Purist – A’kin Review and Giveaway
LEADING THE WAY…NATURALLY!
A’kin is made naturally by The Purist Company Australia. A’kin ® products are organic, ingredient rich, vegan, 100% natural botanical aromatherapy, are hypo-allergenic in matching the skins natural pH and are the world’s first sulfate, paraben & ethoxylate FREE products.
In creating A’kin shampoo, conditioner, body wash and skin care products, The Purist Company Australia has used the latest technology and scientific knowledge combined with the best ingredients nature can supply to deliver natural healing ingredients deep into the skin. The result is hair and skin that looks radiant, fresh and healthy, that is achieved in a pure and safe way. You can indulge yourself with regular use throughout the day without risk of irritation or allergy.
All A’kin products are FREE from sulfates, ethoxylates, parabens, propylene glycol, petrochemicals, silicones and artificial colors.
I have been trying out the Lavender Shampoo, especially formulated for dry hair. First, it smells just how it should, like fresh cut lavender flowers. There are only a few scents as good in the shower, citrus being one. The Lavender Shampoo leaves my hair my hair so silky soft. And surprisingly it still lathers nicely minus the sulfates. I love it doesn’t dull my do, and rather creates sparkling highlights.
They carry many arrays of shampoos and conditioners specific to your hair type- Mandarin-every hair type, 
Lemongrass-Combination Oily and combo scalp, Rosemary-Normal, YlangYlang-color treated or any chemically treated hair, Unscented-for sensitives and a specially formulated Rice Proteins and Aminos for hair that needs extra love and attention.
I have the chance to offer one of you a Shampoo and Conditioner of your choice, both in the 7.6oz size. To enter go to Purist USA and tell me one product you would like to try out. They have skin care, hair care and body care, so don’t get lost!
Extra Entries:
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Contest winners are always chosen by random.org and verified per rules. Contest ends at 11:59pm EST, on 9/8. Open to US.
Make sure you check out all of my other Eco-Friendly Giveaways!
Ethora on Etsy, Review and Giveaway
During my bouts of insomnia, I can usually be found either writing posts, or online shopping. I usually don’t buy the items, I save them to my cart, or email them to myself and give it the ol’ 24 hours. If I still want it, I might get it, but I admit, most of the time I don’t.
This tree is by far my favorite. if anyone reading wants to donate to the Karissa needs more trees fund, please do so with this. =)
Ethora was a completely different story of my late night shopping escapades. I was fascinated, and mesmerized by the beauty of her creations. All of her creations are handcrafted out of recycled sterling silver wire, natural gemstones, and various special findings.
I purchased two rings. One Tiger’s Eye, and one a pinkish Moonstone. As you can imagine, I put them on as soon as they arrived. Now I sorta wish would have bought one of her more triangular shaped rings as these look the same minus the stone, but I am still thrilled with my purchase.
The owner of Ethora would like to give you the chance of owning one of her magical creations. A ring of your choice! To enter, head over to Ethora and tell me what your favorite piece is. I haven’t named names here, so you can use these items, just make sure you give me the proper Ethora name for it! 
Extra Entries:
~Subscribe to Prissy Green Updates (emails) Only verified subscriptions count.
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~Blog about it! Create a blog post about the contest, and include a link to Prissy Green and the Sponsor. THREE entries!
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Contest winners are always chosen by random.org and verified per rules. Contest ends at 11:59pm EST, on 9/8. Open to US.
Make sure you check out all of my other Eco-Friendly Giveaways!
I have a hankering in my heart for these earrings too.
Happy Cow Belt Bags Review and Giveaway
Do you remember fanny packs? I do. I remember being so embarrassed that my mom would wear them to King’s Island. “MOH-UM!” I would make fun of her so much. Then I started going to music festivals and realized she was on to something. hands free, no worries about the items it contained. Money, chapstick, ID’s, etc. etc. I bought one on a trip about 5 years ago on my way to a festival. I knew it was horribly ugly, and most likely people might point and laugh, but being carefree, i didn’t really care. I wanted to be hands free, worry free and yet keep my stuff safe. I still haven’t live that down with a couple friends. But they poke in good fun.
So when I was looking around online one night and spotted Happy Cow’s Recycled Leather Belts and Bags. I practically jumped out of my seat. I was googling, “fashionable fannypacks.” Lol. These bags are so much cuter on, and in person then I can do justice in either writing about or posting pictures. I wore mine a few weeks back at a concert and must have been stopped 3 times asking where I got it.
