School’s out for the summer, and for many, including my family, that means it’s time to get the kids ready for camp. As we prepare our campers for lots of quality time outdoors, breathing in fresh air, and reconnecting with nature, it only makes sense to send them with the smartest and healthiest camp essentials to protect them and their environment, so they can focus on the things kids do best, making great friends and memories!
PVC-free Packs + Rainwear –PVC is one of the most toxic plasticsmade and it can’t even be recycled. Thankfully, there are places like MECwho continues to make efforts to minimize our environmental impact by building and selling products that last, and that are made in a way that respects the people who manufacture it. They have packs that are rock solid in value and durability, and you can even send them in for repair if needed.
Light at Night - For hours of bright light when they need it most, choose a solar charged, crank powered, or shake and shine LED flashlight. They don’t require batteries (which is one less thing to remember to pack and won’t run out!), and it uses your own energy to charge, rather than from an outlet.
Chem-free Personal Care– Keep your kids protected against sunburns and bug bites with something that is both safe and effective. Graydon’s Sun Creamblocks out damaging rays and soothes the skin with aloe, and her Outdoor Sprayrepels those pesky mosquitos while keeping skin conditioned and moisturized, all without any dirty ingredients.
Safe Splashing – When the kids are having fun, jumping in and out of the pool or lake, or paddling down the river with their friends, it can be tough to remember to reapply their sunscreen. Send them with some long and short sleeved rashguards, like thesefrom Lole, which offers them some protection from both scratches and UV rays.
“They say the happiest place on earth is Disneyland. They’re wrong, it’s camp.” #campconfessions
Lisa Borden, owner ofBorden Communications, takes a unique approach to holistically marketing eco-intelligent living and working. Some of her favourite titles (from along list) include: Catalyst for Change, Enthusiastic Philanthropist, Inspiration Agent, Strategist + Catalyst, Mother of 3 and Wannabe Organic Farmer. You can follow her on twitter @LisaBorden or learn more about her and her business at www.bordencom.com.
There seems to be no limit to how far us moms will go for our kids, or how much we’ll do for our families, but we can’t forget or neglect to take time to care for ourselves too. When we are healthy, happy, and strong, we can do more good, all around. Clear a little time in that busy schedule to do something that makes you feel better than ever, and you’ll be able to pack even more in the rest of the time! (Plus, we deserve it, and our sanity depends on it!).
Get Moving + Shaking
Take a walk or ride a bike with your family around the block, or further. There’s no easier way to get fresh air in your lungs, raise your heart rate, move your muscles, and get friendly with your neighbours! It’s also a fast way to get places and parking is always free! If you’re looking for a change of scenery, try searching online for some great bike trails in your area.
Spend time in the Garden
Not only does growing your own food mean fewer trips to the grocery store, tastier produce, and more money in your pocket, but it’s also incredibly therapeutic, and great for our physical, mental, and spiritual health to dig your hands in the dirt, and plant your own organic fruits and veggies for your family and friends to enjoy. You can visit the market or search online for an incredible variety of organic and heirloom seeds. And for those who don’t have a green thumb (myself included), I call Young Urban Farmers to help me plan, plant, and harvest, and I’m sure you have a service like this near you too if you ask around.
UnDiet your Life
Crunch on carrots. Dance like a four year old. And break rules. All solid advice for an “awesometown” day from nutritionista Meghan Telpner, who is inspiring positive change around the globe with her recently released book, UnDiet. You can forget everything you’ve been taught about dieting or losing weight (best.news.ever.), and discover how amazing and sustainable true health can be as a family!
Lend a Helping Hand
Whether it’s putting up an organic lemonade stand with your kids, volunteering at a local fun fair, or campaigning for a charity (one where you know and approve where the money’s going), giving back is just plain good for the soul. You’ll get connected to your community, teach your children the importance of helping others, and show them that you’re never too small to make a difference in someone’s day.
It’s so hard when I have to, and so easy when I want to. - Annie Gottlier
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
Spring- what a perfect time to flush out the old, and bring in new cleaner habits. We can’t always control what our kids are going to face when they leave the front door, but there’s a lot we can do to give them a safe, healthy home to come back to. Here’s one tip (see, not overwhelming to take it one at a time!) for each room, in the spaces where our kids spend the most time.
