Adding one of our powdered drink mixes to your water adds an easy, flavorful twist to staying hydrated.

We have reached the pinnacle: that special time between spring and summer when things really start to heat up. Whether you're firing up the grill, planning your next great getaway, or just enjoying the long, sunny days with your furry friends, there’s always room to boost your well-being and add a little extra zest to your days.

Here at Life's Abundance, we’re all about making good days great and healthy living easier and more enjoyable. That’s why we’ve put together seven wellness tips for spring and summer to add some smart, healthy habits into your sunnier seasons.

We’ll also tell you our favorite way to make your water more delicious with our Minerals & Antioxidants or Greens Blend drink mixes. They’re perfect for staying hydrated and feeling refreshed, no matter what you’re up to. (And who doesn’t love a delicious twist to staying hydrated?)

Ready to make this your best spring and summer yet? Let’s dive into these tips that are sure to make your sunny seasons even brighter.

Healthy Grilling with the Right Oils

When it comes to grilling, choosing the right oil makes all the difference. Opt for oils with high smoke points to ensure your food is grilled to perfection without any harmful byproducts. Avocado, canola, and peanut oils are great choices that can withstand the heat. Save the olive oil for your salads and cool dishes. It’s best used at lower temperatures to preserve its flavor and nutritional benefits.

Elevate Your Hydration Game

Believe us, staying hydrated doesn't have to be boring. Forget plain old water! Let’s jazz it up. Our Minerals & Antioxidants mix turns your glass into a fruity getaway with a twist of flavor that also packs a nutritional punch. Or, for a green boost, add our Greens Blend with some lemon to transform your drink into a delicious powerhouse of refreshing nutrients.

Whether you’re hitting the gym, lounging at the pool, or just keeping busy with your daily routine, enhance your hydration with these tasty additions made to keep you refreshed and revitalized all season long.

Block Harmful UVAs & UVBs

All this sunshine calls for serious sun protection. Did you know that while UVB rays can burn your eyes, UVA rays can age them? That’s why choosing the right sunglasses is crucial. Look for sunglasses labeled with '100% UVA/UVB protection' to shield your eyes from harmful rays. Protecting your eyes helps you enjoy sunny days safely for many years to come.

Natural Ways to Keep Bugs Away

Don't let bugs put a damper on your outdoor fun this season. Instead of reaching for chemical-laden repellents, why not try a gentler, natural approach? Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender are not only pleasant smelling, they're also effective at keeping those pesky insects at bay. You can mix these oils with a carrier oil and apply them directly to your skin or add a few drops to your diffuser to create a bug-free zone in your backyard. Your skin and the environment will thank you!

Adding some outdoor time with your pets is a great way to enjoy the sunny days of spring and summer.

Make the Best of Outdoor Time

Getting outside is one of the best parts of spring and summer. Whether you’re a gardening guru, a pet parent, or just love a good stroll, there's something refreshing about spending time in nature.

Here are some other ideas of how to get outside this season:

• Take your furry friend for a morning walk
• Plant a butterfly or herb garden
• Find free events in your city, like concerts or yoga classes
• Pack a picnic and go to your favorite park
• Grab your camera and take some nature photos
• Look for local leagues for sports like pickleball, tennis, or kickball

Whatever your interest, there’s an abundance of ways to enjoy the outdoors and reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine.

Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen

No matter how much you love the sun, it’s smart to play it safe with your skin. Always choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for effective protection. Apply liberally about 30 minutes before you head outside - that gives it time to absorb properly. And remember, reapplication is key, especially after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. For an easy reminder, reapply every two hours. A good sunscreen protects your skin and keeps it looking healthy and youthful.

Eating with the Seasons

Embracing a seasonal diet is a journey of flavor. During spring and summer, a bounty of fruits and vegetables reach their peak, offering you the best in freshness and nutritional value.

Here are some top picks to add to your meals through spring and summer:

• Peaches
• Cherries
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Watermelon
• Cucumbers
• Radishes
• Sweet corn
• Spinach
• Kale
• Bell peppers
• Tomatoes

Incorporating these seasonal delights into your meals supports local farmers and provides richer flavors with better nutritional benefits. Whip up a fruit salad, throw some veggies on the grill, or simply enjoy them fresh. Eating with the seasons is a delicious way to keep your diet varied and exciting.

