always going to be easy, but that’s what makes the good times that much more meaningful and enjoyable!
Whether it’s something simple like waking up to the birds chirping on a bright, sunny day or someone holding the door for you, learn to enjoy & appreciate the little things.
A positive attitude and an optimistic outlook really can make a difference in both your mental, as well as your physical health.
So get out there, enjoy all life has to offer...and always remember to live life in full bloom! :)
As we honor our Earth this week, we also want to honor some of our very own Ambassadors who have been an integral part of our Matcha Movement since Day 1.
Here, they share with us some of their insights on their personal approach on sustainability and how they infuse it into their daily lives.
When it comes to practicing sustainability, it’s really important to do what you can, even if it’s imperfect and inconsistent. “It’s better if everyone tries and tries imperfectly, then not try at all.”
Hikari is a multifaceted queen in her own right. From being a full-time Mom, Digital Creator and Business Owner, she is a beautiful, energetic force within her diverse communities. She believes sustainability is about carrying compassion and taking action. Over the years, she consciously worked on defining her personal style so it would help her make better decisions on her clothing purchases. We all know in some way or another we would just buy “things” because it was trendy or we’d have major FOMO... Ever since becoming a mom, Hikari has been cooking a lot more at home and packs a homemade lunch for her daughter every single day. She thoughtfully reminds us that not everyone is perfect, and that’s totally okay.
What’s so special about Sloane is that every role that defines her is so beautifully connected with one another - she is a Food Freedom Coach, Entrepreneur, Podcaster, and a Yoga Teacher. Sloane is an expert on intuitive eating and living a sustainable lifestyle. In the same way we think about diets and how it is not a sustainable solution rooted in extreme restrictions, she reframes sustainability to be all about ease, safety and loving choices for all involved - including yourself.
She shares with us the key point is to set loving, casual expectations. “Rigid expectation is not sustainable, nor is it inspiring!” Instead, her expectations lean more toward how she wants to feel (energized, abundant, supportive) and less about the tasks she must complete simply to “get the job done”. Cooking everyday is also a ritual that contributes to her sustainability practice and she loves crafting her nourishment with her own two hands.
A common thread that runs through both Hikari and Sloane’s advice is to always have a level of self-compassion. In order to extend your love and care to those outside of yourself, it’s important to be aware of your own capacity and needs as well. Showing that tender kindness to yourself will allow you to show up even stronger and better in the long run - for your people and the planet.
Simplify your sustainability practice with our Bloom Bottles!
Supporting your eco-friendly lifestyle, this BPA-free bottle is made of premium-quality glass for all of your hydration needs. The minimal design contributes to eco-friendly living without compromising style.
Did you know packaging represents about 65% of household trash?
For every $10 spent buying things, $1 (10%) goes towards packaging that is thrown away.
Now I know what you might be thinking… “But, I’m a conscious consumer and I recycle as much as I possibly can.”
Although that’s a step in the right direction, consider this… It costs around $30 per ton to recycle trash, $50 to send it to the landfill, and $65-75 to incinerate it.
Recycling is a dirty business. And although it’s better than the alternative (landfills), the process involved in cleaning, melting down the materials, and converting them into something else takes a lot of energy.
And where does that energy come from?
Well let’s just say it’s not typically renewable, green energy.
And here’s a few more waste facts for you…
The best way to reduce your household consumption is to consume less. The next best alternative is to reuse and repurpose whenever possible.
Recycling, although helpful, should really be viewed as a last resort.
1. Use Reusable Grocery Bags... And Not Just for Groceries
Pro Tip: Always keep reusable grocery bags in your backseat and if you do have to use plastic bags, make sure to recycle them after use.
For more of our other favorite sustainable products, read our blog here.
2. Shop local farmers markets and buy in bulk to reduce packaging
Support local farmers, get fresher ingredients, and reduce shipping costs.
Come visit us! If you live near Irvine, California, come say hello to us every weekend at the Irvine Farmers Market :)
3. Opt Out of Paper Mailings, Bills, Junk Mail, and Ask for Digital Copies of Your Receipts Whenever Possible
Ask for everything to be emailed instead of printed. Plus, digital copies are harder to lose if you have to make a return!
