We’ve been a fan of Lisa Maxwell Jewelry for a few years now and we can’t wait for you to join the crystal jeweled crew. Not only is each piece in every collection beyond stunning and intentionally made but Lisa herself is an angel. Her aura brings a sense of calmness and her positive attitude leaves you feeling inspired after even just a DM. Oh, and every time we’ve purchased from her, amazing things happen! We were lucky enough to do a Q & A with her and here’s what she has to say about fall styling tips, advice and more:

Can you tell us a bit about your creation process? 

Lisa Maxwell Jewelry is hand-crafted in our Toronto studio which is located near Mount Pleasant and Eglinton. Below is the creation process I follow for each piece: 

Step One: Design 

My creation process begins with intuitively choosing a healing crystal that inspires me. I look for crystals that have a high aesthetic quality and also contain healing properties that resonate with the specific piece I am creating. I also make sure that the crystals I choose will be cohesive within the entire Lisa Maxwell Jewelry Collection. 

Next, I decide on what type of piece I will be making (necklace, bracelet, etc). After that, I choose the type of precious metal that is best suited to match the stone. For example, vibrant gemstones like emerald or citrine pair well with gold as they are both complementary warm tones. 

Step Two: Selection 

Next is the process of procuring crystals to make the piece. Whenever possible, myself or a member of my team visits our suppliers in person to hand-select the highest grade stones available. Although this can be a time-consuming process, it helps us to create a more refined finished product. We also choose metals that are high quality. All of the silver we work with is sterling silver. We use mostly 14-karat gold-filled along with some 14-karat gold filled over sterling silver. It is very important that the metals are hypoallergenic, nickel-free, non-tarnish and suitable for sensitive skin. Our chains and metal components are always checked for quality and durability. 

Step Three: Manufacturing 

Before beginning the manufacturing of each piece, we set up all of the component parts that we will need to complete it. Necklaces require certain stones, metal accents, and component parts, along with the chain used to hold them together. Bracelets often need the same parts, or a durable stretch cord if we are making a beaded stretch bracelet. Earrings are a simpler process, as they use only a few gemstones per piece and only a couple of metal parts. During this process, we are attuned to sizing, making sure each component meets the specific size and scale requirements. We use specific tools for each piece: needle-nosed pliers, chain-nosed pliers, wire cutters, crimping pliers are among the tools we use most often. 

Step Four: Quality Control 

During the manufacturing process, my team and I are constantly checking the quality of each piece as we make them. Once a piece is finished, we give it a final appraisal to ensure its quality is impeccable. We give the piece a final polish and then set it aside to be packaged. 

Inside LM’s Studio
Image from Lisa Maxwell Jewelry’s Instagram

What stones/ pieces are you recommending for fall? 

I’m so happy you asked! Fall is such a wonderful time for embracing a time when the weather cools down and colours become vibrant all around us. I actually recently wrote a block on the gemstones I recommend for Autumn. You can find the blog here:

Citrine: Citrine is a vibrant crystal that plays into the mood and colour palette of Fall quite well. Its golden and orange tones are matched well with the colours of changing leaves. Citrine also holds the warmth of the sun, which can allow us to feel more energized as the days get shorter. This sparkly golden crystal is excellent for helping us create abundance during the harvest season.

We recommend: The Charmed with Abundance Mini Necklace 

Onyx: Tapping into darker stones is a wonderful way to help us transition into the cooler months of the year, as dark gems promote a sense of reflection and groundedness. Onyx helps our energy become more rooted and can also provide us with a sense of calmness. This jet black stone can help us feel a deeper connection with the earth even when our time spent outdoors may be decreased in the cooler weather. 

We recommend: The Dainty Grounded Bracelet 

Hematite: Speaking of grounding stones, hematite is another great stone for helping us lean into the slower rhythm of autumn. Gun metal grey in colour, hematite can provide stability and helps us to release stress that may have been building up. With less time outdoors and increased digital activity, hematite creates a shield to protect against negative energy including electromagnetic smog from computers and cell phones.

We recommend: The Clarity Necklace 

What are your layering tips? 

