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From the brand
Krightlink Foam Roller
Krightlink was conceived with a vision to empower individuals to take charge of their muscle recovery and flexibility, anytime, anywhere. Every foam roller is crafted with precision, using the highest grade EVA foam that is both durable and gentle on the skin. We have meticulously engineered the foam roller to provide the perfect balance of firmness and comfort.
Krightlink foam roller
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We started by noticing that people needed better foam rollers. Our team, who love fitness, made sure our rollers are strong and feel good to use.
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Our foam rollers are special because they come in different shapes designed to help your muscles the most.They come in different types for everyone that can find a roller that’s just right for them.
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Product Dimensions : 13 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches; 2.8 Pounds Item model number : 2154 Date First Available : May 18, 2024 Manufacturer : Krightlink ASIN : B0D4H7MRKM Best Sellers Rank: #1,571 in Sports & Outdoors (See Top 100 in Sports & Outdoors) #7 in Foam Rollers Customer Reviews: 4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars (787) var dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction; P.when(‘A’, ‘ready’).execute(function(A) { if (dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction !== true) { dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction = true; A.declarative( ‘acrLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault”: true }, function (event) { if (window.ue) { ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } } ); } }); P.when(‘A’, ‘cf’).execute(function(A) { A.declarative(‘acrStarsLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault” : true }, function(event){ if(window.ue) { ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } }); }); Body Relaxation: Muscle stretches and massages can be performed before and after fitness, exercise, and reduce stiffness; Relieve muscle soreness and tension, Penetrates deep into body muscles to quickly release myofascia, Improve muscle flexibility Good for Everybody: Ideal for runners, athletic athletes, yoga and Pilates students, swimmers to relax muscles and perform daily stretches after a workout, and to help reduce shoulders, arms, legs, back, buttocks, thighs, hamstrings, quads, calves lactic acid buildup after exercise High Density Material : Our foam rollers are made of PVC and EVA material and it’s good cushioning elasticity so will not lose its shape after heavy use; They’re light weight, pressure-resistant, waterproof, sweat-proof easy to clean, durable Lightweight & Portable: Our foam roller set comes with a durable Portable nylon mesh bag so it’s easy storage and transportation; It’s very suitable for home, gym and outdoor sports so that you can stretch and relax wherever you need before or after exercise or yoga 5 in 1 Foam Roller Muscle Massage Set: Package includes 1* hollow foam roller(13″*5″), 1* Muscle Roller Stick(15″), 1* massage ball(Φ2.5″), 1* stretching band(24″*2″), 1 storage bag; Protected by US Patent Nos: 9,345,921; 9,539,167 ; 9,656,112 ; 10,278,890 ;10,695,260 ;12,193,986 and 12,201,571
I used to think being triggered meant someone else was doing something wrong. Someone interrupted me, showed up late again, or spoke too loudly. My irritation felt justified. After all, the problem was clearly outside of me. Or at least that’s what I told myself.
Over time, though, I began to notice a pattern that was much harder to sit with. The things that bothered me most in other people often pointed back to something unresolved within me. Not in a neat or obvious way, and definitely not in a way I initially enjoyed examining.
Once I started paying attention, I noticed those moments of irritation became effective teachers.
“If You Spot It, You’ve Got It”
Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “if you spot it, you’ve got it.” I didn’t invent it, and I’m certainly not the first person to explore this idea. It shows up in Carl Jung’s work around the “shadow,” in modern psychology through concepts like projection. And in traditions that emphasize contemplative self-inquiry.
The idea is that strong emotional reactions to others can act like mirrors. When something really bothers us, it may be touching on something unhealed or suppressed in ourselves. That doesn’t mean we’re exactly like the other person. It doesn’t mean their behavior is acceptable or that we should tolerate harm. It simply means there’s something resonating.
This distinction matters. “If you spot it, you’ve got it” isn’t about blame or self-criticism. It’s about curiosity. It’s an invitation to look inward rather than outsourcing all discomfort to the outside world. And that shift, while uncomfortable at first, can be surprisingly freeing.
Triggers Are a Human Thing
We all have people who push our buttons. The interrupter. The know-it-all. The chronically late friend. The loud talker. The person who seems to take up all the space in the room. These reactions aren’t a personal failing but part of being human.
Our brains are wired to notice threats and negatives as a protective mechanism. Research suggests we have a strong negativity bias, meaning we’re far more likely to notice what irritates us than what delights us. While it can serve a survival purpose, it often just leaves us feeling tense and reactive.
