Archived Newsletter #1:  Non Toxic Living Tips

As many of you already know, Homespun Naturals Soapmaking, Inc. grew out of my life-threatening illness and my need for grooming products that I could use safely. I have severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, sometimes called Environmental Illness (E.I.), which has kept me at home for over eleven years.

Each month, I would like to share with you some simple methods for safer, more non-toxic living. It may make an enormous difference in your health and your quality of life. You've heard it said: "Ignorance is bliss." Not in this case. What you don't know about how common chemicals in your environment may affect your health will not result in bliss. However, ignorance may result in serious health problems for you and your family.

Are you one who gets a headache when you walk past the perfume aisle in a department store? Do you hold your breath in the laundry section of your grocery store? Do you feel lightheaded and sick in a fabric shop? Do the fumes in a tire store nearly knock you off your feet? Do you develop rashes or other skin problems from using commercial brands of soap? What's going on?

These reactions are indicators that you have developed sensitivities to common chemicals that we all face every day. Ours is the first generation that has been inundated with chemicals in every facet of our life from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Each newsletter will address ways to eliminate some of these problem chemicals in your life and educate you about non-toxic living. We'll also share what's new here at Homespun Naturals. We'll keep you informed of specials, too.

So, thank you, again for signing up for our newsletter. We hope to enjoy your acquaintance for years to come.

Quick Tip #1: An easy way to eliminate one source of synthetic fragrances in your life -- switch to perfume- and dye-free detergents and fabric softeners to wash your clothing. I use "All Free and Clear" for washing my clothes and "Bounce Free" for a fabric softener. There are other brands of perfume and dye-free products available right in your grocery store. Read labels. The perfume adds nothing to a product's cleaning efficiency, but it may be making you and your family sick!

Quick Tip #2: Hang freshly dry-cleaned clothing away from living areas until the fumes have dissipated. Remove the plastic bag and let the clothes air out thoroughly. You could hang them outside or in your garage or attic. Do not hang them in your bedroom closet. Your bedroom should be a haven away from chemical exposures, giving your body a chance to detoxify overnight while enjoying a relaxing, healing sleep. Dry-cleaned clothing is a source of trichloroethyelene, a known cancer-causing agent.

New at Homespun Naturals: Our Lavender Cream in a long-lasting 1 oz. jar. I make it myself from superb, natural ingredients. It's rich, but non-greasy and sinks right into the skin. I use it on my face twice a day. After washing with our soap, I rinse with water, pat my skin lightly with a cotton towel and while still damp, apply four dots of cream (one on forehead, each cheek and chin.) Work into skin lightly with upward strokes. You are now ready to face the world!

Best regards,
Corinne Simpson