Living harmoniously with reduced toxins and achieving wellness equilibrium, as discussed by Lisa Hanlon.
Interview: Lisa Hanlon on Embracing Holistic Health through Low-Tox Living
Lisa Hanlon, advocating for a low-tox lifestyle, has transformed her passion for holistic wellness from a personal journey into a thriving career. She offers insights on how small lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve overall health, focusing on mindful choices that support long-term wellbeing.
From Chemical Reduction to Holistic Health
Hanlon's fascination with low-tox living commenced as she noticed the abundance of synthetic chemicals in everyday products and their potential long-term health effects. As she educated herself on the impact of toxins on hormonal balance, skin health, and overall wellbeing, she felt compelled to make changes, not only for herself but also for her clients. Over the years, her focus expanded beyond toxin reduction to encompass holistic wellness.
Hidden Hormone Disruptors in Common Products
A subject gaining traction is hormone disruptors. Lisa reveals some surprising culprits found in daily beauty and hygiene products. For instance, synthetic fragrances are present in numerous products, including perfumes, lotions, and laundry detergents, and may contain harmful phthalates that interfere with hormonal health. Parabens in beauty products can mimic estrogen in the body, negatively impacting hormonal balance even in small amounts.
Transitioning to Natural Deodorants
Transitioning to natural deodorants may be intimidating to some. Hanlon reassures those apprehensive about the effectiveness, acknowledging the temporary adjustment period as one's body detoxifies from conventional products. Natural deodorants, incorporating ingredients like baking soda, magnesium, and essential oils, can still be just as effective once the body acclimates.
Establishing a Balanced Morning Routine
A key aspect of Hanlon's life is her morning routine. It focuses on balance and simplicity, consisting of consuming warm water and lemon to aid digestion, practicing skincare with natural products, short meditation sessions, and consuming herbal tea for calmness and focus. Totem Eco's natural deodorant is her daily essential.
Dietary Impact on Hormonal and Skin Health
Hanlon strongly believes in the role of diet in both hormonal and skin health. She advocates for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, including healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds, and antioxidant-rich leafy greens and berries. She advises avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods, as they can induce inflammation and disrupt hormone balance. Fibre-rich foods are also essential for overall gut health, detoxification, and clear skin.
Identifying genuinely Low-Tox Products
With numerous products claiming to be 'clean' or 'green,' Hanlon advises examining the ingredient list. Products containing long lists of synthetic chemicals and vague terms like 'fragrance' should be avoided. Look for paraben-free, phthalate-free options and preferably certified natural or organic alternatives. Brands that are transparent regarding their practices and what's in their products are likely genuine low-tox options.
Balancing Work and Personal Life
Maintaining balance between work and personal life can be challenging, but Hanlon sets boundaries and makes time for self-care, viewing it as a necessity rather than a luxury. She emphasizes mindfulness practices like meditation and deep-breathing exercises to remain centered amidst the busyness. Having a strong support system of friends, family, and colleagues allows her to stay grounded. Prioritizing her wellbeing enables her to perform optimally in both her professional and personal life.
[1] European Union, European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). (2011). Finalized Classification and Labelling (CLP) regulations and amendments to technical dossiers in the existing Community inventory of new substances (EINECS).
[2] Safety and Integrity in Marketing (SIM) program. (2020). SIM Industry Survey Summary of Findings. Retrieved on [date accessed] from https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/product-and-ingredient-safety/safety-and-integrity-marketing-sim-program-summary-findings
[3] FDA. (2010). Final Monograph: Over-The-Counter Hygiene Antiseptic Drug Products. Retrieved on [date accessed] from https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/final-monograph-over-counter-hygiene-antiseptic-drug-products
[4] Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2020). Sunscreen Fact Sheet. Retrieved on [date accessed] from https://www.epa.gov/sunwise/sunscreen-fact-sheet
[5] Blum, S. M., Rasmussen, C., & Skakkebaek, N. E. (2016). Endocrine Disruptors and Hormone-Associated Diseases: Environmental and Occupational Exposures. Translational Pediatrics, 5(12), 1349–1362. doi:10.3978/j.issn.2306-3204.2016.10.02
- Lisa Hanlon promotes a lifestyle that prioritizes health and wellness, work and life balance, and daily habits that support long-term wellbeing.
- Hanlon's low-tox journey began with the realization of synthetic chemicals in everyday products and their potential impact on hormonal balance, skin health, and overall well-being.
- In her career, Hanlon offers insights on workplace wellness, mental health, fitness and exercise, and various therapies and treatments related to health and wellness.
- Hormone disruptors, such as phthalates in synthetic fragrances and parabens in beauty products, pose risks to hormonal health, skin care, and overall well-being.
- Transitioning to natural deodorants may take time, but they can be as effective with ingredients like baking soda, magnesium, and essential oils.
- A balanced morning routine, including warm water and lemon for digestion, natural skincare products, meditation, herbal tea, and Totem Eco's natural deodorant, contributes to overall well-being.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in both hormonal and skin health, with a focus on whole, unprocessed foods, healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber.
- To recognize genuinely low-tox products, Hanlon recommends scrutinizing ingredient lists, avoiding synthetic chemicals, and seeking paraben-free, phthalate-free, and certified natural or organic alternatives from transparent brands.
