written by Kira Peterson, President and CEO, Verikira Naturals

If you’ve recently peered over the magazines while standing in line at the grocery store checkout, you’ve probably noticed a number of popular publications with monthly issues going “green” – meaning, the contents are focused on ecological trends and issues. Some may have thought it was just a fad when the environmental movement began on April 22, 1970 (the first Earth Day). Twenty million Americans called for a healthy, sustainable environment by demonstrating in parks, streets, and auditoriums. But more than three decades later, the so-called fad is gaining importance and popularity amongst consumers, educators, manufacturers, politicians, healthcare providers, and vacation getaways, to name just a few.

We are all aware of the drive to preserve and purify our air, water, land and other natural resources. But, what about our own bodies? Concerns for improved health and well-being are also rising among these same constituents. We have numerous choices about the food we eat and where we buy it from; thanks to the increasing variety of organics and natural focused stores. Most of us probably have examined food labels to evaluate calories, carbs, vitamins, proteins, etc. But do you pay as much attention to what you put on your body as you do in your mouth?

Our skin is the largest living organ of the body, covering approximately 22 square feet and weighing around nine pounds or about 15% of body weight. We often think of our skin as the front line defense for our body, but equally as important are the processes of exchange between internal and external environments – respiration, absorption and elimination. Scientists have stated that 60-70% of what we put on our skin and hair can be absorbed directly into our bloodstream. As conscience consumers, we need to be equally aware and scrupulous of what ingredients are put onto our skin and into our body-care products as we are about what we eat, breathe, and drink.

“Be the change you want to see in the world” – GANDHI