#ingredient: cucumber extract

[valenschirico]

dear, Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist – review

Lock that moisture in before it goes, so I take dear, Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist... ok a #facialmist with an extra. #Koreaskincare

[luckshmi]

Skincare Rituals According to Your Moon Sign: An Ayurvedic Guide

In Vedic astrology, the Moon sign (Rashi) plays a significant role in shaping our emotional well-being and daily habits. The Moon's influence is closely tied to our inner self, and understanding it can provide deep insights into personalized self-care routines, including skincare.

By combining the principles of Ayurveda with the wisdom of Vedic astrology, we can tailor skincare rituals that not only enhance our outer beauty but also nourish our inner selves. This guide explores detailed skincare routines for each Moon sign, highlighting their unique characteristics and needs.

Aries Moon

Characteristics: Aries Moons are energetic, dynamic, and often on the go. Their fiery nature can lead to skin issues like inflammation, redness, and sensitivity.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, cooling cleanser with cucumber or aloe vera to soothe inflammation.

Exfoliant: Opt for a mild exfoliant with chamomile or oatmeal to calm the skin.

Moisturizer: Apply a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer containing green tea extract to reduce redness.

Mask: Use a cooling clay mask once a week to detoxify and soothe the skin.

Benefits: This routine helps calm and cool the skin, reducing inflammation and maintaining a balanced complexion.

Taurus Moon

Characteristics: Taurus Moons are grounded and indulgent, appreciating luxury and comfort. Their skin tends to be resilient but requires deep hydration and nourishment.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Choose a rich, creamy cleanser with nourishing oils like almond or avocado.

Toner: Use a rosewater toner to hydrate and balance the skin's pH levels.

Moisturizer: Apply a thick, luxurious moisturizer with shea butter and honey.

Mask: Indulge in a weekly honey and yogurt mask to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.

Benefits: This routine provides deep hydration, leaving the skin soft, supple, and glowing.

Gemini Moon

Characteristics: Gemini Moons are youthful, curious, and communicative. Their skin can be sensitive and prone to dryness due to their airy nature.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser with chamomile or calendula.

Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.

Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight moisturizer with aloe vera and glycerin.

Mask: Use a hydrating sheet mask once a week to boost moisture levels.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin hydrated and calm, preventing dryness and sensitivity.

Cancer Moon

Characteristics: Cancer Moons are nurturing and deeply intuitive. Their skin can be sensitive and reactive, requiring gentle care.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a milk or cream cleanser with chamomile or lavender.

Toner: Apply a soothing toner with rosewater or witch hazel.

Moisturizer: Opt for a calming moisturizer with calendula and oat extract.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber.

Benefits: This routine soothes and protects sensitive skin, maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion.

Leo Moon

Characteristics: Leo Moons are confident and love to shine. Their skin can be prone to oiliness and occasional breakouts.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser with tea tree oil or salicylic acid.

Toner: Apply a balancing toner with witch hazel and lemon extract.

Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with aloe vera and green tea.

Mask: Use a charcoal or clay mask once a week to control oil and prevent breakouts.

Benefits: This routine helps balance oil production and maintain a clear, radiant complexion.

Virgo Moon

Characteristics: Virgo Moons are practical and detail-oriented. Their skin can be sensitive and prone to irritation.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, natural cleanser with chamomile or calendula.

Exfoliant: Opt for a gentle exfoliant with oatmeal or rice powder.

Moisturizer: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer with aloe vera and hyaluronic acid.

Mask: Use a calming mask with ingredients like cucumber and honey.

Benefits: This routine soothes and protects the skin, preventing irritation and maintaining a healthy glow.

Libra Moon

Characteristics: Libra Moons seek beauty and harmony. Their skin is often well-balanced but can benefit from extra hydration and care.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Choose a gentle foaming cleanser with rose or chamomile.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner with rosewater and glycerin.

Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera.

Mask: Use a hydrating and balancing mask with ingredients like honey and yogurt.

Benefits: This routine maintains balance and hydration, keeping the skin looking fresh and glowing.

Scorpio Moon

Characteristics: Scorpio Moons are intense and transformative. Their skin can be prone to acne and other issues due to their deep emotions.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a deep-cleansing foaming cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.

Toner: Apply a balancing toner with witch hazel and lemon extract.

Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with aloe vera and green tea.

Mask: Use a detoxifying mask with charcoal or clay once a week.

Benefits: This routine helps control oil, prevent breakouts, and maintain a clear complexion.

Sagittarius Moon

Characteristics: Sagittarius Moons are adventurous and optimistic. Their skin can be prone to dryness and sensitivity due to their active lifestyle.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with aloe vera or cucumber.

Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and jojoba oil.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and yogurt.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin hydrated and protected.