Also consider digital subscriptions when possible (cheaper, too).
4. Compost As Much As You Can & Reduce Your Food Waste
Did you know as much as 25% of the items in your trash could be recycled?
Compostable items include: fruit, vegetable scraps, egg shells, coffee grounds, grass clippings, and leaves.
*Note: Keep in mind it takes an average of 3-12 months to use in your garden.
Plus, organic matter acts as a sponge to absorb more water, which reduced the amount you might need to water!
For a deeper dive, check out our How to Make Your Own Compost blog here.
5. Use a reusable bottle/cup for beverages on-the-go; say no to bottled water
Did you know US tap water actually has stricter quality and health standards than bottled water?
Always carry a reusable bottle to save money, reduce waste, and reduce chances of purchasing more expensive beverages when you are out and about.
...Introducing our Bloom Bottle!
6. Make a Meal Plan
7. Purchase Products with Less Packaging and Recycle the Packaging
8. Bonus Tip: Learn to repair rather than discard
Consider purchasing a few high-quality items and repair them (as opposed to throwing them away) when necessary.
Every person can make a difference.
Thank you for doing your part to create a better planet for all of us, our children, and for generations to come.
But remember, it only takes one person to make a difference - and we all need to be doing our part to make a change and be that difference.
Live by example, inspire change in others, and together, we can help make a difference as a collective community.
Eco-conscious living is no longer just a fad, it’s a way of life. And it’s a lot easier than you might think!
The Earthling Co. offers the perfect reusable shopping bag for our thoughtful earthlings! Made of organic cotton, the mesh fabric allows your fruits and veggies to breathe. It’s the perfect way to take the plastic out of the equation - AND the bag is 100% compostable at home.
Reusable towels & rags are excellent replacements for the typical kitchen paper towels, napkins, or cleaning rags. It can also be added to your conscious beauty routine, replacing disposable cotton and makeup wipes.
A creative and eco-friendly way to store food, wrap leftovers and pack school lunches! Beeswrap provides us a fun solution for foodies, made out of certified organic cotton coated with sustainably sourced beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin.
About 40 billion plastic utensils are tossed every year in the USA. It’s time to make reusable travel cutlery our next purse essential! (Who’s with me?!) It’s a simple, zero-waste alternative for your lunch break or your next road trip.
Go plastic-free for all of your drink needs! This can be the easiest addition to your sustainability routine - they are lightweight, portable and durable to carry with you on the go, wherever you go.
We like the Onya Reusable Bread Bag.
Reusable bread bags are a must-have for those of us that can’t live without our avocado toast in the morning! Plus, the right bread bag can help your bread last up to 3 months in a frost free freezer!
Earth Hero reminds us all that a simple act for positive change is still a heroic act, no matter how small! This grocery bag is made out of post-consumer plastics, doubling its sustainability! The durable design supports your one-trip-wonders from your car to the kitchen, and a portion of their profits go towards a non-profit sustainability organization.
We like the all-new Bloom Bottles!
Simplify your sustainability practice with our Bloom Bottles! Supporting your eco-friendly lifestyle, this BPA-free bottle is made of premium-quality glass for all of your hydration needs. The minimal design contributes to eco-friendly living without compromising style.
Barefoot Yoga offers the best earth-conscious yoga mats made out of “jute”. Jute is a soft vegetable fiber, a fabric that is both carbon-dioxide neutral and naturally decomposable. Conveyed in the brand name, this yoga mat reminds us all to stay grounded, as if we are walking barefoot on the Earth.
Who knew trash bin liners can be plant-based? Made out of renewable resources and compostable polymer, you can help minimize our collective waste output with these environmentally-friendly garbage bags.
Cleaning products are often filled with ingredients that we can’t even pronounce. Blueland products contain no phosphates, VOCs, ammonia, chlorine bleach nor parabens! A phenomenal brand that helps save money, save space, AND save Earth all at the same time.
The future is now! Detergent bottles have now downsized to an earth-friendly size as small as a pod! But don’t underestimate its power - the natural plant-based enzymes help take out any stubborn stains and keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean!
We recommend our Matcha Purity Powder. The name speaks for itself - our pure organic matcha is grown sustainably using regenerative agriculture, utilizing the soil health as a forefront that ultimately leads to human health.
