Stay Sane this Holiday with Mindful Practices by Jamie Graber

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Caitlin Mitchell

Jamie Graber, of Organically Jamie, refers to herself as a “mindshifter.” She helps clients discover their best selves through energy and breathwork. The goal? To break old patterns and change belief systems.  As the former owner of Gingersnaps Organic Cafe, Jamie has become something of a shapeshifter, herself after realizing that her true calling came in the form of talk therapy. “My clients and I go super deep into energy work to get to the subconscious, where all of the healing takes place,” says Jamie. “Because the subconscious is always in a state of protection, we often replay bad memories and events all from a place of fear. But we don’t have to keep replaying the pain of the past. We can visit these events and thank them for lessons and move on.” And how exactly do her clients move on? Through movement and meditation, which Jamie believes is a tool to get us into the quiet long enough to see the signs to achieve the life we want and break old habits. “With meditation, our lives can come from a place of ease and grace instead of reaction,” she says.

So this holiday season, amidst the family chaos - when kids are up past bedtimes and you’ve had that third piece of pie - channel your inner mindshifter with these movement tools, straight from Jamie’s toolkit. A little self-care and self-love this holiday will go a long way.

The One Minute Breath

Jamie - "The one minute breath is one of the easiest ways to create a state of calm.  This meditation can quickly ease your mind, eliminating fear and worry.  It helps you to get deeper in the body and in the present moment. You can do this in the morning, evening, or anytime you feel stressed.

One Minute Breath = 1 cycle per minute. 20 seconds to inhale, 20 seconds hold, 20 seconds to exhale.  This is the ideal version but do what you can, 10,10,10 or 5, 5, 5…Just keep it even and work up to the longer cycles…Be calm with the breath, don’t force it."

What you’ll hear: "The audio file will include tuning in, a three minute basic spine series warm up and then 11 minutes of one minute breath.  You can continue with it longer, up through 31 minutes. There will be music and I will be calling out all the cues and when to switch.  It starts with TUNING IN and then the WARM UP.  “Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo” said three times. It means, I bow to the Creative Wisdom, I bow to the Divine Teacher within. Ad Guray Nameh Jugad Guray Nameh Sat Guray Nameh Siri Guru Devay Nameh said three times. I bow to the primal wisdom. I bow to the wisdom through the ages. I bow to the true wisdom.I bow to the great unseen wisdom."

Warm Up-Basic Spine

1. Then a 3 minute WARM UP of Basic Spine Flex. Come into Easy Pose (a comfortable cross-legged sitting position). Inhale as you lift the chest up high and tilt the pelvis forward. Then exhale, round the lower back, and rock the pelvis back. Remember to lift the chest up high on each inhale and keep the chin level to the ground in both positions. Continue for 3 minutes.
2. This is good to lubricate the spine, and move the energy.  It adjusts the spine, strengthens the nervous and reproductive systems, and brings the emotions into balance. It is not part of the meditation, but beneficial to warm up the spine.

One Minute Breath

1. Sit in Easy Pose with Neck Lock. 
   • Neck Lock: Lift the chest and sternum up while lengthening the back of the neck, by pulling the chin toward the back of the neck. Neck, throat and face muscles remain relaxed.
2. Inhale very slowly for 20 OR 10 OR 5 seconds.
3. Hold for 20 OR 10 OR 5 seconds, pull the spine up, drop the shoulders.
4. Exhale very slowly for 20 OR 10 OR 5  seconds.
5. Continue in that pattern. Just keep the numbers for each part of the breath the same.

Adapted from The Library of Teachings and KRI Teachers Manual.

Ego Eradicator

Jamie - "This is a great way to start your day or to give you more energy. It fires the navel chakra, the chakra for digestion and overcoming obstacles. It opens your aura and extends your magnetic field. "

Posture - Raise the arms up to a 60 degree angle. Keep the elbows straight and the shoulders down. Apply Neck Lock (Lift the chest and sternum up while lengthening the back of the neck, by pulling the chin toward the back of the neck. Neck, throat and face muscles remain relaxed.) Curl the fingertips on to the pads of the palms at the base of the fingers. Thumbs are stretched back, pointing towards each other.
 

Eyes - Eyes are closed.

Mental Focus - Focus above the head.

Breath - Breath of Fire
Breath of Fire is one of the foundational breath techniques used in the practice of Kundalini Yoga. It is important to master this breath so that it is done accurately and becomes automatic. Breath of Fire is rapid, rhythmic, and continuous. It is equal on the inhale and the exhale, with no pause between them (approximately 2-3 cycles per second). It is always practiced through the nostrils with the mouth closed, unless stated otherwise. To inhale, the upper abdominal muscles relax, the diaphragm extends down, and the breath seems to come in as part of relaxation rather than through effort. The chest stays relaxed and slightly lifted throughout the breathing cycle.

Time - Continue for 1 – 11 minutes.

To end - Inhale deeply and bring the arms overhead with the thumbtips touching. Open the fingers, exhale and relax the arms down. 

Adapted from 3HO and Library of teachings

Kriya for Healthy Digestion

What You’ll Hear -  "On the audio file, there will be music and I will be calling out all the cues and when to switch.  It starts with TUNING IN and then the WARM UP.  “Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo” said three times. It means, I bow to the Creative Wisdom, I bow to the Divine Teacher within. Ad Guray Nameh Jugad Guray Nameh Sat Guray Nameh Siri Guru Devay Nameh said three times. I bow to the primal wisdom. I bow to the wisdom through the ages. I bow to the true wisdom.I bow to the great unseen wisdom."

Warm Up -  "Then a 3 minute WARM UP of basic spine series going as fast as you can.  This is good to lubricate the spine, and move the energy.  It adjusts the spine, strengthens the nervous and reproductive systems, and brings the emotions into balance. It also helps to move energy up the spine to the upper Chakras to enhance meditation. It is one of the most common things to do during morning meditation, to wake up your spine and your Kundalini energy, for vitality all day long."

Beginning Windmill Pose

1. Stand with feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart.
2. Bring the arms straight out to the sides parallel to ground, palms down.
3. Twist to the left and then bend forward from the waist, bringing the right hand to the left foot and the left arm straight up in back.
4. Reverse the motion as you come up.
5. Continue moving up and down in a rhythm of about 10 seconds per cycle. (1 minute)
6. Now switch to the right side and continue moving up and down in a rhythm of about 10 seconds per cycle. (1 minute)
7. Continue the same motion but alternating left right and pausing for 5 seconds as the hand touches the foot. (3 minutes)
8. Continue the same alternating motion, but pause for 25 seconds as the hand touches each foot. (2 minutes)
9. Now hold position touching the foot on left side. (2 minutes)
10. Now hold position touching the foot on right side. (2 minutes)

Relaxation

Lying down, eyes closed 2 minutes.

