Look around and what you’ll most likely see is someone with a water bottle in hand; a plastic container with the most fundamental element of life, H2O.

But what if your hard earned dollars are contributing to one of the largest scams in modern day history?

The water bottle industry is $15 billion large and growing, and is one of the most unregulated industries around.

The FDA doesn’t require water bottle companies to test their water in independent labs to ensure the water is truly clean or free of contaminants that can leach out from plastic bottles into the water.

After a long day, I take time to heat water in a little pot, prepare my mug with loose tea or a tea bag, pour the water in, let it steep, savor the aroma, and take small sips as my body temperature rises.

Brewing tea seems to provide space, helps me connect to my breath, and gives my mind something clear to focus on.

Especially in the colder months when the immune system can become challenged, this warm comfort can help us stay healthy and vital.

As nutrition science has evolved, it has become clearer that high quality butter (organic, from grass-fed cows) in moderation, is a healthier choice over chemically processed margarine.

A second insight that is beginning to make its way into western culture, is the use of ghee or clarified butter.

Clarified butter has been used in Indian cooking for centuries and boasts many benefits for health.

Especially when it is cooler outdoors, clarified butter can also provide grounding and sustenance from the inside out.

Benefits

It's love day, and lets face it, when you love someone, you often want to touch them.

If you are single, perhaps you are touching yourself.

Although it is often deemed taboo to talk about sex, masturbation, or genital health, there are many reasons to explore our sexual selves.

Lovemaking is an important part of the human experience and as homosapiens, touch can be extremely healing.

Some of the benefits of sexual play include increased oxygen to the cells, lowered blood pressure and reduced stress.

But don't worry, if you're flying solo, benefits also abound.