Harboring a sustainability practice is more than just recycling water bottles! It’s about really taking the time to look at your everyday products and making those thoughtful changes with our Earth in mind.
One small mindful act can lead to many more mindful acts.. And soon enough, all of that will compound into carrying a sustainable lifestyle in a seamless and effortless way.
Compost is decomposed organic material.
It’s a great way to use things in your refrigerator or pantry that are a little past their prime, while also eliminating waste.
What should you consider composting?
What shouldn’t you consider composting?
There are 2 major types of composting: Cold and Hot
Cold composting is the passive form of composting that consists of adding organic waste to a pile or bin and allowing it to decompose over the course of a year or so.
Hot composting, on the other hand, is the active form of composting that involves the use of organic waste, nitrogen, carbon, air, and water to expedite the “cooking” process. The resulting compost is usually ready to use within 1-3 months during warm weather, but it requires a little more effort on your part.
Composting is a great way to reduce waste and support a healthy garden… But, those aren’t the only benefits associated with composting.
Here are some of our favorite reasons to compost:
Either build a garden bed or find a corner of your lawn where you wish to create your compost and set up your compost bin (you can also create a compost pile to save on cost).
Pro Tip: Plan your compost pile so it’s not near a common area or neighbor’s lawn where potential herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers could be used.
As mentioned above, these materials should consist of things like grass clippings, leaves, twigs & shredded branches, fruit & vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells.
Ideally you will want to wait until you have enough compost to make a pile at least 3 feet deep (this is where grass clippings, leaves, and shredded tree branches can come in handy).
Regularly shower your compost pile with water (but not too much) to help feed the microorganisms in your compost so they can do their job!
*Note: Your compost pile should feel warm to the touch during the “cooking” process. If it’s not warm, you might either be watering it too much or not mixing it enough (see Step 5).
During the growing season, you should turn over your compost pile with a garden fork or shovel once a week so it can get the oxygen it needs to break down. Stirring the pile will also help it cook faster and prevents your pile from developing an odor.
Pro Tip: Regularly chop & shred raw materials into smaller sizes during mixing to speed up the composting process.
As mentioned above, composting is a great way to feed a garden. And on an even larger scale, sustainable composting can help support an entire farm.
In fact, our farmer uses sustainable composting techniques to enrich the soil that feeds our high quality, ceremonial grade matcha!
For those that don’t know, soil is not the same thing as dirt. Soil is a living organism, a vital foundation for our Mother Earth.
When waste goes into the landfill, it only produces more methane gas that further contributes to climate change. Composting, on the other hand, benefits Mother Earth in more ways than one, returns much-needed nutrients to our soil, and supports our communities.
Unfortunately, in the current tea world, big franchises are taking over small farms to optimize profits - producing low quality tea and causing more tillage, with less focus on giving back to our soil.
Our farmer uses regenerative techniques by collecting global waste to create his own organic compost. Not just waste from Japan, but waste from all over the world. The surplus of waste is returned back to the soil to feed the microorganisms, providing the tea plants the proper nutrients to grow healthy and strong.
By providing our planet with an honorable solution, we are able to nurture nutrient-dense plants that result in the ultimate health of our people and our community.
When looking for a matcha brand, the first step is to do your research! Peruse through some websites and ask yourself if the company’s values align with your personal ethos.
What is their story and the positive impact they want to make? Is the product organically grown? What kind of energy is put into the process?
Beyond the product itself, it’s important to understand all of these factors before deciding what you put inside your body. There is no right or wrong answer - it’s truly about you... It’s about your journey, and the role you wish to play in this world.
Creating your own compost can seem like a daunting process, but it’s not about being perfect. It’s about making those small degrees of adjustments that lead to big changes!
Composting can even start from the comfort of your own home. Here are some resources to check out to start your sustainability practice today:
Your mind is a machine filled with curiosity and wonder. The cognitive aspects like consciousness, perception, intelligence, imagination and memory in our limitless mind is surely to drift anywhere but where we currently are. You can sometimes catch yourself lamenting over something you can’t change from the past, or worrying about something in the future that hasn’t even happened yet. But as Eckhart Tolle profoundly articulates, the power truly does lie in the NOW.
