AN IMPROPERLY BUILT foundation can be a primary culprit of both indoor air quality and energy problems in homes. Whether your new home is built on a slab, a crawlspace or a full basement, your foundation has some very important work to do, including: prevent moisture and soil gases (such as radon) from entering the…
Phthalates, Triclosan, parabens, musks, formaldehyde – perhaps you’ve been warned to keep an eye out for these allergens, carcinogens, and hormone disruptors found in many beauty care products. This is easy enough to do when reading labels in the aisle at the drugstore, but what about when you go for a facial or to have…
There is no shortage of winter activities in Maine, and cross-country skiing is one that the whole family can enjoy. Gliding across fresh snow is peaceful, energizing, and easy on the planet. Plus, there are hundreds of trails to explore across the state. From groomed trails at one of the many ski centers to hidden…
By Erin Covey-Smith The men’s grooming industry in the US has seen incredible growth over the past decade, and that growth is expected to continue. Historically, men’s grooming products were primarily limited to shaving and deodorant. Today, nearly half of all men report using an array of skincare products on a regular basis, including moisturizers,…
By Claire Guy Our bodies naturally want to be healthy. We want to be in balance physically, mentally and emotionally, and our bodies work towards that goal at all times. What is Reflexology? Reflexology is an ancient healing art that offers many health benefits. Feet and hands are microcosms of the body. The term reflexology…
Looking for a good read? We turned to our friends at Royal River Books in Yarmouth and Longfellow Books in Portland for their top picks on books about living with compassion for the planet—and they delivered. Here’s a list of recommendations to keep you pondering deeply, laughing frequently, eating superbly, and above all reading—and living…
IN MAINE, HIGH levels of radon gas occur naturally in our soil and water, a result of the breakdown of the granite upon which Maine sits. Radon is a colorless and odorless gas that gets trapped in buildings that have contact with the earth, such as your home. The Maine Center for Disease Control &…
By Christine Fisher MAINE’S FARMERS don’t just grow vegetables or raise livestock. In Midcoast Maine companies like Avena Botanicals and Maine Medicinals are growing herbs and medicinal plants, in hopes of raising healthier humans. In Rockport, the Avena Botanicals team hand harvests more than 1,000 pounds of fresh herbs from their 3-acre certified organic and…
By Christine Fisher MIDCOAST MAINE DRAWS people from around the world who want to explore the beautiful coastline where the mountains meet the ocean. It draws another kind of explorer too— the wellness explorer. “There’s something about being here in Maine, and being on the coast especially, that’s restorative,” said Jesse Simko, president of Destination…
There has been a lot of research in recent years indicating the long-term health benefits of relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga and tai chi. Among these benefits are improved immune system, lowered blood pressure and increased creativity and concentration. Interested in learning more? Check out one of these local meditation centers. (Know a center…