I think we all know it, and it's something we take for granted – until we find ourselves struggling for a good, restful sleep. It's significantly tied to our overall state of physical and mental health.

Here's a great piece of information on getting good sleep that we came across:

http://www.losethebackpain.com/betterhealththrusleep.html

The following is a great pointed list from that link:

1. Do not consume ANY sugar or caffeine after 6:00pm.

2. Stop working at least two hours before bedtime.

3. Turn off the computer and television at least one hour before bedtime.

4. Make sure your sleeping quarters are as dark and silent as possible. Studies have shown that those in darker and quieter spaces tend to sleep through the night more deeply than others.

5. Establish a sleep/wake schedule, and stick to it.

6. Make a set routine out of bedtime. Change into pajamas, brush your teeth, set out clothes for the morning, even jot down any last thoughts but promise yourself to revisit them tomorrow, then turn off the light… breathe deeply, relax, sleep tight.

7. If a racing mind is nagging, slow your breath and focus on the sensation of air as it passes through your nose. This will derail those busy thoughts to help you drift off.

Either way, 'sunshine' is on the brain right now. Thoughts of those sunny rays beaming down and bringing everything back to life, and brightening our days. Those of us who live in the chilly north, with the short summer season, usually make the most of the sunshine when it does come.

In thinking about it, there's often conflicting messages about sunshine. We often hear about the negatives of overexposure, and it can seem that avoiding sunshine is wise. But what of the positives. A little poking around the internet gives a broad picture, but because we're thinking about the positives – here's a link we thought you might enjoy: http://www.natural-health-restored.com/benefits-of-sunlight.html

All in all, making sure you have a healthy diet of sunshine is a very positive benefit to you. Now….the only problem is all the cold air and snow.  Summer, summer, how we want thee? 

But we did want to say, there's some exciting news coming soom from Three Feather Naturals. See, we happen to believe tha echincacea contains qualities that go beyond your basic tincture (as amazing as it is!). There's a whole lot more to the story soon to be told – and we've been finding out it's no fairy tale. Our echinacea is the real deal. 

So just to build a little anticipation, keep watching over the coming weeks and months. We're about to unveil some extraordinary evolutions in our echinacea products!

Around this time of year, people are often struggling their way to keeping their New Years Resolutions. Of course, lots of people make their committments to themselves that they're going to modify some personal behavior or habit that is effecting their lifestyle. Most often, it is something that relates to personal health. 

Quite often, these resolutions are maligned. People almost mock the idea of making a resolution, because – afterall – we so often hear about those same people admitting failure. However – what is rarely considered is, the people who DO make resolutions at least have a shot at making some improvement. Whereas people who do not make resolutions, make no conscious effort for personal growth. 

Statistics show, while many people abandon their resolution, there is a significant percentage of people that DO keep their resolution. Thus, resolutions are a pretty good idea afterall. 

We ran a fun promotion over Christmas, and gave away numerous bottles of our echinacea! For 25 days, up to Christmas Day, people came to our website and ordered their fre bottles using coupon codes we provided. We hope you had a chance to try it, and if you did…did you like it?

Let us know what you thought!

Walking Does You Good!

It doesn't take a genius to realize that regular exercise reaps many benefits. Something as simple a brisk walk can help you substantially, if you'll take the time to get out. The great things about walking is….it's easy. No gym pass required, no training or coaching. Just get a good pair of shoes, open your front door, and go! What can regular, brisk walking accomplish?

• Lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol)
• Raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol)
• Lower your blood pressure
• Reduce your risk of or manage type 2 diabetes
• Manage your weight
• Improve your emotional health & moods
• Maintain strength and enegy

Often people gain the perception that 'real' exercise requires you to endure the pains of pushing and straining your body to accomplish the results of your efforts. However, research shows that regular, low-impact yet brisk walking can reduce the risk of heart problems equal to more staineous exercise, such as jogging. 

Source: Mayo Clinic (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/walking/HQ01612)

It's obviously important to stay hydrated and drink fluids throughout the day. The challenge is, there are so many beverage options. And many, if not most of them, wouldn't really be considered a healthy option. 

Just because it's good info, we thought we'd share a few links we found with information on beverages. 

http://www.healthygreenkitchen.com/healthy-drinks.html

http://morningbounce.wordpress.com/2010/06/22/healthy-drinks-the-best-and-worst-drinks-for-your-body/

http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/drinks/healthy-choices/the-8-healthiest-drinks/

Drink up! And enjoy!
 

And like anything, choices take commitment. This coming year, we encourage you to make more than a New Year resolution! Choose to make a commitment to staying and feeling healthy. 

At Three Feather Naturals, we're looking forward to another year of helping you on your journey to healthy living. And for starters, make sure to not drink and drive this New Years! So whatever you choose to do over the holidays, be smart in your choices!

We wish you a prosperous holiday season, in health – body and mind – and may the New Year bring the very best to you all. For all the time you spend with your family and loved ones over the next few days, we hope are full, warm and rich with good memories. 

Thank you for joining us on our Christmas giveaways, and for anyone who received a free bottle of our echinacea, we hope it helps you to stay healthy leading into the New Year. 

With all sincere wishes, 

Three Feather Naturals

And a large part of that food is the yummy treats. We all can remember when our moms brought out the Christmas baking, and how excited the smells and decorated snacks could be. So we dug around for some ideas for healthy treats we could make over the holidays. Here's some great links to check out:

• Treats to Make with the Kids!
  http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20324042,00.html
• Some Favorite Healthy Cookies from Taste of Home!
  http://www.tasteofhome.com/Healthy-Cooking-Magazine/Our-Favorite-Healthy-Christmas-Cookies
• 10 Healthy Christmas Snacks
  http://www.gurgle.com/articles/christmas/top-10-healthy-christmas-snacks/1289/

Enjoy the season for yummy baking!