Side Bends

1. Come standing up, with legs hip width apart, arms parallel to floor and palms down.
2. Bend to the side from the waist, letting the left arm come down the left side as the right arm comes up. Keep the right arm straight.
3. Come back to original position.
4. Then stretch down to the right side and return to original position.
5. 6 seconds per side. (1 Minute)

Standing Torso Twist

1. Start in the position of the previous exercise.
2. Inhale as you twist the torso and arms all the way to the left, exhale back to original position, then inhale as you twist on around to the right and exhale back to the center always keeping the arms in a straight line with each other. 2 to 3 seconds per complete cycle.(1 minute)

Deep Relaxation

Lying on the back, eyes closed, about 10 minutes.

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Organically Jamie

Have a Mindful Holiday

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Caitlin Mitchell

Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, our lives are basically a cluster-you-know-what of holiday events - with what feels like 20 different dinners, lunches, brunches and drinks in a given week. We know that holiday dining (and drinking) every day and night wreaks havoc on our skin, body and mood. And it’s even more intense for our kids, whose stockings become stuffed with cookies, chocolates and treats. So we checked in with life coach Jamie Graber, who shares her tips on how to survive the most festive  time of year and avoid falling into a destructive cycle that will have you feeling like holiday roadkill come January 1. Her advice below...

1. Jamie, please help us! How can we keep the holidays healthy for kids and parents alike?

One thing I advise for most people and myself is the “crowding out” theory. We don’t have to tell ourselves that we won’t have this or that. But we should make sure we’re filling up with healthy things, like vegetables and salad. So by the time the dessert rolls around, which is often a place where destruction can happen, we’re already full. So when you do have dessert, it’s small but that’s enough. Some people will fast until the big meal and then you get ravenous and you end up eating all the stuff. Eat throughout the day. Crowd in all the healthy food. It sets you up to have a taste. And you should have a taste! Enjoy it. It’s a holiday. It’s a beautiful time to be with family and enjoying connection. You don’t want to be in place where you’re saying no and associating food with the bad. So allow for it and allow for it mildly. And drink water. So again you’re filling up.
 

2. Totally makes total sense. Can you share any hacks to avoid falling victim to every treat that crosses our path?

Water and filling up with healthy stuff. I also highly recommend meditating and working out over the holidays. The mindset to how you start the day snowballs and builds momentum. The better you care for your body, the less likely you’ll be to throw trash in it. Your body is a temple. Be more connected and have more understanding of what enjoyment feels without shaming it. Eat something if it will make you feel good. And move your body or meditate. There is something about taking care of the physical body in the mind and starting the day off in a good way.

3. Let’s talk post-holiday. What are some tips you can impart on getting back into normal habits and routines after the holiday, for mamas AND kids?

Often what happens is these habits snowball. They say the largest amount of weight gain happens from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. And it doesn’t have to be like that. There are ways to recognize. So if I go heavier today, I’ll go lighter tomorrow. For example, today was Thanksgiving and I had all the things and I enjoyed them. Tomorrow I will be a bit cleaner. Personally,  I’ll do liquids for the next day until dinner so I don’t start the rollercoaster. If I can catch myself quickly, I won’t go down the rabbit hole. So the day after Thanksgiving or Christmas, I’ll make sure I do all liquids until dinner and stay plant-based for that day. So you’re helping your body as much as possible. Your body is tired from digesting. So give your body more energy. Drink smoothies, enjoy some soups, and be plant-based at night. And go back to your normal ways the next day.

4. Talk to us about boozing during the holiday. Any hard and fast rules for managing intake?

As long as you have a healthy relationship with alcohol, by all means enjoy! Clear liquids and mixers are best. Part of what happens is that sugar makes a hangover worse. Any clear is better. Have vodka with lemon juice or sparkling soda. Wine is clean and simple too. Just be mindful. Have a glass and then a glass of water. Pace yourself. Or add sparkling water to make wine lighter. So one drink is split into two drinks. And before bed, drink tons of water. Also add minerals to your water when you go to bed and make sure you’re taking probiotics, especially during the holidays. They will be your friend. 

I live by Probiotics and Magnesium. They are important for healthy gut and digestion.  They help to restore and regulate healthy bacteria in the gut.  I love Prescript Assist  because it is shelf stable and powerful.  I take it every morning, on an empty stomach. Magnesium helps to calm the nervous system and it helps with sleep and digestion.  For people who have problems with regularity, this is a great non-habit forming addition to the night time routines. It is calming for the body, and helps with allowing it to release.

5. Got it , these are already in our cart. Lastly, for those of us with packed schedules, how can we best treat food/alcohol/sugar hangovers when we have back-to-back events?

Do some meditation in the morning. It sets you up for success and a good day so you can feel good about yourself. When we feel good about ourselves, we’re not as inclined to make decisions to make us feel badly. Enjoy the cake. But don’t eat the entire cake. And all you need is three bites. The first bite is confusion. The second bite, your mind figures it out. By the third bite, you’re bored. Think of all the things went into making it - the farmers, the cooks. Everyone. Enjoy it and savor it. If you do have a bad one night, go liquid the next day until dinner. Have smoothies and savory soups. There is great oil and fat in them. Get back in the body. It’s not about a six day cleanse because that starts to cycle into binge and restriction. It’s about letting the body rest and digest. 

Check out the recipe for Jamie’s favorite evening healing tonic that you can sip on after a long day-to-night holiday hustle... 

A great adaptogen tonic for relaxation

• 10-12 oz of warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon Reishi
• 1/2 teaspoon Ashwagandha 
• 1/2 - 1 teaspoon Love Butter
• 1/2 teaspoon of Cinnamon 
• 1/2 teaspoon of Coconut Butter (or swap for Coconut Oil or Ghee)
• 1/2 teaspoon Manuka Honey (optional)

Put the warm liquid in first. It should be tea temperature. Warm to the touch, not scolding. Blend. 
 

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Teen KWEEN

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Jaimie Baird

Sophie Kos NEVER seizes to amaze us. When we were 18, we were conference-calling our friends, hangin' out and babysitting for some extra cash. What we were not doing was leading other teens through a kickass workout practice that provides a safe space to let out everything we are dealing with in our personal lives. We’ve claimed our love and obsession with The Class By Taryn Toomey, but now that Sophie is an official instructor, we are so excited to share her journey getting there...we interviewed Sophie back when she was teaching yoga as her full-time profession, so now that she is working her magic at The Class by  Taryn Toomey, we had to get the scoop. We are so inspired by Sophie and the choices she has made in her life. At 18 she could set an example for all women, way beyond her years as how to live our best lives and listen to our truths, wherever they guide us. Our interview with this teenage rockstar, below.

Can you describe your personal evolution from yoga to The Class by Taryn Toomey and was there a "trigger moment" where you knew you wanted to make the switch?

I have been practicing yoga for many years and continue to practice now. I have always loved and connected with the practice, but yoga started to feel a bit stagnant for me. I had a lot of fire and drive in me that I needed to let out in a bigger way.  I needed to find another practice where I could get that adrenaline rush and allow my body to move the way it wanted and needed to. The Class was and is the perfect fit for me.
 