Capricorn Moon

Characteristics: Capricorn Moons are disciplined and ambitious. Their skin can be prone to dryness.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with chamomile or calendula.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner with rosewater and glycerin.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and aloe vera.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and cucumber.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin hydrated, glowing and healthy

Aquarius Moon

Characteristics: Aquarius Moons are innovative and independent. Their skin can be sensitive and need deep hydration.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with aloe vera or cucumber.

Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and jojoba oil.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and yogurt.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin healthy and radiant.

Pisces Moon

Characteristics: Pisces Moons are compassionate and dreamy, with sensitive skin that often needs extra care to stay hydrated and healthy.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with chamomile or calendula to soothe and cleanse without stripping moisture.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner with rosewater and glycerin to refresh and prepare the skin for moisturizing.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and aloe vera to nourish and protect the skin.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and cucumber once a week for extra hydration and calmness.

Benefits: This routine keeps Pisces Moon's sensitive skin hydrated, soothed, and protected, ensuring a healthy, radiant complexion that reflects their compassionate and dreamy nature.

By understanding your Moon sign and incorporating Ayurvedic skincare rituals tailored to your unique emotional and physical needs, you can enhance your skin's health and overall well-being. These personalized routines not only address specific skin concerns but also align with your inner self, providing a holistic approach to beauty and self-care.

[najia-cooks]

[ID: First photo shows a mixed seaweed salad topped with toasted sesame seeds; in the background are bowls of pickled daikon and kake udon. Second photo is a close-up showing light shining through the seaweed. End ID]

わかめと昆布サラダ / Wakame to konbu sarada (Seaweed and kelp salad)

A wide variety of seaweed-based salads are made by Japanese home cooks. They may contain only a mix of seaweeds and a dressing, but may also feature vegetables including cucumber, carrots, lotus root (レンコン / はす), daikon (だいこん), corn, edamame (枝豆), or onion. Dressings are as varied as cooks, and may be based around sesame oil (ごま油), rice vinegar (米酢), miso paste (みそ / 味噌), ponzu sauce (ポン酢), or mayonnaise (マヨ).

This recipe is a good way to use up reconstituted kombu and wakame that were steeped to make soup stock. It includes instructions for two dressings: one based on rice vinegar and sesame oil, and another with a sesame-mayo base.

"わかめ" or "ワカメ" ("wakame") is likely from "若" ("waka," "young") +‎ "海布" ("me," "seaweed"); it is a particular species of edible seaweed (Undaria pinnatifida) that is farmed in Japan, Korea, and China. It is sometimes called "sea mustard" in English. Without further specification, "wakame" in a culinary context is taken to mean the leaves of the seaweed; these are the same leaves that are eaten in miso soup (みそ汁).

The etymology of "昆布" ("kombu" or "konbu") is unknown. It may be a phonetic Japanese reading of the Middle Chinese "昆布" (Mandarin: "kūnbù") (itself from "綸布" "*krūn pās," "green ribbon" + "cloth"), used to refer to various types of kelp and seaweed. In Japanese, the term refers to any of a few species of edible kelp from the Laminariaceae family.

Dried kombu is steeped to make one type of dashi ("出汁" / "だし"), a stock that is used in various soups and sauces. Once reconstituted, it may be steeped again to make 二番だし ("niban dashi," "second dashi"), sliced and simmered as one ingredient in a 煮物 ("nimono," simmered dish), or roasted and combined with other seaweeds and spices to make 振り掛け ("furikake").

"サラダ" ("sarada") is probably derived from the English "salad."

Note that the "seaweed salad" served at Japanese restaurants in the U.S. is not commonly eaten in Japan. It is shipped out to restaurants and stores pre-packaged, and is made with colored オゴノリ ("ogonori"; "agar" on ingredients lists), きくらげ ("kikurage"; "wood ear mushroom" or "fungus" on ingredients lists), and byproducts of wakame including 茎わかめ ("kukiwakame," wakame stem) and メカブ ("mekabu," wakame sprouts; both listed as "wakame" or "seaweed" on ingredients lists). You may be able to find this salad in the freezer section of your local Asian grocery store. If you want to approximate the texture of this salad at home, try buying some mixture of ogonori, kikurage, kukiwakame, mekabu, モズク ("mokuzu"), and/or ひじき ("hijiki"). Instructions for the dressing are below.

Recipe under the cut!

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Ingredients:

For the salad:

2 cups total reconstituted kombu, wakame, hijiki, or other kelp or seaweed

Vegetable additions to seaweed salads are possible and common. Try adding some cucumber, julienned carrots, sliced lotus root, sliked daikon radish, corn, edamame, or sliced onion that's been soaked in plum vinegar for 15 minutes.

If you're including cucumbers, slice them, salt them, allow them to drain in a colander for about 10 minutes, then gently squeeze them of excess liquid, to avoid making your salad watery.