Summing It All Up

With these seven stellar tips, you’re all set to make this spring and summer your healthiest and happiest yet! From grilling with the right oils to protecting your skin and staying hydrated with flavorful drinks, embracing these habits can significantly enhance your well-being. Don’t forget to spend time outdoors, enjoying everything the season has to offer, while eating fresh, seasonal produce. Here’s to a vibrant, joyful season filled with good health and great memories!

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By providing families and farmers with the tools they need, TREES helps grow thriving communities in Africa.

Imagine walking through a lush forest, the air cool and fresh around you, sunlight filtering through a canopy of green leaves. Each tree around you stands as a testament to nature’s resilience and beauty.

Now, multiply that feeling by millions. That’s exactly what Trees for the Future (TREES), supported by Life's Abundance, is working towards with their ambitious reforestation projects across Africa. By planting millions of trees, they’re transforming barren lands into vibrant forests.

Think of their work as creating massive "lungs" for the Earth that:

• absorb carbon
• enrich soil
• restore biodiversity
• strengthen communities

Here’s the big news: This incredible effort has recently been recognized globally! The United Nations (UN) has honored TREES as a World Restoration Flagship. Only seven projects were picked this year, and their ‘Forest Garden Approach’ was one of them.

This prestigious title underscores TREES' role as a key player in achieving the UN’s 2030 environmental goals. And with Life’s Abundance’s support, they’re proving that when we give back to the earth, it gives back to us in countless ways.

If you’ve ever lost yourself in a forest's magic, you’ll understand why this is such a big deal. Ready to see how these forests are flourishing? Let’s explore how innovative gardening and passionate people are making our world greener—one tree at a time!

TREES innovative ‘Forest Garden’ approach turns barren lands into thriving forests.

What’s TREES All About?

TREES is like a superhero team for the environment. They teach farmers all over the world how to grow forests that are good for the earth and good for people too. Here’s what makes them super special:

• They plant lots of trees. They’re leaders in creating something called the ‘Forest Garden’, where every tree and plant has a special job that helps all the others.
• They help families. By teaching farmers how to grow these awesome gardens and giving them seedlings, they help families eat better, make money, and live healthier lives.

You might wonder why this matters to you. Well, every time you purchase a Life’s Abundance skin care product, you’re helping plant more trees and gardens. You’re making the air cleaner and the soil healthier while empowering families to grow food to eat. You become a hero for the planet, too!

We’re super excited to celebrate this big win with you. If you want to learn more cool stuff about TREES and all the good they’re doing, just click here. It’s full of fun facts and other ways you can get involved.

Thanks for being awesome and caring about our planet. High five to you! Let’s keep making the world a greener, happier place together.

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This spicy ginger & cherry mocktail recipe uses Life’s Abundance Minerals & Antioxidants for a healthy boost.

Yeah, we know. Spring is time for cleaning. But what better way to take a break from all of that and have a refreshing drink? Now’s the perfect time to refresh your beverage game with something that matches the vibrant energy of the season.

Introducing our Spicy Ginger & Cherry Mocktail recipe—your new go-to spicy drink! (Plus, you’re boosting your wellness with every sip…more on that later.) This is a seasonal drink crafted with the refreshing sweetness of cherries, the lively kick of jalapeño, and the subtle warmth of ginger, all mixed with lime and soda water for a fizzy finish.

This recipe is versatile, too. Adjust the heat by steeping the jalapeño slices longer, or add a tart twist with more lime juice. For those who enjoy a spirited version, a splash of tequila transforms this baby into a bold cocktail. Whether you choose fresh, frozen, or jarred cherries, each sip will be as delightful as spring itself.

Bonus: Place some cherries in an ice cube mold and fill it with water to make cherry ice cubes. (This is the ultimate “cherry on top!”)

Ready to get shaking and stirring? Let’s go!

