5 Hair Subscription Boxes Worth Checking Out

Shannon Smyth

Let’s face it. There is something incredibly exciting and fun about subscription boxes. Ipsy and the Target Beauty Box are extremely popular options, but what if you're more concerned about haircare? There are, believe it or not, some amazing hair subscription boxes out there.

Let’s take a closer look.

1. eSalon Custom Hair Color Subscription Box While this box isn’t full of surprises, it is filled with hair color that is customized just for you. Hair color experts will create colors just for your hair type. Best of all, it’s only $25 for a single order, or $10 for your first order on the Color Plan.

The color is made using high-quality ingredients. If you want to color your hair, why not do it with color that is blended by true professionals personalized just for you? Check out our review of eSalon if you're on the fence.

2. Hairbox Hairbox is great if you love surprises. You start by choosing how often you want to receive your box, which can be monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly. You then fill out your hair profile and sit back and wait for your package to arrive. Products will be picked based on your hair type. The best part is that you get full-sized professional salon products! The price is only $39.99 per box and shipping is free.

3. CurlKit If you have natural hair, CurlKit is a must. You receive 6-9 samples per month that are made specifically for natural hair. The products may be from well-known companies or emerging brands. Each month, for only $25 and free shipping, you’ll receive a variety of products ranging from conditioners to tools to help you embrace your curls.

4. How to Be a Redhead (H2BAR Box) Were you blessed with fiery red locks? Embrace the beauty of being a redhead with products made just for you. We love this box because it was launched by fellow beauty bloggers, Adrienne and Stephanie. Each month, for only $20.48, you’ll receive samples and full-sized products that are tested and approved to be redhead-friendly.

5. Shtrands This hair subscription box was created by cosmetic chemists and includes 4 full size professional hair care products. The team can curate a box for all types of hair and textures. It's $59 per month, but if you sign up for their mailing list, you'll get a discount.

If you love trying new hair care products, try one of these hair subscription boxes. There are so many to choose from. Whether you want a specialized product or want to be surprised, you can find a hair subscription box that works for you.

5 hair subscriptions boxes worth checking out. #hair #haircare

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Importance of Recovery After Workout

Shannon Smyth
Importance of post-workout recovery #fitness #exercise #healthylifestyle #wellness What do you normally do after working out? Do you take a shower and crash? Or do you keep making that workout work for you long after you've built up a sweat? What your post-workout recovery looks like makes a big difference in the results you'll see overall.

What Is Post-Workout Recovery?

Post workout recovery is about giving your body the tools it needs to recover from your workout. This includes proper nutrition, plenty of rest, drinking enough water, getting enough vitamin D, and a good night's sleep. If you're weight training, you also need to remember that the process tears the muscle tissue so that it can grow larger and stronger. You need rest to allow these tears to repair themselves.

Why Is Recovery After Working Out Important?

Not taking the time to recover can actually do your body more harm than good. People who feel the need to workout each and every day can end up causing stress fractures, muscle strains, joint pain, and overuse injuries. Workout recovery allows your body to rest. Your body needs rest to recover. Importance of post-workout recovery #fitness #exercise #tips #healthy

What Are the Ways to Recover After Working Out?

There are a number of things you need to do to help your body recover after workouts. One of the most important things you can do is to schedule your workouts so that you have rest days. You also want to eat high-protein foods throughout your day, not just after a workout. Protein helps muscles restore and regain strength. Some workout professionals suggest drinking chocolate milk after a workout because of the protein, vitamin D, and glycogen – all of which are needed for muscle recovery. You could always try YourSuper's Chocolate Lover powder and mix it with unsweetened Vanilla Coconut Milk. But their recipe for a Chocolate Banana Milkshake is also delish. Filling your diet with fruits and vegetables will also help with oxidative stress due to the high level of antioxidants (Daily Harvest is amaze for this!) Include as many superfoods in your diet as you can. (Again, I personally love YourSuper.) Of course, you can’t forget water. You must drink enough water, or you risk becoming dehydrated. When working out, opt for a water that contains electrolytes. The most important thing is that you're getting plenty of rest. This includes making sure you get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. You've made the commitment to a healthier lifestyle, now take it one step further and do what's best for your body, improve your nutrition and schedule days of rest. Your body not only needs attention immediately after a workout, but the day after as well. Give your body the chance to recover so that you can continue to work towards your goals, rather than injuring yourself. Want to add anything? Leave a comment! Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!