Happy Cow was established in 2004 with the discovery of a unique opportunity: After spending a considerable amount of time wandering through India we came across a man who produced handmade leather clothing. This man was also a strict vegetarian. This point confused us – how could he abstain from eating meat yet work with leather?
As we began to learn the culture, it became clearer – this man had no problem working with leather because no cow had been killed to obtain the leather! All of his leather came from large furniture manufacturers who have excess leather on hand. He also explained to us that a significant portion of the leather comes from cows that died of natural causes. This is in fact quite common in India where 90% of the population are Hindus who consider cows to be sacred.
By shopping at Happy Cow, you are not only discouraging the unnecessary killing of animals but you are also helping to heal the planet! According to the United Nations, the mass breeding of cows (and other farm animals) is estimated to be responsible for a significant quantity of CO2 emissions (around 20%).* By using only recycled leather, we can help to diminish demand for mass breeding.
The current theme is Belt Bags – they not only make your life easier, but also look great! Each belt is 100% handmade from recycled leather and you will surely find numerous styles to fall in love with! When choosing your belt, keep in mind what you need to carry with you when you go out. “Why carry a bag when you can have a Belt Bag?”
Exact bag I now proudly sport!
My belt bag is the perfect size for that smaller purse some of use crave. It holds my cell in a perfect designated spot, as well as my keys. My billfold fits, along with a compact, lotion and really as many lip products as I need! I has a zippered pocket on the inside, then a fully ’snappable’ fold over to hold everything inside, and then it has a secret zipper on the back side, think the side closet to your body. That is great for holding extra money, or anything else you can think of!
I was watching Burn Notice one night, just a couple weeks ago, and noticed this great little bag that Fiona was wearing. I thought to myself, “my Happy Cow Belt Bag is better then your bag, Fiona…” Then I was corresponding with my contact at Happy Cow, and he told me she was wearing a Happy Cow Bag! Great taste Fiona!
So Happy Cow has very graciously offered up 1 Happy Cow Hip Bag to the reader that answers this question the best, 100 words or less please!
“How will a Happy Cow Belt Bag make your life easier?”
I do also need to disclose to you, that by entering this contest I will be submitting the answers as well as the emails addresses to Happy Cow. The will not be sharing or selling your emails to anyone else, simply signing you up for their emails, which you may opt out of at any time.
To enter, answer the question and fill out the form below!
[contact-form 2 "Contest Entries (Happy Cow)"]
As you can see there are still multiple ways to enter, and you can twitter daily, just leave your initial Tweet in the form above, then come back and leave your additional days tweets in the comments section.
Thanks!
Contest entries will all be verified as usual. Ends 9/10 at 11:59PM EST. Open to US and Canada.
YogaFit Review and Giveaway
YogaFit is the largest yoga school in North America with over 70,000 fitness instructors trained in six continents. YogaFit focuses on safety first and foremost! They are also the official Yoga Training program for TSI ( NYSC, BSC, WSC, PSC ) and the only yoga company that is an ACE partner. And they offer over 30 educational programs in yoga, anatomy, yoga therapy and Pilates. We also have a 200-hour and 500-hour Registered Yoga Alliance RYT certification program.
PLUS YogaFit offers mats, accessories, DVDS, CDS and bamboo organic performance wear.
A couple of my favorite items from just browsing the YogaFit website are:
Bamboo Fitted Flare Pants- thermal regulating and drawstring pant. The pant is made of breathable, quick drying, anti-bacterial (odor free) and anti-bromic (deodorized) material. It is composed of Bamboo (70%), Cotton, and Spandex and is available in black, charcoal and brown with a 33″ in-seam. ($34.95)
Bamboo Fitted Flare
· Bamboo Mock Neck Jacket- fitted, stylish, thermal regulating, zippered jacket with YogaFit. The jacket is made of breathable, quick drying, Anti-bacterial (odor free) and Anti-bromic (deodorized) material. It is composed of Bamboo (70%), Cotton (25%), and Spandex (5%) and is available in black only. Note that this is a “Fitted” jacket and is meant to have a more snug fit. ($44.95) ON SALE! $24.99
Bamboo Fitted Mock Neck Jacket
I was also sent a couple of items to review for YogaFit.