Ingredients

• 2 bags of ginger root tea
• 1/2 cup of boiling water
• 1/4-1/2 jalapeño, sliced (use the leftover half as a garnish)
• 1 scoop of Life’s Abundance Minerals & Antioxidants in Cherry
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 Tbsp)
• 2–3 dashes of nonalcoholic bitters
• Seltzer, to top off
• 1 cup of ice
• 5–6 fresh cherries or cherry ice cubes, for garnish

Instructions

1. Pour boiling water over the tea bags and jalapeño slices in a heatproof cup, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover with a lid or small saucer to concentrate the flavors.
2. Allow the tea to steep for five minutes, then remove the tea bags. Let the tea cool to room temperature and discard the jalapeño slices.
3. Stir in the Cherry Minerals & Antioxidants powder to the brewed tea and mix vigorously with a foamer or blender for 30 to 60 seconds until well combined.
4. In a glass, combine the ice, fresh cherries or cherry ice cubes, brewed tea, lime juice, and bitters. Top with seltzer and stir gently.
5. Garnish with jalapeño slices and serve immediately. Enjoy the refreshing taste of your new favorite mocktail!

Life’s Abundance Minerals & Antioxidant drink mix contains 10 superfruits and 74 plant-based trace minerals that help combat oxidative stress.

Health in Every Sip: Cherry Minerals & Antioxidants Drink Mix

At Life’s Abundance, we’re committed to enhancing your health and enjoyment with every recipe we share. That’s why our Cherry Minerals & Antioxidants drink mix is at the heart of this mocktail.

This carefully-sourced drink powder is:

• Naturally sweet with no added sugars
• Packed with 10 superfruits and 74 plant-based trace minerals
• Free from artificial additives and colors
• Perfect for your healthy lifestyle
• Good for replenishing electrolytes and restoring your body’s pH balance

With every delicious sip of this Spicy Ginger & Cherry Mocktail recipe, you’re treating yourself to a delightful drink, plus welcoming a lifestyle of health, vitality, and joy. Cheers to your health–and remember, the best moments in life are those that are both nourishing and enjoyable!

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Using a smartwatch or fitness tracker can help give you insights into useful health data.

Imagine having a close friend who knows exactly what you need to feel your best - sounds cool, right? Well, artificial intelligence (AI) is stepping into that friend's shoes, transforming how you might approach your well-being. And when it comes to your doctor and healthcare specialists, AI is on the case, piecing together clues about your health to keep you feeling your best.

But what does this mean for the future of healthcare, fitness and wellness? Put on your step counter and get ready to jog through the exciting world of AI - where technology meets health!

Where Fitness and Artificial Intelligence Collide

The power of AI in the health and wellness industries is profound. From advancing medical research to refining diagnostic processes and improving healthcare quality, AI is already making significant strides. As usual, Google is at the forefront of these new technologies, with initiatives such as:

• Applying AI to mental health resources on Search.
• Matching skin conditions with Google Lens.
• Scouring medical records, research papers, imaging and clinical guidelines.
• Recording and translating heart sounds with smartphones.
• Scanning patients’ eyes to find indications of disease.

These are prime examples of how technology is becoming an integral part of our health journey and just the beginning.

AI in Wellness: Tools of the Trade

As AI reshapes health and wellness, the toolkit for professionals also expands:

• ChatGPT revolutionizes interaction with personalized advice.
• Google Bard offers innovative wellness insights.
• Fitbit tracks and analyzes your physical activity for tailored health guidance.
• Asensei connects users with customized coaching experiences.
• HealthKit integrates health data for a comprehensive wellness overview.
• Zing Coach generates customized workouts and healthier eating tips with a dash of motivation.

Embracing AI means joining forces with technology to make health journeys more engaging and personalized, ensuring the care you receive is as unique as you are. By leveraging AI as a tool, health coaches and professionals can elevate their services, offering personalized support that meets clients where they are.

As we look to the future, integrating AI into the health and wellness industries promises a landscape where personalized care is the norm and more options are available.

