I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Jessica of Organicallyou, after she won the recent NikkiDesigns giveaway. Her blog is very healthy conscious; I love it! She has fantastic reviews of some great eco-friendly products as well as giveaways, plant based recipes and information on things such as GMOs.
jessicaWhat made you decide to start your blog?
When I first made my website it was not intended for what it currently is. I was trying to begin an organic skin care line, however it soon became too complicated. I am hoping to start that skin care line in the coming years. After deciding not to pursue organicallyou as an organic beauty line, I figured I might as well start blogging about my journey becoming a Naturopathic Physician. I love entering giveaways, reading reviews, and sharing my knowledge on GMOs with others. I contacted organic, sustainable companies and began writing reviews. I even began hosting giveaways which is awesome! I love that I am able to share with others the power of food as medicine.

How did you become interested in a plant based diet and holistic health?
I always thought I wanted to become a nurse, however after taking an Introductory Nursing class at the local community college I was completely turned off. The symptom-based approach did not make sense. There was no talk of nutrition, and I was literally told that nurses cannot care for their patients because they will become attached. My entire life I had looked forward to helping people but it was obvious nursing was not the way to go. That semester I began watching documentaries, some of the most life changing films I have ever seen (some of my favorites are Food Matters, Hungry For Change, Vegucated, Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days, Forks Over Knives). They completed changed my perspective. My family, (a former microwave dinner, frozen dinner type of family) now votes with our fork and buys primary organic foods. I am so proud that they have listened to me and began taking the steps to optimal health. We also have an organic garden! I love growing my own food. I want to help others reach their optimal health thus when I found out that one of only five Naturopathic schools was right in my backyard (Bridgeport, CT) I felt I had found my calling.

What are some tips you would give to someone who is trying to lead a healthier lifestyle?
I would advise that people start looking at ingredients. Don’t buy food because it says “low fat” or any other health claims. Get back to nature, eat less from the package, and do your research on GMOs. Eat real food and vote with your fork. Every decision you make is voting on which type of world you want to live in. I would also suggest that a person wanting to pursue a healthy lifestyle to make it a lifestyle, not a diet. Don’t restrict yourself, simply just fuel your body with the proper nutrients. Your body will thank you. Move daily, stress less, hydrate, and get enough sleep.

What are some of your must have eco-friendly and/or health products?
Some of my favorite eco-friendly products would have to be Cuppow, BNTO, Woolzies Dryer Balls, and Glass Dharma’s glass straws. Cuppow transforms a canning jar into a portable drinking glass with their Cuppow lids. They also have a new product, BNTO, which transforms a canning jar into a lunch box! It’s great for bringing veggies and hummus, fruit and peanut butter, salads and dressing, etc on the go! Woolzies Dryer Balls are a great alternative to wasteful dryer sheets. They last for 1,000 loads and reduce drying time by 25% your clothes will feel softer and it helps get wrinkles out. Glass Dharma’s glass straws are awesome! I love that they have a lifetime guarantee, are made in the USA, durable, and dish washer safe. They are easy to clean with the cleaning brushes they sell. You can check out my full reviews on these products here: www.organicallyou.net/reviews

Why do you feel it’s important to buy organic products?
I feel it is extremely important to buy organic products because every purchase we make is voting on what type of world we want to live in. When I buy organic, I am encouraging more farmers to grow organic. I love supporting local farmers, organic companies, and small businesses. I would rather help a family succeed than help fund a big business’ CEO’s second home, next vacation, etc.

Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I hope to see myself succeeding in school. I will be in the graduate Naturopathic program at the University of Bridgeport. I also hope to be in the best physical shape of my life. It would also be awesome if my organic skin care line was up and running!
Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you, Jessica! Such great, detailed answers. 🙂