Such a great question! I think it’s important to remember that wearing jewelry is meant to be an enjoyable experience and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing different necklace layers (in my opinion). Here are a few of my favourite tips: 

#1 Start with the basics. You actually only need two necklaces to start layering. That’s right, just two! Especially if you’re new to wearing multiple layers, this is a great way to test the waters and discover your own sense of style. 

#2 Mix up your lengths. This step actually makes Step One a lot easier; when you choose the right necklace lengths, it takes the guesswork out of how to layer. We follow one easy rule: leave 2 inches of space between each necklace layer to stack necklaces effortlessly. For example, a 16-inch necklace + an 18-inch necklace = a perfect layering duo. Add a 20-inch chain as the bottom layer to try wearing three necklaces at a time. You’ve got this! 

#3 Choose intuitively. I don’t believe in following set “rules” about deciding which crystals to wear at the same time. Let your inner wisdom be your guide and allow yourself to be drawn to whichever gemstone necklaces you feel called to wear in the moment.

Step Four: Unify Your Metals. Choosing metals that match each other can be a great way to create a cohesive layered look. Silver with silver, gold with gold. Of course there are occasions where you may want to mix up your metals, and if you are feeling bold and want to give it a go, we say go ahead! I’ve recently been really loving wearing a mix of gold and silver stacking rings on one finger and think this can also work with necklaces as well. 

Step Five: Mix and Match Necklaces 

One simple way to add some style variance when laying is by wearing choosing delicate chains with bold gemstones. For example, our Charmed With Abundance Mini Necklace features a delicate citrine pendant on the Gold Cable Chain, combining a vibrant yellow gem with a dainty chain. There are so many possibilities when we begin to combine different styles of necklaces and it allows us to get multiple looks with the staple pieces in your jewelry collection.

Lisa, Owner, layering necklaces
Image from Lisa Maxwell Jewelry’s Facebook

How do you choose which pieces are right for you? 

I think it’s important to choose jewelry that you feel inspired to wear. If you look at a piece of jewelry and it sparks something positive within you, listen to that feeling. Oftentimes, we know a piece of jewelry is likey for us within the first seconds of seeing it. Go with your gut and try the jewelry you feel drawn to. 

Crystal jewelry can also be chosen based on the specific healing properties offered by the gemstones contained in the piece. For example, if you’re looking to enhance your intuition and find a sense of calmness, finding jewelry containing a soothing stone-like moonstone would be a great place to start. After choosing the stone, you can then narrow it down to the specific piece of jewelry you feel drawn to. 

Choosing jewelry that compliments your skin tone can also be a good way to select pieces. For instance, cool complexions can be warmed up with a boldly coloured crystal or bright gold. 

Lisa, Owner, layering necklaces
Image from Lisa Maxwell Jewelry’s Instagram

Advice for jewelry makers? 

Be consistent; whether you’re inspired or not, show up at your workbench with a positive attitude and you’ll be surprised what can happen. 

Cultivate excellent client care. Think about each piece you make with the client in mind. Not just in terms of style, but in terms of quality and longevity. Building a positive client relationship is also an integral part of creating a returning client base that will grow with you into the future. 

Get involved in the jewelry-making community locally and digitally. Talk to other makers; lean on them for support and inspiration and give back to that community when you can. 

Be proud of your work! Putting your creativity out into the world takes courage and it is definitely something to be celebrated.

What is your sign? 

Taurus! And I know that you’re a Cancer because I’ve asked you, of course. You definitely seem to have a few of the awesome Cancer traits: intuitive and very thoughtful. Such a fun question! 

More from Lisa Maxwell Jewelry:

Feature Image by Scott Webb

Quick Facts: 

The money tree, Guiana Chestnut, is one of the most prosperous plants in the kingdom. It can be found in swampy conditions and they love the humidity. Their home bases of Central and South Africa are what give them a love for the heat. It has a braided stem that leaves you mesmerized with bold green leaves. While it improves your air quality, they also attract good vibes towards you.

Spirituality and Symbolism 

The money tree represents good luck and fortunes to whoever has it. It also brings positive energy that’s why it’s good for stress, anxiety and sleep. When it’s being given as a gift, those vibes are even higher and both people involved will benefit. Depending on the person, each unique trait of the plant can mean something different. Whether it be the number of leaves on steam or the height, it’s a token. 