Essential Considerations for AI in Fitness & Health

One of the most exciting prospects of AI in health and wellness is its potential to make fitness and health guidance more accessible to a broader audience, offering support regardless of location, mobility or personal circumstances. This democratization of health and wellness services ensures everyone has the opportunity to lead healthier lives. However, with great power comes great responsibility.

As health professionals and organizations explore this next wave of AI, the following principles are critical:

• Maintaining the human touch
• Ensuring accuracy
• Addressing concerns around privacy and security
• Collaborating across sectors
• Recognizing AI as one tool among many

We must navigate these challenges thoughtfully, ensuring that AI serves as a supplement to health expertise - not as a substitute. New guidelines like the Health Care AI Code of Conduct illustrate the importance of collective efforts to ensure AI tools enhance healthcare quality and safely meet patient needs.

In addition, Google's AI Principles, emphasizing fairness, safety, and effectiveness, serve as a guiding light, reminding us of the historic medical ethos: "First, do no harm.” The potential for AI to amplify existing problems is very real, so a concerted effort must be made to ensure these technologies benefit everyone responsibly.

 

Health enthusiasts everywhere are eager to try new technologies to up their fitness game.

The Human Element Remains Key

At the heart of this technological transformation is a simple truth: AI cannot replace the personal touch that professionals bring to their clients. This requires a careful balance of technology and human insight, without losing sight of the personal connections and nutrition that is at the heart of wellness.

As you navigate this new landscape, remember that technology is just a tool to enhance our human capabilities. A high-quality multivitamin embodies the harmonious blend of technology and the essentials of nutrition. As AI enhances our capabilities, it's crucial to remember the foundational importance of nourishing our bodies from within.

Life’s Abundance Multivitamin stands as a testament to this balance, combining the precision of modern science with the wisdom of traditional wellness practices. It's a symbol of how technology, when integrated with the core principles of health, can create a holistic approach to overall health.

Looking Forward to a Healthy Future

Always ready for a workout, AI is the friend who's up for anything, making exercise feel more like playtime. It's there to celebrate your wins, big or small, because sometimes choosing an apple over a cookie is the day's most significant victory, and we all love a personal cheerleader.

With AI as your sidekick, your health journey is more than a list of goals - it's an adventure filled with personalized guidance, motivational nudges and insightful feedback. This approach makes healthier choices feel less like chores and more like exciting challenges to conquer. And after all, the best journeys are those taken with friends, even if one of them happens to be a bit...digital!

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Behind your cat’s pretty eyes is a world of movement and shadow only they can see.

Ever wondered if your furball sees the world in technicolor or a dull shade of grey? Or how they can effortlessly catch their toy in a dimly lit room?

Today, we're going on a fascinating trip into the world of your cat’s vision. We'll uncover the mysteries of how our whiskered friends see colors and navigate the night. Plus, we'll let you in on our secret to boosting their eye health the healthy way, making their world even brighter.

Do House Cats See Color?

Let’s tackle the big question first: what colors can cats see? Imagine wearing a pair of sunglasses that filter out some colors. That's how it is for cats. They do see colors, but not as vividly as we do. Their world is a mix of mostly blues and yellows, while red and green can fade into the background. But you absolutely know they can still find their toys (and occasionally, your socks) perfectly well!

Do Cats Have Nocturnal Vision?

Your kitty’s main superpower? Night vision. Cats are like little superheroes when the lights go out. Their eyes have cool features like larger pupils and a shiny layer called the tapetum lucidum, giving them perfect vision in the dark. So yes, cats have built-in night vision goggles!

What Do Cats See?

Through a cat’s eyes, nighttime isn't daunting but inviting. It’s filled with shapes and movements unseen by human eyes. Your furry friend’s world comes alive with textures and contrast, making every leaf flutter and shadow shift a potential playground.

The slightest twinkle could catch their attention and moonlight only enhances their adventurous spirits. And while they don’t see the rainbow of colors we see, the green and yellow palette of a cat’s vision is perfectly suited for a nocturnal hunter.

 

Cats mainly see hues of blues and yellows, with reds and greens fading into the background.