For us too! For all the reasons you mention. Can you share what you learned about yourself through The Class by Taryn Toomey, and how it has benefitted some of your childhood learning struggles?

I have learned that I am a lot stronger than I thought. When I first began to take class, it was very difficult for me - not necessarily on a physical stamina level. The struggle I felt was more about moving my body in a bigger way energetically and staying steady within discomfort. I felt this in the past when I was struggling in school with learning and body challenges. Movement has really become my medicine. Reading and writing still do not come easily for me and movement is the only way I can express myself.
 

What have you learned from Taryn and what are the ways she inspires you?

Taryn has taught me so much about teaching but I also learn and am inspired by her everytime I go to her class, which I try to do at least twice a week. I am inspired by the way she started this method on her own and has grown it into this amazing life changing experience. I am inspired by everything she says when she teaches and how she draws from a real, raw place and speaks to things that are going on in her life. Her ability to be so connected to the room. Also she is always so real, there is nothing phony about her and I really appreciate and admire that.

Yes. Absolutely and it totally comes through. As busy mamas, we love The Class, but can you explain why it's especially beneficial for teens?

Being a teen is not an easy thing. With hormones raging and stress with school, body image, peer pressure, anxiety, all of it! I know because I am going through it now and The Class is literally the thing I come to when any of the above things are being triggered. The Class is a safe space for anyone, of any age to come and get into their bodies and do anything they need. It is a completely judgement-free zone and I think that is such a special thing, especially for teenagers to have. We are told all day in school and in life what we should and shouldn’t do. To have the space to release in lass is such a special and important thing.

We LOVE THAT. How do you think, as a teenager, you can impart a unique perspective or tone in your specific classes?

Even though I am only 18, I have gone through a lot and I speak from those experiences, As a teen, I have a different, fresh perspective on life and my speak in classes comes from that raw, honest place.

How do you think you've benefited from joining this community at such a young age?

Being able to join The Class by Taryn Toomey community at my age has been so incredible. I am surrounded by strong, powerful, loving women and have learned so much from everyone already. It is truly a blessing.

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On Beauty

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Caitlin Mictchell

After a 24 year career in fashion magazines, Larissa Thomson knew it was time for a change. She didn’t know what exactly, but while  shopping and researching natural beauty products online one night, it hit her. The idea, the space, the feeling, the aesthetic. And thus ONDA Beauty was born. Along with partner Sarah Bryden-Brown, the pair created an all natural beauty oasis in the middle of Tribeca, where chicsters, mothers and friends like Naomi Watts (who recently came on as a partner), could peruse their 83-product assortment of clean skincare brands like Joanna Vargas, Grown Alchemist, MD Solar Sciences and One Love Organics. More so, ONDA Beauty will offer treatments, facials (starting with Angela Caglia who will fly in from LA 4 days a month), Reiki healing sessions with Mark Connolly and positive vibe-inducing programming with the idea of all natural wellness in mind. Since we are all about self-care and making each aspect of our life healthier, more holistic and better, we had to sit down with Larissa to talk the shop, her inspiration and why her son is her number one supporter.

1. So we are beyond obsessed with ONDA Beauty. It’s one of our favorite beauty go-tos and could spend all day there! Tell us, what is the philosophy behind it and what makes it unique in the beauty space?

Our philosophy is that you come on the journey I started three years ago by learning more about and then switching to clean beauty. The beauty industry is largely based on fear. Fear of growing older, fear of not looking your best, fear of what others think of you — it’s all driven by fear. Natural beauty to me is the opposite. It’s about the experience, the ritual of carving out time for yourself to nourish and feed your body with natural ingredients that will bring out the best version of you. The key word being you — not trying to be someone else. We want to help women find their best selves and educate them along the way.

2. How do you select the labels or products for the shop? Is it all science-based? Branding? Emotion?

It's a little bit of all of that. A brand has to resonate with us on multiple levels and a portion of it is intuitive. Generally I find that most founders have a unique and fascinating story and that is usually the thing that gets us first. Why are they doing what they're doing and how are they doing it. After that, does it do what it claims to do? Is the scent appealing? The texture? And lastly we do take the package design into account. The design of a product has the power to attract someone and most people want to visually enjoy whats sitting on their bathroom shelf.

3. That is totally true. We are suckers for great packaging in addition to fantastic ingredients and results. So why do you think more and more women are playing in the organic, all natural space than perhaps five years ago?

I think it’s a natural evolution that was bound to happen. First came eating healthy, organic and local, then using green cleaning products in the home. Now people are starting to become aware of what they are putting on their bodies and how important that is. There is a strong link to certain chemicals in personal care product and many diseases. But the word is spreading fast that your skin is your largest organ and absorbs up to 65% of what you put on it in 23 seconds. If you're feeding the inside of your body in a healthy manner to get the best results why wouldn’t you want to do the same on the outside of your body?

4. You are also a mother, how do you "balance" the shop with parenting? 

It's not easy but my son is almost 12 and has been one of my biggest supporters. Because he is at an age where he understands what I am trying to do, we can easily talk about it. Because of ONDA Beauty, he is creating healthy habits at home and is already using some of our brands. When I come home late or have to work weekends he just says, 'It’s OK, you’re starting you're own business! You've got this!’ Then we make a plan to do something fun when I have free time. It makes the time we have together that much more connected and special. My hope is that by modeling for him what it takes to start a business, which both my husband and I have done, he will see that anything is possible if you have the passion and motivation to take a chance and go for it.

5. Love that!!! How does your love for the ‘all natural’ impact your parenting style or the decisions you make at home?

My son is creating healthy personal care habits already so my hope is that it becomes a lifelong habit for him. We have always tried to keep a close connection to nature in general, whether that means having him help upstate with our garden, eating fresh, local and organic as much as possible and just generally enjoying the outdoors no matter where we are and really observing what’s happening in those moments around us. Not to mention he's already pretty savvy at reading ingredient labels at the market!
 

6. What is your therapy?

Self care - in whatever form that takes in the moment. Whether it’s meditation, spending time with family, listening to music I love or getting a massage (one of my favorites). I'm also a fan of self work and the awareness it takes to always be learning and growing. Even when it’s five steps forward three steps back. Which it is often but I love the process and I love turning around and saying wow!! I would have done that so much differently three years ago! I am actually getting somewhere!
 

7. What makes you fly?

Recognizing that there are infinite possibilities in life and that everyone is capable of manifesting their dreams. It's beautiful.