· Organic Scoop Neck Tee-perfect fit, thin rib collar; blind-stitched sleeve and bottom hems. 100% organic cotton, resilient fabric , low-impact fabric dyed, satin garment washed, and no shrinkage. ($24.95) ON SALE for $14.99
Organic Scoop Neck Long Sleeve
This tee is so soft, and almost ridiculously comfortable. I have only had it about a 10 days, and have worn it 3 times! I like that it is long enough to cover me, and not ride up. When working out or just running errands, there are not many things worse then a tee you feel like is showing your booty. The scoop is just right too, not too deep to let the girls show, but yet enough to still be a scoop! I have the ocean color, and it is almost a cross between periwinkle and teal.
· Bamboo Boat Neck Henley- Naturally thermal regulating, breathable and quick to dry. This Bamboo Henley is an ecological breakthrough in apparel. The fabric is made of 70% Bamboo, 25% Cotton, 5% Spandex. Colors Available: Rose and Chocolate with white contrast stitching. ($34.95)
Bamboo Boat Neck Henley
Ah, and the Bamboo Boat Neck Henley. Soft and breathable, it is one most perfect shirts I own for working out. Sometimes a tank top just doesn’t work! The small flower design on the right area of the waist adds a touch of character too. These do run a little small, so I suggest ordering up a size.
YogaFit has been kind enough to offer a giveaway here at Prissy Green! One reader will win the Bamboo Henley, and the Organic Scoop Neck long sleeve! To enter, head over to YogaFit, and tell me one item you would like to own. It can be a piece of equipment, clothing, DVD or anything else they carry!
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
~sign up for Prissy Green Updates (emails) New email!
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~Twitter this You can do this daily! ~ make sure you leave link
~Place Prissy Green button on your website
~Place Prissy Green FITNESS week button on your website (two entries)
~Blog about this contest, and leave a link to Prissy Green and Sponsor. (only counts if you have these links!) THREE ENTRIES!
Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/7/09.
END Eco-Friendly Footwear, Review and Giveaway
Stumptown Bristlecone
END Footwear is driven by passion, people and their never-ending journey.
Environmentally Neutral Design
An idea born from a passion towards change, the team at END footwear consists of a group of individuals dedicated to building new and innovative footwear with minimal consequences to the environment. By utilizing the four R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Responsibilty) to guide them on their path towards an environmentally neutral design, their goal is to have less of an environmental impact with each and every season. Currently, their manufacturing process yields only 1-5% waste, making their ecological footprint much smaller than many manufacturers.
Stumptown Pine
At END they are focused on designing and creating high performing, sustainable footwear for every day athletes. Their philosophy of responsible, evolutionary design causes them to strive to do more with less. Born from a single mold, END footwear represents a revolutionary step in exercising this belief. Each of their styles rides on a platform that is custom tuned to the needs of the athlete and is used over and over again throughout the years instead of seasons. Why fix it if it was never broken? This allows END athletes to tackle their adventures without having to pay the price for using multiple steel molds. In addition, END has also removed the shank (a plastic piece normally placed in the arch of the shoe) in their shoes, taking a large step forward in sustainability. Because all plastic shanks are built from steel molds, companies create a different steel mold for every size, color and model of shoe. All of
PBnJ
that steel and plastic production quickly turns into waste and is essentially harmful to people and the environment.
END sent me the PBnJ shoe to try out. It has been my main go to shoe for inside work outs, while my Brooks have been my outdoor running shoe. I honestly didn’t make a concious choice to do that, it just worked out that way. My ENDS are light, and so comfortable. I was honestly worried that they were too comfy and too light, I wondered if they would hold stable with my running. They did and still do.
- Seamsmart® synthetic and mesh upper mimics the shape of your foot in critical areas through innovative use of textiles in place of molded plastic, the elimination of rigid heel counters, and a merciless design process that eliminates all unnecessary parts and materials.
- PET recycled webbings and lace.
- Bamboo-infused lining has natural moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial properties.
- END® EVO Biosmart midsole consists of 15% recycled EVA and provides medial support, lateral containment, and outstanding cushioning.
- Synergy Heel System® delivers superior heel-lock, outstanding support and plush cushioning. A minimally padded flexible heel counter is mated to precisely cut and sewn uppers and then cradled in a sculpted tri-density midsole. A de-coupled heel provides a soft, yet stable landing zone for natural biomechanical advantage. SHS delivers superior heel-lock, outstanding support and plush cushioning.