For dressing 1:

1 Tbsp unseasoned rice vinegar (米酢)

1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil (煎りごま油)

1/2 kosher salt

1/2 tsp vegetarian granulated sugar

1/2 tsp Japanese soy sauce (しょうゆ / 醤油) (such as Kikkoman's)

2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (いりごま)

To make U.S. restuarant-style seaweed salad, omit the soy sauce; replace the sugar with high fructose corn syrup; and add a pinch of cayenne pepper, 1/4 tsp of onion powder or yeast extract, and a pinch of MSG.

For dressing 2:

2 Tbsp vegan mayonnaise

1/2 tsp unseasoned rice vinegar (米酢)

1/4 tsp dried ground shiitake mushroom, or vegetarian dashi powder

1/4 tsp vegetarian granulated sugar

Drop of djion mustard

Pinch kosher salt

1 tsp Japanese soy sauce (しょうゆ / 醤油) (such as Kikkoman's)

Drizzle of mirin (みりん)

2 tsp toasted sesame seeds, ground in a mortar and pestle or spice mill

If you eat eggs, you can replace the first five ingredients with 2 Tbsp Kewpie mayo (キューピーマヨ).

For a halal version, replace the mirin with an extra pinch of sugar.

Instructions:

For the salad:

1. Slice kombu into very thin strips. Slice wakame into thin strips, or leave as-is, as desired. Slice other flat dried seaweed into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

For dressing 1:

1. Whisk all ingredients except sesame seeds together in a small bowl. Toss with seaweed. Top with sesame seeds and serve cold.

For dressing 2:

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl. Toss with seaweed. Serve cold.

[acocktailmoment]

Dragon Fruit Cucumber Limeade !

INGREDIENTS:

For the dragon fruit syrup:

1 cup sugar

1 cup hot water (does not need to be boiling)

100 g frozen pink dragon fruit (about 1/2 cup)

For the Dragon Fruit Cucumber Limeade:

1 oz dragon fruit syrup

1 oz fresh lime juice

1/2 baby cucumber (or 3 slices large cucumber)

1 slice jalapeno (optional)

4-6 oz still or sparkling water (to taste)

1 1/2 oz vodka or tequila (optional)

To make a large batch:

1 cup dragon fruit syrup

1 cup fresh lime juice (about 8-9 limes)

4-6 cups cold still or sparkling water (to taste)

1 cucumber, chopped

1/2 jalapeno, chopped (optional. Remove seeds for less heat)

1 1/2 cups vodka or tequila (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

For the dragon fruit syrup:

Combine the sugar, hot water, and frozen dragon fruit in a heatproof jar or other container. Stir to help thaw the fruit and dissolve the sugar.

Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes, until all of the fruit has thawed and the sugar has dissolved. Use a fine mesh strainer to strain out the seeds and any excess pulp.

Store any leftover syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

For the Dragon Fruit Cucumber Limeade:

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber and optional jalapeno.

If using still water: Add the syrup, lime juice, optional alcohol and 4-6 ounces of water to the shaker and fill 3/4 with ice. (If using vodka, start with 4 ounces of water, you can add more, to taste, afterward).

Shake until chilled, then fine strain the liquid into a highball glass filled with ice and garnish with cucumber.

If using sparkling water: Add the syrup, lime juice, optional alcohol and 1 ounce of still water to the shaker and fill 3/4 with ice.

Shake until chilled, then fine strain the liquid into a highball glass with ice and top with 4-5 ounces of sparkling water, to taste. Garnish with cucumber.

To make a large batch:

Add the cucumber and optional jalapeno to a blender with enough water for the blender to operate (try 1/4 cup). Blend until mostly liquified, then use a fine strainer to remove the pulp, reserving the liquid. If you don't have a blender, you can use a muddler or a large wooden spoon to mash the cucumber and jalapeno in a small bowl or large measuring cup, then strain, pressing on the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible. Reserve the liquid.

In a large pitcher, add the dragon fruit syrup, fresh lime juice, and cucumber/jalapeno liquid. Stir to combine.

If adding vodka or tequila, add 12 ounces (1 1/2 cups) alcohol to the pitcher and top with 4-5 cups of cold still or sparkling water, to taste. If skipping the alcohol, add 5-6 cups of still or sparkling water, to taste. Stir gently and serve in highball glasses over ice. Garnish each drink with cucumber.

Courtesy: Moody Mixologist.

This article was not sponsored or supported by a third-party. A Cocktail Moment is not affiliated with any individuals or companies depicted here.

