Beware Of Fuzzing

An absence from GC headquarters for winter break means R&R, cliff golfing in the Rockies and, regrettably, truanting from the yoga studio. Your generic yogi may say something to the effect of, “It’s alright, taking time off is no biggy.” or “Don’t sweat it.” (pun intended for hot studio practitioners). But, frankly, I’ve been going through flat-out yoga withdraw, and I am sweating it thank you. You’re probably shouting “Put some peppermint oil on it already!” at your computer screen, but let’s not get hasty. With no immediate pain or phantom aches to be had, this year’s yogic exile biological backlash may well be a case of The Fuzz.

Hypochondriacs alike, myself included, may go into some sort of self-induced stress-coma at the very mention of such a menacing yet plush sounding yogic affliction. Does it melt you internally, contribute to spontaneous combustion, precede an internal parasitic bloom?  Fortunately, and less colorfully, Fuzz is an accumulation of inter-muscular material (the exact makeup, whether protein or otherwise, is not mentioned in the follow video by Dr. Gil Hedley). This spiderweb-like material accumulates during extended static periods such as sleep, when muscle isn’t in motion. The result? According to Dr. Hedley, an accrual of stiffness or muscular restlessness is due, in part, to the accumulation of this web-like material. So, never fear you anatomical worry warts, the Fuzz won’t eat your brain or dissolve your intestines … this time. As for the peppermint oilers, well, it looks like the solution is a good ole’ namaste-fueled return to the bendable confines of the yoga mat.

-james, GreenCupboards.com Creative Cave.

Images:

http://www.my-introspective.com/MyHealth/6.22.Anatomy-Chart.htm

http://face-and-emotion.com/dataface/anatomy/head_lateralview.jsp

New Years Resolution: Make an impact!

We have suggested a resolve to broaden one’s life experience.  Now, GreenCupboards.com wants to encourage our readers to truly “open the door to greener living” this year.  Health for our planet is deeply tied with health for ourselves.  The top ten resolutions for this year are fixated on an improved state of living.  This means healthier bodies, healthier minds and healthier relationships.  Why not a healthier planet?  Or a healthier relationship with nature?

The “green life” may seem like too broad of a commitment to take on for a New Year’s resolution.  Even so, as we commit to improving our lives and making 2012 a year to remember, GreenCupboards.com hopes to encourage goals that will have a positive effect on our planet.

Here are some simple ideas to get the ball rolling:

-          Recycle!

-          Want to resolve to spend less?  Reuse household products before buying new things!

-          Switch to eco-friendly cleaning supplies!

-          Plant a tree!

-          Start a garden!

-          Are you hoping to lose weight?  Commit to buying organic fruits and vegetables!

The possibilities are endless!  The GreenCupboards.com team wishes you and your families a happy New Year!

Images:

http://sf.funcheap.com/funcheapsfs-years-eve-top-picks-bargains/

http://www.mavismanor.com/

Smokin' Resolution

With the approach of 2012, water cooler chat has yet again sunk from Thanksgiving meal reviews and holiday gift ideas to New Year’s resolutions. NPR polling indicates that the majority of adults in the US are choosing health-oriented resolutions such as losing weight or reduce their smoking. There’s nothing wrong with pursuing health-centered resolution routes such as shedding a few pounds or put a stop the making your lungs a chimney, but I’m more interested in the positive effects of unconventional, potentially hazardous resolutions.

For example, a resolve to broaden one’s life experience could result in an experimental resolution flavor. Perhaps you condemn smoking and unhealthy eating practices but resolve to try a cigarette once a month and eat one chocolate per day. Yes, this may an apocalyptic spin on the traditional approach to resolutions, but this agent-of-chaos approach to the New Year could very well provide a transcendental value, even if such enlightenment is mildly hedonistic. Agree to disagree? Shoot us your thoughts.

Images:

http://blog.jokeroo.com/

http://www.epuffer.com/electronic-cigarette/electronic_cigarette.html

Although Christmas has passed, the time for shopping is far from over.  December 26^th is now known as the third busiest shopping day of the year as people rush to stores to return gifts, use new gift cards, and scout for deals.  This year it was labeled “Mega Monday” marking the end of holiday spending which reached 469 billion dollars.

So what are people buying in the post-Christmas season?  This year Apple products were a popular gift for people of all ages. What better accessory for an Apple than a case?

With Bamboo cases for the iPod, iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch and iPod Nano, the company Vers Audio helps Apple consumers protect their new product.  These Bamboo cases are lightweight but sturdy, promising natural beauty along with high end safety for your electronics.  With steel reinforcement and scratchproof lining these cases are classy and the ideal companions to your Apple products.

Vers values the environment and tries to give back.  The Vers Bamboo cases are handmade and made in the U.S.  Unlike plastic cases which are often flimsy and don’t allow for full protection, these cases promise a natural wood look and sturdy structure.  Aware of their environmental impact, Vers has partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation and has pledged to plant 100 trees for every tree they use.