Cover Image by @solod_sha

We’re still facing some pretty hot days to come so why not cool off in a cute way with infused ice cubes! These are a perfect way to add a nice pop of colour to any drink and a flavour boost too. Whether you’re creating a cocktail, sipping on some lemonade or want to add something fun to your glass of H20, there are endless options to jazz up your cup. And it’s super easy. Add your ‘toppings’ to your ice container, fill the rest with water and freeze. Check out some of our favourite things ways to make infused ice cubes.

Mint & Lime: refreshing combo that’s good soothes and cools.

Blueberry & Rasberry: boldly stunning and antioxidant-filled.

Grapefruit & Ginger: adds a zing cut by the bitterness of the grapefruit.

Edible Flowers: beyond beautiful and available at your local flower shop, look for lavender and chamomile at a bulk foods store or Ottawa Edible Flowers has crystalized shipping options or local delivery.

Full Moon: September 20th – 21st 

Keywords: organize, work, collaborate, trust, commitment, recuperate, take breaks

It’s time to take a break from the heat and chill out. Virgo season is all about getting tasks done and as summer comes to it’s time to get our grinds on, productively. We’ve taken the time to have fun in Leo season so now it’s time to take the confidence we’ve been carrying with us to Virgo season. This next month is filled with ambition, opportunity and success personally and professionally. From August 23rd to September 22nd, get ready to put in the work while living your best life. 

Ambition Here We Come

Ruled by Mercury which is all about communication, this earth sign is super focused and ready to complete the task at hand with little distractions. This analytical sign has a big brain and heart which gives them a powerful stance when it comes to putting their all into projects, passions and people. With loyalty running deep it can be easy to depend on Virgo’s if you have their trust and love. By being willing to go above and beyond for the people they’re the closest to, they need to be weary to bend and not break. They’re very reliable and can count on them to follow through with their word and commitment. Represented by the Virgin who recognizes the angel and devils we both carry on our shoulders and which direction to go with. Virgo’s including Pink, Mother Theresa, Prince Harry, Beyoncé, Keanu Reeves are all prime examples of individuals who have worked their way to be known by standing by what they believe in and working hard to get there. 

Work-Life Balance 

This next month is all about getting down to business. If you find yourself having racing thoughts, take a minute to stop and reflect on what your chaotic thoughts are about. Just because we’re staying focused, doesn’t mean we don’t have time for some fun. This could be a perfect opportunity to collaborate with someone(s) to expand on your own ideas and stay chatty while working. While we can get wrapped up in trying to get things done as fast as possible and squeeze in as many items into our day that we possibly can, it’s crucial to give yourself breaks. Let this be a good goal-setting time for the next few work months on how you can get your work done without sacrificing your mental and physical health, plans and more to get it done. Maybe this means altering your routine to create some extra me-time or scheduling designated break times and actually not thinking about work from your work. Putting all of these into practice will bring you to getting more work done and with a more upbeat attitude about the work ahead. I think we can tell why school was meant to start in September. 

New Moon, Harvest Moon & Fall Equinox 

A new moon in Virgo will appear Septmber 6th to welcome intention setting and give as half-way check-in point for this season. On September 20th we’ll witness the Harvest Moon known for its yellow appearance and as a sign to finish any tasks before things start to get a little chillier. September 22nd starts the autumnal equinox, also the first day of fall. This marks the sun rising and setting later, beautiful crisp leaves and cooler afternoons. Take time to make personal goals as well as the professional ones we mentioned. It can be super easy to get wrapped up in the hustle of to-do lists that we forgot to do ourselves. It’s also not time to be a perfectionist either. Making a goal to the journal is productive as we’re already in the groove of getting things done and it’s personal writing without needing an approval or higher-up edit. Throw on the old classic Harvest Moon by Neil Young and soak up the rest of warm nights.

As the healing properties of crystals have re-emerged into 21st century mainstream lifestyle and collective consciousness (they’re really not just for hippies from the 60s anymore!), they can now be found in nearly all areas of our modern lives – from gemstone energy-infused skincare to healing-crystal water bottles and aura-cleansing home sprays. 