Cat Vision vs. Human Vision

Have you ever darted around the house with your cat in a playful game of hide-and-seek, wondering who truly has the advantage? Here's a quick snapshot of how our feline friends stack up against us in the vision department:

Where Your Cat’s Vision Excels:

• Cats have a wider field of vision, so they can catch sneaky movements on the sidelines.
• They’re also experts at seeing tiny movements, like that bug across the room.

Where Cats Might Need a Little Help:

• Felines struggle to see things up close due to a lack of eye muscles for adjusting focus.
• Surprisingly, cats aren’t great at long-distance vision either, only seeing clearly with objects around 20 feet away.

But in a colorful world, humans take the prize for seeing color and from long distances. Cats have their strengths, like detecting movement and shadows, while humans can enjoy colorful paintings from more than 20 feet away.

The Secret to Enhancing Cat Vision

Now, here's the scoop on keeping your kitty’s peepers sharp and healthy. Just like us, cats need the proper nutrients for good vision. Enter Ultra-Pure Fish Oil, the superhero of eye health! Packed with EPA and DHA, it's not just any fish oil. It's a vision-boosting, coat-shining, joint-helping wonder oil, made to keep your kitty’s eyes bright and strong.

The Perfect Fish Oil for Cats

You might be thinking, "Fish oil is fish oil, right?" Well, not quite. Our Ultra-Pure Fish Oil is the cream of the crop, and includes all the good stuff:

• At least 30% EPA and DHA
• Easy to give and loved by cats
• Tested for purity

Give your cat the gift of clearer, healthier vision, allowing them to enjoy a world filled with more play, more exploration, and endless nighttime adventures. After all, a happy cat means a happy home!

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From happy to anxious, dogs use their tail as a way to communicate their emotions.

As a dog parent, you've seen the joy in your pup's tail wags, whether greeting you, playing, or getting their favorite toy. But ever wonder what's behind all that tail-wagging excitement? Let's explore the reasons behind your dog's wagging tail and what it reveals about their feelings.

Tail Wagging as Communication

Think of your dog's tail as their own special way of talking. Instead of using words, they wag their tail to share their thoughts. It's like they're letting us peek into how they're feeling, whether they're super excited about a chewy treat or just really curious about something.

Even pups without tails still find ways to tell us how they're feeling, using other moves and sounds instead. Whether dogs wag their tails or shake their bottoms, it's a big part of how they say what's on their mind. But figuring out what a wagging tail means isn't always simple. It's a bit tricky because a hearty tail wag can mean different things depending on what's going on.

Why Do Dogs Wag Their Tails?

To truly understand what dogs are feeling when they wag their tails, you must pay attention to the nuances of tail wagging. Your dog’s tail position and wagging speed can offer insights into a dog's mood and the intensity of their emotions.

Happy and Friendly
You know your dog is living their best life when their tail is all loosey-goosey, swinging in a happy rhythm. This is dog language for "Life's good!" Bring out a treat-dispensing toy during playtime and take it up a notch. These genius inventions keep your pup's brain ticking and are tail-wagging guaranteed.

Curious
When a dog's tail extends straight out, it often signals interest and curiosity about something in their environment. They've picked up on something intriguing in their doggy world and are all in on figuring it out.

Relaxed
A dog at ease might not wag its tail much, keeping it loose unless something catches their attention. They're relaxed but ready to perk up if something interesting pops up.

Treat-dispensing toys bring out the best in dogs, boosting brain function and happy wags.

Appeasing, Submissive or Fearful
A lowered or tucked tail, especially with a quick wiggle, can indicate a dog feeling scared or submissive. If your pup's tail is lower than usual, it's their way of showing they mean no trouble.

Aggressive and Threatening
A tail that's stiff and pointing up is like a red flag. It's your dog's way of saying they're not feeling too friendly right now. It’s a sign of potential aggression, signaling that the dog feels threatened or is ready to assert dominance.

Avoidance
When there's no wagging and maybe even some backing away, your dog is probably not in the mood for whatever's happening. They're just not into it and would rather be elsewhere, suggesting discomfort or disinterest.