While you’re shopping for accessories for you new technology check out these Bamboo cases!

Images:

http://lostinasupermarket.com/2009/09/wood-ipod-case-by-vers/

http://www.archigator.com/interior-archives/unique-bamboo-gazebos-modern

save water!

During a recent discussion with my GreenCupboards.com teammates, I learned that the average American wastes thousands of gallons of water every year simply by flushing the toilet.  The average toilet uses up to five gallons of water with each flush.  Although we all agree that we’re not prepared to give up the luxury of indoor plumbing, the GreenCupboards.com team began to wonder if there is a way to save some of that water.

This curiosity led me to the discovery of the water bottle method.  Think of it this way: Every time you flush the toilet you could be saving a bottle of water.

Here’s how it works:  The toilet tank (which is located behind and above the bowl) is designed to fill until the water level reaches a designated point.  Place a bottle filled with water into the tank of the toilet. This displaces water.  Each time your tank fills it will be filling around the object (the water bottle). Therefore, each time you fill up your toilet it will be using less water.  To keep the bottle from floating in your tank use some rocks or pebbles to weigh it down.

We all have to start somewhere. One bottle of water may seem small but it will add up.  Try it out!

Images:

http://j-large.hubpages.com/hub/how-to-save-more-water-at-home

http://www.underdogcentral.net/2010_12_01_archive.html

don't be tempted to overindulge!

Hanukkah has begun, and Christmas and Kwanzaa are only days away.  Gifts, family, good food and sparkling lights are tokens of the holiday season, but so is the reality of unwanted weight gain.  During the holidays many people find themselves immersed in family activities and surrounded by rich homemade dishes and treats.  It’s hard to keep up a healthy lifestyle during a season when we celebrate all the good things that we have.  The year is coming to a close and soon we will be heading into 2012 with every intention to trim our waistlines.  To avoid the regret that can come with the holiday weight gain, here are some tips from GreenCupboards.com to help you keep up with a healthy lifestyle during the holidays.

Drink lots of water:  Hot chocolate, warm buttered rum, peppermint mochas, and apple cider are all traditional treats during the holiday season.  Keep in mind that they are just that: a treat.  There’s no shame in indulging your taste buds with a warm cup of cocoa, but limit splurging.  To stay hydrated, keep a BPA free water bottle handy.  Need something warm?  Add a tea bag to your water. Studies have shown that green tea can increase your body’s ability to metabolize fat.

Go for a walk: Whether you’re driving or flying to your holiday destination, your legs will appreciate a good stretch.  Hectic holiday situations that increase stress may be diffused by taking a quick break.  Go for a walk around the block, to a nearby park, or look at the holiday decorations in town.  Need some one on one time with a loved one?  Bring them along and check out the holiday lights in your neighborhood.

Small plates and portions:   Often holiday weight gain is caused not by what you eat, but by how much.  There’s no use refusing a slice of grandma’s pie, so instead insist on a small portion.  If you’re craving something it’s better to eat a little bit rather than try to satisfy your craving by filling up on “healthier” options.  At parties use the smallest plates and allow yourself small portions.

Active family bonding: Although it’s nice to stay warm and cozy inside, there are lots of fun activities waiting in the winter wonderland.  Instead of settling in for a board game, suggest a family snowball fight, build a snow fort or a snowman, go skiing, sledding, or snowboarding.  No snow this holiday season?  Try a family game of football, tag, or go for a bike ride.

Manage your time: Eat regularly!  The one for sure way to overindulge at the neighbor’s party is to go without a decent meal all day.  Although there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day, the two major causes of weight gain during the holiday season are lack of sleep and skipping meals.  Eat a small meal or salad before heading to a holiday party, and try to get in some time to relax and catch some Z’s.

Wishing you happy holiday’s from the GreenCupboards.com team!

Images:

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20307175_5,00.html

http://justlikegrams.blogspot.com/2010/11/christmas-baking-anyone.html

a traditional holiday movie:"It's a Wonderful Life"

The holiday season brings a sentimental mood to the minds of many.  The holiday lights and mall displays allow shoppers to recall memories from years past.  In the GreenCupboards.com office, our team is no different.  In anticipation of the approaching holidays the Greencupboards.com team takes a moment to gush about our favorite holiday traditions and memories.  I went around the office asking my team members their favorite part of the holiday season and compiled a list of the most popular answers.

For many of my team members the holiday season means celebrating Christmas.  What were their best memories of Christmas?

-          Enjoying hot homemade cinnamon rolls on the morning of December 25^th

-          Going skiing that afternoon

-          Getting to open one present on Christmas Eve

-          Going to see the neighborhood lights with the family

-          Receiving new pajamas

-          Watching Jimmy Stewart figure out that “It’s a Wonderful Life”

-          Sitting in front of warm fires

-          Having snowball fights

-          Playing board games with the family

New Year’s Eve traditions range from root beer floats and sparkling cider to fireworks and sparklers. Most of the GreenCupboards.com team looks forward to the moment when the ball drops.  Noise makers and card games also made the list of fond memories.