- Exurban Regrind Outsole®, comprised of recycled content carbon rubber, utilizes a combination of separate rubber pods positioned along a longitudinal flex groove. This allows each distinct portion of the outsole to flex and grip when needing, ultimately providing outstanding cushioning and traction.
- 7.00 oz.
END carries shoes for every aspect, from Trail to Water to Street.
While being friendly to the environment is what drives END in their everyday endeavors as a company as well as individuals, they understand that athletes require high performance footwear. Comfort is key with END. Designed to work with the body’s muscle groups, their shoes are able to provide greater balance when running and less muscle fatigue. Their Full Sole™ design also allows energy to displace efficiently through medial to lateral motion, working naturally with the foot’s motions instead of against it. Combine these features with a wider forefoot and you’ve got a superb stride that is more stable and efficient.
Men's Stumptown 12oz.
With the concept of doing more with less fresh in mind, adding more to what already works isn’t always better. At END, they understand that there is an innovation arms race happening within the footwear industry where companies want to make people believe that more components and technology equal better runs and performance. Remaining dedicated to the philosophy that less is more, END footwear is determined to prove that lighter can be stronger, and that crisp, consistent designs can beat the next big thing any day of the week.
Always searching for new solutions to age-old problems, END believes that footwear will not fall apart if glues and cements were to fade into the yesterday of tomorrow. Their goal is to one day be able to offer 100% glue-less shoes through a responsible design, which will be beneficial to the environment and the workers who would have had to handle such harmful glues. With one eye on lessening their environmental impact and one eye on the trails of life, END realizes that together we are all the next wave of change.
There’s a dirt diva inside every woman. The Stumptown collection embraces the soul, and her soles with superior traction, stability, and confidence for extending the wilderness experience, urban wandering, or any other stress release you can invent.
To see a more detailed picture of how less is more, and less impact on the environment, check out this diagram. I think you will dig.
END has given me the chance to offer one Prissy Green reader their choice of END shoes. To enter, head over to Zappos and pick out your pair of ENDs. Come back here and comment on what END shoes you like the most and where you would wear them, or what workout you would use them for.
You can purchase End Footwear either by finding a dealer near you, or by shopping at any of these online retailers. From what I have figured, Zappos seems to have the largest selection.
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
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~Twitter this You can do this daily! ~ make sure you leave link
~Place Prissy Green button on your website
~Place Prissy Green FITNESS week button on your website (two entries)
~Blog about this contest, and leave a link to Prissy Green and Sponsor. (only counts if you have these links!) THREE ENTRIES!
Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/7/09.
**if you are interested in purchasing END footwear, you had better hurry. I just got terrible news!
Acacia and Desiree Rumbaugh Review and Giveaway
I am an online shopper, online window shopper and a major researcher. I even shop Amazon DVD’s before they have hit the shelves. I don’t always buy them, but for some reason that is relaxing for me. Wishfully spending money I do not have!
The other night, about 2 weeks ago, I came across a DVD I just had to have. It is choreographed and performed by a lady by the name of Desiree Rumbaugh. She has several out, but this one spoke to me. Well actually my neck and shoulders spoke to me and said, buy me! But like any blogger, I quickly searched around and found they are sold through an amazing, new found company by the name of Acacia. I contacted them and they sent the DVD to review here and of course are giving me a chance to send THREE to Prissy Green readers. but before we get to that, let me tell you a little more about Acacia and Desiree.
Just had to share these too!
Acacia provides distinctive, nature-oriented products to enhance customer’s enjoyment of their surroundings, and to improve their appearance and well-being. We cater to customers seeking quality products that focus on physical and spiritual well-being, fitness, and natural decor.
They have the most incredible selection of FUN fitness DVD’s. They even carry Hoopnotica! Plus an assortment of belly dancing, Latin Dancing, one aptly named, “Bollywood Booty”, and even Sheva Reva-yoga dance.
Acacia also carries general fitness, pilates, yogo, martial arts DVD’s. So there really is no limitations.
Stretchy, French Terry, Cream Loungewear
And that is not even the tip of the iceberg! Apparel, jewelry and footware. This loungewear outfit must be mine. I can see me lounging, shopping and road tripping in it! Made out of stretchy, french terry and the pants are Capri!
Then countless items in their Personal Care section. Ranging from soaps to waxing strips, and soothing sounds for you to drift off to sleep.
Home and Garden section which has ourdoor decor, tableware, bed linens, furniture and lighting. I am asking for gift certificates for Christmas!