But what’s the benefit of leveraging the healing powers of crystals into our more intimate activities? We’ve all heard about the Jade Yoni Egg craze, but while yoni eggs have more health focused benefits, sex toys that harness the powers of crystals are starting to become more mainstream and we are totally here for it. 

Image by Rosie Rees

The History Of The Yoni Wand

Before we get into the good stuff, let’s have a little history lesson. This new wave of sex toys are traditionally referred to as yoni wands and yoni eggs. The word ‘yoni’ can be translated to mean ‘sacred space’ and is actually a Sanskrit word for the vagina, with several deeper layers of meaning, of course. A yoni wand is a natural crystal or gemstone wand that is intended for sacred self pleasure, manifestation and healing from within. Although this may seem like a new fad, it is actually deeply rooted in feminine history; the use of crystal dildos spans back thousands of years. In fact, a stone penis was recently unearthed in Germany that was estimated to be over 30,000 years old. The yoni egg practice, on the other hand, was a more recent endeavour that originated in China a few thousand years ago and was practiced by the emperor’s mistress to maintain a strong and healthy vagina. Regular yoni egg practice can increase awareness and strength of the muscles and abilities of the vagina; it can lead to heightened and more frequent orgasms, and a higher sex drive.

Image from Mashable   

This new wave of spiritual sex toys, made for healing, cleansing and taking your everyday orgasm to the next level is upon us once again, and it is not quite as eccentric as you may think. With the undeniable beautiful aesthetic and a slew of recent benefit claims that range from heightened emotional connection, to deeper orgasms, to cleaner, non-toxic pleasure, crystal sex toys are rising in popularity and gaining momentum fast. 

Where We’re Getting Our Wands

Enter Vixen Crystals, sex toys made from different stones for different spiritual uses. All of their toys – which are seriously a work of art – are made from natural crystals and promise to bring a sense of sacredness to your playtime. Using natural crystals, each wand will carry meaning and power to the one who uses it. Owner Maria believes each stone tells its own story and has its own magic; they are a result of millions of years of Earth’s own trials, and just like us, each one is unique. 

Image by VixenCrystals

The most popular crystal pleaser is known as the Yoni Wand, usually made of 100% rose quartz and is easily the prettiest thing that will ever live on your bedside table. The rose quartz works to cleanse your heart chakra and is said to open you up to all kinds of love. Sex toys, let alone ones with such strong energies, are an extremely personal belonging, making it important to choose one that is right for you. Made from amethyst to black onyx and everything in between, you can choose the crystal with the desired metaphysical properties and chakra stimulation.   

Your vagina is the vessel of life and adorning it with crystals, like a queen, is just a sign of respect. Whether you’re looking for a rose quartz wand, Indian jade butt plug or aventurine egg, it is important to listen to your lady intuition. Like anything that has such powerful healing properties, we encourage you to take the time to do your research and ensure it is safe before beginning your journey to sensual healing.  

Double-ended Rose Quartz Yoni Shakti Wand

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Black Obsidian Butt Plug

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Blue Aventurine Yoni Shakti Wand

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While the promise of spring is just around the corner, it can be hard to align ourselves with ideas of sunshine and warmth as winter seems content to have us remain in its hold a little while longer. If you are like most, the dreary days added up can do a number on your feelings of ambition, alignment and connectivity to Source and your inner voice. Creativity may feel dulled, energy low and your fire may need a little spark.

With Aries season afoot, it’s an excellent time to re-ignite the fire within and activate your sacral chakra, your creativity, passion and lust for life. Here are some amazing methods and tools to activate your sacral chakra, shake off winter and re-ignite your inner force.

The Activity – Box n’ Burn

As dedicated as we are to finding alignment through yoga, sometimes forcing stagnant energy out of you with high intensity activity can be a welcome change to yoga’s flowing and coaxing method. Activities such as boxing style fitness classes, spin classes and even a visit to a studios like Barry’s can awaken your body and inner being from its winter slumber and get you pumped up for life.

At the moment, we’re loving Drop Boxing – a new boxing fitness studio opened on Spadina in Toronto. With motivational quotes embedded tastefully in the decor, you can feel yourself start to motivate from within upon arrival. Once you’re in the Drop Room, your 50 minute class goes by in a flash of fire, music and pleasurable muscle burn. You’ll leave feeling accomplished, strong and excited to come back.

