Previously I have posted about the idea of a Yoga Lifestyle as well as my choice to be a Vegetarian as part of my lifestyle. I would like to share another part of my lifestyle that has come about as a result of being a vegetarian and believing in the Yoga Lifestyle; using cruelty-free, vegan, environmental and socially conscious products as much as possible.
First let me explain what each of these mean.
Cruelty-free – cosmetic products that do not test on animals; including make-up, lotions, shampoo, conditioners, soaps, cleansers, deodorants, toothpastes, etc.
Vegan – products (as above) that do not use any ingredients that come from animals; such as gelatin or glycerin and also includes leather
Environmental – products that do not harm the environment (the use of or the production/packaging of the product)
Socially conscious – products that are not made in factories that use/support forced or child labour.
I began researching and purchasing products adhering to these principles about five years ago. I have since learned a great deal and found many companies and products that I love. It isn’t as difficult as you might think to support these principles. And I believe that the more we, as consumers, buy according to these principles, the more demand there will be for companies to adhere to these principles. If we can reduce suffering of any kind, why wouldn’t we?
Unfortunately, I still have some leather furniture in my home, that was purchased before I began buying vegan. I still own some leather shoes and boots. I have not gone so far as to get rid of these items. But I do the best I can with my new purchases.
Also, I have found it difficult to buy clothing that is socially conscious. There are a few sites online. And occasionally I will find clothing in a local store that is tagged saying it is made in Canada, or is socially conscious.
Some of the products that I have fallen in love with can be found below. Some of these can be found at grocery stores or Old Fashioned Foods. Some can be found at hair salons. And others have to be ordered over the internet. Other products can be made at home with basic ingredients from your fridge or pantry. Generally, if a product is organic, it is usually vegan as well in my experience. Some of these products are very reasonably priced and others are more expensive. I believe living this way can be achieved even on a meager budget. All of these products are beneficial to the skin and overall health, as opposed to toxic, harmful ingredients in other products.
Many of them make products for men, women and children.
Pacifica – cosmetics and cleansers
Neuma – hair products
Desert Essence – hair products, lotions, soaps, toothpastes
Kiss My Face – hair products, lotions, soaps
Gardener’s Dream – face and body wash and lotions
These pictures are my own.
I would encourage anyone to try these products and others like them and increase the demand for companies to be more socially conscious, environmental and kind.
You can also look for these symbols when you shop.
And read more at these sites:
I would love to hear from others about your experiences!
Learning Inspirations 