Okay so back to Desiree and her DVD titled, Yoga to the Rescue for Neck & Shoulders.
If you’ve ever been to one of Desiree Rumbaugh’s workshops or seen glimpses of one on YouTube, your first impression might be that she teaches in an incredibly challenging style. With the ability to demonstrate some of the most difficult postures and–even more amazingly–getting students to experience the same sequences.
Desirée has a well-earned reputation for deepening even the most advanced practices. She does it with a sense of humor balanced with a quest for authenticity. What is most surprising is her ability to tap into a soft heart and vulnerable spaces to access these wonderful poses. Her unique ability to draw out that bright and shining light from within every student, no matter what level of yoga experience, is her gift to the world.
All this comes from a lifetime of experience with the most extremes of emotions and situations, which have increased her compassion and strengthened her purpose of helping others. After more than twenty years of practice, including being one of the first students and certified teachers of Anusaraâs founder John Friend, Desirée continues to live her passion for yoga every day. Desiree has an astoundingly full teaching schedule, traveling throughout the U.S. and abroad–most recently in India and Asia.
**Please do not let some of that scare you if you are just starting out with yoga. The DVD I have is for beginners and beyond. I truthfully think anyone can handle it.
Take a second to view this video, it is only 45 seconds long. And then come back and tell how great she looks for 50! Holy cow!
The DVD that I have is Yoga to the Rescue for Neck & Shoulders. The neck and shoulders is exactly where I have pain everyday. I have bone spurs in my neck that cause my muscles to cramp. from this DVD I am slowly seeing that pain fade away.
The DVD has a 30 minute tutorial, that in my opinion is priceless. It taught me how to move fluidly, correctly and efficiently. I can say that I have never had a Yoga DVD instruct so beautifully. Following the tutorial, there is a 30 minute Flowing Sequence. Of course the flowing sequence is great, but I think the most beneficial aspect is the instructions. I can know strike a pose (vouge!) whenever I am starting to feel right and cramped, and alleviate that pain before it happens. This is not just stretching. This is aligning your spine, and teaching your body to move more oxygen, training your neck, back and shoulders to be stronger.
I do have THREE of these DVD’s for you special readers! To enter please tell me any item (besides the ones I have mentioned) you would like to own from Acacia!
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
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~Place Prissy Green FITNESS week button on your website (two entries)
~Blog about this contest, and leave a link to Prissy Green and Sponsor. (only counts if you have these links!) THREE ENTRIES!
Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US and Canada. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/5/09.
Lucy ActiveWear Review and Giveaway
We believe in:
Performance & fashion
Innovation & style
Working out…and loving it.
lucy has a deep desire to serve both our style desires as well as your workout needs. Whether you are hitting a trail or hitting a mat to get your fitness on, lucy designers are emphatically set on making sure you get there in style.  And from my view and now experience they pass with flying colors. beautifully fashioned clothing that moves with you no against you. Actually makes me look better, which gives me even more motivation to workout!
**Okay I suddenly have a new goal. To look like them!**
I contacted lucy about being featured here on Prissy Green and was sent a funky, comfy, ‘live in them the rest of my life’ pair of Capris. The Chi-Capris are so soft, and I am quite positive that I have never had a piece of active wear that I have fallen so hard for. They fit like nothing else! Hug in the right spots and DON’T hug in all the right spots too. I really appreciated that they did not shrink when Craig threw them in the dryer too! May sound funny, but I actually feel quite sexy in these. I don’t wear mine as snug as the gal pictured, but I will if I hit my goal! Maybe even more snug!  I am quite fond of the roll waist, as it seems to make sure everything stays tucked in, and also keeps my mind on pulling my abs in during a workout. Fabrics: 56% Cotton/37% Rayon from bamboo/7% Lycra®
I have the Earthy Brown just as pictured, but Lucy carries a Deep Berry, black and Dark Palm. I am seriously considering snatching the Black ones, because they are so crazy comfy, and I NEVER find pants that fit perfect. Most Yoga pants seem to be too snug around my thighs, and well, they just are too uncomfortable. I was so happy to find these fit so well!
Lucy carries different lines for the different activities we all might be doing to stay active, Running, Yoga, Gym and Explore.
They also have different fabrics geared around working out. They are all quick to dry, stretchy, and fashionable!
*Lucy Tech, which smooth an light weight and quick to dry, and moisture wicking.
*Lucy Flex, resistant, strong and durable perfect for the outdoors. 