Images From Drop Boxing Instagram

The Stone – Tiger’s Eye

We’ve talked before about how Citrine is an amazing stone for activating and connecting with your sacral chakra. When our sacral chakra’s are suppressed, it is difficult to access our passion, our joy, our creativity, our ability to manifest abundance and even our connection to our sexual selves. Another stone to connect with when you need a fiery boost is Tiger’s Eye. This stone is said to give the boundless energies and unwavering focus of the tiger. Meditating with Tiger’s Eye placed close to your sacral chakra can work to activate your inner fire as well as impart needed waves of self-compassion. As the winter has been harsh on our earth, so we too can be on ourselves when we are feeling tired and dull. Accessing the bright and warm energies of the Tiger’s Eye is an excellent way to step into the next phase of your journey.

Image from The Healing Chest

The Potion – Moodbeli Bliss Booster

Nothing lights your inner fire better than cayenne. Available at The Truth Beauty Company, the Moodbeli Bliss Booster is a cayenne-spiked raw cacao and maca root blend with notes of cinnamon said to help relieve stress, enhance vitality, and bring the mind into the present.

Cacao is a natural mood elevator. It contains high levels of iron, magnesium, calcium and anti-oxidants. Maca improves mood, energy, and skin.Cayenne boosts metabolism, helps digestion and provides detox support. Himalayan pink salt provides the body with essential minerals, balances electrolytes and pH, and supports optimal nutrient absorption.

Brands and corporations are making a beeline for our pockets, working to capitalize on what is problematically deemed the “wellness trend” – and the problem starts exactly from the phrase “wellness trend”. The fact that a mass collective in society has removed our blinders and are eliminating the idea that hustle, stress, never-ending performance, unattainable body and beauty standards and material wealth are the only measurements of a successful and fulfilling existence does not constitute a trend, so much as it does a period of enlightenment.

In fact, reducing the time we are actively dedicating to acts of wellness and self-love as a “trend” is anti-intelligent and diminishing to othose who are putting our personal well-being ahead of burnout and bad purchasing decisions. This reduction of the movement to something as flippant as a trend stems more from fear than it does ignorance.

Take the “personal care” industry as an example. The more we focus on what big corporations are putting in our “personal care” products, holding them accountable for selling us toxins and chemicals that are bad for us, and asking whether or not they have been tested on animals or use child labour in their supply chain means that companies need to start being better. And being better typically means taking a bottom line hit. And so the same companies that are responsible for selling us ineffective chemical-ridden items from one product line are launching others that are marketed to the wellness, planet-conscious crowd (did someone say Unilever’s Love Beauty Planet?).

Further to, the more we are collectively becoming aware of what is causing us to be ill of body, mind and spirit, and taking dedicated action to rectify this, the less corporations and big pharma can continue to sell us cures. A solid sense of self through the ongoing practice of mindfulness will eventually lead a rational individual to the understanding that a $12 mascara from a company that tests their products on animals in China will not fundamentally make us a more beautiful or powerful person. An expensive spa day once a year does not a wellness practice make.

It isn’t just corporations who are fearful of “wellness”. Most of us who have shared about an improved lifestyle after adapting a routine  meditation practice or a plant-based diet have endured our share of rolling eyes or the predictable “…but bacon!” statement from friends.

But the truth is a person who has put their wellness before a work hustle is less likely to contract modern day stress-induced afflictions that require big pharma to knock us out at the end of a stressful day, or cause our muscles to seize from the pressure of being in constant fight mode, our immune systems to shut down, and our sense of self to be so utterly destroyed that we are weakened and seduced by false promises of beauty, health and happiness, drawn to the florescent lights of Shoppers Drug Mart like moths to the flame.

Certainly, any rational individual understands that essential oils, meditation and palo santo cannot cure even a common cold. However, investing routinely in your personal self-care through practices that reduce stress on both the mind and the body enables us to face what modern day challenges come our way with a stronger sense of who we are as individuals, why we are here on this earth (really, it is to be happy) and what really matters in this life. Investing in our health ensures our immune systems are stronger so we fall ill less often and can enjoy life as it is meant to be enjoyed. Investing in our minds and our hearts through meditation, reflection, yoga and aromatherapy opens ourselves to understand that happiness will not be found in a new electronic or pair of shoes and therefore we do not need to run ourselves into the ground for capital gains and material wealth.

