I listen to a podcast all about health & wellness when I’m running & just about every guest at some point speaks to the importance of getting enough, QUALITY, sleep. It is crucial for your health for a few reasons…
1. Stay Healthy
Sleep helps your body repair & stay strong. It can keep your heart healthy and boost your immune system. Basically, more sleep means fewer sick days!
2. Boost Your Brainpower
Your brain needs sleep to think clearly, remember stuff, & solve problems. Less sleep = more forgetful moments and brain fog.
3. Mood Magic
Ever notice how cranky you get when you’re tired? Sleep helps you stay happy & handle stress better. More sleep, more smiles!
4. Be a Star Performer
Whether you’re studying, working, or playing sports, sleep helps you do your best. You’ll be more focused & make fewer mistakes.
5. Weight Control
Sleep affects your hunger hormones. Lack of sleep can make you crave junk food. Sleeping well helps you make healthier food choices.
6. Live Longer
Good sleep habits can add years to your life. It keeps you healthy & full of energy for the long haul.
I have some tips for better sleep for anyone who wants them! Just comment SLEEP & I’ll send them right over.
No gatekeeping here though… the absolute #1 thing that has completely changed my sleep is the half a jelly I take at night when I get in bed. I went from taking 30-60+ minutes to fall asleep & waking several times in the night to falling asleep quickly (without using Gilmore Girls or a sleep meditation) & I stay asleep ALL NIGHT! I wake up feeling refreshed & I actually have energy during the day. I can’t remember the last time I felt like that
No Sunday scaries when you worked hard to bring in multiple streams of income and get to stay home with your babies all week.
⚡️ NEWS FLASH ⚡️ I’m not special and YOU can do this too.
If you continue putting it off because you are worried about how long it will take or that it won’t work at all… then you’re right, it won’t.
But you know what? It may not take as long as you think if you put your head down and work hard.
The hardest step is the first one. You have to give yourself permission to start & try something new. 🤎 Can it be hard to balance everything? Absolutely. But if I know one thing to be true it’s that busy people get the most done because they know how to work efficiently.
And honesty moment – I love my girls but having things that are just for ME that ultimately create a better life for THEM has been a literal dream come true.
😍 There are so many ways to make money online. What I find to be the most enjoyable and the most lucrative is network marketing. It’s truly a #naptimehustle for me and generates WAY more than affiliate marketing. It’s amazing that there is no ceiling on the income I earn and it’s so rewarding helping other people feel better, healthier, and more confident.
If you’d like to learn about how I make multiple streams of income from home, comment READY and I’ll send you everything you need to know (no commitment). ❤️
I’m an open book and love sharing what has completely changed my family’s lives and allowed me to walk away from my teaching career and stay home with my kids.
This oceanic wonder has been making waves in the health and wellness community for its impressive array of benefits. From solving common health issues to boosting overall well-being, incorporating this into your daily routine can lead to transformative results.
Digestive Health: rich in prebiotic fibers, which act as fuel for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. By promoting a healthy gut microbiome, it can alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
Immune Support: Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron, it helps strengthen the immune system. Regular consumption can boost your body’s defenses against common illnesses and infections.
Thyroid Function: it is a natural source of iodine, a mineral crucial for thyroid health. By supporting optimal thyroid function, it can help regulate metabolism, energy levels, and hormone balance.
Skin Health: When consumed internally, it nourishes the skin from within, promoting a clear, radiant complexion and helping to alleviate conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Weight Management: Thanks to its high fiber content, it helps promote feelings of fullness and satiety, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, it supports metabolic function, aiding in fat metabolism and energy production.
Detoxification: it acts as a gentle detoxifier, helping to remove heavy metals and toxins from the body. By supporting liver function and promoting regular bowel movements, it aids in the elimination of waste and impurities.
Is this something you would like to add to your daily regimen?
For more content like this and/or to reach out to chat more about this specific product or anything I else I have to offer to help you feel your best, hop over to my wellness community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean
I’m running a de-stress challenge during the entire month of April over in my wellness community. I think today’s is super powerful and wanted to share it over here.