*Lucy Power, strong and very supportive stretch, great for yoga and the gym.
*Cool Cotton, natural cotton balance that wicks moisture away, and keeps you cool, great for yoga.
And you really need to check out their Fall Look Book, just released a couple weeks ago.
I am really hooked with this Sexy Hoodie, and well this gorgeous shirt. I am not sure I would want to sweat in it though!
I have one pair of Chi Capris to giveaway to a Prissy Green reader. To enter, please go to lucy and tell me one item (at least) that you would like to own, and where you would wear it! These pants are valued at $58. I would pay more!
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
~sign up for Prissy Green Updates (emails) New email!
~Sign up for Prissy Green RSS feed
~Fave on Technorati, digg, Stumble, kirtsy ETC. Easy Link Below! leave a comment for each you do.
~Twitter this You can do this daily! ~ make sure you leave link
~Place Prissy Green button on your website
~Place Prissy Green FITNESS week button on your website (two entries)
~Blog about this contest, and leave a link to Prissy Green and Sponsor. (only counts if you have these links!) THREE ENTRIES!
Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US only. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/5/09.
Hoop It Up With Hoopnotica and Green Your Fitness Routine! Review and Giveaway
I go to a lot of music shows and festivals, not as many as normal this year, but I know the scene. Dancing hippies, dancing frat boys, girls in heels (so funny) and then hippies in disguise, like me. And then there are always “hoopers.” They are always fun to watch, and I always end up longing for their super-smokin’ bodies.
If I dare be so bold as to say they have bodies that are even prettier to me then a dancers. Strong, flexible and thin. With loads of muscle, but pretty muscle, not bulky.
Last year I entered a contest and won a Hoopnotica Travel Hoop. I was thrilled! I have used it off and on for months now. It gives me an incredible cardio workout, as well as a gut crushing abdominal work out. Yes they are similar to Hula Hoops, and the same basic concept, but these are heavier then a Hula Hoop. The extra weight is for two reasons:
1. It helps beginners be able to keep a momentum going. And control movements
2. the weight actually helps you gain muscle tone.
The Travel Hoop that I have is 1.5 lbs. So they aren’t heavy at all, but it does make it easier, and more enjoyable then trying to hoop and the hoop ending at your feet!
Have you heard of Hoop Dance? You should see these ladies in action. It may seem silly at first, but I am telling you, it is one heck of a workout, and a lot more enjoyable then running on a treadmill! It is dancing after all!
Hooping tones the muscles of the core and the entire body while also providing an intense cardiovascular workout, burning between 400 and 600 calories an hour, all at no to low impact to your joints. Most students who practice Hoopnotica regularly notice changes in their bodies within just a few weeks.
Physical Benefits:
* Builds core strength
* Tones your entire body
* Provides an intense cardiovascular workout
* No to Low Impact
* Increases energy
* Develops balance and coordination
* Increases flexibility
Mental/Emotional Benefits:
*Clears and quiets the mind
* Reduces stress
* Improves self confidence
* Generates joy and laughter
* Improves one’s mood
* Opens up creative self expression
Seriously, look at this hot mama, and how much fun she is having! She has not let her smile fall once!
They also have instructional DVD’s that I am sad to report, I haven’t even attempted yet. But I have watched the demos of them, and they look great. Uplifting and fun!
Even celebrities are getting into it! Celebrities such as Marisa Tomei, Liv Tyler, and Beyonce are finding a slimmer, sexier, more toned versions of themselves. Even Ryan Seacrest has tried it. Now that has to be hilar!
So here is the great part! Hoopnotica wants to put you in the Hoop! One Prissy Green reader will have a change to green their routing with a “Hoop It Off Kit“, which contains, includes our Level 1 and Level 2 DVD’s as well as a Travel Hoop of their choice! This set retails for $89.99! But is actually on sale right now for $69.99!
To enter, tell me your fitness goals. You don’t have to go into too much detail, I don’t want you to tell me something you don’t feel like sharing on a blog, but give me some idea of what you are looking to gain (or lose)!
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
~sign up for Prissy Green Updates (emails) New email!
~Sign up for Prissy Green RSS feed
~Fave on Technorati, digg, Stumble, kirtsy ETC. Easy Link Below! leave a comment for each you do.
~Twitter this You can do this daily! ~ make sure you leave link
~Place Prissy Green button on your website
~Place Prissy Green FITNESS week button on your website (two entries)
~Blog about this contest, and leave a link to Prissy Green and Sponsor. (only counts if you have these links!) THREE ENTRIES!
Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US only. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/5/09.
I thought I would copy this comment in the post because I think some of you may be interested!
:I LOVE Hoopnotica! Receive $5 off your http://www.hoopnotica.com web orders with this code: APJG0324
Get your hoop on when visiting DC -
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Be Well!
Jocelyn
Hoopnotica Teacher Trainer”
Brooks Running Shoe Review and Giveaway
If you have ever bought a pair of running or walking shoes, I am sure you have tried on, or at least seen Brooks Running Shoes. They are top of the line, and a sought after shoe by most competitive runners, and fitness runners alike.
Brooks came out with an eco-friendly, bio-degradable running shoe back in 2006, called the BioMoGo. They even receieved the “Best Innovation” Award from Runners International for the BioMoGo. But that isn’t where they stop with being eco-friendly and green.
From brochures and catalogs to P.O.P. and hangtags, we scrutinize our printed pieces and vendor partners for their environmental impact. All paper we use is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which means it’s made using wood from well-managed forests, company controlled sources, and/or recycled material. We use only soy-based inks; even our metallic inks aren’t harmful to the environment. So what does this mean as an end result? By using more responsible materials for our Spring 2009 Footwear and Apparel catalogs alone, Brooks saved the following:
- 14,000 lb. of wood from trees (that’s 44 trees)
- 15,989 gal. of water (enough for 1,599 five-minute showers)
- 4,877 lb. of exhaust emissions (equivalent to driving a compact car 6,372 mi.)
- 2,646 lb. of solid waste (equivalent to 91 32-gal. cans of garbage)
Brooks’ eco-friendlier midsole manufacturing process reduces waste by 50 percent as compared to traditional midsole manufacturing methods.
Brooks’ proprietary HPR (High Performance Rubber) Green outsole—featured in our Beast®, Ariel®, Addiction™ Walker, Addiction™ Walker V-Strap, and their entire Trail footwear collection—is a durable, long-wearing outsole compound made from sand rather than oil. This results in saving petroleum, and also gives extra traction in wet conditions.
Brooks distribution warehouse follows a strict environmental policy for energy and materials used for packaging and shipping products, as well as for the building itself. Brooks uses 90% of their incoming shipping wares to send out going orders. Then they recycle the remaining 10% with Weyerhaueser. They have also replaced all of their lighting in 2006 with fluorescent, which made a 30% energy reduction.
I would like to give them a big ol pat on the back for showing inititive and setting an example for so many other companies.
So more about shoes right? The BioMoGo Biodegradable shoe will degrade in 20 years, once subjected to composting conditions. That means that within 20 years time, Brooks alone will save 29.9 million pounds of landfill waste. For you pigskin fans out there, that equals 1,277 football fields covered one shoe deep!
Brooks has over 10 shoes with this advance midsole technology now, and to prove they do care about the enviroment, they have released the formula to other shoe manufactures. How generous to the earth and other competitors can you be?
Adrenaline GTS9
After utilizing Brooks Shoe Advisor program, I was sent their Adrenaline GTS9. Of course they are made with the BioMoGo Midsoles. When I received my new running shoes, courtesy of Brooks, I very hastily pulled them on. They have great support which I need, but yet allow my feet to really breath and hold to core. I have a problem with pronating (when your ankles start to move inward) and these are made especially to combat that. I learned that from the shoe advisor. I would say I have a medium arch, and these really do a standup job of supporting my arch, they maybe would not for arch, but Brooks does carry endless varieties of athletic shoes for all of your needs.
I used them to run for a couple weeks and to work out on my EA Sports Active, but then I started having some major knee pain, and had to take a break. So now I am continuing with my Bellicon Rebounder until it feels okay. (yes, yes, i am getting old!) My feet were a little sore right at first, but I chock that up to needing to be broken in, and because my feet hadn’t had that kinda workout in quite some time!
Brooks has a contest going on right now, for the whole month of August! It is for a new men and women’s shoe called the Trance9. All you have to do is try on a pair of Trance9’s and then you will get a scratch off card, with the chance of winning over 3,000 prizes. One prize? A sponsorsorship from Brooks, worth $3000!
Make sure you check out all of their accessories and men and women’s clothing too! They also have kid’s shoes!