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ELLOVI Lip Butter and Butter Review

Shannon Smyth
ELLOVI Lip Butter review #beauty #lipcare #lipbalm Inspired by the flavors of foods and flowers, ELLOVI has a line of vegan and cruelty free skin care you are sure to fall in love with. Which, it's no coincidence that the pronounciation of the brand literally spells out LOVE. I had the opportunity to try out their Lip Butter and their multi-tasking Butter for review. ELLOVI Lip Butter review #beauty #beautyblog #vegan #crueltyfree

ELLOVI Lip Butter

Lip balm has gotten an upgrade with ELLOVI. I absolutely adore the chic tin the Lip Butter Collection comes in and I love the sleek black packaging with a pop of color. If you happen to be applying these lip butters in a public place, you're sure to get noticed. They're anything but ordinary. The Lip Butter is formulated with only 6 ingredients, but there are 4 that are a constant in each flavor: Macadamia butter, shea butter, coconut oil, and sunflower seed wax. All provide hydration and don't feel sticky or cakey on your lips. Each Lip Butter has a hint of flavor and fragrance, which are naturally created. Original has marula and ylang ylang oil; Tinted Rose has Rose Absolute Oil and Akanet Root; Vanilla has vanilla and marula oil; and Tangerine has tangerine and ylang ylang oil. Lip Butter has good slip and makes your lips feel nourished. You don't need to purchase all of the Lip Butters in a tin, as they are also sold separately. ELLOVI Butter review #mint #beauty #skincare

ELLOVI Butter

ELLOVI's Butter is an amazing little multi-tasker meant for hands, feet, face, and hair. And it's actually not that little. It's 3.4 ounces in a substantial glass jar. This is my first time using a hemp-based beauty product (I know. I am so behind.) Like the Lip Butters, Butter is comprised of only a handful of ingredients: Hemp seed butter, arrowroot powder, marula oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and peppermint oil. I received their Butter in Mint, and OMG, this Butter is minty and creamy like Breyers Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. Like I literally wanted to scoop it out of the jar and eat it. But, since it's better suited for my skin, I passed. ELLOVI Butter review. #skincare #bodybutter #beauty Butter is very much a balm in terms of texture, but melts on your skin on contact. It is greasy when first applied, but is quickly absorbed into the skin. Since it is a balm, you don't need to apply as much as a lotion. A little scoop will thin out with your body heat and apply to a much wider area, so be conservative in how much you apply to your skin. Did I mention how good it smells??? I've been using it on my hands and they are so super soft. Elbows and knees are also in on this moisture party. I applied a very small amount through my hair once dry and it was a great de-frizzer without weighing my hair down. These are great products; definitely worth checking out! www.ellovi.com Ellovi Lip Butter and Butter (for body and hair) review. #skincare #lipbalm #bodycare #beauty Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!

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Essential Oil Blends for Happiness

Shannon Smyth
Essneital oil blends for happiness. #essentialoils #wellness #happiness Who wouldn’t want to be happier? Between social media, the internet and television, we’re constantly bombarded with negativity that makes it hard to stay joyful. We also push ourselves so hard that there never seems to be any time to take a break. Whatever the reason, many people wish they were happier. While there are many lifestyle changes you can make, there are also essential oils that can be very beneficial. Let’s take a closer look at essential oil blends for happiness.

Improve your mood. Create your own blend from these oils:

Orange

It is almost impossible to not smile when you smell orange oil. It’s an invigorating scent that lifts the spirits and energy levels. You can also use grapefruit and lime oils – citrus oils are a mood booster.

Caraway

With a spicy slightly sweet scent, caraway promotes happiness by soothing the nerves and encouraging positive thoughts. The scent also gives you a boost of energy.

Lavender

Those dealing with depression can greatly benefit from the calming effects of lavender oil. Lavender calms while also lifting the spirits.

Lemon

Is another great oil that energizes the mind and promotes positivity. (You can find it in our body wash.)