All of these fantastic memories coming from the GreenCupboards.com team have peaked my interest.  GreenCupboards.com would like to hear from you! Click here to tell us your most cherished holiday traditions!

Images:

http://blog.patricksmithphotos.com/2007/12/miracle-on-34th-street.html

http://www.allstarpics.net/0631906/010559734/it-s-a-wonderful-life-1946-pic.html

During the GreenCupboards.com office decorating competition, our team put our heads together to think up new ways to decorate using the guidelines of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.  Here’s some of fun ways we stayed green.  Feel free to use this as a guide for your own holiday decorating!

Magazine pages and a cereal box transformes!

Magazine flower Wreath: Don’t throw away those old magazines!  Reuse each individual page to make a paper flower (or three)!  These flowers can be attached to a round cardboard back (cut from a cereal box) to create a colorful festive holiday wreath.

t-shirt bows!

T-shirt bows: Want to add a vintage flare to your Christmas gifts this year?  Instead of tossing your stained or worn out t-shirts, use them to make creative bows!  Cut old clothes into strips and make them into bows!  Tie them around packages; attach them to garlands and doors!  These vintage bows are a great personal touch to a gift.

recycled paper makes for fantastic snow flurries!

Paper Snowflakes: Forget the snow machine!  Cut snowflake shapes from used papers and hang them up to make your home a wonderland.

popcorn and cranberry garland

Popcorn and Cranberry Garland: Instead of spending holiday cash on fluffy lavish garlands, create your own.  Sit down with the kids or your loved one and spend the afternoon stringing popcorn and cranberries together.

newspaper for wrapping presents!

Newspaper Gift Wrap: Year after year we spend money on wrapping paper just to throw it away on Christmas morning.  This year, save some time and use your money on something more worthwhile!  Old newspaper serves as the perfect wrapping paper.

newspaper ads for a paper chain!

Paper Chain: In need of a fun holiday craft?  Fold old ads and attach loops to make a long chain to hang over your door frame or mantel.

string tree!

Wall-String-Tree: If a tree is what you’re missing, never fear!  You can create a forest of trees with a few tacks and some string.  Tack a line of string in a tree shape on your wall and decorate it however you like!

Happy Holidays!

Jet Plastics!

If you find yourself flight bound and airport hopping like most people over the holiday, you may have picked up on an Earth-friendly faux pas or two. Now, we’re not talking about jet fuel and groundwater contamination; it’s much simpler. Complaints about in-flight inhospitality seem to be on the rise with the continued extinction of cookie and peanut distribution at 30,000 feet. At least we still get beverage service, right? For whatever aesthetic value it holds, in-flight sipping and drink distribution does its fair share of eco-trashing. Granted most cups given out during flights are clear plastic, the majority of in-flight drink cups are non-recyclable high number plastics. So the next time the drink cart comes by, you may consider passing up the complementary beverage, your compliments to Mother Earth. Stay safe, fly a fraction greener without a cup in hand.

Images:

http://business-ethics.com/2010/02/19/1205-airlines-get-poor-grades-on-recycling-programs/

http://www.graphicshunt.com/images/airplane-13368.htm

Trying to save money and stay warm this Holiday season? GreenCupboards.com employees are trying to keep warm in the office using space heaters and blankets wondering if we’re doing everything we can to optimize our energies potential. These three steps are helping us save some green while getting “greener” as well.  They may do the same for you.

1. Cover cracks – The first step you can take in making your house more energy efficient this Holiday season is to seek out any crevasses where heat could be escaping. The cracks under doors are notorious for letting the hot air out. By making a door sweep this energy loss can be minimized. A door sweep is a piece of material that is laid at the base of a door, coving the space between the door and the floor. You can purchase a door sweep or make your own by simply folding a blanket or towel and placing it at the bottom of a door.

If you have an attic with pull down stairs, you can better insulate it by placing a blanket over the stairs when you fold it up. It should be a no-brainer, yet also make sure your windows are securely shut.

1. Turn thermostat down, not off – Turning your thermostat off when you leave is surprisingly not the most energy efficient solution. Rather than turning your thermostat off, turn it down instead. All of the stress from turning the heat on and off can damage your energy system and cause it to break prematurely. When you leave, you should set your heat at 50-60 degrees F and when you come home you shouldn’t crank it all the way up but set it at around 70-80 degrees F.

1. Help your radiator – Maximize your radiator’s potential by placing heat reflectors against the wall behind your radiator.  By using heat reflectors you can get much more bang for your buck from your radiator’s heat. This technique can also work for people trying to heat a room using a space heater.