[honeytonedhottie]

healthy foods and recipes that i use on a daily basis(>•<)💭🍣

these r just some recipes for foods that i eat every single day, and they r healthy and easy to make. they r also great if u have a busy lifestyle bcuz they're super easy and quick to make <3

remember to eat yummy food that fuels u 💗

SALADS -

carrot salad - carrots! carrots r an amazing source of vitamin A and isn't only beneficial for ur skin, but also ur eyesight, and ur immune system; for the recipe i'd wash a carrot and shave it, then add one cap of apple cider vinegar and olive oil, with salt and pepper and i'll eat that as a side dish along with my meal

cucumber salad - cucumbers r also an amazing source of hydration and is great for ur skin. just slice a couple cucumbers and add olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes

meditteranean salad - dice cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and make a vinaigrette using lemon, olive oil, and salt and pepper and add those all together with some basil for a hydrating delicious salad

SNACKS -

pan con tómate - its simply toasted bread with oil, grated tomatoes, garlic, salt and pepper

apple slices and peanut butter

frozen grapes with lime juice on top

literally any assortment of veggies with lime juice and salt

sliced fruit bowls with lemon juice

DINNERS -

how i make tofu - so i always use firm tofu and i'll dry it with a paper towel just to make sure that its dry (make sure to drain the excess water) and on a separate plate i'd add some flour, and seasonings of my choice. then coat the tofu in the flour and put it on a hot pan (approximately 5 min per side of tofu) or until its crispy, and then i'll make a sauce, usually with soy sauce, ginger and honey.

cucumber sushi - i'd wash and shave cucumbers, then take the shavings and lay them out as though it was wrapping paper (if that makes sense) then dry it with a paper towel so that the ingredients can stick onto it. then i'd fill it with sticky rice, sauces, tuna sometimes, or literally anything u wanna fill it with and then roll it up like u would do with sushi and cut it into pieces.

SANDWICHES -

sandwich one - take a hard boiled egg and break it down in a bowl, and add some mayo and mustard (trust) to create a paste like mixture. spread all that onto some bread. then add some lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.

BREAKFASTS -

overnight oats - in a container, add some oats, greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey, fruits of choice (i often use strawberries or blueberries) and almond milk and then shake that up and let it stay in the fridge overnight for an easy breakfast in the morning.

chia seed pudding - add three tablespoons of chia seeds into a container, half a cup of almond milk, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and some honey (add coco powder if u like chocolate) and then put that in the fridge overnight.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from The Revelator:

We need to talk about sand.

Most people don’t realize that these humble grains — that ubiquitous stuff of vacations, ant farms and hourglasses — are the second-most used natural resource in the world after water. According to a 2019 report from the United Nations Environment Programme, we use more than 55 billion tons of it per year — nearly 40 pounds per person per day.

And a lot of that sand comes from illegal activity, involving criminal gangs who mine, smuggle, and kill for the precious material.

Sand — legal or otherwise — gets used to enhance beaches, extract petroleum through hydraulic fracking, fill land under buildings, and make computer chips.

But the biggest amount by far — an estimated 85% of the sand mined globally — goes into making concrete. Concrete combines two key ingredients: cement, a binding agent made from calcium or other substances, and aggregate, which is either sand or a combination of sand and gravel. Quality concrete requires jagged and angular aggregate grains — a quality found in only a tiny fraction of the worlds’ sand, most of it on beaches and in rivers. This sand also is easy and cheap to mine, and it’s located close to much of the construction taking place around the world.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, world consumption of aggregate for all uses exceeds 40 billion metric tons (44 billion U.S. tons) a year — an estimate that’s likely on the conservative side and represents about twice the amount of sediment carried annually by all the world’s rivers. (Sediment from land rocks is the source of most coastal sand, which also comes from shells and marine organisms pulverized by waves, the digestive tracts of coral-eating fish, and the remains of tiny creatures called foraminifera.)

Not surprisingly, UNEP calls management of sand one of the greatest sustainability challenges of the 21st century.

The organization also warns about sand mining’s serious consequences for humans and the natural environment.

Removing beach sand leaves coastal structures more vulnerable to erosion even as climate change raises sea levels and makes storms more intense. Transporting sand generates carbon dioxide emissions. Sand mining has political and cultural consequences, including effects on the tourism industry, and creates noise and air pollution.

Coastal sand mining also destroys complex ecosystems. The microorganisms, crabs, and clams that live in beach sand are important food sources for birds. Sea turtles and several bird species nest on sandy beaches. Seagrass, an important food source and habitat for marine residents, needs sandy ocean floor to grow. Stretches of underwater sand provide habitat for sea stars, sea cucumbers, conchs, and other critters, and are feeding grounds for flounder, rays, fish, and sharks.

Removing sand also affects water quality in the ocean and depletes groundwater.

[sarking]

Citrus Chickpea Salad

Made this tonight, sort of. I used a fresh red pepper instead of roasted, added some black pepper (really? really, recipe? none?), substituted honey for agave (didn't measure it either), and threw in some lemon thyme with the cilantro.

Also, I mixed the lemon and vinegar and herbs up in a bowl by themselves and poured it over because, like, don't you want your flavors mixed?