Bergamot

There are times when anger, resentment, and other ill feelings can prevent us from being happy. Bergamot oil allows us to let go of those negative feelings.

Rosemary

Not only is the scent of rosemary essential oil absolutely amazing but it has anti-depressant properties. Combining rosemary with lemon oil would be a wonderful blend.

Geranium

With a fragrance similar to rose, geranium oil provides a host of benefits. Not only does it calm, but it also uplifts and strengthens. If you happen to be suffering from mood swings due to menopause, geranium oil is very beneficial. (You can find it in our rollerball perfume, Soar.) Essential oil blends for happiness. #happiness #essentialoils #wellbeing You can create your own blend of oils. The important thing is to find a scent you enjoy. Blend the oils so that you can create a blend with beneficial properties. Essential oil blends can be used with a diffuser, in beauty products, or simply with a carrier oil. If you’re using essential oils with a carrier oil on the skin, remember to always do a spot check. You want to make sure you don’t have a reaction to any of the oils before using on a regular basis. We all go through moments of unhappiness. However, if you are dealing with depression on a regular basis, you should consult a professional who can help. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!

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Relaxing Room Color Palettes

Shannon Smyth
Did you know that there is power in color? It’s true. Look at fast food chains and you’ll see the color red used frequently. The reason is that this color is said to stimulate the appetite. But what about other moods and feelings? Can colors relax you? Go to the spa and you'll noticed a muted color scheme. There are a number of colors that can ease anxiety and make us feel calmer. If you're looking to redecorate to promote a sense of well-being, we've gathered up some relaxing color schemes to help you decide which would best suit you.

Which Colors Promote Relaxation?

You can use any of the colors from this list to create a relaxing color scheme. One tip to keep in mind is the 60/30/10 rule. This rule creates balance in your room. Sixty-percent of the color scheme will be the main color (wall color). Thirty-percent is the secondary color (curtains, bedding, etc.). The last is the accent color which should make up 10% of the room (accessories).

Relaxing Room Colors:

Relaxing Room Colors #interiordesign #wellness

Blue

Just like the ocean encourages relaxation, so does the color blue. Looking at the color can reduce heart rate, lower blood pressure, and calm anxiety. You want to choose a soft shade of blue.

Green interiors promotes calm and wellness. #relax #interiordesign

Green

Nature calms many of us. That’s why the color is great in a relaxing color scheme. Opt for soft shades, although this green color scheme above is also very calming.

pink hues 

Pink

Soft pinks can work in any room and offer a sense of tranquility, especially among other muted colors. 

violet interiors

Violet

This color makes a wonderful accent color. Violet makes us feel a sense of peace and boosts inner strength.

Grey interior walls promote a relaxing atmosphere. #interiordesign #wellness

Grey

Grey is such a wonderful color in a relaxing color scheme. This makes a wonderful main color for your walls. The color is soothing and is wonderful paired with blue as a secondary color. You can add other secondary or accent colors to your room. The key is to create a room that makes you feel relaxed.

How to Create a Relaxing Space:

Add plants to your room decor to brighten and liven up the space. Plants also promote relaxation. #interiordesign Now that you have your color scheme in mind. You want to think about how you can turn your space in a relaxing space. Here are some tips to create a zen experience.

1. Remove the clutter. You want to make sure your space is free of clutter. Clutter creates feelings of stress. Go through and purge everything you don’t need.

2. Add a plant. Even if the plant is plastic, having a piece of greenery in your space can make you feel a sense of peace.

3. Bring a water fixture into the room. The sound of running water is so relaxing. You can find indoor fountains for as little as $5 in some discount stores.

4. Create a place for everything. When you have a spot for everything, it’s much easier to keep your room organized. When your room is organized, it’s more relaxing.

5. Use a diffuser. An ultrasonic diffuser allows you to enjoy the fragrance and properties of essential oils. Avoid heated diffusers as these can alter the chemical composition of the oils. Lavender is an awesome option for relaxing.