IN THE PLAYROOM This is the fun room- the room to let loose, feel creative and imaginative, and be care free! So why fill it stuff that looks fun, but is truly dangerous? Don’t pollute your playroom with toxic toys and stale air. Play with less stuff (we all need to rid our space of clutter!), better and healthier toys and games (bonus points for locally and ethically made), and let the fresh air in to clean out the stale winter air (the best air freshener is actually fresh air!)
IN THE KIDS BEDROOM When you think of how much time you spend laying on your pillows and sheets, it’s pretty scary to think that most are doused in toxic flame retardants (which are somehow allowed!?!). I agree with Annie Leonard when she said in The Story of Stuff that“…it seems to me that in this country with so much potential, we could think of a better way to stop our heads from catching on fire at night.” Give your kids sweet dreams, and you, as a parent, a good night’s sleep, with a chemical free mattress, organic sheets, and safe and comfortable pillows.
IN THE BATHROOM Just because you think your bathroom looks or smells squeaky clean, doesn’t really mean it’s clean at all. Scrub that tub with trustworthy eco-friendly cleaners, or simply use microfibre cloths with water. Or if you are inclined, (it’s so easy and inexpensive) – just make your own cleaning potions. You do NOT have to sacrifice the cleanliness of your bathroom or your home (trust me; I’m a completely neurotic mother of 3!). Note that clean air really doesn’t smell like anything at all!
IN THE KITCHEN If you keep healthy food in your kitchen, you will eat healthy food (and so will the rest of your family!). So, swap sugary fruit juices for homemade concoctions instead. All you need is a juicer (it pays for itself quickly!). Then choose your favourite organic fruits and veggies with your kids and make juicing a family affair (the kids love it!). Pop in a Strawesome glass straw for safe and happy sipping. (Take a look at my other essentials in my Kitchen Guide.
Have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful. —William Morris
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
A trip away with the family can sometimes feel like even more like work rather than a vacation for us moms. But, good news, it doesn’t have to be! After years of traveling with my family of 5, there are a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way to help me prepare beforehand, and to pack smarter and lighter, so we can enjoy the quality time together that we intended to.
1. Bring some instant eats. To avoid yucky airplane food (re: fake stuff wrapped in plastic) bring your own. Get a dose of leafy greens, with a side of calcium, magnesium, iron and fiber, all with a delicious “chip” taste and crunch. Kids can polish off an entire bag - it’s that good.
2. Use your reusables. No matter where you’re off to, smart and reliable reusables will take you from A - B to C and back again. Pack your Klean Kanteen bottle in your carry-ons and fill at the airport (after going through security of course), and you’ll never have to worry about waiting in lines for a pricy, sugary soda. Plus, staying hydrated during air travel helps fight fatigue and helps fight the munchies too.
3. Multi-purpose care-to-go. Less is always more, but even more so when you’re traveling, and multi-purpose products make for lighter luggage and a lighter (travel) footprint. The worldTRIO comes with a shampoo, body wash, conditioner, moisturizer and all-purpose balm (all in 3 little bottles!) that are safe and effective for the entire fam. They can be used interchangeably on both skin and hair, and all three “travel” bottles are under 100ml so you can even pack them in your carry-on.
4. Smart takeoff toteables. Choosing the right luggage and travel accessories is just as important as choosing the right destination. I use Nau’s Lightbeam Tote because it can transform from a backpack, to a single strap shoulder bag, to an organizer bag inside a suitcase, making it the ultimate all-in-one travel bag for moms. This featherweight tote doesn’t weigh you down on your travels, and bonus, it’s made from 100% recycled polyester.
5. Clean lightweight luggables. You won’t have to worry about leaving this travel essential behind. Berryplus laundry soap is only 55mls (under airplane liquid standards), yet this highly concentrated small bottle (think the size of your cell phone) effectively cleans 20 loads of laundry. Small and lightweight, you can pack it in your carry on, and know that this tiny lifesaver will come in handy at some point during your travels.
Elbert Hubbard said “No man needs a vacation so much as the man who has just had one.” I think he may have just needed a great travel guide to help him plan ahead.
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
Even if a big family getaway isn’t in the plans this winter, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on making memories together, getting pampered or relieving stress. Creating your own spa staycation can bring you all of those benefits (without the hassles of travel, may I mention!). So stay in your robes and slippers, dim the lights, turn on some relaxing tunes, and set the mood for a day of relaxation with your loved ones.
