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    <title><![CDATA[Community Blog]]></title>
    <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/</link>
    <description><![CDATA[Community Blog]]></description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:55:32 +0000</pubDate>
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    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
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      <title><![CDATA[Organic Fortnight 3-17 September 2010: Choose organic everyday]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/Organic-Fortnight-2010/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><span style="line-height: 115%; font-family: &quot;Cambria&quot;, &quot;serif&quot;; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Soil Association Organic Fortnight, is the UK&rsquo;s biggest celebration of all things organic. This year they are encouraging you to try something organic every day. <br /><br />Get involved during the fortnight and discover why organic is&nbsp;good for your well-being and your planet, is kind to animals and wildlife and allows us make a big difference - simply through the way we shop.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We're offering 10% off with code <a href="../../../../../../../../checkout/cart/">CELEB</a> to all customers old and new to try and encourage more people to try organic products.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Also we'll be posting an organic tip every day on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/So-Organic/346421657861?ref=search"><span style="color: windowtext;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/soorganic"><span style="color: windowtext;">Twitter</span></a> pages. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Finally if you're in the London area come and see us in our <a href="http://www.soorganic.com/stores"><span style="color: windowtext;">Greenwich store</span></a> for free </span><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt;">refreshments</span><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; color: black; font-size: 8.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> and 20% off this Saturday 11/09/10 between 10-12pm!</span></p>
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      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:11:52 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[What’s on the End of Your Toothbrush?]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/what-on-the-end-of-your-toothbrush/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/toothbrushblue.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-133" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/toothbrushblue.jpg" border="0" title="toothbrushblue" width="130" height="155" style="border: 0;" /></a>The thin membrane on the wall of the mouth absorbs that which touches it, as does the tongue. This is how toothpaste, loaded with chemicals can harm your health. You can't currently find <a href="../../../../../../../../body/natural-dental-products/organic-toothpaste.html">toothpaste</a> that is 100% organic. The main ingredient chalk, is a naturally occurring product of nature and cannot be cultivated by man thus will not be certified organic by the certification bodies. But you can find all-natural products that contain organic ingredients. When searching for a safer alternative to scrub your pearly whites the nasty ingredients to avoid are: Foaming agent SLS - an unnecessary ingredient in toothpaste, can cause severe skin and mouth irritation, laboured breathing and diarrhoea. If ingested fluoride can cause nausea, vomiting, fluorosis and osteoporosis. According to the Fluoride Action Network, the average tube of Colgate for Kids toothpaste contains enough fluoride to kill a small child. The US Food and Drug Administration ensure all toothpaste labels have a poison warning and emergency number in case swallowed. Sodium Hydroxide is used as a whitener for teeth but also as a bleaching agent for household cleaning products. Artificial sweeteners (saccarines) and colours are potential cancer causing ingredients, as is carageenan, which is used to thicken toothpaste. The antibacterial agent triclosan is added to toothpaste to reduce plaque but can also cause ulcers and allergic reactions.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:20:17 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Certified Organic Icons]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/certified-organic-icons/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/organic-food-chain50.jpg"></a><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/australian-government-50.jpg"></a><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/aiab75.jpg"></a><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/cuc-logo75.jpg"></a><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/soil75.jpg"></a><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/off-50.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-236" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/off-50.jpg" border="0" alt="OFF Certified Organic" title="OFF Certified Organic" width="60" height="60" style="border: 0;" /></a>OFF Certified Organic <a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/organic-food-chain50.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-237" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/organic-food-chain50.jpg" border="0" alt="Organic Food Chain" title="Organic Food Chain" width="50" height="49" style="border: 0;" /></a>OFC Certified Organic <a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/australian-government-50.