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I love progress, where would we be without it? But could there be such a thing as a little too much progress? In the age of commercial manufacturing, products aren't always what they seem. We know that processed commercial foods aren’t always exactly food. We know to shy away from preservatives, food dyes with heavy metals and other questionable multi-syllable chemical ingredients. We also know that clothing isn’t just cotton, silk or wool any more, but so many of us never really think about our personal care products. Soap washes off, so what’s the big deal? Well, actually your skin, is the largest organ in your body and can also absorb anything it touches. So, yeah, it washes off, but not before it absorbs some of what you put on it. When you start looking at things like your ‘ chemical body burden ’ and stats claiming we have hundreds of different chemicals in our blood stream at birth, it might be time to pay attention to your personal care routine. Soap is soap, right? ….not really. Just like food, clothing, etc. soap is no longer just soap. Even the FDA states, ' Today there are very few true soaps on the market.  Most body cleansers, both liquid and solid, are actually synthetic detergent products .’   So what’s the difference? Genuine soap is a mixture of oils (fats) and lye which cause a reaction called saponification resulting in soap and glycerin. Different oils, butters and fats add different qualities to the soap. The glycerin in this soap is what attracts moisture to your skin and aids in smoother skin. Alternately, commercially produced synthetic soap and detergents right off the bat they separate the glycerin from the soap to sell at a higher price or use in more expensive products. After removing the glycerin, they add in synthetic foaming agents and artificial fragrances to mask the absence of glycerin. Natural cold process soaps typically take 6 weeks to fully cure and are often handmade. These soaps do not contain artificial fragrances or synthetic dyes, but rather essential oils and botanicals for color. If soap makers could skip the 6 week curing process and extract the glycerin for higher profit and use the byproduct as cheap synthetic soap, it's no wonder small handmade soap makers were squeezed out of the market. What does this mean for your skin? Typical commercial soap contains sodium laurel (SLS) sulfate (a drying skin irritant), and possibly sodium laureate sulfate (SELS) (cheap carcinogenic foaming agent) not to mention dyes which contain heavy metals and artificial fragrances which typically contain phthalates, and endocrine disrupter. Furthermore, if it's labeled antibacterial, it probably contains triclosan, a chemical classified by the EPA as a pesticide. (FYI - 40 years of research by the FDA has shown  antibacterial soaps are no more effective than natural cold process soap !) What makes natural soap even more awesome? So many of the natural ingredients in cold process soap are so good for your skin to begin with. Many use a blend of natural oils like coconut oil, which moisturizes, disinfects, and has anti aging properties, shea butter, known for skin healing properties, olive oil, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil, which creates a great natural lather, prevents dry skin and fights acne-causing bacteria as well as essential oils which can range from antiviral properties to skin calming for conditions like eczema or acne. Natural soaps don’t just clean you, they make your whole body healthier and help lessen the toxic load. In short natural soaps are a great way to lessen your overall chemical burden  and really do something great for your skin. They won't dry out your skin or cause irritation because all the ingredients are NATURAL! They don't contain synthetics or chemicals that will enter your blood stream via your skin and they just smell better! Essential oils derived from actual plants will leave you feeling fresh and smelling great vs artificial fragrances which can be questionable at best.

When it comes to candles for your home there are so many choices out there. Some are beautiful and trendy, others are minimalist and understated, but what’s in these candles anyway? One of the big questions is what kind of wax do I choose: soy, paraffin, beeswax, palm, unlabeled mystery wax? The vast majority of candles on the market are either made from soy or paraffin  wax. 1. If you are a frequent candle user, it may interest you to know that soy candles will not ruin your walls or upholstery vs. paraffin candles.  Paraffin candle emissions build up surfaces over time, discoloring your walls, fabrics and carpets and ultimately affecting the air quality in your home. In addition, paraffin is a petroleum byproduct, making it bad for the environment. 2. Paraffin wax may contain Benzene.  Paraffin wax is a derivative of petroleum and it has been claimed in a 2009 study by South Carolina State University that   paraffin wax candles emit benzene .    Benzine is a carcinogen   as classifies by the American Cancer Society.    The same study also found that soy wax did not. 3. Soy candles are actually more economical!  While often the outright price of soy candles may appear to be more, when considering how much slower soy burns in comparison to paraffin, you will actually use less candles and save a bunch of money. 4. Using soy candles produces 90% less soot than paraffin, reducing indoor pollution and avoiding breathing and lung problems. 5. Soy is sustainable! Candles being made from renewable resources that are grown sustainably makes a postive impact on the environment. 6. Easy clean up! Soy wax is softer and biodegradable. If it spills on a surface or even fabric, chances are you should be able to   clean it up   with some hot soapy water vs scraping until your arm falls off or you’ve damaged whatever it was you were trying to clean… (not that I’m speaking from experience or anything…) 7. Soy doesn’t create as much heat  making it more pleasant for summer evenings, crowded rooms or holidays during which you’ve had the oven running all day. 8. You are supporting U.S. agriculture.  When you buy soy anything, chances are it's from the good old USA. The United States is the number one producer of soy   in the world. With all this evidence we think its easy to see why soy candles are so popular today. When selecting your candles, keep an eye out for other nefarious ingredients like synthetic fragrances, artificial colorants or mysterious additives. Look for brands   that tout clean ingredients like essential oils or that is devoid of colorant at all. We hope you enjoy your next candle all the more knowing you are not only enjoying ambiance, but making a healthier choice in the process.