It's pretty tasty! Not incredible, but I'll make it again; it's a nice summer side and easy enough to throw together before dinner. You could add some grated garlic or more fresh herbs (oregano, I'm thinking, but honestly pretty much anything would be good) if you wanted a little more from it.

Cucumber, Blueberry, and Feta Salad

I made this Sunday and this was really good, and again, super easy to throw together, and held up surprisingly well without getting soggy. (I keep the leftovers in the empty feta container and finished them it tonight.)

The dressing it has you use is Wegmans brand, natch, so good luck finding a substitute if you don't have a Wegmans? (But also, now you know how I feel every time I see a recipe calling for Trader Joe's this or that.) It's a bit more creamy than a vinaigrette, but I think if you grabbed a basic white balsamic vinaigrette recipe and threw in some lemon juice, garlic, and fresh or dried herbs, it would be fine. It was very Italian seasoning-y and the herb I noticed the most was the oregano, and maybe thyme. The ingredients list from the dressing is:

Water, Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Organic White Balsamic Vinegar, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Organic Distilled Vinegar, Organic Sugar, Sea Salt, Organic Onion Puree, Organic Lemon Juice Concentrate, Organic Garlic Puree, Organic Dehydrated Garlic, Organic Black Pepper, Xanthan Gum, Organic Parsley, Organic Oregano, Organic Thyme, Organic Rosemary Extract, Organic Flavor.

Basically, you're shooting for tangy/acidic and herby. It would also be great with the lemon vinaigrette from this triple melon salad, although I find that's significantly less acidic than the white balsamic dressing.

[blogging1202]

 KeraBiotics Ingredients

The ingredients chosen for  KeraBiotics are carefully researched. All the ingredients used in this product are safe, effective, and gentle on the skin. Below are the ingredients used for the supplement:

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice: Extracted from the aloe vera plant, this ingredient is well-known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It helps to calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and provide essential moisture.

Glycerin: A natural humectant, glycerin attracts moisture from the air into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and supple throughout the day.

Deionized Water: This purified water serves as the solvent in the formulation, ensuring that other ingredients can be effectively dispersed and absorbed into the skin.

Caprylyl Glycol (Optiphen): Another preservative, caprylyl glycol helps to extend the shelf life of the product by inhibiting microbial growth and oxidation.

Potassium Sorbate: This natural preservative helps to prevent the growth of mold and yeast in the product, ensuring its stability and safety for use.

Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract: Cucumber extract is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It helps to soothe and refresh the skin, reducing puffiness, and providing a cooling sensation

Copper Gluconate: Copper gluconate has antimicrobial properties and helps to promote wound healing. It also plays a role in collagen synthesis, supporting the skin's structure and elasticity.

Phenoxyethanol: A widely used preservative, phenoxyethanol helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in the product, ensuring its safety and efficacy over time. 

Carbomer: This ingredient acts as a thickening agent, giving the product its gel-like consistency. It helps to improve the spreadability of the formulation and gives it a smooth, luxurious texture.

[ceeveganglutenfreebaking]

Delicious Vegan Gluten-Free Back-to-School Lunchbox Snacks

Back-to-school season is upon us, and that means it's time to start thinking about lunchbox snacks. But what if your child has dietary restrictions, like being vegan or gluten-free? Don't worry, I've got you covered! In this post, I'm sharing 5 delicious and nutritious vegan gluten-free lunchbox snacks that your kids will love.

**1. Energy Balls**

These energy balls are the perfect way to start the day or refuel after a long morning of learning. They're packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep your kids energized throughout the day.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup pitted dates, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes

* 1/2 cup almond butter or other nut butter

* 1/4 cup rolled oats

* 1/4 cup shredded coconut

* 1/4 cup chia seeds

* 1/4 cup ground flaxseed

* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

* Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. Drain the dates and add them to a food processor along with the almond butter, oats, coconut, chia seeds, flaxseed, vanilla extract, and salt.

2. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough.

3. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and store in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

**2. Mini Veggie Pizzas**

These mini pizzas are a fun and healthy way to get your kids to eat their veggies. They're also a great way to use up leftover veggies from the fridge.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 whole-wheat pita bread, cut into 4 wedges

* 1/4 cup marinara sauce

* 1/4 cup shredded vegan mozzarella cheese

* 1/4 cup chopped vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onions)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each pita wedge.

3. Top with shredded vegan mozzarella cheese and chopped vegetables.

4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

**3. Fruit and Nut Bars**

These fruit and nut bars are a delicious and portable snack that's perfect for on-the-go. They're also a great way to get your kids to eat their fruits and nuts.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)

* 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews)

* 1/4 cup chia seeds

* 1/4 cup maple syrup

* 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

**Instructions:**

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough.