I have a special prize for you! Win your choice of Brooks Running shoe with the BioMoGo Mid-sole! To enter, go to Brooks and tell me any shoe that you would like to have. It doesn’t have to be a BioMoGo.
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
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Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US only. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/4/09.
EA Sports Active Review and Giveaway
First, I really beg you to watch this video. I would have made my own video, but umm, I don’t look like her when I work out. lol
EA Sports Active
As you can see from the video, The EA Sports Active for the Wii, can be quite challenging. Now Sarah, in the video, was stating that you won’t get a great cardio, or you would have to work at getting a good cardio from dancing, but I think it is great for cardio from beginners to mid-active. Now a marathon runner will get bored with the cardio, I agree there. But for anyone not in peak physical condition, I think it is more then suitable.
The work out seems to focus a lot on your core, just in the movement of your body. They do leave out sitting down and actually doing crunches or some other exercise for the tummy, I have seen this mentioned over and over. I personally feel like it gives my abs a fantastic workout. And hey, who doesn’t know how to do a crunch? =) It has you twisting and turning, and if you remember to hold your abs in while doing all the movements, you will feel like you did crunches!
I have been doing this program for right at about 30 days. I am sold, I like it much better then my Wii Fit, although the Wii fit is good for games, I don’t like it much for a workout. EA moves fairly quickly between screens, which was a major annoyance on the Wii Fit workouts. The fact that is moves from different activities on it’s own program is great. You can of course either make your own program, or select exercises as you go. I have been doing the 30 day fitness challenge. I did fall of the wagon for a couple weeks… Don’t laugh, I hurt my knee running. Remember when it was raining all over New York? Well it was low 80’s to high 70’s here, and just too pretty to stay inside. I got punished though.
Take a look at the EA Sports Active website. They a great site there, with motivation, and forums, and even a blog. It is really great when you are on the 30 Day Fitness Challenge.
I think the hardest thing for me in a solid work out (besides motivation) has always been structure. I know a lot of exercises, but I am never sure of how many reps to do, or how to keep track. This program does all of that for you. And by all means, I didn’t need to throw any more exercises at myself when I was done. It is normally about a 20 minute workout, but give yourself some leeway, as the clock isn’t ticking while instructing you.
I sincerely love the boxing and the volleyball, Vball was my sport of choice growing up. I was never quite agile enough for anything else. I have always been supremely uncoordinated. I would say the hardest exercise for me has been the alternating lunges. Basically you lunge forward, then jump from that position to a lunge forward with the opposite leg. The first 7 times I did this I really thought I might die, hurt myself, or not be able to walk the next day. I survived. The great thing, is that EA recognizes this as a touch move, and so they only make you do it once each workout for the initial few. and because non of the exercises are very long in duration, you can easily psyche yourself up to finish strong.
EA also does not throw 40 new exercises at you all at once. They start teaching you core moves, and then build on that gradually. And you can always select to view the demo again, which is really helpful.
EA makes the program capable of working out with a friend, well I have begged and tried to get Craig to try it with me, but he is just not interested, he loves the Wii Fit. I would love to play Volleyball one on one. I would NOT attempt tennis, as I still seem to not have figured that one out. See I can even be uncoordinated gaming! Lol, no really that is the only activity on EA that I can’t quite get.
So to get to the nitty gritty, I have never been and possibly never will be a work out junkie. I do like how I feel when I exercise, but that doesn’t always mean that I won’t talk myself into watching True Blood instead. But with that said, EA has kept my attention better then any other piece of work out equipment I have ever used, well besides the Bellicon Rebounder, but hey, how can you resist a mini-trampoline, that you can jump on inside?   I encourage you to at least rent the game at a video rental store, and test it out.  Or you can buy the EA Sports Active
Or you can try your luck at winning here from Prissy Green! To enter, give me tips on staying motivated or tell me what makes you Active? Leave a comment.
Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each entry you do!
~sign up for Prissy Green Updates (emails) New email!
~Sign up for Prissy Green RSS feed
~Fave on Technorati, digg, Stumble, kirtsy ETC. Easy Link Below! leave a comment for each you do.
~Twitter this You can do this daily! ~ make sure you leave link
~Place Prissy Green button on your website
~Place Prissy Green FITNESS week button on your website (two entries)
~Blog about this contest, and leave a link to Prissy Green and Sponsor. (only counts if you have these links!) THREE ENTRIES!
Contest winner will be chosen my random.org and verified per the rules. Open to US only. Contest ends at 11:59PM EST, 9/4/09.