Mindfulness can be practiced through different modalities such as meditation, breathwork, and yoga. However, mindfulness doesn’t have to be this big performative task to put on your daily to-do list to live a virtuous life - it can be as simple as taking a moment to be still, take a breath and listen to the thoughts that are running through your mind. Just the act of doing so can peel so many complex layers and diversify your way of thinking through a calm headspace. Taking a moment to pause can create more brain room to be fully aware of the present environment, while honoring one’s thoughts and feelings, including your own.
“Mindfulness is the gateway into the full dimensionality of being human.”
~John Kabbat-Zin
The “full dimensionality of being human”... Let’s let that sink in for a mindful minute.
What’s being expressed here is the full 360 of the human experience - - the happy, the sad, the mundane, and everything in between... It’s about embracing ALL of what life has to offer and being masterful in navigating through it all, with the quiet resilience of the mind.
Mindfulness is an innate quality that exists inside all of us - you just need to learn how to tap into it.
So how exactly do we bring our mental state to a mindful one?
First, it’s important to understand how our mind functions.
The human brain runs off of 2 different structures - the “Modern Brain” and the “Primal Brain”.
The Modern Brain, known as the “slow brain”, is responsible for storing memory, solving problems, reasoning, controlling and language. The Primal Brain, known as the “fast brain”, is responsible for survival instincts such as self-preservation, reactivity, aggression, and dominance.
When your primal brain is fully engaged, your modern brain is disengaged, and vice versa. But both must exist to practice mindfulness. The more we can observe our monkey brain and become aware of its antics, the more opportunities we have to rewire our thinking using our modern brain. This converts our primitive thoughts into intentional actions. The object of the game is to slow down your roll... Put a break on your “fast-brained thoughts”, take a step back and reassess.
Knowing is half of the battle. Next time you find yourself in a particular situation, ask yourself, “Am I formulating my reactions through my modern brain, or my primal brain?” 🤔✨
Mindfulness can also be practiced by “creating moments” in your day-to-day that brings your focus back to the present now. Actively creating these mindful moments means carving out space for you to breathe, think, feel and become an observer of all 3.
Here are some ways you can create mindful moments throughout your everyday life.
Just like how there is no one glorified way to lose weight, there are no shortcuts in living a conscious and mindful life. Every person has their own set of triggers and traumas that are answered through impulsive reactions. But the more present you are with every thought and feeling, the more qualitative you’ll be with your actions, interactions, and reactions. It’s about honoring the peace and silence in the midst of a fast-paced environment, as we amplify our truth, our inner voice.
Shauna Shapiro couldn’t have said it any better - “Mindfulness is paying attention with kindness.”
Through each awareness, establish a pathway of kind attention, and cultivate that sense of compassion like a mental muscle. That small act of kindness we practice on ourselves provides us the resources we need to make transformative changes.
In the beginning, infusing mindfulness into your daily life will require a lot of effort. But as we all know, what you practice grows stronger - and the mind you strengthen through that practice is the most powerful asset you can carry with you in any life situation.
Create your very own mindful ritual with our Matcha Bloom Bundle - offering you mindfulness at-home & on-the-go.
Matcha is a fantastic source of antioxidants called catechins, the most important of which is the polyphenol EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).
And what do these compounds have to do with boosting metabolism and promoting weight loss?
As it turns out, everything…
EGCG has been shown to both boost metabolism and stop the growth of fat cells... But more on this incredible compound in just a minute.
Catechins found in green tea have also been shown to have a profound effect on gently reducing body weight and the prevention against obesity.
There was a study published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, that showed participants who drank catechin-rich green tea daily dropped almost twice as much weight during a 12-week period compared to participants who didn’t.
A separate study published in PubMed displayed green tea rich in catechins was shown to significantly lower body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, body fat mass, and subcutaneous fat area.
The study concluded daily consumption of tea containing 690 mg of catechins for a 12-week period reduced body fat, which suggests catechins might be useful in the prevention against & improvement of obesity.
Talk about a powerful compound!