2. Spread the dough into a rectangular pan lined with parchment paper.

3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

**4. Hummus and Veggie Sticks**

Hummus is a delicious and versatile dip that's perfect for pairing with veggie sticks. This snack is packed with protein and fiber, and it's a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained

* 1/4 cup tahini

* 2 tablespoons lemon juice

* 2 tablespoons olive oil

* 1 clove garlic, minced

* 1/4 teaspoon cumin

* Pinch of salt

* 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and cucumber)

**Instructions:**

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth.

2. Serve with veggie sticks.

**5. Yogurt Parfaits**

Yogurt parfaits are a classic lunchbox snack that's both healthy and delicious. This vegan version is made with plant-based yogurt and is packed with protein and probiotics.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup plant-based yogurt

* 1/2 cup granola

* 1/4 cup fresh fruit (such as berries, bananas, or mangoes)

**Instructions:**

1. Layer the yogurt, granola, and fruit in a reusable container.

2. Enjoy!

These are just a few ideas for vegan gluten-free lunchbox snacks. With a little creativity, you can come up with endless possibilities!

Comment below which one you will be trying out

[paganmind]

I want to share a night cap recipe for sunset with y'all.

The main ingredient is cucumber 🥒, one works best. All the other ingredients are added for personal taste. Play with it and make it your own [I don't like measuring for cocktails because everybody has a different taste]. Put it all in a blender, don't peel the cucumber. Cucumber syrup is a quicker alternative if you don't mind the sugar and you don't need a blender anymore. For a mocktail, honey 🐝 can be the substitute for rum [aged rum is the best]. For herbal magick add Chlorophyll. It's an extract removing toxins from your body and usually has some mint flavoring.

For added magick, use the crystals. Keep them in sunlight during the day ☀️. While observing the end of the day, hold them in your hands and repeat the charm 5 times or until you feel the energy of the sun in your palms. Cheers! 🍹

>>please, you may change anything you like, make it your own magick if needed<<

[ecopunkfox]

Cucumber!! I think the flowers are so pretty. I don’t actually like cucumber myself, but I love pickles! Once the cucumbers get going I’ll be making pickles from (besides the vinegar) all ingredients from my garden! I actually had to harvest some dill recently to let the cucumbers catch up, so I’ll have dill extract, too.

[kenkubluk]

please dont use cucumber for icecream- here’s some low cal or protein icecream recipe options:

types of icecream base (just blend and serve)

frozen banana

frozen light yogurt cubes +proteinpowder +sweetner

(SORBET) frozen fruit (pinapple, strawbs, mango, papaya, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, blueberry, grapes, raspberries, even avocado) +unsweet nutmilk

frozen cottage cheese cubes with sweeteners/additions

frozen coconutmilk/pulp cubes +proteinpowder +sweetner

sugarfree puddingmix +frozen unsweetnutmilk cubes +sweetener

lowcal proteinpowder +frozen unsweetnutmilk cubes +sweetener

Guar gum +frozen unsweet nutmilk (thicker types like cashewmilk, soymilk, oatmilk) cubes +sweeter

Silken tofu +sweetener +vanillaproteinpowder +coconutmilk or almondmilk

(experimental) frozen Unsweetened Soymilk or cashewmilk cubes +guar gum +tbsp protein powder +sweetener

lowcal additions

mint/peppermint

sugarfree darkchoco chips

sprinkles

choco powder

maple syrup

fruits/!!berries!! (fresh, canned, frozen)

nuts/nutbutter (like chestnuts, pistachios, or cashews)

vanilla/vanilla extract

rum extract

butter extract

cinnamon

nutmeg

coffee

coconut

lavender

lemon/lime/orange juice flavoring or extract

honestly copying your favorite icecream from the store is a fun flavor finder

Remember! a pinch of salt adds good flavor/brings out extra flavor of other ingredients

also i wouldnt use food colorants for health safety and flavor reasons

[skincare-product97]

Dark Circles Eliminator

Banishing Tired Eyes: A Review of the Dark Circles Eliminator

I've always been self-conscious about my dark circles. No matter how much sleep I got, those shadows under my eyes always made me look exhausted. I tried various concealers, but they never quite did the trick, often creasing or looking cakey. That's when I discovered the Dark Circles Eliminator, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer!

A Gentle, Hydrating Formula

The first thing that impressed me about the Dark Circles Eliminator was its texture. It's a lightweight, silky cream that absorbs quickly into the delicate under-eye area. There's no greasy residue, just a smooth, hydrated feeling. This is important because the under-eye skin is so thin and prone to dryness, which can actually worsen the appearance of dark circles.

Natural Ingredients with Real Results

The Dark Circles Eliminator boasts a blend of natural ingredients that target the root cause of dark circles. Hyaluronic acid provides a much-needed moisture boost, plumping up the under-eye area and reducing the appearance of shadows. Vitamin C, a known brightening agent, helps to even out skin tone and diminish hyperpigmentation. Additionally, ingredients like green tea and cucumber extract soothe and cool the under-eye area, minimizing puffiness and promoting a brighter, more awake look.