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-238" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/australian-government-50.jpg" border="0" alt="Australian Government Certified" title="Australian Government Certified" width="50" height="50" style="border: 0;" /></a>&nbsp;OFC Certified Organic <a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/aiab75.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-239" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/aiab75.jpg" border="0" alt="AIAB Certified Organic " title="AIAB Certified Organic " width="74" height="51" style="border: 0;" /></a>AIAB Certified Organic <a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/cuc-logo75.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-240" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/cuc-logo75.jpg" border="0" alt="CUC Certified Organic " title="CUC Certified Organic " width="65" height="63" style="border: 0;" /></a>&nbsp;CUC Certified Organic <a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/soil75.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-241" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/soil75.jpg" border="0" alt="Soil Association Certified Organic" title="Soil Association Certified Organic" width="60" height="61" style="border: 0;" /></a>Soil Association Certified Organic &nbsp; Because all of these organic certification standards have developed at different times and in different countries the exact detail of what is and is not allowed in products tends to vary. But in general they all seek to ensure that the agricultural ingredients in the products are produced organically and place controls over the non organic functional ingredients that are permitted. The textile standards cover the processing and manufacture of natural fibres and assess the production methods for effects on human health, wildlife and biodegradability.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:03:43 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Organic strawberries may cost more, but it's a price worth paying, scientists say. ]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/organic-strawberries/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">After the criticism that Organic Food has had in the press over the last 12 months, it is finally good to see a national newspaper come out with the truth...that organic fruit is both tastier and better for your health!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the Daily Mail today, they quote that the most detailed research study of its kind has found that organic strawberries contain higher levels of anti-cancer nutrients than fruit sprayed with chemical pesticides. Naturally-produced strawberries also have a longer shelf life and a richer, more fruity flavour, according to the researchers. These findings add to a growing body of evidence that organic food is healthier than conventional fruit and vegetables. At So Organic, we know this already!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here is what the Daily Mail said:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">&lsquo;Dr John Reganold, who led the study at Washington State University in the U.S., said: 'We show that you can have high quality, healthy produce, without resorting to an arsenal of pesticides.' <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>Researchers analysed the taste, nutrition and quality of three strawberry varieties growing on 13 organic and 13 conventional farms in California, as well as 31 chemical and biological properties of the soil where they were grown. The organic fruit had ' significantly higher' levels of antioxidants - nutrients that mop up potentially dangerous and cancer-causing 'free radicals' in the body. They also last longer and have 'more strawberry in the strawberry', Dr Reganold reports in the journal PLoS One, published by the Public Library of Science. In blind taste tests, volunteers said they found organic strawberries sweeter and more flavoursome. And when they saw the fruit, they judged the strawberries from the organic farms to have a better colour. &lsquo;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">To all those people that criticise our belief that organic products are better for you, they better watch out...organic is back!</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:52:56 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Community Conscious with Shared Adventures]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/community-conscious-with-shared-adventures/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/community-conscious-19feb101.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1359" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/community-conscious-19feb101.jpg" border="0" title="community-conscious-19feb101" width="350" height="233" style="float: left;" /></a>Staring out the window to a small green garden abundant with life in the middle of Santa Cruz I wonder what it must be like to live in this cute flat for one. Six small birds to each seed house, two six foot tall, orange flowering aloe vera plants, hydrangeas, a meandering possum, a skunk on a jolly jaunt, a weeping willow look-alike tree and an array of other Californian greens I&rsquo;m unfamiliar with, it&rsquo;s a small garden of Eden amongst many, I suspect, in this part of the world. But there&rsquo;s a few things in this Santa Cruzian flat that are a little out of the ordinary. <br /><br />Look a little closer and you&rsquo;ll notice low door knobs on all the cupboards and a bicycle-like contraption. Foster Andersen has been a quadriplegic for over 30 years. He had a motorcycle accident at age 17, suffering spinal cord injury that has left him temporarily bound to a wheelchair since. I write temporarily because Foster is no average person. You name it he's done it, from skydiving, bungee jumping out of a hot air balloon, canoeing, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, rock climbing... the list goes on. <br /><br />What's so impressive is that he did it all after his accident, wheelchair bound... until he gets in that parachute of course. 