And matcha green tea has been shown to have more catechins compared to any other tea - 137x more than loose leaf green tea...just as an example. :)
[Note: Our Matcha Go-To Sticks are the perfect place to start for those looking for an organic, ceremonial grade matcha that is both convenient and travel-friendly!]
Now let’s take a closer look at EGCG and the role it plays in weight loss…
Matcha contains the highest levels of EGCG compared to any other natural food source.
And it’s EGCG that’s responsible for boosting metabolism and thermogenic effects in the body.
EGCG is a plant-based compound that has been found to help fight obesity as a result of the high level of biological activity found among the green tea molecules.
This high level of biological activity has been shown to both boost metabolism and stop the growth of fat cells.
In order to burn fat, your body must first break it down in the fat cell and move it into your bloodstream. And studies suggest that the active compounds in green tea can aid this process by boosting the effects of some fat-burning hormones, such as norepinephrine.
Add to that the natural caffeine found in matcha and the result is fat cells breaking down more fat, which is released into your bloodstream for use as energy by cells like muscle cells.
So not only does this powerful catechin, EGCG, increase fat burning, it also boosts your metabolic rate, which means you can burn more calories - even at rest!
But, it doesn’t stop there...
The antioxidants, flavonoids, and natural caffeine found in matcha have also been shown to assist with weight management.
Antioxidants, in addition to helping stabilize harmful free radicals, help combat weight gain & promote weight loss. They do this by resisting the effects of the toxins.
Antioxidants also improve arterial flexibility, blood flow, and healthy levels of cholesterol. This translates to increased metabolism.
Polyphenols called flavonoids, of which matcha has been shown to have a high content, were found among 58 different trials published in PubMed to have potential for decreasing BMI, decreased waist circumference, and prevention against obesity.
Studies have also shown that the polyphenols found in matcha help promote weight loss by reducing calorie intake, stimulating fat breakdown, and boosting the growth of friendly gut bacteria.
And good news for matcha drinkers, organic, ceremonial grade matcha is extremely rich in both antioxidants and flavonoids.
In fact, matcha tea has 137x the antioxidants compared to loose leaf green tea!
...And then there’s the natural caffeine.
Matcha might be our favorite source of natural caffeine compared to any other beverage. This is due to the fact that matcha contains high levels of L-Theanine.
L-Theanine is a powerful amino acid that helps our bodies process caffeine differently.
Compared to the short burst of energy we receive when drinking coffee or other energy drinks, caffeine combined with L-Theanine helps sustain energy boosts that last 4-6 hours, without the crash.
And more energy means you’ll be more motivated to get active & exercise!
Matcha also contains higher levels of natural caffeine compared to any other tea, which is great news for those looking to boost energy levels and lose a little around the middle.
According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, green tea with caffeine significantly lowered body mass index (BMI), body weight, and weight circumference compared to caffeine-free green tea.
And don’t forget...matcha has more caffeine than regular, loose leaf green tea (~32mg of caffeine vs ~68mg of caffeine).
Matcha is a great way to start your morning ritual...but, it can also be our little secret to an amazing workout!
In fact, matcha has been touted as one of the safest and most effective means of providing your body with a healthy pre-workout solution.
Whether you’re considering an intense workout involving weights, resistance training, or cardio, a jog through the park, a hike to enjoy all that mother nature has to offer, or a soothing yoga flow - matcha will elevate your experience.
Remember how we mentioned the role that catechins play in helping to increase thermogenesis?
Well...
There was another study performed by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that showed consuming green tea increases thermogenesis, which is the body’s rate of burning calories, from 8-10% to a whopping 35-43% as a result of its high catechin polyphenol content and thermogenic properties.
That’s a big increase!
[Excuse me while I step away to whip-up a quick matcha pre workout drink before heading off to the gym…]
In fact, studies have found that women who consumed just 3 grams of matcha per day experienced greater fat burning during exercise compared to women who did not drink matcha.
This begs the question… Is there a wrong time to drink matcha?
We certainly don’t think so!
But, then again, we probably wouldn’t recommend drinking it after dinner unless you have a big project to complete, work presentation that you need to prepare for & finish up, or you are planning to binge read that new book that was just delivered.