Right-Sided vs. Left-Sided Wagging
Here's a fun fact: The direction of your dog's tail wag can actually give you a peek into their emotional state too. A wag more to the right side? They're likely feeling pretty positive. A swing to the left? They might be a bit more on the negative side of the mood spectrum. It's a cool insight into the doggy mind!

The Tale Behind Every Wag

So, when your dog's tail is wagging away, remember they’re sharing a part of their story with you. It could be the excitement of a game, the curiosity of a new scent, or even a little nervousness. Each wag is a piece of their emotional puzzle.

Next time you catch your dog in a tail-wagging moment, take a second to think about what they might be trying to say. It's a beautiful aspect of the deep connection we share with our furry friends, one tail wag at a time.

References:
[1] Melnick, Kyle. "Why Do Dogs Wag Their Tails? Humans Liked the Rhythm, Study Suggests." The Washington Post, January 22, 2024. washingtonpost.com/science/2024/01/22/dog-tail-wagging-research-domestication/

 

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These Matcha Energy Bites are a meal prep go-to because they’re effortless and provide sustained healthy energy.

Make these energy bites and your future self will thank you! They’re the perfect sweet, freezer-friendly treat to add to your weekly meal prep. They're quick to make and easy to grab on the go, requiring just a soak of the dates and two minutes in your food processor.

Including our nutrient-dense Greens Blend, sourced from pristine glacial soil terrains, ensures that each bite is packed with the highest-quality nutrients (in the tastiest way). When combined with matcha, these bites bring out the fruitiness of our Greens Blend and add a boost of antioxidants, enhancing your energy levels and improving focus.

FYI: Rolling the balls in extra matcha is optional. If you’re a coconut fan, finely shredded coconut is an excellent garnish too. Let’s start rolling!

Greens Blend Matcha Energy Bites Recipe

Makes about 14 bites

Using parchment paper helps reduce the mess–yes, we love an easy cleanup! Use a small ice cream scoop to shape the balls; or to make it even easier, spread the mix into a brownie pan and cut it into squares.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
• 1 ½ cups boiling water, for soaking dates
• 1 cup hemp seeds
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Greens Blend
• 1 tsp. matcha powder, plus more for garnish
• 1/16 tsp. fine sea salt, the smallest pinch
• Parchment paper

Life’s Abundance Greens Blend is a delicious mix of organic greens, packed with nutrients and fruity flavor.

Instructions

1. Prep dates. Soak the dates in boiling water and cover for five minutes. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the water.
2. Blend. Combine all ingredients in a food processor. Process until a cookie dough-like texture forms, about 1-2 minutes. Add 1-3 Tbsp. of reserved water as needed for smoothness.
3. Shape and roll. Use a small ice cream scoop to form balls, then shape with your hands. Place on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet.
4. Garnish. Optional, roll each ball in matcha powder for an extra flavor boost.
5. Freeze! Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Defrost for 5-10 minutes before enjoying.

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Your cat’s low thirst drive was inherited from its desert ancestor.

From the sunbaked sands of ancient deserts to the cozy corners of your living room, the house cat's journey is nothing short of miraculous. This fascinating evolution reveals that your fluffy companion hasn't strayed far from its wild ancestors after all. Let's dive into the kitty gene pool and discover the wild within your cat!

What Did House Cats Evolve From?

The domestic house cat started its tale as a free-roaming wildcat in the sprawling deserts of the Near East between 70,000 and 100,000 years ago. These original wildcats weren’t the cuddly pets we know today. Instead, they lived in the wild, hunting and surviving independently.

Some people think humans chose to bring cats into their homes because they were friendly. But it's more likely cats started hanging around humans on their own.

Why? Well, wherever there are humans, there are usually mice and other small creatures looking for food. Wildcats saw an opportunity for easy, consistent meals and decided to stick around. It was a win-win for both species since humans didn’t mind less vermin in their grain stashes, and the cats got full bellies.

Did you know? While we've tried to tame the wilderness out of many animals, cats have managed to keep their wild spirit, along with their independence, making them unique among domesticated animals.

Traits from the Desert

Even though they live in our homes now, kitties still have some cool survival skills from the old days. Let's look at how they’re similar to their desert-dwelling grandparents.