Colors have such an impact in our lives. Harness that power and create a relaxing color scheme so that you can naturally reduce stress levels

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5 Reasons You’re Gaining Weight

Shannon Smyth
5 reasons you're gaining weight that you may not have thought of. #health It can be frustrating to step on the scale and see the number go up. If this continues for several weeks, you may begin to wonder where the extra weight is coming from. Obviously, eating junk food or eating too many calories compared to calories burned can cause weight gain. However, there are some reasons that are less obvious. Let's take a closer look at five reasons you’re gaining weight:

Stress

Long-term stress can boost hunger levels. While you may not realize it, you could be eating more than you were before. Stress can cause an increase in cortisol. Cortisol can wreak havoc on your insulin levels and cause blood sugar levels to drop. Thus, you’re more likely to crave sugary, fatty, carb-filled foods. Take the necessary steps to deal with stress so that you can regain your healthy eating habits. Try: Yoga or meditation

Medication and Illness

Unfortunately, there are times when weight gain is out of our control. You may need certain medications that can cause weight gain. There are also illnesses, such as Fibromyalgia, that can cause weight gain. This is disheartening but having a good relationship with your doctor and expressing your concerns can help you work together to try different medications and meal plans until you find something that helps you maintain your weight.

Sleep Patterns

There's never enough time in the day. That's why many people skimp on sleep. If you get a couple hours, you’re good to go, right? Wrong. Not getting enough sleep can alter your hormones and cause your body to crave foods that are high in calories and carbs. Adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. There are things that will alter how much sleep you need, such as pregnancy and illness. Make sure the 7 to 9 hours you get are quality hours. If you're waking up several times a night, you’re not getting a good night's rest. Try: A hybrid mattress or aromatherapy diffuser

Eating Too Late in the Day

Chances are you’ve heard that eating after 6PM can cause weight gain. For some people, that’s unavoidable. Some people work shifts that require late night eating. What may be more beneficial is to make sure you’re doing intermittent fasting. The 16:8 plan, for example, says that you fast for 16 hours and eat only during an 8-hour window. If you’re seeing weight gain, you may not be giving your body enough time between your last and first meals.

Not Eating Enough

This is a shocker to so many people, but not eating enough can actually cause you to gain weight. When you’re not eating enough calories for your body’s needs, your body will begin to store fat. In other words, you can be working out every day but still gaining weight. Do the math and make sure you’re eating enough calories for your body and lifestyle. It can be frustrating to gain weight when you know you’re not eating junk food. There are a number of reasons why this can occur. Stress, lack of sleep, and even not eating enough calories can lead to weight gain. Take care of yourself and your body will take care of you. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!

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Essential Oil Blends for Stress Relief

Shannon Smyth
List of essential oils for stress. #essentialoils #stressfree Millions of Americans are walking around with at least some level of stress. While stress has become more and more common in today’s lifestyle, one thing remains the same. Stress can negatively affect your health. High blood pressure, headaches, sleep changes, muscle pain and tension, and digestive issues can all be caused by stress. Chances are you’re reading this post because you’re currently dealing with stress. You’re not alone. Many people find stress hard to handle. One thing you may not have considered is the power of essential oil blends for stress relief. Let’s take a closer look.

Essential Oils to Use for Stress Relief

You can blend any of these oils to create your own blend. The important thing is to find a blend that you enjoy the fragrance of so that you can reap the benefits of the oils without hating the scent. Lavender – Lavender is one of the most recommended oils when it comes to stress relief. The scent is soothing, but the properties of the oil actually help support the nervous system. This can help reduce the feelings of anxiety that come with stress. If stress causes you to lose sleep, consider using lavender oil before bedtime. You can even create a lavender spray using equal parts rubbing alcohol and water along with lavender oil. Spray your pillow 15 to 20 minutes before bed to allow your pillow to dry before laying down. Ylang Ylang – Ylang ylang works to calm the nervous system and reduce cortisol levels. Not only that, but the oil also replaces the feelings of anxiety with feelings of optimism and positivity. Ylang ylang is popping up more and more in body washes, lotions, and other skin products to make it easier to reap the benefits. BergamotBergamot oil can also help reduce stress. It is recommended to blend the oil with lavender oil to create a stress relief blend. One thing to keep in mind is that exposure to the sun when using bergamot can cause a reaction. It is best to use the oil in the evening and not be in the sun for 12 hours after. ChamomileChamomile is well known for it’s sleep inducing properties. The oil helps remove feelings of stress and replaces them with feelings of peace. Do not use this essential oil if you are allergic to ragweed. VetiverVetiver should be considered in a stress relief blend for serious stress. The oil is often used to help trauma patients. It also helps with panic attacks, jitters, and hypersensitivity. You will feel a sense of tranquility when using this oil. RoseRose oil is, to many, hands down the most effective essential oil for dealing with stress. It is recommended to use it in aromatherapy situations. An equal blend of rose, lavender, and bergamot oil will greatly increase the stress reducing effects of the rose oil. Smell each essential oil and create a blend that smells good to you. You can use skin products that have essential oils. You can use a diffuser. You can even apply the oils to the skin once mixed with a carrier oil. Always test oils on your skin before applying heavily. There can be allergic reactions. Also be careful of essential oil use around pets who may be sensitive to the scents. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!