Our favorite times of the day to enjoy mother nature’s superpowder are first thing in the morning, right before a good workout (yoga being our personal favorite), or right after lunch to keep us focused & motivated all afternoon.
The unbelievable benefits of matcha extend far beyond just the physical body.
Why? - Because wellness is multidimensional.
By adding a matcha ritual to your daily routine, you’re opening yourself up to the possibilities, while protecting the only body you have, increasing your energy levels, all while enhancing your focus & concentration.
This superpowder will quickly become your superpower if you allow it the opportunity.
Boost endurance, increase metabolism, and accelerate weight loss with the help of this powerful superfood.
Start your journey with the help of our Matcha Go-To Sticks - the convenient, travel-friendly way to enjoy pure, organic, ceremonial grade matcha.
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Have you heard of the saying, “variety is the spice of life”?
Well not only does variety, in terms of experiences, keep life interesting, variety in the food you eat helps keep your immune system strong so it can continue to work hard and keep you healthy.
A healthy immune system starts with good, regular nourishment from nutrient-rich foods.
Plenty of fresh fruits & vegetables, quality protein, and healthy fats & carbohydrates are vital to keeping our bodies happy and healthy.
Let’s pause on protein for a moment because there’s a lot of misinformation out there surrounding this topic.
Protein helps repair the body, aids in the recovery from illness & sports injuries, keeps muscles healthy & strong, helps stabilize blood sugar (collagen protein does a great job of stabilizing blood sugar), and is ideal for supporting a healthy metabolism.
Research studies have shown that protein deficiencies not only lead to weakened joints, muscles, & bones, but also a depletion of immune cells, fewer antibodies, and other immune-related problems.
But, you can’t just eat protein-packed foods all the time… Remember, variety is the spice of life!
Make sure you are consuming healthy fats, like those found in olive oil, nuts, and salmon.
And don’t forget to eat plenty of whole plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
These types of foods are more important to your immune health than most people realize…
Whole plant foods like the ones we just mentioned (fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes) are rich in nutrients and antioxidants.
Why are antioxidants so important in supporting a healthy immune system
Antioxidants give us an upper hand against harmful pathogens. Not only can they help decrease inflammation by combatting free radicals, they also help reduce cell damage and prevent chronic disease.
And with chronic inflammation being linked to numerous health conditions like heart disease, Alzeihmer’s, and even cancer, we could all use more antioxidant-rich foods in our diets.
Vitamin C and Vitamin D also help bolster our immune system and have even been shown to help prevent the common cold, ward off other diseases & infections, and even help increase recovery times when we do get sick.
[Note: If you’re looking for a convenient way to boost your immune system that’s rich in antioxidants & Vitamin C, then you have to check out our Matcha Go-To Sticks here.
With 137x more antioxidants than loose-leaf green tea, 17x more than blueberries, and 6x more than gojiberries, you won’t find a better source of antioxidants that also helps detoxify your body, reduce stress, all while helping you look & feel younger.]
But, it doesn’t stop with your diet, your other lifestyle choices also have a huge impact on overall immune health.
Exercise, sleep, and proper hydration play a big role in keeping your immune system functioning at peak performance.
Here at Matcha Bloom, we are passionate about creating healthy, sustainable lifestyles that include a well-balanced diet, proper hydration, and plenty of exercise & sleep.
And remember, exercise isn’t just good for the body, depending on the activity, it can also be great for the mind.
We believe in balancing physical exercise like working out & jogging with physical and mental workouts like hiking, long walks in nature, and our personal favorite, yoga. The mixture of these activities will keep you strong physically, mentally, and spiritually.
But, don’t get too crazy with your fitness routines. Life is all about balance… So don’t forget to balance your fitness with plenty of restorative sleep.
Getting adequate amounts of sleep may strengthen your natural immunity, while also allowing your body to repair itself and prepare for tomorrow.
As a general rule of thumb, adults should aim to get 7 or more hours of sleep each night, while teens need 8-10 hours, and younger children up to 14 hours.
Worried you aren’t getting enough sleep?
You’re not alone! Sleep issues (along with increased levels of stress) is one of the most common ailments faced by Americans in this busy, ever-changing world.
This, among other reasons, is why we are such advocates of implementing a matcha ritual into our daily lives.