Staying hydrated is still super important.
In the desert, cats rarely get a chance to drink water. So cats learned to get most of their water from their food. This trait is also vital for our house cats, which is why wet foods like Instinctive Choice are so important. It helps ensure they get enough water, keeping them healthy and happy. It provides the hydration your cat needs, all in a tasty and healthy way!

They’re great at surviving on their own.
They can find food and protect themselves, which shows they are still very independent. This skill comes from their ancestors who lived in the desert and had to be smart to survive. While desert cats are small, making it easier to sneak up on prey, your little predator shares that same knack for finding and catching their meals (even if it is just a toy mouse).

They have a sophisticated way of hanging out together and communicating.
Your feline friend might not live in big groups like their ancestors, but they still are protective of their tribe. They do eventually warm up and can get along with most other cats and humans. This social nature helps them fit into our families perfectly.

They share camouflage patterns.
Desert cats' fur blends into their sandy homes, helping them hide from danger and stalk prey. Our house cats might not need to hide in the living room, but their wide range of coat patterns and colors can be traced back to this need for stealth and survival.

They have large, pointy (and cute) ears.
These help desert cats hear the slightest sounds, giving them a head start on hunting or hiding. Domestic cats also use their ears to stay alert, proving that listening well is crucial - whether in the desert or the den!

Life’s Abundance Instinctive Choice canned food for cats helps them stay hydrated and healthy with high-quality proteins.

So, when you see your cat drinking just a little water and being choosy about their friends, it's just them showing off their desert roots. And when you feed them high-quality wet food, you’re helping them stay true to their nature by making sure they're well-hydrated and healthy while offering them a feast fit for a desert king - right in their food bowl!

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Applying minimalism to your skin care routine contributes to your overall well-being.

Remember the time you tried to whip up a gourmet meal and ended up with a mountain of pots and pans, yet a simple sandwich would have done the trick? That's what's happening in the skin care world right now. We've all been there, seduced by the latest 10-step skin care routine promising porcelain perfection. But let's be real – who has the time or the bathroom counter space?

Enter New Wave Skinimalism: the skin care equivalent of finding that one perfect pair of jeans that goes with everything. Get ready to embrace the joy of simplicity and radiant, happy skin with just a few high-quality, effective essentials. Your skin will thank you!

What is Skinimalism?

The skin care world has been a battleground for the past three years. On one side, the Korean glass skin trend champions the ‘more the merrier' approach, requiring an elaborate, multi-step routine (complete with double-cleansing). But on the other side, more grounded practitioners are voicing a different mantra: less is more.

This debate has set the stage for the emergence of skinimalism. But skinimalism isn't just a trend - it's a movement towards a more sustainable, effective, and skin-friendly approach.

Here's what makes up the core of skinimalism:

• Quality over quantity. Opt for high-quality, effective products rather than rolling the dice on a clutter of just average tubes and jars.
• Streamlined routines. Emphasize a few impactful steps over an overwhelming regimen.
• Ingredient awareness. Prioritize brands with potent, beneficial ingredients and avoid unnecessary fillers.
• Sustainable choices. Choose cleansers, moisturizers and serums that are good for both your skin and the environment.
• Personalization. Tailor your minimal routine to suit your unique skin needs.

In this ongoing 'war' in skin care, skinimalism emerges as the clear winner for many, offering a mindful, more sustainable approach to skin health and beauty.

The Science of Skinimalism

Think of your skin as a soloist in an orchestra. Just as a solo can be drowned out by more than one instrument playing, your skin gets overwhelmed when bombarded with double-digit steps. Each serum, cream, or lotion is like an instrument in your skin care song - too many and the melody gets lost.

Cutting your skin care back to just a few premium items lets your skin take center stage. Interestingly enough, this simple approach is part of larger, science-backed research. Minimalism benefits not just your skin but your overall well-being, leading to better health and more fulfillment.[1]

This all goes to show: Adopting a minimalist skin care approach is more than skin deep. It's part of a mindful lifestyle that values intentional choices for your overall well-being. We hope this trend stays because it puts emphasis on quality in every aspect of life - something we’re all about!