In today’s busy world, finding quick, healthy, and satisfying meals can feel like a juggling act. When you’re sticking to a plant-based diet, the challenge might seem even greater, especially on weeknights. But here’s the good news: plant-based meals can be fast, delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Keep reading for some quick, easy vegan recipes. Beyond the convenience and taste, switching to a plant-based diet can have a significant positive impact on the environment. It’s a choice that you can feel proud of, knowing that each plant-based meal contributes to a healthier planet. Studies have shown that plant-based diets contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced water usage, and decreased deforestation compared to diets heavy in animal products. By incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine, you’re not only prioritizing your health but also playing a part in creating a more sustainable future. Learn more about the environmental benefits of plant-based eating . As someone who has spent countless weeknights experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve put together a list of 10 of my go-to recipes that are perfect for those hectic evenings. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, these recipes will make dinner stress-free and enjoyable. 10 Quick & Easy Vegan Recipes 1. One-Pot Lentil and Vegetable Soup There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of soup, and this lentil and vegetable version is a weeknight lifesaver. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and tons of flavor. All you need is one pot and about 30 minutes to make this meal happen. Ingredients:  Lentils, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, and a medley of spices like cumin and smoked paprika. One-Pot Lentil and Vegetable Soup Recipe & Photo Source:   Minimalist Baker’s 1-Pot Lentil Soup 2. Lemon Chickpea Orzo Soup This dish is my go-to when I’m craving something savory and satisfying but don’t have much time. Inspired by the Greek avgolemono soup, but turned vegan. Chickpeas provide a hearty base, add lemon, orzo dill and fresh baby greens for a delicious and satisfying meal. With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this makes a perfect weeknight meal. Lemon Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe & Photo Source:   Simple Veganista’s Lemon Chickpea Orzo Soup 3. Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil (Aglio e Olio) This Italian classic is naturally plant-based and requires minimal ingredients. You can elevate it by adding roasted cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ingredients:  Spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, parsley. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe & Photo Source:   Gimme Some Oven’s Spaghetti Aglio e Olio 4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos Taco nights are a staple in my home, and these sweet potato and black bean tacos are always a hit. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, spiced black beans, and creamy avocado is unbeatable. Steps: Roast cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté black beans with onions, garlic, and a splash of lime juice. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa or vegan sour cream. Sweet Potato Tacos Recipe & Photo Source:   Cookie and Kate’s Sweet Potato Tacos 5. Rainbow Bowls with Almond Ginger Dressing This favorite is surprisingly easy to make at home. With plenty of veggies, it’s a flavorful and healthy option. Soak your noodles, chop your ingredients, toss in dressing and dig in! *Tip: Use a food processor to cut your time down even more. Ingredients:  Rice noodles, carrots, bell peppers, purple cabbage, green onions, cherry tomatoes,edamame, greens and a homemade ginger dressing. Rainbow Bowl with Almond Ginger Dressing Recipe & Photo Source:   Love & Lemons’ Rainbow Bowls with Almond Ginger Dressing 6. Creamy Mushroom Smashed Avocado Toast When I’m really short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. Avocado pairs perfectly with filling, creamy mushrooms for a quick and nutritious meal in just 25 minutes. Creamy Mushroom Smashed Avocado Toast Recipe & Photo Source:   Rainbow Plant Life’s Creamy Mushroom Smashed Avocado Toast 7. Vegan Quinoa Fried Rice Leftover quinoa transforms into a magical dish in this quick and easy recipe. Add your favorite veggies and some protien packed tofu, and you’ve got a complete meal in under 20 minutes. (The star of this dish is really quinoa, but you can easy sub rice or get creative with your veggies depending on what's in your in your pantry.) Vegan Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe Source:   Jessica in the Kitchen’s Vegan Quinoa Fried Rice 8. Spicy Vegan BLT This Spicy Vegan BLT is a game-changer for quick, satisfying weeknight meals. The smoky tempeh bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes are layered on toasted bread with a spicy vegan mayo to tie it all together. Perfect for a light yet filling dinner. Steps: Prepare the tempeh bacon by marinating it in a smoky, spicy sauce and pan-frying until crisp. Assemble the sandwich with toasted bread, vegan mayo, tempeh bacon, lettuce, and fresh tomatoes. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mayo. Spicy Vegan BLT Recipe & Photo Source: Healthy Happy Life’s Spicy Vegan BLT 9. Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta This inspired pasta dish features a rich and creamy spinach sauce that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something indulgent yet healthy. Steps: Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil until fragrant. Blend cooked spinach with cashews, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, and seasonings to create a creamy sauce. Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta and top with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Creamy Spinach Pasta Recipe & Photo Source: Ela Vegan’s Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce 10. 8-Minute Pantry Dal When time is tight, this comforting and nutritious dal comes to the rescue. Made with pantry staples, it’s a wholesome dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready in just minutes. Steps: Simmer red lentils with coconut milk, water, and spices like turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Add aromatics like garlic and ginger for depth of flavor. Serve with rice or flatbread for a complete meal. 8-Minute Pantry Dal Recipe Source: Oh She Glows’ 8-Minute Pantry Dal Make the Switch! Switching to plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. With these 10 recipes, you’ll have a variety of tasty and nutritious meals to choose from, no matter how hectic your week gets. If you’re new to plant-based cooking, start with the recipes that appeal to you most and gradually explore the others. Over time, you’ll build a repertoire of delicious meals that are easy to whip up, even on the busiest nights. What’s even better is knowing that each plant-based meal you enjoy is a step toward a healthier planet. Feel proud of the positive environmental impact you’re making—every choice matters, and together, we can make a big difference. What are your favorite quick and easy plant-based recipes? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below!