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Jan Marini Skin Care Consultation and Review

Shannon Smyth9 comments

This is a Sponsored post. Opinions are my own. 

As you get older, your skin care needs change. With so many products vying for our attention, it's easy to get overwhelmed. So how do you narrow it down? I recently was given the opportunity to have a 30 minute skin care consultation with Jan Marini. Jan Marini is a leading educator, innovator, and skincare product researcher. I've never actually prioritized my skin care issues, so having the ability to chat with Jan really helped me to understand how to be selective when choosing the right products for my needs.

a girl's gotta spa skin care as self care

Skin Concerns

Mature skin (40+) Sun damage with Melasma-like patches and dark spots Deep and fine wrinkles Some areas of skin redness Sagging skin, especially under the eyes and jowls and neck Large pores on and around my nose Honestly, I could've totally picked apart my skin and gave her even more things I wish would change, but decided to stick to the primary concerns.

Skin Care Product Recommendations

Based on the above, Jan recommended her Skin Care Management System in addition to two extra products. (All pictured above.) These products included: BIOGLYCOLIC® FACE CLEANSER, C-ESTA® SERUM, BIOCLEAR® LOTION, TRANSFORMATION FACE CREAM, ANTIOXIDANT DAILY FACE PROTECTANT SPF 33, Hyla3D, and Marini Luminate® Face Lotion.

In talking with Jan, she's not a fan of manually scrubbing your face to exfoliate, as it creates other issues like inflammation and micro-tears and scarring. Jan recommends resurfacing. Resurfacing goes after superficial imperfections – fine lines, acne, tackles roscea, skin texture issues; it gives that glow to skin.

Resurfacing uses an acid, like glycolic acid (the smallest alpha hydroxy acid), which stimulates collagen. You may know resurfacing by another term, chemical exfoliation. Chemical, what the what? It doesn't mean it's bad. All things are chemical after all, like dihydrogen monoxide... or as us common folks know it - water.

But back to chemical exfoliants. So I've already mentioned glycolic acid, which is my fave because it melts away the build up in your pores, however, Jan Marini's Bioclear Lotion does a hat trick with a combination of glycolic, salicylic and azelaic acid. I have combination to oily skin, so this is perfect for my skin type and tackles a multitude of sins (fine lines, wrinkles, redness, acne scarring, large pores and uneven texture.)

Jan told me that it is for this very reason, that her Bioclear Lotion is her hero product. It is can used by many different skin types while covering a large majority of skin concerns. Something to note about the Bioclear Lotion - it's more of a serum consistency than a lotion (see photo above.) You only need 2 drops to cover your face and neck, so a little goes a long way. The Hyla3D and Marini Luminate® Face Lotion are must-haves for aging skin. Pro-active skin care should begin in your early 20's, as that is when you begin to lose hyaluronic acid. So by the time you're in your 40's, you're really feeling and seeing it by way of volume loss and fine lines and wrinkles. 

Hyla3D restores moisture back to the skin and reduces the appearance of those lines. Her Face Lotion contains non-staining tumeric to lighten pigmentation and retinol. Just for the record, at this age there is no reversal of lines and wrinkles. Even Botox is just a temporary fix. So finding the right skin care products that help minimize are important, just as much as avoiding the ones that contribute to exacerbating your skin issues.