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ONDA Beauty

A Journey in the Self with Melissa Wood

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Caitlin Mitchell

We all know what it feels like to be unhappy, to not be living our best lives. Melissa Wood was familiar with that feeling 24/7. She struggled with anxiety, an eating disorder and cycstic acne and felt like she wasn’t living her truth. But unlike so many who go through life that way, Melissa found the strength to do something about it. She got real with herself and realized that she ultimately wanted to help others as she grew too. The result? Melissa Wood Health, a holistic wellness coaching program she created to bestow to the world the knowledge that helped her heal. “I just wanted to share my journey in hopes to help people dealing with the same struggles,” Melissa said. And we are so thankful she did. Here, we chat with this rockstar mama and wellness coach on her journey, life lessons and what brings her joy.

1. We are such a fan of everything you are doing in the health and wellness space. Was there one specific trigger moment you can recall in realizing your path?

I was on this beautiful trip and I felt empty. I wasn’t happy and it hit me that I wasn’t doing things in my life that fulfilled me. I spent the next weekend completely turned off: from my social life, phone calls and technology. I tuned in to myself. I made a list of everything that made me feel alive. At the end of the weekend, I read the list and saw things like, “Going rollerblading, going to yoga, eating a salad, drinking a green juice.” The next morning I enrolled at The Institute for Integrated Nutrition course to become a health coach. 

2. Amazing. Love that. How has becoming a mama impacted your views on health, fitness and food?

Becoming a mom has helped me let go of trying to control everything. It’s allowed me to realize this flow in my life that I didn’t have before. I’m more easy going now. If Benjamin wants a bite of his dads eggs, he can have a bite of his dad’s eggs. Clearly, I’m very aware of everything I put in my body, but if Benjamin wants a cupcake at a party he can have it. I want him to have childhood experiences. I will always give him a good foundation, but I want him to experience things and not feel the need to binge the second he gets to his friends house when he's older.

3. How do you extend your philosophies on self care to your family and son? How does it translate?

I live and breathe them. I truly try to lead by example and I go out of my way to make sure that if I’m doing something like making a green juice, there is enough for everyone. Then I force my husband to drink it. Just kidding... kind of.

4. Ha. Totally. So what would be your advice to mamas or women struggling to find their path towards becoming the best versions of themselves?

Most importantly, be kind to yourself. It’s challenging to just suddenly become the best version of yourself. It takes a lot of mindfulness, patience and commitment. Find your own way. My way may seem really rigid and too far left for some people. You have to see what works for you. Really show up for yourself every day. Even doing one thing that makes you happy that can keep you moving in a positive mindset throughout the day. 

5. Yes! So you must be busy helping others attain balance and mindfulness. How do you define balance and how do you maintain it? 

Balance to me is prioritizing what you really want in your life and how you want to feel. I prioritize things because I know how it feels to really feel shitty and upset with yourself. I maintain my lifestyle because I really feel my best now and it has become effortless.

6. What's your therapy?

Meditation.

7. And what are the tools you use to help you live your best life?

The three pillars that my entire business is based off - meditation, mindful eating and movement. I create the space to apply these things to my life daily. That's why I started sharing my workouts on my Fitner app channel.

““Even 10 minutes of movement can shift your entire mindset for the day.””

8.  What's the one thing you can't live without?

Love. Being loved and giving love.

9. Lastly, what makes you fly?

My daily practice. The ability to show up for myself every day. 

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Bob Roth Talks Transcendental Meditation and its Impact on Children and Families

Written by A Wild Dove

Imagine if you dedicated just 10 to 12 minutes a day to accessing your deepest, most peaceful state - a feeling of transcendence that even 12 hours of sleep couldn’t reach. Now, imagine if your kids could travel there, too. How much better off would we all be? That’s what Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation, set out to do with Transcendental Meditation over 40 years ago. 
 
As one of the most sought-after meditation teachers in the US, Bob discovered TM as a way to work through the tumult of the Vietnam War in 1960’s San Francisco. He found himself so stressed that he couldn’t sleep or remember things. When a friend suggested he learn TM, he was finally able to settle down his mind. Bob came to realize that he could use this tool for social transformation, particularly for  children in vulnerable communities. Together with award-winning director David Lynch, the pair created the David Lynch Foundation as a way to offer TM to children in at-risk areas as a tool to work through the stress of everyday life. The results? A dramatic improvement health, cognitive capabilities and educational performance. We sat down with Bob to chat TM and its effect on modern family life.

Bob, thank you so much for chatting with us. Let’s start with the obvious. What is Transcendental Meditation and how does it differ from other types of meditation?

Whenever I talk about meditation, I use an analogy of the ocean. You’re stuck on a boat in the Atlantic and you have these 30 to 40 foot waves, and you look up and think the ocean is in upheaval, but that’s just one section of the ocean where you have these waves. The ocean is over a mile deep, so the surface is turbulent and the depth is always calm. 
 
The word “Meditation” means thinking. According to science, there are three basic types - 

• Focused Attention - Is concentration in the form of meditation. You clear the mind of thoughts. You focus on one thought, every time. That type of meditation in this analogy attempts to stop the waves on the surface of the ocean to create calm motion.
• Mindfulness Approach also called Open Monitoring - You are observing the waves rise and fall. Open Monitoring teaches us presence and to be in the moment.
• Transcendental Meditation - Is self-transcending. In that approach, we don’t mind the waves on the surface of the ocean. We don’t mind any thoughts we have. We have a naturally active mind but we see the mind as a vertical dimension. There’s depth to the mind and at its deepest level, the mind is naturally and completely calm yet wide awake - that is what Transcendental Meditation seeks.

You mention that you are a “teacher” of meditation. These days, it seems like anyone with a smartphone can meditate. But how did your learning TM one-on-one affect your experience? Is there a “right” or “wrong” way to learn?

Somethings can be learned in a group or online. But for over 5,000 years, learning how to transcend is natural but it’s so subtle and tender. So forever it’s always been taught by a teacher who gives you a mantra. A mantra is a word or sound with no meaning. You learn over four days by practicing for an hour a day, not to concentrate or force anything. We push in life, we focus, which is fine for some things, but to access deepest, quietest purist level of heart, it’s a gentle effortless process. That’s why you need a teacher. Once you have completed your TM course in four days,  you practice for 20 min, 2 times a day (morning and evening) to realize the full benefits.

Can you define "transcending?"

To transcend, if you look it up is to go beyond human limitations, to break boundaries. We love transcendent moments. A new mother holding her child and time disappears, or some level of deep communication with a partner, or some moment and you slip into this universal moment of connectedness. Transcendent moments and those experiences happen rarely. The purpose, throughout time, is to go beyond the noisy, choppy, wavy mind and settle down with those quiet expanded levels. In TM you use a mantra and the teacher teaches you to use it. Kids with ADD even learn it and they sit peacefully.

We definitely want to talk more about kids. First, can you explain the scientific benefits behind TM? 