The high levels of L-Theanine found in matcha help calm the mind, help reduce stress levels, increase focus, and improve the quality of sleep.
And did we mention matcha has incredible immune-boosting properties?
More on that in just a bit… But, first, we want to share our 3 simple steps to help boost your immune health.
Here are 10 foods that you should add to your grocery list to help improve both immune health & overall health:
Regular exercise contributes to a healthy immune system by promoting good circulation, lowering blood pressure, and may even reduce inflammation, while helping your immune cells to regenerate regularly.
Here are our top 5 favorite fitness activities:
Studies show that healthy adults that sleep less than 6 hours each night are more likely to catch a cold compared to those who sleep 6 hours or more.
Regardless of the study, one thing is for sure, sleep and immunity are closely tied.
As a healthy adult, you should aim to sleep 7 or more hours every single night.
And for those that aren’t able to sleep that much, keep trying!
We know it’s not always possible, that’s why 7 hours or more should be your goal, not a requirement.
Looking for an easy, inexpensive way to boost your immune health?
Matcha is the most nutrient-rich green tea in the world.
With 137x the antioxidants found in loose-leaf green tea, 10x the Vitamin C, a good source of L-Theanine, and more EGCG than any other natural food, it’s easy to see why matcha is the go-to for those looking to boost both immune health & overall health.
What is EGCG and why is it important?
EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is one of the world’s most potent antioxidants. It’s also instrumental in protecting your body from things like air pollution, harmful UV radiation, and harmful chemicals.
The combination of polyphenols, antioxidants, Vitamin C, EGCG, and other catechins help strengthen your immune system, while also protecting you from free radicals, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzeihmer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other degenerative diseases.
But, that’s not all matcha is capable of doing…
...Celebrities, professional athletes, health practitioners, yogis, and fitness enthusiasts alike use matcha to help them power through their days.
The combination of the natural caffeine and high levels of L-Theanine found in matcha (5x the amount found in loose-leaf green tea) helps to provide a level of concentration & focus, while reducing the daily stressors of life that is unmatched by any other superfood on the market.
So, whether you’re looking to boost your immune health, looking to improve your overall health, or you’re just feeling a little stressed (or a combination of all 3), matcha has you covered.
By adding a matcha ritual to your daily routine, you’re opening yourself up to the possibilities, while protecting the only body you have.
This superpowder will become your superpower as it sustains you in your journey of life, from mind, to body, to soul.
Destress, detox, and boost your body’s natural immunity all with one incredible superfood - matcha green tea.
Start your morning ritual with our organic, ceremonial grade Purity Powder here.
A detox drink is a drink recipe that helps your body rid itself of toxins, promote weight loss, boost energy, cleanse the liver, or any combination of these.
Detox drinks are also known as detox cleanse drinks or cleansing drinks. They usually contain some combination of water with fruit, vegetables, herbs, or other natural ingredients that boost your body’s ability to eliminate toxins from your system.
As the name suggests, natural detoxing is a process which helps the vital organs cleanse themselves.
Detoxing is an ancient therapy that has been practiced in various forms for hundreds of years. It is believed to cleanse the digestive system and help the body eliminate waste and various toxins absorbed from the air, soil, water and food, as well as toxic substances produced by the body itself.
When you detox, you’re giving your body (especially your liver) an opportunity to rid itself of toxins and get some recovery time in.
If you constantly keep eating, drinking, and breathing toxic substances without flushing them out of your system, they build up over time and you risk health issues including cancer, or reproductive, metabolic, and mental health effects.
Today, with more toxins in the environment than ever, it is critical to detox. One should consider doing a natural detox if experiencing symptoms such as:
(Note: Looking to start a natural detox so you can help eliminate environmental toxins and boost your overall health? Our Purity Powder is a great place to start for those looking to nourish their mind, body, and soul in one convenient, easy to use superpowder!)
Caffeinated drinks like tea or coffee can do more harm than good to your body.
In order to steer clear of its harmful side effects, swap them with green tea or matcha, which is a much better alternative. Apart from cleansing the digestive system, it also helps in boosting the body's metabolism and facilitating weight loss.
When detoxing, your body is in a vulnerable state. Hence, it is important to make sure detox drinks are made out of organic ingredients.
