OK, I admit I am a fanatic regarding pure air. I once (single-handedly) moved a dresser into the hallway of a charming B&B because of the mothball smell (my boyfriend at the time was not impressed). Admittedly, it has never been easy being me/green - I smell EVERYTHING! Synthetic perfumes, soaps, laundry detergents, ‘air-fresheners’, and conventional-you-name-it-so-called-fresh smells gag me, (I must have been a bloodhound in a previous life). But, having made my living specifying healthy home materials for a long time, I am not only an Eco-Taste-Maker (after all, smell is the crucial component of taste), but also a Toxic Avenger.

The U.S. government has finally admitted formaldehyde is a cancer-causing chemical, which is found in many common household products.

It’s about time! I have always believed it is of VITAL importance to analyze items to make certain they truly are non-toxic and this proves it. 

 Our sense of smell is so powerful that one whiff of something can instantly transport us back to a certain time and place. Think mom’s apple pie, or my new favorite smell – herb and lemon roasted chicken - YUM! I am new to eating meat [only free-range, organic] and cannot believe I never appreciated this amazing aroma before! I am also surprised at how often this sense is neglected in a home. The simple act of opening a window and burning a candle can remedy even the stinkiest of houses. Take it a step further and create any mood with a scented (non-toxic) candle - there is even the smell of The New York Times in a candle! (Made with palm wax & eco production, I fact-checked).

 Besides just smelling good, one of the most important components of a healthy home is proper ventilation.

As in Yoga (and in life), expression of movement is key to avoid toxic build up (in feelings and emotions also), so…Air it out!

Open your windows wide and let your home, and yourself breathe!

 Happy Summer Breezes …blowing through the jasmine in my mind, ~ Cheryl