There’s a connection between the mind and body, when you’re anxious in the mind, your body is tense. The mind system can be heated up, while cooler minds prevail and create ease in the body. The mind can be heated or cool. In TM the “thinking mind” are the waves at the surface of the ocean. Are we thinking about hotter levels, or are the same thoughts in a calmer, cooler level of the mind? In TM we don’t push out thoughts. They are just there. They are not an obstacle. The whole thing is about settling down. When that happens the body gains a state of rest that’s deeper than the deepest sleep, measured by oxygen consumption and breath. If you get a good night sleep, cortisol levels drop 10 percent. 20 minutes of TM leads to cortisol dropping 30-40 percent every time. We are hard-wired to take profound rest at will.

Can you tell us how you started working in TM with kids? Can you describe how it affects families?

My interest in kids goes back to the idea of social injustice, why we are born into a community or family and don’t have equal protection under the law. It was unacceptable and when I became a TM teacher in 1972, I went back to San Francisco and taught at inner city schools and at San Quentin prison. The program was called Freedom Behind Bars, but my desire was always with kids. They are the next generation, how are they going to change the world? So it’s not just giving kids an equal opportunity to study calculus or memorize state capitals. It’s not just about education like that, but education that wakes up the brain. Social emotional learning that prepares a child to become an adult and to handle that tumult. So 12 years ago, I started talking with my friend David Lynch. Kids were coming to school, going through metal detectors, bringing in guns. It was a hotbed. So we started a foundation to bring TM to inner city kids for free. So we started the foundation 12 years ago. So we were teaching TM for free to a half million kids throughout Africa, the Middle East, South America, all over the world.

How Does TM help families?

Parents are only as happy as their least happy child. Each family has a collective conscience, where they may not say a word but you can walk in and think,  someone is not happy. 

““But when each person in a family can sit with their eyes closed and go deep within themselves when they open their eyes, it’s a transformation. That’s where the connection and the unity is.””

What is some advice to someone thinking of starting TM but feels overwhelmed at the thought or intimidated?

One thing you can do is find out more at DavidLynchFoundation.org. Watch a 20 minute video and learn about it. You can google TM.org and find out about TM centers in the area and non-profit educational organizations. The people who teach are wonderful, kind, generous people. It’s nothing to fear, just learning a technique that takes an hour a day over four days. And you can wake up and do it again in the beginning and end of the day and you enjoy your evening with family and friends and sleep better at night.

That sounds incredible. So what do you love most about TM ?

The technique. In the midst of a crazy busy day, where I’m running a 35 country foundation, at 5pm I can close the door in my office, or go meditate in a church or the backseat of a car or on an airplane. I can access a deep state of rest, deeper than sleep. I can do it for 20 minutes and come out of it refreshed and rejuvenated. I love that I don’t have to buy into anything. It’s good for anyone. I love the brain science.

What makes you fly?

Getting to have a wonderful conversation like this. I love to walk in New York City. Every block is like another country. I love the humanity. I love the people. I also love having a conversation about deep things. I love deep. I love honest. I love being authentic in relationships, in food, in culture. That’s what really makes me fly. Not just skimming the surface, but going deep with someone.
 

To Find Out About Our Upcoming Workshop With Bob Roth, Please Sign Up Below

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David Lynch Foundation

New Rituals to Create Lasting Change

Written by Erika Bloom | Photographed by Caitlin Mitchell

As mamas we are always striving to be the best versions of us AND the best parents we can be. That’s a tall order, especially when our children are having a moment or having a moment with a friend, colleague or significant other. So we enlisted Founder of Erika Bloom Pilates and Wellness Coach, Erika Bloom, in her own words, to guide us through the most challenging times and offer us the tools we can utilize in stressful situations that will help us face the day-to-day with courage, mindfulness and peace. The way we breathe, react, the rituals we cherish - whether a crystal or a workout - can help us in our weakest moments. Not to mention, our little ones will learn their own coping techniques early on in their emotional growth based on how we react to life’s curveballs. And that’s reason enough.

Take it away, Erika!

"Rituals are a tool for impacting change. Unwanted habits can be replaced with healthy practices when we cement our intention in mindful ceremony. Fall is when we create new patterns for the coming year. As you settle into your routines, try implementing rituals to change the flow of your day and the shape your life so that you can be the best mama possible. Here, I outline the most common unwanted habits and with a solution to begin focusing on the positive."

Binge Eating

If you find yourself wanting to mindlessly eat, whether late at night or when you don’t need nourishment for nutrition, instead stimulate your senses with an aromatherapy practice.

How to

Begin by choosing the scents that speak to you. I’m currently connecting with rosemary, clary sage, and geranium. Sit in a peaceful place and put a few drops of essential oil on your palms. Rub them together and then place your palms over your mouth and nose. Slowly and mindfully breathe the fragrance in. Continue through the various scents or create combinations of them until you feel centered and satisfied.

Loss Of Emotional Control

Yelling at your kids, saying less than loving things to your partner, sending petty emails at work- these are all actions we want to be rid of. They come from reacting hastily to frustration inside of ourselves. Creating a ritual that allows you to go inside and find the source of your frustration is the way to move forward, acting with peace, compassion, and love. Lashing out at others often comes from bad feelings towards ourselves. A compassionate self-care practice is the answer.
 

How to

Choose something lovely to do for yourself. Dry brushing, face masks, self massage with healing oils, or giving yourself a foot rub are all beautiful choices. Before you begin your practice, take a moment to express self-love. I value the mantra from Fritz Smith of saying ‘I hold myself in the highest regard. I hold those around me in the highest regard.’ Then mindfully practice your self-care with this intention in your mind. Make it a daily practice. This will place you in a mindset to react with love.

Coffee And Sugar Addiction

Stimulants give us false energy. Overuse exhausts our adrenals and disrupts sleep, creating a cycle of need and leaving us never feeling truly rested or balanced. Begin phasing off of your fix by allowing yourself to embrace feeling tired. Then create a dual ritual of creating energy through movement and rest through relaxation.

How to

As you go through your day and come upon moments of mental fatigue, get your blood and hormones flowing with energizing, balancing exercises.  I recommend breath of fire, jumping jacks, mountain climbers, pilates or swimming. Then, at night, create a routine that moves you towards sleep. Pick a time to begin and a time for the ritual to realize that allows you to achieve sleep at a healthy hour. Take the time to complete the steps of your ritual with intention, being mindful to not become anxious about the goal of sleep. Your steps should include the turning off of all screens and electronics, a bath or shower and a calming scent. Incorporate a relaxing movement or breath practice such as mindful breathing or sustained restorative stretching. I have also found that the habit of drinking a calming tea or herbal tonic, such as Tulsi, chamomile, SunPotion, or MoonJuice works wonders. Magnesium in the form of a supplement or Sakara Detox Water can also be especially helpful and should be consciously placed in the nighttime routine as part of your ritual.

Emotional Blockages

Our past or current life events can create emotions in us that, while valid, block us from moving forward on the path of our life. Processing these events and feelings is part of a healthy process but we also need not allow them to overwhelm us or stand in our way as we try to grow in life. Turn these emotions in to growth with a crystal ritual.