Mini Manis - There are few luxuries more relaxing than a great mani-pedi, but it’s even more relaxing when you don’t have to worry about winter driving, toxic fumes, or ruing your polish when you step into your winter boots to leave the spa. Take turns giving each other great hand and foot massages, and painting each other’s nails- just make sure that what you’re putting on your nails is safe. Dazzle your digits with cruelty free polishes that are made without harsh chems, like HopScotch and Scotch.
Bend and Stretch - Get your zen on with some yoga on a family of Affirmats. Line up these beautiful, non-slip mats in your home, and yogis of all ages can reach for another level of awareness, or simply work out on a really sweet mat. They’re made from high quality, eco-friendly materials, and the inspiring messages on them will bring positivity into your consciousness and your home.
Smell great, don’t stink! - I try to keep synthetic fragrances as far away from my family as possible, but that doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy a beautiful scent as much as the next family. A subtle hint of a great natural scent made with safe ingredients can leave a long lasting impression, without any long lasting health concerns. Making your own is as simple as adding a couple drops of your favourite blend of pure essential oils to miniOrganics Superfine Jojoba Oil, and you have an instant (and easy!) custom, homemade perfume that is great for you and those closest to you. Or rub worldCANDY all over for a citrus blast!
Massage Train - Rub away each other’s tension or stress with a silky smooth body oil that leaves you all feeling peaceful, and your skin hydrated (but not greasy!). Graydon’s Clinical Luxury by Nature All over Body Oil is perfect for massages, treating dry skin, and calming you with a pure blend of lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood.
Spa Lunch - What’s a spa day without some fresh organic fruits and vegetables, lemon water, and herbal teas? Ask everyone to choose their favourite healthy ingredients, and enjoy preparing a meal together that’s sure to nourish everyone’s body, mind, and soul.
“There is nothing like staying at home, for real comfort.” ― Jane Austen
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
In today’s day and age, it feels like we’re bombarded with new information coming at us from the left, right, center, and even behind. Imagine if that info could inspire us to lead healthier lives, and give us solutions for real family life. Here are a few publications that are still worth the paper they are printed on (in my opinion anyway). Go flip some eco pages, and buy a new fruit, veg or vegan cookie, cook with your kids, plant something, and learn to stay healthier, sleep more, and smile. What else do we dream of?
If you have kids, you need to read this magazine for great content about protecting your family’s health, and protecting their future. With simple tips and great product suggestions, you’ll feel like a better parent whether you had time to read every article, or even just one. This eco mag is think and filled with so much, but it’s printed on Cascades’ Canadian-made Enviro100% post-consumer waste recycled paper, which saves 34,076 L of water, and 619kg of waste for every issue they print.
Going veg is on the rise, as people learn about the health benefits for both us and our world (Meatless Monday has never been so popular – Hurray for progress!). This vegan lifestyle magazine is serving up the latest in meat-free news, covering issues about health, politics, and global events, and of course, delicious recipes too. You can subscribe to have this publication delivered to your door, or get it tree-free into your inbox.
This is the ultimate resource for all things edible, local, and seasonal. Search for your own city’s edition to learn about what’s going on in your local foodshed, and find out how to keep it healthy, safe, and sustainable for the future. Learn about the people who grow your food, your local food artisans and chefs, farmers’ markets, restaurants, cafes, and more. You’ll never love or appreciate your food more than after reading these articles and getting connected your community.
“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” – Sir Richard Steele
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
I don’t want to (nor am I qualified to) give medical advice, although I’m asked constantly what I do for myself and my kids.
So, what’s a flu-fearing, germ-wary, busy person supposed to do during cold and flu season? As always, eat well and eat real, exercise and take good care. It’s not medical advice, just common sense.
Give your immune system a boost so it’s up for the daily battles of life. Washing your hands, taking cover, warming up and cooling down, eating right, detoxing and recovery are all things that I recommend and have considered in The Get Well Stay Well Guide from Borden Communications. These are all things that I incorporate into my own life, so know that they are tried, tested and true. And remember, if you are hit with the flu, this too shall pass.
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
Instead of careening madly around stores desperately purchasing gifts this holiday season (translation: possibly useless stuff that is not needed or wanted), make the getting and giving of gifts smart and easy - change the present this year!
The “new” present is one that inspires people to live healthier lives, makes the world a better place, supports good people and companies, doesn’t create excess waste…and of course, makes your getters really, truly, very happy! Remember that your money is your power and every penny you spend is a vote for something. Buying made-in-China, lead-laced toys or buying an organic piece of clothing made in Canada tells the maker to make more…what do you want more of in our world? Spend wisely, and buy from your own local businesses that support good values.