Visible Improvement Over Time

I started noticing a difference in my under-eye circles within a few weeks of consistent use. The darkness began to fade, and the overall tone of my under-eye area appeared brighter. Now, after using the Dark Circles Eliminator for several months, I can confidently say that my dark circles are significantly less noticeable. My eyes look brighter, and I feel more refreshed and youthful.

More Than Just Dark Circles

While the Dark Circles Eliminator excels at tackling darkness, it also delivers other benefits. The formula is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, and I haven't experienced any irritation. It also seems to be helping with the appearance of fine lines around my eyes, leaving the under-eye area looking smoother and more youthful.

A Small Investment, Big Results

The Dark Circles Eliminator is definitely worth the investment. While some high-end eye creams can be quite expensive, the Dark Circles Eliminator offers fantastic results at a reasonable price point. Plus, a little goes a long way – a small amount of product is enough to cover both under-eye areas.

Overall, I highly recommend the Dark Circles Eliminator to anyone struggling with dark circles or puffiness. It's a gentle, effective product that delivers real results. With consistent use, you can finally kiss goodbye to tired-looking eyes and say hello to a brighter, more refreshed you!

[renphousa]

Say Goodbye to Dark Circles: How Eye Masks Can Transform Your Look

Understanding the Causes of Dark Circles and Puffiness

Many people struggle with dark circles and puffiness under their eyes. Their presence can have a significant impact on their appearance and self-esteem. Therefore, understanding the causes of these common issues can help individuals take steps to address and minimize their effects. From lack of sleep and stress to genetics and aging, various factors contribute to dark circles and puffiness, but you can make informed choices about how to effectively treat and manage these concerns to look and feel their best. https://go.renpho.com/renpho-blogs-eye-mask-eyebags

Lack of Sleep and Fatigue

Lack of sleep and chronic fatigue can have significant negative effects on both our physical and mental well-being. Physically, it can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses and infections. It can also result in weight gain or difficulty in maintaining a healthy weight due to disrupted metabolism and hormonal imbalances.

Genetics

In addition to lifestyle causes, dark circles and puffiness under the eyes can be influenced by genetics. The traits of thinner skin and less fat padding under the eyes can be inherited from parents, making an individual more susceptible to developing undereye issues.

Aging

Aging can contribute to the development of dark circles and puffiness under the eyes in several ways. Firstly, the skin naturally becomes thinner and loses elasticity as we age. This thinning makes blood vessels more visible, resulting in the appearance of dark circles.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in, leading to a range of health issues including dry and dull skin. To address dehydration, it is crucial to drink an adequate amount of water daily, ideally 8-10 glasses.

Sun Exposure

Exposure to the sun can significantly impact the delicate undereye area. Harmful UV rays can lead to the production of extra melanin, resulting in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and the appearance of dark eye circles. This is why it is crucial to protect the undereye area from sun damage.

Do Eye Masks Help with Puffiness and Dark Circles? 

Eye masks can offer temporary relief for puffiness and dark circles under the eyes, though their effectiveness may vary depending on the specific causes of these concerns. Chilled or infused eye masks, such as those containing cucumber or aloe vera, can help reduce puffiness by constricting blood vessels and soothing the skin.

In the perennial quest for a revitalized appearance, conquering the persistent foe of dark circles becomes an art. Enter the realm of transformative skincare, where the humble eye mask emerges as a silent hero. Crafted with precision, akin to the sophistication of a Renpho Scale, these masks redefine the narrative around tired eyes. https://go.renpho.com/smart-scale-20-24

The orchestration of this skincare symphony commences with a meticulous dance of botanical extracts, antioxidants, and peptides. These ingredients, carefully curated in the fabric of the eye mask, blend seamlessly to banish shadows and breathe life into fatigued skin. Picture the delicacy of a spa experience, yet fortified with the mechanical finesse reminiscent of a skincare Massage Gun. The gentle vibrations mimic the hands of an expert masseuse, stimulating blood circulation and bidding farewell to the weariness that often manifests as dark circles. https://go.renpho.com/collection-massage-gun-24

This transformative journey doesn't conclude without a nod to the realm of beauty rest. An advanced breed of eye masks, often dubbed as Sleep Masks, not only shields your eyes from ambient light but also employs cutting-edge technology to enhance the overnight repair process.

In this fusion of innovation and indulgence, eye masks stand as emissaries of change, promising a radiant, fatigue-free visage with every wear.