The true effects of pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and the like on humans is not distinctively evident. However, some studies report simple obvious reactions like rashes or headaches, but other studies are linking the build up of these elements in our bodies over time to cancer and other autoimmune diseases.
To ensure purity and high quality, stick to organic versus non-organic whenever possible.
Water is one of the best ways to help purify your body.
Especially during a cleanse or detox, it is important to keep yourself hydrated at all times. The body needs water to produce saliva, helps with perspiration, and removes waste. Drink enough water in a day to help purify your body (approximately 8-10 glasses or 2 liters).
It is of utmost importance to detox the body with a proper cleansing process so that harmful toxins are released from the body.
If you wish to detox your body naturally, just a few simple changes in lifestyle could help you to a great extent. After all, it is an ongoing practice and discipline to ensure the alignment of mind, body, and spirit.
Begin your purifying practice with our Purity Powder.
Matcha is Earth’s natural superpowder, finely ground from high quality green tea leaves.
As a pantry staple in the Japanese culture for thousands of years, matcha serves as an abundant source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, that benefit more than just the body.
And since matcha contains the whole leaf, none of the nutrients are left to waste...unlike all of the loose-leaf teas out there, where the leaves, flowers, and herbs are discarded after the brewing process.
There are three main grades of matcha: classic, ceremonial, and culinary.
Classic grade is ideal for everyday consumption and is most commonly found in lattes and smoothies.
Ceremonial grade is most commonly used in tea ceremonies. This is considered to be the most premium, high quality grade of matcha and is preferred for its bold flavor, dark green color, and incredible health benefits.
[Note: This is our favorite and is the only grade we even consider using in our products.]
Culinary grade is used in smoothies, desserts, and bakes. This grade still contains a lot of the same health benefits and is the fastest growing segment of the matcha family.
Is anyone craving matcha nice cream now? :)
Matcha is rapidly gaining popularity in the health & fitness, beauty, and personal development communities.
Matcha is perfect for the health-conscious, on-the-go individual that’s passionate about their health, sustainability, and clean eating...yogis and fitness enthusiasts, we’re talking to you!
It’s perfect for the individual who is looking to enhance their beauty routine, promote healthy-looking skin, and make a nice addition to their anti-aging, skincare regimen. And it’s perfect for the high-achieving, driven, young professional that is striving to make an impact on the world, is dealing with stress, fatigue, mental fog, and sleep issues.
We think it’s safe to say matcha has a little something to offer everyone.
And creating your very own matcha ritual will help create a state of wellness that inspires you to achieve your highest potential, regardless of your path in life.
(Note: Ready to start your very own matcha ritual? Our Matcha Go-To Sticks are a perfect place to start for those looking for an organic, ceremonial grade matcha that is both convenient and travel-friendly!)
1 cup of matcha tea has as many antioxidants as 10 cups of brewed green tea. That means you would have to drink 10 cups of traditional loose-leaf green tea in order to get the antioxidants, L-theanine, B & C vitamins, and overall nutritional value found in 1 cup of matcha green tea.
1 cup of matcha has 137x the antioxidants, 5x the L-theanine, and 10x the amount of vitamin C as 10 cups of loose-leaf green tea...and the list goes on.
And that’s just compared to green tea… What about compared to black tea, white tea, and coffee? We will dive deeper into that question in a future post.
For now, let’s shift our attention to the health benefits of matcha and answer the most commonly asked questions:
What does matcha green tea do for you?
Why is matcha good for you?
We’re glad you asked...
The unbelievable benefits of matcha extend far beyond just the physical body.
In fact, it benefits your entire human experience.
Why? - Because “wellness” is multidimensional.
Wellness defines our overall sense of well-being - including our mental, emotional, and spiritual self.
By adding a matcha ritual to your daily routine, you’re opening yourself up to the possibilities, while protecting the only body you have.
This superpowder will become your superpower as it sustains you in your journey of life, from mind, to body, to soul.
Your journey has only just begun.
Start a matcha ritual today with the help of our Matcha Go-To Sticks - the perfect place to start for those looking for an organic, ceremonial grade matcha that is both convenient and travel-friendly!
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