We can find ritual in so many moments of our lives by adding awareness and intention to daily practices. We give love to our bodies with mindful cooking and eating. We send love with our children to school by making them a healthy lunch. We cement the connection of our families with snuggle rituals. We heal ourselves and other with herbal teas . As you go through your day, find ways to use joy, awareness, and intention to turn the daily practices of your life in to transformative ritual. 

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Erika Bloom Pilates

@erikabloompilates

Now Entering the "Now Age"

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Caitlin Mitchell

At A Wild Dove, we are constantly inspired by the cross-section of new age wellness and luxury - the idea that today’s modern women can clutch her crystals inside her Celine tote. That we can work on our inner selves and outer selves and find joy in both. Ruby Warrington has had her finger on these coordinates since having worked as a features editor at the UK Sunday Times Style magazine. Once she hit a point where she no longer felt fulfilled in her career , she channeled her loved of astrology, tarot and all things “woowoo” into the language of glossy fashion magazines, and thus The Numinous was born. Her sophisticated, stylish site features the latest in fashion, culture and “modern cosmic thinking” (we love that, btw) and shares our philosophy that enjoying a more grounded, centered state of consciousness doesn’t have to exclude life’s finer things. Ruby is also a best-selling author, having recently published her tome, “Material Girl, Mystical World,” which hails her widely embraced gospel. We sat down with Ruby to hear about her personal evolution, what exactly is the “now age” and why the teachings of The Numinous have never been more timely.

1. So we are obsessed with the site and love your book! Tell us, was there a "trigger moment" in realizing the Numinous had to be? 

As soon as I heard the word “numinous” (in conversation with an early mentor, the astrologer Shelley Von Strunckel) I saw it as the title of a magazine. I pictured it being something like The Gentlewoman, with intelligent and sophisticated articles on the esoteric arts, accompanied by beautiful artwork. Numinous means “that which is unknown or unknowable,” and I use it to describe anything within the realm of human experience that can’t necessarily be articulated with words. 

2. Wow. We love that. Have you always been tapped into your spiritual side or was that an evolution? 

I’ve been into astrology since I was a kid—I loved learning that I’d been born in the Chinese year of the Dragon. The evolution has been coming to see astrology as a “spiritual” practice. I see now how it’s a way for me to connect to something bigger than I’ll ever be able to fully understand, and that what connects me to this cosmic worldview, is my “spirit,” what I might also describe simply as my sense of aliveness, and what fuels my imagination, my inspiration, and my intuition.

3. Why do you think the Numinous is so important, especially today? 

There are so many reasons,  not least because they are in service of us answering the Big Important Questions: Who am I? What am I here to contribute/create? And what do I need to do this? Answering these becomes particularly important in what I call the “Now Age,” because the more we interact with and are governed by technology, the more we need to balance this with ancient human technologies like yoga and meditation. Also advertising-led capitalism (and now social media) has created a culture that makes it very difficult to know/accept who we truly are.
 

4. Totally. We certainly feel that way and find it important  to tap into these “human technologies” as you put it. What are some of the ways in which mamas and children can enjoy these spiritual practices together and how do you think they benefit kids? 

Other tools that help me access my spiritual self are yoga, meditation, dancing, writing, and storytelling, all of which can be made into fun activities and games for kids! I don’t have children myself, but thinking back to my own childhood I’m also so grateful that my parents always encouraged my creativity. Learning from an early age that our ideas and our imagination are of value is essentially how we learn to trust our intuition, and to have the confidence to make choices in later life that are in alignment with the path that’s right for us.

5. What is your therapy? 

In the Now Age, any time I can spend offline. Preferably in close proximity to nature. Having my Moon in Cancer also means I need more alone time than most, to process all the big feelings I experience.

6. What are the tools you use to help live your best life? 

My body, mind, emotions, and spirit. These are my tools, and all the practices I mentioned above are in service of keeping them operating at optimum capacity. Obviously diet and exercise also play a role, and in this area following what I call the “sober curious” path and cutting alcohol out of my life has had the most profound effect on my overall well-being—as, for me, it’s a substance that has a negative impact on all of the four “bodies” of my whole self

7. What's one thing you can’t live without? 

Love. For myself, for my families (blood and soul), for humanity, and for our planet.

8. What makes you fly?

In a literal sense, I’m feeling and answering the call to host more and more live Numinous events, experiences and retreats in far-flung destinations, so hopefully it’ll be my work in 2018 and beyond. And metaphorically, becoming enlivened by the possibilities of a new idea always feels like flying to me.

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The Numinous

Krushin’ Hard

Written by Michelle Walrath | Photographed by Jay Wen

Ahh there’s nothing quite like back to school. The sweaters, the new sneakers, the smell of fresh notebooks. But one aspect of the September onslaught that we mamas can all commiserate on is LUNCH, specifically taking time out of our busy schedules to pack a protein-packed, healthy, all natural lunch that won’t end up in the cafeteria trash can. 

Enter Organic Krush, an incredible organic restaurant throughout Long Island and the Hamptons. Founded by Fran Paniccia and Michelle Walrath, the pair was inspired to open the eatery after taking their kids to a concert and finding nothing, or nowhere healthy to eat. They signed on Swallow chef, James Tchinni and created a philosophy of  using environmentally-sourced proteins like tuna, salmon and chicken that have zero hormones and are always fresh, always organic. Needless to say we have a major “krush,” so much as that we asked Fran and Michelle to help us design the perfect kids Bento Box so we can incorporate their healthy vision into our kid’s everyday lunchtime staples. Here’s their take on a Deconstructed Buddha Bowl and some deslih snacks to top it all off.

DECONSTRUCTURED BUDDHA BOWL

Toasted Quinoa

"It's one of our favorite hearty, protein-laden grains here at Organic Krush. Toasting quinoa is very simple to do yet people are often intimidated to try it! Toasting quinoa adds a delectable, slightly nutty flavor to the grain!"

Instructions 

• Measure the amount of quinoa you will be using. Place in a fine mesh sieve.

• Rinse with running water

• When the water runs clear, turn water off and shake out as much water as possible.

• Add wet quinoa to heavy duty (we love Le Creuset) on the stove top.

• Over high heat, let the quinoa dry out and "toast"

• Use a wooden spoon to move the quinoa around the pot every few minutes.

• Turn heat off and add the proper amount of water

• Bring water / quinoa to a boil and then lower to a simmer

• Follow directions on bag of quinoa for proper cook time.

"Proteins, like chicken, beef, shrimp or tofu add great flavor."

"Mix in your kids favorite veggies, we love broccoli, sweet potatoes and edamame."

"I cut up veggies and store them raw in the fridge, then you can take out just what you need to do a quick steam or stir fry as you’re packing up the box. (grilled chicken can also be done ahead of time, and then squeeze with lemon and a dash of olive oil right before packing up).

