More Green info
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I picked up a new green book last week and really got into it the past couple of days.
Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano
It's definitely more for women: wives, moms, homeowners. And if you're mom is interested in being more green it would be a terrific gift for mother's day.
There is a ton of great info inside. Your life is divided into different aspects: beauty, home, fitness, style, food, travel & gardening. And she tackles each area giving the things to watch out for and who to shop from.
For me, I've known my 'products' were full of nasty whatnot: petrochemicals, toxins, parabens etc. But where do you possibly shop for shampoo without all the gunk? Shopper's Drugmart is not the place. Although hopefully soon that will change. So all the sources help out a lot. Especially as Canadians you can expect at least 50% of them won't ship here.
I feel totally inspired to tackle aspects of my life that I haven't greened up yet after reading this. So for all of you who would like to know where to start and what to look out for check it out.
Check out my blog if you'd like more non-fiction book reviews: thebookhunter.typepad.com/my_weblog
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Good Green Information
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While Gorgeously Green contained plenty of useful information, I didn't give it five stars for a couple reasons. I found several aspects of the book irritating: the constant references to "feeling great about yourself for being green", Sophie Uliano calling herself and other women "girls", and the maintenance plan and certification and the end of the book. More significantly, the chapter on greening one's home lacked information. Fortunately, there are other books that deal with eco-friendly homes and I mention one later in review.
However, good information wins in the end and I recommend the book.
In the introduction, Uliano writes: "Many of us think the whole green way of life will be tedious, time-consuming, and even boring. Wrong! I have found out that caring about the planet doesn't have to be granola/hippie stuff. On the contrary, it's the most exciting, colorful way in which we could possibly live. After all, green is the new black, and we're going to be wearing this shade for a long time. Going green is not a fad; with temperatures and pollution levels on the rise, it is becoming a way of life."
There are 8 steps to becoming Gorgeously Green:
1: Becoming aware of what it means to be green. Chapter includes a "Gorgeously Green Lifestyle Checklist."
2: Green Goddess: Covers what should be used and avoided in body care products and makeup.
3: Your Green Temple:
Not really a chapter on being green, but an exercise routine that also includes daily mediation.
4: Soulful Shopping:
Uliano writes: "When I go shopping, I pick up a new suacepan or a pretty sheet set and take a few seconds to ask myself if we can make do without it. 9 out of 10 times the item is put back on the shelf." She suggests you do the same with a "Can I live without it?" exercise. Good idea!
Also included in the chapter is a discussion of sweatshops, fair trade and places to find organic clothing.
5: Your Palace: Creating the home you desire.
Discussion of non-toxic cleaning products, the basics of conservation (turn down thermostat, CFL's), and recycling garbage how-tos.
This chapter does not include advice on renovation or decoration for the home, except to say avoid furniture that is marked stain resistant and avoid all products with PVC. A terrific book that does include green information for the home and how to make it beautiful is the award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet.
6: Every Last Bite
Covers organic and local food, what foods to eat and to avoid. There are also nice-looking healthy recipes.
7: Out and About Having Fun
Smart transportation, using your car wisely. Eco-friendly entertainment.
8: Go Super Green
Conclusion and "Gorgeous Green Checklist" again, presumably to check your progress.
Overall, a good green reference book.
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