Let us be mindful that corporations will work to leverage consumer trends into their own profits. Let us protect our right to nourish our beings with love and self-care. Let us push against a system that insists we be weak, dull and quick to part with our money for superficial cures to problems we do not have. Let us be well.

averie woodard

When it comes to tapping into our spiritual side, it can often be viewed as an intimidating process, or at least a very serious one. And while finding alignment with our inner being is certainly a powerful and serious affair, it must be remembered that the entire point of finding that spiritual connection is finding our capacity for the greatest joy.

As the Law of Attraction tells us, it isn’t until we are truly happy that happiness will become abundant in our lives. For those who are looking to dabble in the world of wellness and woo-woo, we wholeheartedly suggest making your first foray into the space as fun and joyous as possible.

We’ve curated a bundle of our favourite ways to bring spirituality AND smiles into our journey for alignment.

That’s So Retrograde Podcast

Hosted by besties Stephanie Simbari and Elizabeth Kott, this is more than just a witty take on the woo-woo space. These girls get into it, interviewing shamans, astrologists, meditation experts, comedians, and experts in health and wellness, all with a highly relevant pop culture spin. If you’re looking to understand a bit more about the moon and the stars and the newest trends from wellness-mecca, LA, then this is the podcast for you. The ladies are hilarious and offer a refreshingly light-hearted take on the universe and all its beautiful complexities. Check out more here.

Do Arts and Crafts

Some of the most powerful activities in our spiritual journeys involve (biodegradable) glitter and glue. Vision boarding, for example, is one of the funnest ways to get your inner being’s most powerful desires and intentions out in front of you in an exciting and creative way. You can even invite your friends and make a party out of it. All you need is some old magazines (great way to up-cycle), bristol board and glue and get going. Allow the pictures to speak to you. Cut them out and collage.

Other fun activities include bullet journaling your spiritual intentions, sketching, and painting.

Image: Estee Janssens

The Kawaii Tarot Ap

Filed in things we’re kind of obsessed about, the Kawaii Tarot app is the cutest way to get a tarot reading in a pinch. Perfect for tarot newbies who are looking to understand the intricacies behind the practice.

Tossing Things Out

Ok, this may sound like a chore, but there is nothing funner than tossing out that which no longer serves you. It is one of the easiest ways to generate a sense of instant gratification and an appreciation for a visual change. Everything like old clothes, old beauty products and bits and bobs that are weighing you down; get rid of them! Let your inner being guide you to know what you truly do not need in your life anymore as you make room for all that is fresh and new, both physically and mentally.

We must make space for the things we want in life, whether it is physical or spiritual abundance we’re after. Remember, the things we own have their own energies and frequencies. If you’re holding on to something, even something as simple as clothes you no longer wear, it is possible your spiritual frequencies are connecting with the past and creating potential roadblocks for the future abundance you wish you draw into your life.

Once you do old items toss out (or donate or recycle), make sure to give your space a once over with palo santo to reset the energy in your home or office (very important).

Image: Averie Woodard

Traveling 

Next time you’re travelling, take time out to understand a bit more about the spiritual practices of the people who live in the country you are visiting. Often times, the wholeness of our spiritual selves is compiled with the elements we resonate with from other cultures, including the people and practices we have encountered. And there is nothing more eye-opening than being immersed in the culture of another country. Take everything in, listen, observe and appreciate the values of the people around you.

Aside from the people around you, it is vital for our spiritual selves to take advantage of being in a new place as a means of gaining insight on who we are and who we want to be when we are back at home. Travel often comes with the gift of being our most authentic selves so regardless of whether you are travelling with your partner or a group of friends, ensure you have some quiet reflection time to appreciate the present moment, acknowledge your feelings and recognize what about the traveller within you you would like to bring home.