It’s obviously important to take your “receiver” into account. Your eco-freak friend will appreciate that you adopted a snowman (who lost their family at sea due to global warming) in her honour, but your colleague who takes a plastic bottle to the gym every day and upgrades his cellphone and computers perpetually will probably appreciate concert tickets more.
Aside from the many wonderful online eco-focused stores, there are many local retailers featuring smarter products these days - so think outside of the giftbox and wrap it up our way!
We hope our Good Gift Guide inspires you in your quest to give the perfect eco-happy presents.
Lisa Borden, owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications, offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
Candles are often an overlooked cause of poor indoor air quality and can affect our health. Paraffin candles are unfortunately the predominant ones on our shelves. Why? (argh!) Paraffin is very inexpensive – it’s basically the final byproduct in the petroleum refining chain…petroleum sludge, if you will. When paraffin candles are burned, they spew toxins and soot that is harmful to our health (think second-hand tobacco smoke). Many of these conventional candles also have wicks with metal cores that contain lead. Why would you want that in your birthday cake as everyone important to you gathers around with healthy wishes for the guest of honour? Instead, opt for safe birthday candlesso your birthday wishes stay just as pure as the air you breathe.
When we buy and burn chemical candles, we are harming ourselves and our world. When we make better choices and buy, for example, beeswax candles, we support beekeepers and bees, and, we help save the world. Pretty simple. Beeswax candles leave your air fresher and cleaner - they are a true air purifier and they are the only candle for those with chemical sensitivities or allergies. Also, make sure to select 100% pure beeswax like Orb Candles(candles can be labeled as beeswax candles even with only 10% beeswax and many are blended with cheap paraffin to cut costs). Orb Shabbat Candles can be used for holidays, or as classical tapers used for any occasion. They smell beautiful, they look beautiful, and they bring you and your family light, health and happiness.
Beeswax may be more expensive, but they have a much slower burn rate, so you’ll be able to use them over and over again.
Light, burn safely, blow out. And repeat often.
Celebrate happily and in good health, for you and the world.
Lisa Borden , owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications , offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
I think as a society, we’ve been underplaying the possible dangers from cell phones for too long. The entire industry is currently (and has been) hard at work, manipulating science to stave off being regulated and having to issue warnings.
Cell phones are even more dangerous for our kids – think of how much smaller they are and how much they absorb relative to us! Israel now requires WARNINGS on Cell Phones – you can read more about it, and lots more about the dangers on the Environmental Health Trust website.
And, the dangers are not limited to cell phones…it’s from our laptops, microwaves, iPads, and all Wi-Fi everywhere. There are precautions you can take while the industry tries to shield you from the truth rather than the radiation…and that’s what we all need to focus on for our families. Right now.
To minimize the risks and dangers for you and your kids, please start by:
Not letting your kids use your cell phone if at all possible.
Never attaching your cell phone to your body or carry it around in your pocket (even when it’s not in use, it emits radiation).
Using a case from Pong Research for your Blackberry, iPhone and iPad.
Using speakers or earphones to minimize your distance and exposure. I use the earphones from Thinksound as they are PVC free and have many other eco-factors.
Turning off your Wi-Fi at night if you have it in your home – you might be sleeping, but your devices are still emitting radiation.
Not working with your laptop, iPad or other devices on your body. Consider Belly Armor (designed for pregnancy, but great for kids too in my opinion).
Googling, reading and researching the studies that are out there – being informed is the best thing you can do to make the best decision for you and your family! You can also read my book The Alphabet of Avoidance, which includes information about the above, as well as examples of what to avoid for every letter of the alphabet, solutions and take-action recommendations for campaigns to join, websites to visits, and suggested product.
Please remember, precaution IS prevention.
Lisa Borden , owner of marketing firm, Borden Communications , offers a holistic approach to consciously marketing responsible brands and services. She encourages everyone to be their own expert by offering new perspectives, and helping them find the clarity to uncover simple solutions to daily challenges. She claims that she is not a coach, a consultant, or a concierge, but rather a strategic blend of all of these roles - working to increase efficiencies, revenue, health and happiness. As a consultant to small businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, school groups and individuals as well as a dynamic campaign and brand ambassador and motivational speaker, her message is always clear. Every action and every dollar matters and has an impact - so we’d better take each step wisely. Together. Follow Lisa on twitter @LisaBorden.