#eyemask #healthyliving #renphoscale  #massagegun #renpho

[belladoesmakeup]

Hi guys,

Every Christmas there is one present I always ask for and that is the Soap & Glory Mask Force™ 5 Piece Face Mask Set, £15.00. When it comes to affordable drugstore brands Soap & Glory is one of my favourites because they have (in my opinion) some of the best bath and body products. Honestly I have a obsession with their body scrub products. This gift set includes all my favourite masks from their brand and I love using them throughout January so I always for them. When it comes to Christmas in my family we don't really ask for big gifts but if we have little things we really like we ask because honestly my family are such good gift givers they get me things I love but wouldn't think to ask for myself.

Today we are focusing on Soap & Glory's skincare products so let me chat you through all the different masks you get in this iconic gift set. The first mask you get is the Speed Plump Face Mask which is a  thirst-quenching mask that comes in two convenient pieces so you can fit it perfectly to your face. The mask is soaked with Hydrogel to leave your skin feeling fresh, hydrated, dewey and plump. It's such a refreshing mask to use I always end up repurchasing. Next up we have the Bright + Beautiful Face Mask. This mask focuses more on brightening up dull or tired skin to look more radiant and refreshed. I love using this mask when I look tired and need some life put back into my skin.

Now we have the What a Peeling Face Mask, this actually comes with 2 masks instead of 1 so it's the best value if you're picking one to buy. Unlike the other masks this mask is a peeling mask that helps to remove dirt and impurities as you peel it off. When you peel off this mask it feels utterly amazing and also like you have a new layer of skin on your face (apologies for the traumatising image there). Next up we have the Puffy Eye Attack Eye Masks. When you work a full time job masks like these are the only thing that makes your under eyes look bright and you have a functional sleeping pattern. These eye patches are made with "Botanical Peptides, clinically proven to reduce the appearance of dark circles and inflammation, and super-naturally good ingredients including hyper-hydrating Cucumber Fruit Juice and beautifully brightening Liquorice Root Extract, for smoother and more wide-awake looking eyes". Sounds crazy I know but my god they work like a charm!

Lastly we have the Pout About It Lip Mask. This mask is a new edition to the family and is a instantly smoothing and line-reducing lip mask delivers a boost of miraculous moisturisation for up to 6-hours. The mask is super hydrating and includes hyaluronic acid and coconut water to give you a hydrated perfect pout.

I really love this brand and how amazing these masks make my skin feel so if you need some new masks I recommend checking them out. As always all products mentioned are linked above.

Lot’s of love

Bella x x

[miniaturemoonheart]

Litha

Yummy food suggestions for your celebration

Traditional fare includes bread, cheese, edible flowers, citrus fruit, mead, wine, milk, ale and vegetables. More recipes are offered in Pagan Celebration of Midsummer/Litha – the Summer Solstice.

Faerie’s Kiss:

Shake together 2ces each white Crème de Cacao and white Crème de Menthe and 4 ounces cold milk. Pour over ice chips. Garnish with mint leaves and Maraschino cherries.

Non-alcoholic version: Blend 1 cup chocolate milk and 1/2 teaspoon mint extract.

Rock Cornish Game Hen with Tarragon: 1/2 cup margarine in sauce pan. Add 1/2 cup dry white wine and 1-1/2 tablespoon crumbled dried tarragon. Simmer for five minutes. Put 4 ( 1 pound) Rock Cornish Game hens into baking pan. Pour wine sauce over. Roast at 375 degrees for about 1 hour or until done, when juices, when pricked, run clear, basting frequently. Serve with wild rice.

Sautéed Carrots and Pecans: Sl1 pound carrots diagonally and gently boil until crisp. Drain and set aside. Melt 2 tablespoons margarine. Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1 teaspoon sugar and carrots. Mix well. Sauté until carrots are golden.

Penne with Blue Cheese: Cook the 1 popenne until done and drain. Return to pot. Add 6 ounces crumbled bleu cheese, 4 ounces margarine and 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives to the penne. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until cheese is melted and ingredients are blended. Serve immediately.

Summer Salad: Toss together 1/2 poundh sliced raw pea pods, thinly sliced raw mushrooms, sliced cucumbers or zucchini, sliced radishes, 1 (16 ounce) can sliced artichoke hearts and 1/4 cup slivered almonds. Dressing: Blend together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon honey mustard and a pinch of coarsely-ground black pepper. Refrigerate dressing overnight.

Citrus/Blueberry Compote: Blend toget1/2 cup water, 2 tablespoons marigold petals, 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind. Boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Cool. Combine 1 1/2 cups each orange, lime and tangerine slices and 2 cups blueberries. Pour water mixture over fruit and chill overnight. Serve over lemon angel food cake

Feast of Faeries: Afterglow Celebration

Relax after dining on fine food and drink. Contemplate the personal power within your Higher Self. Reflect on the symbolism of the Sun and the Divine guidance that is given.

Recognize that that the power of Summer is the gift of attaining all that you want to manifest, through the grace of the Divine, is yours to bring into fruition now. Thank the Fae for their gifts. Abundance will be yours.