Today, we’re stepping away from the screens and reclaiming our time for what truly matters. It’s Day 8 of our challenge, and your task is to have a digital detox day—limit your screen time to only essential tasks.
In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, and social media updates, taking a break from our screens can be incredibly refreshing and rejuvenating. By disconnecting from the digital noise, we create space for deeper connections, meaningful experiences, and inner peace.
So today, let’s prioritize real-life interactions, engage in activities that nourish our souls, and savor moments of quietude and reflection. Whether you spend time outdoors, enjoy a leisurely meal with loved ones, or dive into a favorite hobby, let today be a reminder of the beauty and richness of the offline world.
Remember, it’s okay to unplug and recharge. Your well-being is worth it.
I have always struggled with sleep. So, I’ve tried A LOT of safe sleep aid products.
I have a really hard time turning my brain off at night so it takes me a LONG time to fall asleep. I’m also a light sleeper, so little things wake me, and then I have trouble falling back asleep. I’ve been learning about the importance of sleep lately and the effects sleep deprivation have on your daily life and it’s pretty scary. The more “sleep debt” you have, the less executive function you have during the day. This means it’s harder to make decisions, think, and function as a human… Lack of sleep can even increase your risk of dying earlier than those who get enough sleep. Sleep is truly not something to be taken lightly. But, neither are the long term side effects of Melatonin. Despite my very serious sleep struggles, I would not touch melatonin. So, what are some safe alternatives? I’m glad you asked!
What I’ve used for the kids and/or myself:
Lavender Essential Oil – rolled on bottom of feet and/or back of neck
Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – dropped in mouth
Earthley’s Goodnight Lotion – rubbed on tummy and legs
Organic Tart Cherry Juice – consumed during the day
Epsom Salt baths before bed – in bath
Green Compass Sleep Boost – taken orally
Green Compass Sleep Jellies – consumed before bed (would recommend for age 2+ starting with 1/4 jelly)
Green Compass Full Spectrum Nano Jellies – consumed before bed (would recommend for age 5+ starting with 1/4 jelly)
My thoughts/experiences:
Lavender oil used on Willow – Noticed no improvement
Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Helps me fall and stay asleep a little bit. Helps Adeline fall and stay asleep as far as I can tell.
Eathley’s Goodnight Lotion – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Adeline loves it. Does nothing for me.
Organic Tart Cherry Juice – Noticed no improvement for Willow.
Epsom Salt baths before bed – Noticed no improvement for sleeping but does help calm both kids and make bedtime routine easier.
Green Compass Sleep Boost – Helps me fall and stay asleep more than the Earthly tincture but not as well as the jellies.
Green Compass Sleep Jellies – These work amazingly. They are my favorite thing I’ve used for myself. These help me sleep the best of anything I’ve tried. I fall asleep faster and stay asleep ALL NIGHT!
Green Compass Full Spectrum Nano Jellies – These also work amazingly. They knock me out really fast and put me into a DEEP sleep. If you want a really good, restorative deep sleep, these are for you.
Links (it means the world to my family when you use my links to shop!):
I’ve seen so many desperate mommas lately looking for help with either their sleep or their kids’ sleep. Anyone who knows me personally knows my 16 month old Willow has struggled with sleep since she was born. I also have never been a good sleeper with my biggest issue being falling asleep. Because of this, I’ve tried A LOT of safe sleep aid products for myself and Willow.
What I’ve used for the girls and/or myself:
Lavender Essential Oil – rolled on bottom of feet
Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – dropped in mouth
Earthley’s Goodnight Lotion – rubbed on tummy and legs
Organic Tart Cherry Juice – consumed during the day
Epsom Salt baths before bed – in bath
Green Compass Sleep Boost – in belly button
Green Compass Sleep Jellies – consumed before bed (would recommend for age 3+ starting with 1/4 jelly)
My thoughts/experiences:
Lavender oil used on Willow & myself – Noticed no improvement
Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Helps me fall and stay asleep but not the best thing I’ve tried. Helps Adeline fall and stay asleep.
Eathley’s Goodnight Lotion – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Adeline loves it for her growing pains.