15 years ago Foster started the not-for-profit organisation, Shared Adventures, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life of people living with disabilities. It's based on the belief that 'recreation, fun, challenge and access to the outdoors are an essential part of a healthy and fulfilling life'.&nbsp; Foster trained as a computer graphic engineer however spends most of his time working on the events hosted by Shared Adventures. Day at the Beach and Day in the Sky are two of the annual highlights. In addition to the list of things Foster himself has done, the organisation offers a whole range of activities for people with disabilities including camping, horse riding, sailing, flying planes and plenty of social gatherings like the Halloween Dance Party, Frozen Yoghurt Sketch Circle and Bowling by the Boardwalk to get the local community involved. He's also the regular Santa Cruz'ian celebrity. Take one look at his office wall and you'll see articles that span the state, all featuring Foster's achievements from his early 20's until now. He is without a doubt one of the most inspirational people I've ever met and... if one can be so bold... one of those 'ideal' members of society that we would do well to follow his example by for living a full and giving life. For more information on Foster and Shared Adventures visit <a href="http://www.sharedadventures.org" target="_blank">www.sharedadventures.org</a></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Aug 2010 10:26:18 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Product focus: Serums and Face oils]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/face-oils/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just as most of us have got to grips with our cleanse, tone and moisturise routine the cosmetics world introduces <a href="../../../../../../face/moisturisers/serums-and-face-oils.html">serums and face oils</a> to confuse us!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>However both of these new textured products offer great opportunities to improve your skin and protect it for the future.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To help us understand how they work we need to understand a little bit about the skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The skin is primarily there to protect us from external influences and as such can take a real battering from the sun, heat, cold and pollution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The skin has its own natural moisturisation system which contains water and oil, to keep itself at optimal condition it needs to maintain this; the external influences can upset this and cause the skin to become dry from lack of oils and or dehydrated from lack of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Skin can look grey, lacklustre and lack radiance; in the worst case it can become tight and inflamed. Many fine lines, wrinkles and the first signs of aging are caused by dehydration and can become permanent if we do not tackle them early.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>All skin types are subject to dehydration and it is not all about drinking more water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Increasing fruit and vegetables that hold lots of water like melons or cucumbers is just as important, as is reducing diuretics like coffee and alcohol.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On the <a href="../../../../../../face/moisturisers/serums-and-face-oils.html">skin serums</a> are the perfect combination of water and oil in a light emulsion, specifically designed to deliver a hit of concentrated nutrients and water to tackle all those dehydration symptoms. Many contain the magic ingredient </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Hyalauronic acid, which holds water on the skin and drip feeds the skin throughout the day, the perfect antidote to extreme dehydration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Because a <a href="../../../../../../face/moisturisers/serums-and-face-oils.html">serum</a> is such a light texture we apply them to cleansed skin in a gentle pat and roll method then apply a moisturiser over the top to seal in the nutrients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>They are suitable for all skin types and can be used every morning and evening or just once a day ideally in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Our bestselling <a href="../../../../../../face/moisturisers/serums-and-face-oils/nutrient-plus-firming-serum.html">Trilogy Nutrient Firming Plus Serum</a> has an amazing texture and also includes brightening ingredients to restore radiance.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Extreme dryness in the skin can be caused by sensitivity, over exposure to the sun or cold or simply that your skin naturally produces less oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>A moisturiser that combines lots of rich plant oils and water is perfect for the day to protect and nurture, at night we recommend a facial oil to provide deep nourishment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The Neal&rsquo;s Yard Remedies Organic <a href="../../../../../../brands/neal-s-yard-remedies/nyr-facial-skin-care/orange-flower-organic-facial-oil.html">Orange Flower Facial oil</a> smells amazing and really tackles dry patches and lack or tone in the skin with its antioxidant Pomegranate oil and soothing Evening Primrose oil, just a few drops instantly de stresses skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Apply to cleansed warm skin for a deeper penetration of the nutrients and spend a few minutes massign it in with firm upward strokes.