Image: Joshua Earle

Go To an Event 

Gathering with likeminded people, even those who may be a bit more advanced in their journeys, is one of the most amazing ways to feel connected, aligned and as though you are on the right path. It can be anything as simple as a creative learning workshop, a full moon gathering, a wellness talk or even a yoga + beer class (they’re super awesome). Anytime you step out of your daily routine and move towards a new space, you are showing the universe you are open to growing, learning and transforming. Plus, it’s a great and productive way to shake up another night of Netflix.

Check out Eventbrite and our own event section, where we curate amazing, welcoming experiences.

Image: Geert Pieters

Remember, above all, if something doesn’t make you happy, your inner being is totally not into it. When we feel good, we are best positioned to make the powerful and transformational shifts we desire to grow full and completely into our spiritual selves.

As we traverse along our wellness journeys, some of us may have started sipping more teas following a basic understanding that they are typically better for us than alternative hot beverages and mocha frappa what-nots. And while our intentions are good, it’s important to be mindful of the difference between a wellness tea and a regular tea. Inspite of catchy names and cute branding, some teas are filled with unexpected items like artificial colouring, flavours and sweetners, rendering our attempts at a healthy alternative null and void.

So imagine our delight in discovering Lee’s Tea, a Canadian-born line of wellness teas that ticks all the boxes; delicious, full of good-for-you ingredients, cute branding and charitable (10% of all profits go towards saving the endangered Asian elephant).

We chatted with Lee Capatina, founder of Lee’s Tea to learn more about what makes a tea a “Wellness Tea”, how adaptogens work, stevia and more. You are also invited to join us for a Guided Meditation and Adaptogen Iced Tea Workshop led by Lee and hosted at Good Space on June 23rd. Check out full details here. 

1. The term “wellness tea” has been leveraged quite a bit recently in conversations around personal well-being and health.  What’s the difference between a “wellness tea” and a regular tea?

The main difference between regular teas and wellness teas is the ingredients in them and their intended uses. Regular teas are made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, which are processed to create white, green and black teas. There’s no doubt that regular teas are good for you, as they are known to contain high levels of beneficial compounds such as catechins (primarily in green tea), amino acids and polyphenols (antioxidants). However, wellness teas take the benefits of tea to the next level. Wellness teas are formulated with adaptogens and other herbs intended to provide more benefits than your average cup of tea. These benefits range from improving digestion and focus, to boosting energy and libido, and everything in between.

2. Similarly, the concept of adaptogens is one that is new to a lot of people. Can you shed a little light on the term for us?

Adaptogens are such a fascinating group of herbs, which have recently become quite popular in the health and wellness community (for good reason). Some herbs in this family include ginseng, ashwagandha, tulsi, maca, cordyceps, reishi and many more. These ingredients have been used for thousands of years to help bring your body back to a homeostasis or state of balance. For example, if you are low on energy and need a pick me up, they provide a natural boost of energy. If you are stressed and anxious, they can help you calm down and relax. One way to understand them is to think of them like a best friend who always has your back and looks out for what’s best for you.

3. The adaptogen of choice for Lee’s Tea is Tulsi. What are the benefits of Tulsi and what inspired you to create a line of Tulsi-infused teas.

Yes, we absolutely love tulsi here at Lee’s Provisions! Also known as holy basil, tulsi is an incredible adaptogen that’s been used for over 5000 years in Ayurvedic medicine.

I first learned about tulsi from a friend who is a yoga teacher and an avid follower of Ayurveda. She taught me that this herb is very beneficial for my dosha, or Ayurvedic constitution and gave me a tulsi plant as a gift to plant in my garden. Since then, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for this herb and have incorporated it into my daily routine, mainly by steeping it as an herbal infusion. Since I began drinking tulsi tea every day, I’ve noticed my stress levels go down and my mind becoming more calm, clear and focused. Witnessing the benefits of tulsi firsthand inspired me to share this amazing herb with others, in my line of organic tulsi wellness teas. I even had a tulsi plant at my wedding, as it’s believed to bring good luck!

In addition to being an adaptogen, tulsi is also known to help relieve headaches, balance hormones, regulate blood pressure, reduce stress and increase energy levels.