Snacks

• Mix of Berries and Bananas

• Coconut Flakes

• Popcorn with Flavor Topping
  

“When purchasing popcorn kernels, make sure they are certified 100% Organic, as most corn crops in the United States are now GMO-corn. This means insecticides and herbicides have been injected into the corn kernel. We do not consider GMO-corn to be safe corn to eat. Most natural grocers sell organic corn and since popcorn is such a light, healthy, high fiber snack we love recommending it to children. In terms of cooking the kernels, our preferred method is the stove top Whirly-Pop. The kids can help twirl the kernels around the pot (using just a little bit of olive or coconut oil) and then they can also help shake on some fun toppings. We love this shredded coconut on Thrive Market.

Thanks to Organic Krush for these delicious tips, now we just want to know, is there an age limit for Bento Boxes?

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Organic Krush

Yumbox

Beauty Shop

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

Walk into CAP Beauty and you are instantly transported to a land of luxurious all natural wellness. From the supplements to the teas, to the shampoos, face oils lip balms and a stellar offering for mamas and babies, CAP Beauty is our dream beauty cabinet, kitchen pantry, nursery and vision of an organic lifestyle all rolled into one. This west village zen-den is the brainchild of Kerrilynn Pamer and Cindy DiPrima, friends of 20 years who set out to create a modern, inspiring and inclusive home for the amazing world of naturals. They consider it a "clubhouse" for people to discover the power of plants, make new friends and elevate the way they feel both inside and out. Well this club is growing, most recently with the addition of a West Coast shop coming this fall in the new Fred Segal Sunset Boulevard location, a new website AND an anti-inflammatory CBD adaptogenic oil, The Daily Hit. We sat down with this incredible pair to get the lowdown on the shop, how they choose the line-up and why bee pollen makes for a pretty sweet dessert staple.

So obviously we are obsessed with your shop. Can you describe the “trigger moment” in launching the shop?

When I found out that I had celiac I added a small category of natural beauty to my previous store Castor & Pollux. The response was fantastic, my clients were engaged in a way that I had never seen before and I decided that the world deserved a spot that was inspiring, modern, inclusive and filled with health. CAP Beauty was born.

How do you determine what you're going to buy or showcase for the store? Are there certain checklists you have for a product or brand?

Since there isn't a standardized definition of what “natural” means, we have an in-house definition that all products we carry are free from synthetics. Once that’s been established, we look for products that are effective, a joy to use and speak to us on some level. This can be a very intuitive process or one that is heavy on science, it depends on what product we are considering.

Why do you think there is such a focus on wellness and what do you attribute it to?

Technological advances and our fast-paced way of life have made for a complex and nuanced world. We believe that the rise in self care and wellness is a reaction to everything moving so quickly around us. When we take care of ourselves we are better able to take care of others.

Cindy’s Faves

Kerilynn's Faves

Totally. How do you think the wellness beauty movement, and life at CAP Beauty, has impacted your parenting style, if at all?

Cindy's kids are schooled in yoga poses and ask for bee pollen on their ice cream instead of sprinkles! They are interested in health and have picked up practices simply by being exposed to it through osmosis at home and out in the world.

Must try the bee pollen move! OK lastly, what makes you fly?

Meditation, exercise, spending time with friends and eating the most life-giving foods around allows us to soar.

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Cap Beauty

Immunity

When it comes to Aubrey Levitt, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. As the founder of Immunity, an incredible herbal probiotic, Aubrey was raised by a mother who was very into alternative medicine. “She turned our suburban lawn into an organic garden with compost,” said Aubrey. “We had herb books around the house.” When her mother was diagnosed with liver cancer, she went to Mexico for Gerson’s therapy, a program that encourages the body to fend off illness through an organic, vegetarian diet. Between the constant juices and illegal medications, her mother’s illness became a huge financial burden that changed Aubrey’s perspective on healthcare and what we put into our bodies. As an adult Aubrey suffered from digestive issues, hormonal imbalances and anxiety. When traditional doctors were dumbfounded, she again looked to all natural aides and eventually came up with her best selling supplement. Immunity reduces stress by cleaning up the gut, which in turn stimulates and supports the immune system and lessens the negative impact of stressors on the mind and body. We sat down with Aubrey to learn more about probiotics, her morning rituals and the key to starting a business.

Confession...we love Immunity. Can you describe your background and your journey in creating it? What was your trigger moment when Immunity was born?

Immunity was birthed naturally out of a previous line of herbal tonic and elixirs. I was in fight or flight from 6 months old, which led to being sick often, taking rounds of antibiotics, in turn creating more stress. I tried various cleanses and healing modalities, looking for a way to reset my body and build resiliency to stress. I was very lucky, because I was taught tools like meditation at a young age. But my body still needed a jumpstart. Things changed when I was introduced to the microbiome and the role the gut can play in mood and stress.

Why are probiotics so important and what about your ingredients specifically? What make Immunity special?

The fermented herbs target stress. One of the biggest factors that can play into gut health is stress. When we are in fight or flight the environment in our gut changes and if that goes on for a long time, we are not supporting the body’s basic functions.

 

How did you manage starting this business?

Collaboration. I never really create anything alone and luckily so many angels have shown up along the way. I will say that starting a biz has been a crash course in personal growth. I’ve had to face all the parts of myself that make me uncomfortable.

Have you made any mistakes along the way and how have you learned from them?

Oh goodness, tons. I didn’t know a thing about operations. I really couldn’t plan logistics. I’m only slightly better at both, but I have learned how to trust my instinct and to fail. And that it doesn’t feel so bad to fail, unless it is a result of not trusting myself.

 

We love that. And it’s so true. Can you tell us, what is your "therapy?"

Walks along the ocean watching the waves crash, spending time with good friends, kids and yoga.

Can you describe your morning ritual?

Morning ritual is key for me, especially since my life can be so unstructured. Ideally, I wake up around 5:30/6:00, meditate and do a little yoga. Then I have my herbs and probiotics and head out to do something physical. When I come back home I look forward to espresso with fresh nut milk.

So good!  So we're sure there must be some exciting next steps in the works, is there anything you can share?  

We are really looking to bridge worlds, by making plant and probiotic remedies accessible. That will include personalized formulas in the future and setting a new standard in the industry with research. I am also passionate about starting a conversation around gut instincts and how listening to your gut can be key to happiness.

OK, you're stranded on a desert island, what are you five must-haves?

Ha, I have been asked this before. I’m a Virgo, so I’m pretty practical.

1)     Fire

2)     Water purifier

3)     A friend, preferably someone who has basic survival skills

4)     Chlorella tablets…

5)     Herb Books for identification

Yes!! And lastly, what makes you fly?

I try to fly in my dreams all the time. In life, I really love connection. I joke (but, it’s true) that I can fall in love with anyone within a few minutes. This used to feel like an oxymoron because I am also quite shy and a loner. Both are true.

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bodyandeden.com

Coffee Mate

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Wellness coach Jamie Graber takes us through her morning coffee recipe (with a side of supplements) to get her body and mind aligned for the day. Perfect for your Monday AM caffeine kick, or any time you need a perk.