Life’s Abundance skin care products provide an easy start to a skinimalist routine.

Simple Skin Care: The 4-Step Routine

Following the insights from this recent research, you now understand it's all about honing in on impactful ingredients to achieve better skin health. Here’s how we do it with our Skin Care Kit:

1. Cleanse. Begin and end your day by gently cleansing away dirt and makeup. Our Facial Cleanser, infused with organic aloe leaf juice, argan oil, and a blend of fruit extracts, ensures your skin stays soft and balanced, not dry or tight.
2. Rejuvenate. Elevate your routine with our Facial Serum, a potent blend of squalane, green tea, and a mix of organic oils like hemp seed, prickly pear seed, and tomato seed oil. This step corrects and protects, giving your skin a youthful glow.
3. Hydrate. After cleansing, nourish your skin with our Facial Moisturizer. Rich in organic hemp seed oil, olive fruit oil, and antioxidant-rich pomegranate, it deeply hydrates, leaving your skin feeling plump, smooth, and naturally radiant.
4. What about the rest of your body? Complete your routine by taking care of your whole body. Our Body Lotion, featuring organic shea butter and acai fruit pulp, banishes dry, dull skin and ensures all-over smoothness.

This is a skinimalist’s dream, offering a complete regimen for vibrant, healthy skin - free from unnecessary steps! By adopting this 4-step routine, you’re taking a mindful approach that emphasizes quality, natural ingredients, and overall skin wellness. This is skin care that’s as safe and effective as it is simple.

References:
[1] Jain VK, Gupta A, Verma H. Goodbye materialism: exploring antecedents of minimalism and its impact on millennials well-being. Environ Dev Sustain. 2023 Jun 8:1-27. doi: 10.1007/s10668-023-03437-0. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37363025; PMCID: PMC10249935.

 

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This 60-second chocolate protein mug cake makes any morning sweeter.

Calling all chocolate lovers who have limited time for healthy treats! Say hello to our latest obsession: the Chocolate Protein Mug Cake. This rich, gooey chocolate cake comes together in just under 60 seconds. Yes, only one minute.

Perfect for hectic mornings or late-night cravings, this easy recipe is protein-packed and vegan-friendly. Top it off with a rainbow of fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts and you’re on your way to a sweeter, healthier treat.

Pro tip: Go big, or go home! Use a larger mug to give your cake room to rise and load up on toppings (we used an 18-ounce). And nobody likes a messy microwave, so keep it clean with a paper towel underneath to catch any overflow.

Grab your favorite microwave-safe mug and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. Chocolate Plant Protein Powder 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (your favorite gluten-free flour also works!)
• 1 Tbsp. unsweetened cacao powder
• 2 Tbsp. coconut sugar
• 1/4 tsp. baking powder
• 1/16 tsp. fine sea salt, the smallest pinch
• 1/4 cup preferred milk
• 1 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted
• 1 Tbsp. chocolate chips
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• fresh fruit, garnish
• whipped cream, garnish

Life’s Abundance Chocolate Plant Protein is a decadent blend of cocoa, organic raw cacao, and premium plant proteins.

Instructions

1. Whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, unsweetened cacao powder, Chocolate Plant Protein Powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, and sea salt in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add the wet ingredients: milk, melted coconut oil, chocolate chips and vanilla. Stir with a fork until smooth and combined.
3. Pour batter into a greased, microwave-safe mug with enough room for the cake to rise.
4. Make a small divot in the middle of the batter and pour in the chocolate chips.
5. Microwave for 45 seconds, and then at 10-second increments until cooked with a fluffy and firm texture. (Be careful! The mug will be hot.)
6. Top with your favorite toppings. We love a dollop of whipped cream and fresh raspberries for a tart twist.

And there you have it - the easiest, tastiest, and healthiest treat you can make in under 60 seconds. Remember, this recipe is more than just food. It's about enjoying the little moments, indulging in your cravings smartly, and sprinkling joy into your daily routine. Go ahead, try it, and let your mug cake be the highlight of your day!

 

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Maximize Your Mornings with this Chocolate Protein Coffee Recipe
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