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:12:08 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[What’s new at So Organic: Evolve]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/new-at-So-Organic-Evolve/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Century Gothic';"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At So Organic we are always looking for innovative organic and natural brands that really deliver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>We were delighted with the new <a href="../../../../../../brands/evolvebeauty.html">Evolve Range</a>, after trying it we all became addicted to the great fragrances and amazing textures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Developed by Laura Rudoe to be accessible yet desirable, the range seeks to make green living the norm not the exception.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Laura knows her stuff she developed the gorgeous Nude natural products and spends a huge amount of time and energy sourcing rare and unusual ingredients to use in her products.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Century Gothic';"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Century Gothic';"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The ranges uses masses of food based ingredients some of which are based on superfoods like goji berries and pomegranate, great on your plate and also on your face!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Our hero products are the amazing Skin Glow Body Cream, a natural gradual fake tanner which leaves skin super soft and radiant, use it to prolong your summer tan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The Gentle Cleansing Melt can be applied to damp skin morning and evening, it removes dirt and make up gently, skin never feels tight and we noticed it really improves skin long term.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Century Gothic';"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Century Gothic';"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is not just what goes in to her products that Laura is proud of, her packaging is made from old milk bottles in the UK and is fully recyclable, they also look great in the bathroom, are light enough to take on holiday and to the gym. Organic is certainly evolving!</span></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Aug 2010 14:05:54 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Ingredient Focus: Sodium Lauryl Sulphate]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/Ingredient-Focus-Sodium-Lauryl-ulphate/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Foaming agents help emulsify oils and hold them in suspension, so that dirt and grease can be washed away. Detergents are used in shampoos, shower gels and body washes, they are surfactants which means that they lower the surface tension of water, making it more able to interact with oil and grease, thus enabling impurities to be easily rinsed away. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, strong detergents like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) can strip away too much of the skin's natural protective oils, leaving it dry or irritated. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Those with sensitive skins should really consider whether much of their sensitivity is caused by these harsh foams and avoid them altogether. Babies and children&rsquo;s skin, which is much more vulnerable than adults can often become dry and inflamed if used frequently.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">These foams are also non biodegradable in the water supply,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>ending up in rivers and the sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>We really do not know the long term effect of this but it seems such a shame to damage our wonderful sea life for a foamy bath!</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Century Gothic';"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At So Organic we only sell products that combine specially chosen plant based detergents from coconut or sugar so that they complement one another, giving an effective yet skin friendly cleansing action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>They do not foam as much as the synthetic detergents but still give a nice foam, so you can wallow in your bath with a clear eco conscience.</span></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:52:23 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[The futures bright at So Organic!]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/The-futures-bright-at-So-Organic/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="../../../../../../../../stores"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1350" src="../../../../../../../../media/cms/shopfront330x250.jpg" border="0" title="tresriosecoresort11feb10" width="350" height="226" style="float: left; border: 0;" /></a>At So Organic we have had a busy 9 months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>As I am sure you have noticed we have been building a new website with more customer focused features and giving you even more information on our ever growing range of products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Our regular newsletters contain fantastic offers from our suppliers and tips and ideas to help you live a more holistic lifestyle, if you have not signed up yet we really recommend it.