Crunchy Choices: Our Journey to Healthier Choices

Hey there, fellow journeyers! Today, we're diving into something close to our hearts – our gradual shift towards a "crunchy" lifestyle. Now, before you imagine us turning into kale-munching, tree-hugging stereotypes (not that there's anything wrong with that!), let's talk about what "crunchy" really means for us. It's about making conscious, healthier choices, one small step at a time.

The Start of Our Crunchy Adventure

Our journey began with a simple realization about the chemicals in our everyday lives, particularly in food. Remember Red 40? That food dye was our wake-up call. Observing behavioral changes in kids and learning about the potential effects of certain additives made us rethink our choices.

But let's be clear: we haven't banned all chemicals. Dr. Pepper, we’re looking at you – you’re safe with us!

The Shift in Our Daily Habits

Our transformation isn't just about what we eat; it's also about what we use. From making our own laundry soap to ditching commercial shampoos, we’re all about reducing our exposure to unnecessary chemicals. Sure, our homemade products might not have the fanciest packaging, but they're effective and kinder to our bodies.

Food: Back to Basics

We've become big fans of Aldi's due to their commitment to avoiding certain additives. This doesn't mean we've given up on treats (hey, life’s too short!), but we're more mindful about what we put into our shopping carts.

Homemade Is the New Gourmet

We're also getting hands-on in the kitchen. Why buy frozen breakfast sandwiches when you can whip up a batch using just a handful of ingredients? Yes, it takes more time, but it’s healthier and, let's be honest, pretty satisfying.

It’s Not Just About Food

This lifestyle isn’t just about food; it extends to other areas too. For instance, we've become pretty savvy with essential oils, using them for everything from health remedies to household cleaners. The power of natural scents in influencing our wellbeing has been a revelation.

Bath Time: A Herbal Haven

One of our favorite discoveries is the power of a good bath, and herbs play a huge role in this. We recommend planting some herbs like peppermint, rosemary, basil, oregano, and lemongrass, not just for culinary use but also for bathtime. Here’s why:

• Peppermint: Great for soothing sore muscles and promoting relaxation.

• Rosemary: Known for its ability to enhance memory and concentration.

• Basil: A calming herb that can help reduce stress and skin irritation.

• Oregano: Offers antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a powerful herb for overall wellness.

• Lemongrass: Its citrusy scent is perfect for uplifting moods and its antimicrobial properties are great for skin health.

The Ultimate Crunchy Bath Time Recipe

Have you ever thought of bath time as a rejuvenating ritual rather than just a part of your daily routine? With our basic crunchy bath time recipe, you'll transform your bath into a haven of healing and relaxation. This isn't just a bath; it's a wellness experience crafted from simple, natural ingredients. Let's dive into what makes each ingredient special and how they come together to create magic.

Ingredients and Their Benefits:

1. Epsom Salt (1 Cup): Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a miracle worker for relaxation. It's known for soothing muscle aches, easing stress, and even helping to promote sleep. The magnesium in Epsom salt gets absorbed through the skin, making it a fantastic way to replenish this crucial mineral.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide (1/4 Cup): This household staple is a game-changer in baths. It's renowned for its detoxifying properties. When added to your bath, it can help to cleanse your skin and rejuvenate your body at a cellular level.

3. Borax (1/8 Cup): Often overlooked, borax is a natural mineral that can soften water and aid in detoxification. It’s also believed to help with absorption of the other minerals in the bath, enhancing their benefits.

4. Baking Soda (1/8 Cup): Baking soda helps to neutralize the chlorine in tap water and promotes a more alkaline bath environment, which is beneficial for your skin. It’s also a gentle cleanser and can help soothe irritated skin.

5. Magnesium Flakes (1/2 Cup): Similar to Epsom salt, magnesium flakes are a rich source of magnesium, which is vital for numerous bodily functions. They are particularly effective in reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

6. Magnesium Supplement Drops (4 Drops): Adding these drops boosts the magnesium content of your bath, further aiding in relaxation and muscle recovery.

Crafting Your Bath:

To create this bath, start by filling your tub with warm water. As it fills, slowly add each of the ingredients, stirring gently to ensure they dissolve and distribute evenly. Once the bath is ready, step in and let yourself relax for at least 20 minutes. This allows your body to absorb the minerals and enjoy the full benefits of this therapeutic blend.

The Experience:

As you soak, you might notice a sense of calm washing over you. The combination of these natural ingredients works to detoxify your body, ease any muscle tension, and promote a state of deep relaxation. It's more than just a bath; it's a sanctuary where you can unwind, reflect, and emerge feeling refreshed and revitalized.

After the Bath:

After soaking, gently pat yourself dry and, if you like, apply a natural moisturizer to lock in the hydration. Drink plenty of water as well to rehydrate and help continue the detoxification process.

Tailoring to Your Needs:

Feel free to adjust the quantities or ingredients to suit your personal preferences or specific needs. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility – you can modify it to create your perfect bath experience.

What About the Kids?

We're mindful about our kids’ exposure to chemicals too. From the food they eat to the soaps they use, we try to keep it as natural as possible. And yes, this includes finding creative, natural solutions for those pesky childhood ailments.

It's a Personal Journey

Remember, going "crunchy" isn’t about following a strict set of rules. It's a personal journey. What works for us might not work for you, and that's okay. It's all about making choices that feel right for your lifestyle and your family.

Embrace Your Version of Crunchy

We encourage you to explore what being “crunchy” means to you. Start small – maybe swap one processed item in your pantry for something more natural, or try making a homemade cleaner. It's all about taking those first steps towards a lifestyle that feels healthier, more sustainable, and ultimately, more rewarding.

So, are you ready to embrace a little bit of crunchiness in your life? Trust us, it’s not just about healthier choices; it’s about feeling good in your skin and about your impact on this lovely planet of ours. Let’s crunch on this journey together!