Jan Marini Skin Research has been around for 23 years. Constantly researching, developing innovative and transformative products from the beginning – technologies that have medical validations - are how Jan and her team create products that are truly effective.

Jan told me that she reads medical journals because there is a lot that relates to how we age, such as diabetes. She has a dedication to marketplace, education, and wanting to provide technologies that truly address skin care issues, not just cover them up.

We were both on the same page that you should see your skin as an investment and as such, really do the research on the products that would benefit you most. I explained that I would much rather use a $100 product that gets it right the first time than to buy five $20 products that are ineffective, waste my time and end up collecting dust in my cabinet.
I learned quite a bit during this consultation, such as that you need to use a separate sunscreen from your moisturizer and that they should not be in the same product. Sunscreen in moisturizer would have to be the majority of the product, which means you are doing more protecting than moisturizing and as such, you may then think a product doesn't work because it hasn't addressed your skin's lack of moisture and abandon it.

We live in a want it now world and have high standards for our skin care products. Must fade discoloration, clear out blackheads, hydrate where necessary, mattify in the T-zone, reverse wrinkles, prevent sun damage and bake us a cake.

While some of the products Jan Marini has does address a lot of issues, she was very firm that sunscreen has to be worn on its own to help protect the skin from future damage.

Which, by the way, if you have a lot of hyperpigmentation and dark spots like I do, you will want to try her C-ESTA Face Serum. It has Vitamin C and DMAE. It's very liquidy in texture (so not really what you are used to for serum), but its thin consistency makes it great to be able to use a little and spread out across your face/neck.

So far I really like her products. I've only been using them twice per day for a month now. Having been around the block and knowing that addressing skin care issues, especially hyperpigmentation, takes a good 10-12 weeks. Give it a try for yourself.

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25 Healthy Smoothie Recipes

Shannon Smyth1 comment

a girl's gotta spa natural products

In search of some healthy smoothie recipes? We've rounded up 25 smoothie recipes that will tempt your tastebuds. From fruit to veggies to indulgent chocolate smoothies, we're sure you'll find something you'll want to try out today. We broke them down into categories to make it easier for you to find one you'll like.  

Blueberry Smoothie Recipes

Blueberries are chock full of antioxidants and lots of vitamin C. Below are smoothie recipes that contain blueberries.

Blueberry Kale Smoothie Recipe via Hot Pan Kitchen Kid-friendly Blueberry Kale #smoothie #recipe

Blueberry Banana Smoothie Recipe via Stylish Cravings Blueberry Banana #smoothie #recipe

Vegan Blueberry Cookie Smoothie Recipe via Food Meanderings Vegan Blueberry Cookie #smoothie #recipe

Dairy-Free Blueberry Smoothie Recipe via Arts & Crackers

Blueberry Spinach and Chia Smoothie Recipe via Powered by Mom

Blueberry Spinach Chia #smoothie #recipe

Mango Smoothie Recipes

Mangoes have fiber, vitamins A, B-6, K, C, potassium and folate. Any smoothie with mango in it is sure to be good for you.

Turmeric Mango Smoothie Recipe via Sidewalk Shoes Turmeric Mango #Smoothie #recipe

Orange Mango Green Smoothie Recipe via The Holy Mess Orange Mango #smoothie #recipe

Banana Mango Smoothie Recipe via Love Bakes Good Cakes Banana Mango #smoothie #recipe

Mango Chia Smoothie Recipe via Powered by Mom Mango Chia #Smoothie #recipe

Chocolate Smoothie Recipes

Are you addicted to chocolate? Here are a few chocolate smoothies that are truly healthy so you don't have to feel guilty.

Healthy Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie Recipe via Sizzling Eats Healthy Mint Chocolate Chip #smoothie #recipe

Low Sugar Chocolate Mocha Smoothie Recipe via All Nutribullet Recipes

Heart-Healthy Chocolate Cherry Smoothie Recipe via All Nutribullet Recipes Heart healthy Chocolate Cherry Banana #smoothie #recipe

Avocado Smoothie Recipes

If you're doing keto or are just a green smoothie fanatic, below are some delicious recipes that'll help you get your greens.