2 oz espresso
 

10 oz hot water
 

1 teaspoon maca
 

1/2 teaspoon cordyceps
 

1/2 teaspoon rhodiola
 

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
 

1 teaspoon ghee (Ancient Organic's is my favorite)

Blend the above ingredients
(You can also substitute espresso for 6 oz of coffee and 4 oz water)

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for more info

visit organicallyjamie.com

C Class

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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When we found out Joanna Vargas was launching a Vitamin C serum, we knew we needed to get in. On. That. We usually pop the vitamin in pill form as soon as we start sneezing, but we had no clue how great it is for the skin too. According to Joanna, Vitamin C is the prime building block for a great complexion and that it can aid any skin condition. Read on for more intel on this magical serum.

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A Wild Dove

OK so we need the Vitamin C breakdown. What exactly does Vitamin C do to the skin upon application?

Joanna Vargas

Vitamin C brightens the skin, evens out pigment, and reinforces your elasticity at the molecular level. It guards the skin against cell mutation, caused by exposure to sun and pollution in your everyday life.

A Wild Dove

Wow, ok. Major benefits it sounds like!

Joanna Vargas

It will also extend the life of your skin cells, so you will just look younger the more you use it!

A Wild Dove

Whoah. That sounds like magic! What about the classic Vitamin C pill? How does topical application compare to oral ingestion?

Joanna Vargas

They're similar in concept. Both provide the body with an extra layer of protection against cell mutations while reinforcing cellular function.

A Wild Dove

Are there any risks to Vitaminc C in topical application?

Joanna Vargas

Vitamin C is very unstable so you have to go with a trustworthy skincare line. It’s hard to maintain potency in the bottle. Also some formulas can be very drying. I tried to be very aware of those when creating my Rescue Serum.

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Joanna Vargas Rescue Serum

A Beginner's Guide To Crystals

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Are you intrigued by crystals but feeling intimidated? Like you want to try them but don’t know where to start? We got you. We spoke to Rashia Bell from The Cristalline who breaks down the power of crystals and their benefits in this quick hit guide. Her tips, below.

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My favorite crystal is...

“It depends on the day, but one of my must haves at all times is Selenite which is amazing at clearing the energetic body.”

When I'm feeling stressed, I use crystals to...

“Immediately create a shift in my energy. I use different stones for different things. Selenite to clear, Pyrite to protect, Black Tourmaline to ground, Citrine to focus and inspire."

It all depends on what I am trying to achieve in that moment. Crystals are so multifaceted in their ability to change how you feel.”

My favorite moment with crystals is...

“When I am about to go to bed at night. There is an immediate sense of calm that comes over me. I use my crystals to truly leave the day behind, invite new beginnings, access my subconscious energetic layers and create a greater sense of understanding oneself even while I sleep.”

My advice to someone discovering crystals is...

“Don’t be intimidated to try out different stones and explore different ways to work with them. And remember it isn’t about searching for the right crystals based on their meaning or trying to achieve a certain goal. If you seek them out, they will find you.  Just open yourself up, allow the stones to resonate and they may surprise you!”

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for more info

visit thecristalline.com

Too Kule For School

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Nikki Kule was born into fashion. Here’s the gist - her father Gene Kule was the “King of Pants” having created the 1970’s clothing brand Happy Legs with her mother Arlene. Knowing she wanted to continue the biz’, Nikki attended Parsons The New School for Design in Paris and New York and honed her aesthetic around the world. She took a role with her family, but after having her first child, saw an opportunity to create luxe children’s wear by launching KULE in 2001. Soon after, chicsters from Amy Astley and Stella McCartney to Madonna came calling. Based on her initial success, Nikki then launched a full boy’s and girls line for Brooks Brothers. But as her children grew older, she decided to design women’s clothes to better serve her own passion.  She naturally gravitated towards stripes, and thus KULE was born. It’s become the de-facto must-have line for a cool Parisian-meets-New York take on the stripe. We spoke with Nikki about everything from horizontal lines to the little ones, and how she manages it all -

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A Wild Dove

What was the "trigger moment" for launching an exclusively striped collection?

Nikki Kule

Stripes have consistently been included in all of my collections, starting from my first season for the KULE children’s line. When I decided to transition my business from children’s to women’s, I wanted to focus on something I truly loved.  Stripes make me happy. I had been searching for the perfect striped shirt my whole life.  Since I have never found it, I figured it was time to stop searching and create it myself.

A Wild Dove

We couldn’t agree more! What’s a typical day like for you? Can you describe the different "hats" you wear?

Nikki Kule

Every day is a little different. I work closely with a great team in our Soho-based studio. One day I might be working with my team on a look-book shoot, and on other days I might have the phone plastered to my ear on conference calls with my factory.  My favorite days are when I am wearing headphones and designing the upcoming collection or creating content for our social platforms. One thing is consistent.  It’s very busy every day, but all of the hard work is worth it.

A Wild Dove

Being an entrepreneur, you must be learning a great deal along the way. What is one mistake you learned from?

Nikki Kule

The one mistake I have learned along the way is that I can’t be afraid. There was a time when I really wanted to design women’s clothes, but one of my close friends was a designer. As I didn’t want to compete, I started a children’s wear collection.  More recently, when I wanted to launch a women’s stripe focused collection, someone I knew had started one six months before me. Both times I changed my course since I didn’t want it to seem like I was copying them. I eventually went ahead and did it anyway since it was all I ever wanted to do.  I decided to chase my dream and not worry about what other people think.

A Wild Dove

What's the best advice you've been given?

Nikki Kule

A piece of advice I follow and often share, is to stay focused, trust your instincts and make decisions quickly. It’s easy to get caught up in trends and other people’s work. The only thing that will set me apart is me.  

A Wild Dove

We’re writing that one down. How do you stay balanced?

Nikki Kule

I always make sure to spend quality time with my family. We are really close and they help me stay grounded. I also love to run. I release so much stress and can rebalance simply by running and exercising.  I also love to stay in on the weekends, catch up on reading or watch old movies.

A Wild Dove

What are the next steps for Kule?

Nikki Kule

While stripes will always remain the focus of the collection, I am slowly expanding our accessories and outerwear categories. We are also introducing a Resort and Summer collection for the first time in 2018. And I have a secret project in the works right now with a long time friend that I am so excited to share later this summer.

A Wild Dove

Who are your style icons?

Nikki Kule

To name a few of the obvious - Lauren Hutton, Jane Birkin, Lauren Bacall, Sofia Coppola and Alexa Chung. To name a few of the not so obvious, my mother Arlene Kule, who taught me about quality and taste and Ruth Shuman, who founded the charity Publicolor. Both are inspirations inside and out.

A Wild Dove

What makes you fly?

Nikki Kule

Stripes!! They make me happy. Not to be literal, but my airport uniform always includes a striped top because who doesn’t want to be happy when they travel?

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