4. Stevia is found in 3 of your teas. Are there any benefits to stevia aside from being a natural sweetener?

Stevia leaf grows in India where we source most of our organic herbs and spices, so it’s a natural fit for our teas. We use whole stevia leaf in some of our teas to round out some of the more bitter flavours of the herbs, which makes up about 1% of the total tea volume. Stevia leaf differs from stevia extract in that it’s not nearly as sweet as stevia extract and there is no after-taste. I chose to use whole stevia leaf as it’s completely natural and unrefined and doesn’t spike insulin levels. In addition, whole stevia leaf is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and contains high levels of antioxidants.

5. All four of Lee’s Teas are incredible. Do you have a favourite?

Thank you so much!

I’d have to say that Pink Chai is my favourite, as I love a good spicy chai. Not to mention the pink colour wins my heart, every time. That being said, each tea is very different and I have them on rotation so I can choose one based on how I’m feeling any given day.

What many people don’t know is that each blend is designed to provide specific benefits. For example, the Mint chill is more cooling and is great for Summer or when you’re a bit agitated or fiery. The Pink Chai is really warming and grounding, which is great in the Winter or when you’re feeling a bit spaced out. The Gold Rush is the most stimulating and is great when your digestion is a bit sluggish in the Fall and Spring, when you need a bit of a detox or some extra energy to get you going. The Original tulsi blend is great to drink anytime, as it has the most adaptogenic properties. The important thing is just listen to your body and pick a tea that speaks to how you’re feeling.

Sources:

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-holy-basil-tulsi.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22455995

http://imsear.hellis.org/handle/123456789/156246

http://www.ajol.info/index.php/tjpr/article/view/14700

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02942413

Image Credit
Alesia Kazantceva
We all know that working a typical office job and spending 40+ hours a week indoors can have effects on our sense of wellbeing. Add the stresses of a daily work load, along with crouching over a computer while fuelling exhaustion with caffeine and we’re setting our systems up for low vibe living.

We’ve curated a selection of office-friendly items that can easily be incorporated into your day-to-day for workplace wellness.

A Mini USB Himalayan Salt Lamp

We all know that the benefits of having a Himalayan salt lamp in our atmosphere are abundant, however most of us are only getting the goods at home. A Himalayan salt lamp will not only work to improve the air quality and help fight allergies, it’s also an amazing tool for those of us who aren’t getting outside much during our work day. Its soothing light can help bring calmness to a stressful day, increase focus and boost your mood.

This small USB Himalayan Salt Lamp by Earth Luxe (available at Indigo online is the perfect way to boost the vibration around your personal workspace).

Natural Energy Booster 

Forget the mid-afternoon candy run to get you through the day. A large sugar intake will only work to set our systems up for a crash, and can potentially mess with our sleep later. If you’re feeling the need for a nutritional boost, we suggest keeping a box of nomz in your desk. With six natural ingredients or less, these delicious energy bits come in four amazing varieties and are perfect to curb that afternoon junk food craving.

Sip to Restore 

Coffee is a steady workplace crutch for many of us, and often the habit of more than a cup or two can leave us with the jitters, ultimately decreasing our resistance to stress and anxiety. If you are looking for a seriously soothing hot beverage that will uplift and rejuvenate without the jitters, we highly recommend Lee’s Tea Original. The Three Tulsi Blend will ground you quickly, while calming nerves and maintaining energy.

An Essential Oil Roll-On

Certain scents have an amazing capacity for calming and de-stressing, carrying aromatherapeutic qualities that can benefit us highly when we are feeling overwhelmed, nervous, and stressed. That said, scents are tricky in the workplace so we suggest carrying a roll-on like Stress Release from Blends with Benefits for an immediate effect on the body and mind.

A Cactus

Bits of greenery and nature in the workspace can help calm and uplift us so it’s always recommended to have at least one desk plant. And while any type of plant will do the trick, we tend to favour the cactus in the workplace based on its spiritual symbolism. The cactus can thrive in difficult conditions, which can help inspire us to carry on with grace, as we face daily stresses and challenges.

Image by Ember + Ivory 

Small changes can go a long way when it comes to increasing your well-being and making sure we are well in all the places we are spending our time is important. Along with these products, simple techniques like making yourself go for a small walk outdoors or eating your lunch in a space away from your desk can do wonders. Take care of yourself in all the places you are.