Organic Tart Cherry Juice – Noticed no improvement for Willow.
Epsom Salt baths before bed – Noticed no improvement for sleeping but does help calm both kids and make bedtime routine a little easier.
Green Compass Sleep Boost – The FIRST thing that has genuinely improved Willow’s sleep. Since starting it she went from waking 4-5 times a night to 1-2 and sleeping 2-3 hour stretches to over 6! All the hallelujah hands for this one
Green Compass Sleep Jellies – Only tried myself so far and they work amazingly. These help me fall and stay asleep the best of anything I’ve tried.
Links (it means the world to my family when you use my links to shop!):
Let me know if you try any of these and how they work for you! And for more content like this, make sure you’re in my wellness community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean/
Hydroquinone is a topical skin-lightening agent commonly used to treat skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation, melasma, and certain types of dark spots. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.
A nutrition company known for being clean and toxin free recently posted “Must have skincare ingredients” which is interesting because they don’t carry skincare and after seeing this post it’s clear that skincare is not in their wheelhouse. Which is fine, but maybe don’t share must have ingredients because one they shared, Hydroquinone, is very toxic…
A couple of benefits of Hydroquinone are:
Effective Skin Lightening: Hydroquinone is considered one of the most effective ingredients for lightening dark spots and evening out skin tone.
Treatment of Melasma: Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark patches on the face. Hydroquinone is often prescribed to help fade these patches.
But… are the benefits worth the risks?
For me, it’s a hard no.
Check out this chart that compares Hydroquinone with Crunchi’s Brightening Complex Technology and let me know your thoughts below!
A lot of people are taking vacations right now and while it’s harder to maintain a healthy and low tox lifestyle while away from home, it’s not impossible. Having a toxin-free summer vacation is a great way to prioritize your health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
Choose a Natural Destination: Opt for vacation spots that are known for their natural beauty, such as national parks, forests, or beaches with clean water. Avoid areas with heavy pollution or known environmental hazards.
Research Accommodations: Look for accommodations that promote sustainability and use eco-friendly practices. Check if they have non-toxic cleaning products, organic bedding, and natural ventilation systems.
Pack Your Own Toxin-Free Products: Bring your own toiletries and personal care products that are free from harmful chemicals. Look for organic, natural, and biodegradable alternatives for items like sunscreen, insect repellent, shampoo, and soap. I will link some of my faves at the bottom of this post 🙂
Stay Hydrated with Clean Water: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered or purified water to avoid consuming water from potentially contaminated sources. This helps reduce your exposure to toxins and minimizes plastic waste. You can also get filtration water bottles, I will link one below.
Eat Organic and Local Foods: Seek out local farmers’ markets or organic food stores to buy fresh produce and ingredients for your meals. Choose organic options to reduce your exposure to pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). I’ll be heading to Florida next week and my roomies and I will be making a Publix run when we get in to stock up on healthy foods to have in our hotel room.
Avoid Fast Food and Processed Snacks: Steer clear of fast food chains and heavily processed snacks, as they often contain artificial additives, preservatives, and unhealthy trans fats. Opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruits, nuts, or homemade snacks. I love eating out on trips but I always try to find the healthiest options and avoid fast food at all costs.
Embrace Natural Sun Protection: Shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs. Use a non-toxic mineral-based sunscreen (linked below) and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Choose Non-Toxic Activities: Engage in outdoor activities that don’t involve exposure to harmful substances. Instead of renting motorized watercraft, try kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking. Avoid activities like smoking or being in proximity to secondhand smoke.
Minimize Plastic Waste: Reduce your use of single-use plastics by bringing your own reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and food containers. Dispose of any waste responsibly and recycle whenever possible.
Connect with Nature: Spend quality time in nature by hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Research shows that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being.
Remember, the key is to make conscious choices that prioritize your health and the environment. By implementing these tips, you can have a toxin-free and eco-friendly summer vacation without skimping on the fun!