Green Keto Smoothie with Avocado and Mint Recipe via Low Carb Yum Green Keto Avocado #Smoothie #recipe

Avocado Spinach Smoothie Recipe via From This Kitchen Table Avocado Spinach #Smoothie #recipe

Strawberry Smoothie Recipes

Strawberries are a fat-free, cholesterol-free, low-calorie food. They're also a fantastic way to support heart health.

Strawberry Watermelon Smoothie Recipe via Little Sunny Kitchen

Strawberry Watermelon #Smoothie #recipe

Green Tea Almond Stawberry Smoothie Recipe via The Flavor Bender

Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Smoothie Recipe via Love Bakes Good Cakes

Strawberry Banana Oatmeal #Smoothie #recipe

Coconut Milk Strawberry Smoothie Recipe via Low Carb Yum

Low carb strawberry coconut milk #smoothie #recipe

Raspberry Smoothie Recipes

This is the fruit that is best known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits.

Raspberry Gingerbread Smoothie Recipe via Food Meanderings

Gingerbread Raspberry #Smoothie #recipe Dairy-Free Raspberry Cheesecake Smoothie Recipe via Powered by Mom

Diary-free Raspberry Cheesecake #Smoothie #recipe

Healthy Smoothie Recipes

If you aren't seeking any particular fruit or green to make up your smoothie recipe, below are a few overall healthy recipes.

Pomegranate Smoothie Recipevia Sidewalk Shoes

Delicious pomegranate #Smoothie #Recipe

Healthy Green Fruit Smoothie Recipe via Savvy Saving Couple

Healthy green fruit #Smoothie #Recipe

Healthy Berry Breakfast Smoothie Recipe via Little Sunny Kitchen

Delicious breakfast #smoothie #recipe

Breezy Blossom Smoothie Recipe via Arts & Crackers

Nutricious breakfast #smoothie #recipe Detox Smoothie via Mirbeau Inn & Spa

Detox smoothie recipes from @mirbeauinn via @agirlsgottaspa

Have you tried any of these recipes yourself? All images used with permission.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: DETOX SMOOTHIE RECIPES

25 smoothie recipes #Yum #Smoothies

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Nourish Beauty Box Subscription Review

Shannon Smyth
Nourish Beauty Box review via @agirlsgottaspa Beauty box subscriptions create for an easy way to discover new beauty products. Finding one that contains products that are are natural, cruelty free and don't contain the bad stuff, is a bonus! Having been a beauty blogger since 2005, sometimes I feel like I've tried everything out there, so I was thrilled to receive Nourish Beauty Box's November box with new-to-me brands in it.

How it Works

I like Nourish Beauty Box's flexibility. You can either purchase a box several ways:
  1. Without subscribing for $45
  2. Subscribe to receive boxes monthly for $29.99
  3. Build your own box (price depends on the items you include.)
  4. You can purchase previous boxes that they've offered in the past as well.

Nourish Beauty Box November 2018 Box

November's box is worth $95: Seraphine Botanicals - Contour Brush (full size, $22.00) Seraphine Botanicals - Spinach Lash (full size, $24.00) Peony Cosmetics - Magnesium Oil (full size, $14.00) Rupini Beauty Incarnate Face Moisturizer (this sold out and was substituted with Alma Botanicals - Pure Plant Extracts Hydrating Oil - full size, $35) Nourish Beauty Box November review

Thoughts on this Box

I love that the products are all full size, natural and cruelty free. The Spinach Lash Mascara is really good! It doesn't flake or smudge and there's no scent to it. (Psychologically speaking, when you say spinach, I automatically thought there would be a smell.) The Contour Brush is 100% vegan and the brush is well-made. I've honestly never tried magnesium oil before for my aches and pains, but gave it a shot before bed each night on my neck for the tightness in my muscles, and the sides of my legs where I have bursitis. These are the pains that wake me up all night. The nights that I sprayed on the oil, the pain was much less. I was definitely pleasantly surprised. My favorite of the box was the Rupini Beauty Incarnate Face Moisturizer. This is a blend of almond and virgin coconut oils with sage and geranium essential oils and it is amazing. It's lightly scented and eventually dissapates, but I loved it enough to use it as a hand cream, as well. This moisturizer is good for all skin types. The Nourish Beauty Box is well worth the price, and subscribing makes it an even better deal. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!

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