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our little shop in the market in Greenwich has been transformed in to a glamorous new eco lifestyle store in a more central location, many of our most loyal customers have made a special trip to see us and have not been disappointed, <br /><br />if you want to try a new shade of lipstick or get expert advice on your skincare routine we are always delighted to help.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The launch of our treatment rooms in our airy basement was a huge effort but has proved incredibly popular,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>finally you can get natural and organic treatments in luxurious surroundings from a pedicure using natural nail varnishes to a facial using your favourite natural products. All this and our towels and cotton wool are all organic too.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Behind the scenes we have been trying hard to improve our Customer Services with a new computer system and strict targets to improve our service to you, let us know how we are doing.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally we have been reviewing our range of products, we have been researching the latest brands to give you the very best in the ever growing organic and natural market place. Some brands have been replaced with new and improved ranges using the latest ingredients and techniques but only after extensive testing by us, we only recommend and stock the products we truly believe in and so those who make it through our stringent criteria will really perform for you.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have lots of exciting plans for the future so watch this space.</span></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 09:49:23 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Hacienda Tres Rios – The Newest 5 Star Eco Resort in Mexico]]></title>
      <link>http://www.soorganic.com/community-blog/hacienda-tres-rios/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/tresriosecoresort11feb10.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1350" src="../../../../../../../../blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/tresriosecoresort11feb10.jpg" border="0" title="tresriosecoresort11feb10" width="350" height="226" style="float: left;" /></a>It&rsquo;s a fairly accurate assumption these days to say that most corners of the world have been touched by the eco effect. Whether you agree, disagree or choose to ignore what&acute;s happening to our planet you&acute;ve at least heard about it in some shape or form. Mexico is no different. The latest in eco developments is underway in the hotel resort paradise of Cancun. <br /><br />Phase one of this beautiful 5 star resort is already complete so bookings are being snapped up before you can say &lsquo;may I have an organic margarita por favour?&rsquo;&nbsp; Why? Well to begin with it is the epitome of luxury and in the location to boot situated 30 minutes drive from Cancun on a clear tranquil beach amongst jungle and ancient Mayan ruins. <br /><br />I was lucky enough to take a tour of the first complete part of the resort the Hacienda Tres Rios and it lived up to all expectations. <br /><br />As you enter the resort you are greeted by a beautiful light reception, with stylish Mexican d&eacute;cor and white baby grand piano. Being a 5 star hotel you can dine or receive room service 24/7. With twelve restaurants in total in the Hacienda alone you will not be stuck for choice. There is also a business theatre, patisserie, theatre, spa, gym (including top rate yoga classes) and equestrian and polo centre. The resort covers 150 acres of land. It has 18 rivers (filled with fish) in total with three main ones that snake around the resort and lead into the ocean. You can take a kayak or canoe out for the day and paddle around these beautiful rivers and also get a unique view of the resort. The forest has a number of exotic wildlife like the toucan, cougar, peacock, parrots, flamingos, deer and monkeys. The long-term vision of Tres R&iacute;os includes a marina and yacht club, a convention centre, an equestrian centre, and a fully developed nature park. But how is it eco friendly? The buildings are quite discreet and are only up to three stories high. The rest rooms use ocean water cleaned by one of the local native plants that is able to extract naturally the salt from the water to clean it for usage. Thought the soil is too sandy to grow their own produce on site (explains why the coconuts are only small) the resort does buy local and their meat, I&acute;m told, is organic. The resort is one of the only in Cancun that does not use plastic straws or cups which are excessively used in the hotel filled region.<br /><br />The ecology mission of Tres R&iacute;os is &ldquo;to be the leading model for sustainable luxury tourism in the Mexican Caribbean, to guarantee the enduring, intelligent and responsible use of the property&rsquo;s jungle, mangrove, dune and marine ecosystems and to guarantee the long-term preservation of the ecosystems&rsquo; environmental functions, flora and fauna.&rdquo; One of the wonderful things they&acute;ve done for the region already is reforest 10,000m2 of mangrove, planting more than 50,000 mangrove trees of three varieties. The developers of this plush resort last year donated all of their profits for October to the second biggest killer in Mexico, Breast Cancer. I&rsquo;m not sure if they advertised the slip slop slap sunscreen to their sunbathing guests but it&rsquo;s a good start isn&rsquo;t it? On arrival you can request at the concierge a tour of all the eco features of the resort so that you know exactly what your eco heart and green dollars are buying. For more information about the hotel visit <a href="http://www.haciendatresrios.com" target="_blank">www.haciendatresrios.com</a></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 2010 09:36:31 +0000</pubDate>
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