Mama to 2 girls, soon to be wife, a little hippie, a little witchy, a little girly + your whole body wellness bestie 🫶
⬇️ A little about me ⬇️ I always wanted to be a girl mama & I love it! My oldest goes to a forest school a couple of days a week and I homeschool the rest. I was born and raised in upstate NY. We lived in Arizona for a few years & loved it there but moved back while I was pregnant with my oldest. The health and happiness of my family is one of the most important things to me.
I grew up completely “normal” I ate fast food and microwave dinners, drank juice and soda 😵💫 Cleaning products and personal care products were from normal drugstores, Target, Bath and Body Works, etc.
I was sick. All. The. Time. I was on antibiotics constantly. I’m talking every month just about. I had my tonsils removed, I had mono, I was on an inhaler and couldn’t run or cheer without it. I saw several doctors for stomach issues and nobody seemed to have any answers. Anxiety and stress were running rampant through me in highschool. I had no answers. In fact it was treated as if it was normal to live and feel this way. The answer was always just more medications.
I really didn’t even think to question anything until I unexpectedly got pregnant with my oldest daughter in 2018. As most mothers do, all I wanted was my child to be healthy. My parents had raised me in alignment with all the public health recommendations and based on what was “normal” in our society. It is NORMAL to be unwell…
I knew there had to be a different way.
I’ve spent the last 5 years learning everything I can about health. I’m still not perfect but my eyes are open and I work to grow and improve everyday. I rarely get sick. I do not go to the doctors. I am a runner and I don’t need an inhaler. It literally amazes me how much has changed 🤯 I attribute this change so much to eliminating toxic personal care and cleaning products. This is why I’m so passionate about helping others make safe swaps in their own lives and homes.
Right as I was starting to make changes in my life, while I was pregnant, everything else was changing too. We had just moved across the country back to NY. We were staying with my parents, I was leaving my teaching career and planning to be a stay at home mom for a bit. We needed some side income to supplement Chris’ salary now that I wouldn’t be teaching. And I needed a purpose and community since I was about to be isolated at home with a baby as a new first time mom.
Someone I had known for years called me to tell me about a company called Crunchi she had partnered with and asked if she could send me some samples. I was skeptical at first but willing to try with an open mind. I looked into the brand and the ingredients, sourcing, manufacturing, packaging, etc was all 🔥 Then I tried it… and I knew I had hit the jackpot 😍
I wore the foundation for a day and became a customer for life. Every foundation I had ever tried looked either cakey or melted off my face. Finding clean makeup that performed was something I had been struggling with. I talked to my friend about the company, I talked to my fiance, and even though I had tried direct sales previously without a ton of success I saw how different his company was. I was the insane potential. I saw the mission and the class with sharing. I saw how they are education first and heart forward. Plus I was fired up from learning about how our personal care products are poisoning us and I felt pulled to share this knowledge with other women.
It wasn’t a hard decision to sign up. We needed the income, I loved the products, and I was passionate about the clean beauty message. I quickly realized Crunchi checked all the boxes for what I needed in my life and some I didn’t even know I needed. I had a very small circle of friends, a very small family, a very small social media following. But I just started sharing with everyone I could because I knew the information was valuable & life changing.
I’m no direct sales millionaire. But I share what I love everyday and I have fun doing it. I’ve been able to fully fund my daughter’s forest school, organic groceries for my family, pay off my jeep, and more. This “side income” has made a world of difference for my family and allowed us to live in a way we’d never be able to without it.
Crunchi has been a big part of my journey, especially on social media + I feel so honored to mentor so many women who are not only helping others to reduce their burden, but they’re building income streams for their families too 😍
⬇️ A few things I love about being part of the clean beauty movement ⬇️
Start earning on your first dollar sold
Extremely generous compensation plan with unlimited earning potential
20% discount on all your personal orders
No auto-ship or monthly order requirements
Helping other women detox their skincare & beauty routines
Like-minded community
Exclusive team resources & support
If you’re interested in learning what a partnership with Crunchi could look like in your life, let’s chat!!
You can most easily reach me here -> M.me/Jessie.rae.31 or at derico.jessica@gmail.com
*save an additional 20% when you enroll this month*
https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/cart/102084
For me, it’s a hard no.
Raising Clean 