Studies on self-reflection and emotional regulation consistently show benefits when people are willing to examine their internal responses. People who engage in self-inquiry tend to report lower stress and better emotional regulation. In other words, the work may be uncomfortable, but it’s not without payoff.
Projection and the Psychology Behind It
One useful framework for understanding this pattern is psychological projection. Projection is a defense mechanism where we attribute traits we’ve disowned or suppressed in ourselves onto someone else. Instead of saying, “I struggle with this,” we unconsciously say, “They are the problem.”
A 2001 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who denied being aggressive were more likely to see aggression in others. When we refuse to acknowledge something internally, we’re more likely to see it externally.
This doesn’t mean every annoyance is a projection. But when a reaction feels disproportionate, repetitive, or emotionally charged, it’s often worth asking why. Why this behavior? Why this person? Why this intensity?
The Mirror In Our Brains
There’s also a biological layer to this conversation. Humans have mirror neurons, which help us recognize and reflect the emotional states and behaviors of others. These neurons play a pivotal role in empathy, learning, and social connection.
Sometimes the discomfort we feel around others isn’t judgment so much as recognition. We’re seeing something familiar. Something we’ve buried, avoided, or never fully accepted. That recognition can feel threatening, especially if we’ve worked hard to suppress that trait in ourselves.
When we encounter someone openly expressing what we’ve pushed down, it can destabilize that internal balance. The irritation is less about them and more about the cost of maintaining our own internal rules.
Everyday Examples of the Mirror Effect
This shows up in subtle ways. If we’re really bothered by someone acting arrogant, it might be because we’ve suppressed our own confidence or learned that being visible wasn’t safe. If laziness triggers us, perhaps we’re overworked and resentful because we don’t allow ourselves to rest. If attention-seeking behavior irritates us, maybe there’s an unmet need for recognition we’ve never allowed ourselves to name.
Often, there’s more than one layer at play. Human behavior is rarely simple. A trigger could show both a suppressed desire and a deep fear. That complexity is why curiosity matters more than trying to come to quick conclusions.
The mirror isn’t about labeling ourselves as bad or flawed. It’s about understanding where our reactions come from and what they might be asking us to integrate.
A Personal Lesson in the Online World
I’ve spent nearly two decades working online, which still feels strange to say. I’ve lived through the early forum days, the rise of social media, and the many phases of public commentary that came with it. Over those years, my body has changed through pregnancies, health challenges, healing journeys, and seasons of stress.
Along the way, I’ve received comments that were deeply hurtful. At one point, I discovered entire online spaces dedicated to criticizing my appearance. For weeks, I replayed those words in my head and seriously considered stepping away from my work entirely.
What eventually helped wasn’t pretending those comments didn’t hurt. It was getting radically honest about why they hurt. There was an element of truth they touched on, and it mirrored insecurities I already carried. More uncomfortable still, I realized my own inner critic used similar language toward myself, and sometimes toward others in my head.
Facing that reality wasn’t easy. I realized that while I can’t control what strangers say about me on the internet, I can work on my internal dialogue. Over time, as I softened that inner voice and practiced more kindness (to myself and others), I noticed a shift. I started to see more of the positive in my own life.
The Positive Flip Side of the Mirror
This principle doesn’t only apply to negative traits. We often spot positive qualities in others because they exist within us, too. Admiration can be a mirror just as much as irritation.
When we intentionally notice generosity, courage, creativity, or kindness in others, we strengthen our ability to recognize and adopt those traits ourselves. What we practice noticing grows.
Over time, I found that training myself to see the good in others made life feel lighter. It wasn’t about ignoring reality or forcing positivity. It was about choosing where to place my attention. And that choice changed how I experienced the world.
A Simple but Powerful First Step: Pause
One of the most practical tools I’ve found is also the simplest. Stop and pause. When something triggers you, take a breath before responding. Ask what this could be showing you about yourself.
This simple question can interrupt reactive patterns. It creates space between what’s triggering us and our response in order to offer insight.
Pausing has been especially impactful as a parent. Children are incredible mirrors. They reflect our impatience, our unhealed wounds, and our unspoken expectations. Pausing allows us to meet their reality rather than defending our own.
Choosing Curiosity Over Being Right
Dr. Kelly Brogan shared a story about asking her daughters what they needed from her and what felt unhealed in their relationship. She expected glowing reviews of her job as a mom. Instead, she received honest feedback that was painful to hear.
Her instinct, like most of ours, was to defend herself, explain, and justify. Instead, she chose curiosity. She asked questions and listened. And that choice deepened the relationship with her kids rather than fracturing it.
Being right often feels safer in the moment. Being curious, though, creates connection. This applies far beyond parenting. Most conflicts soften when someone is willing to stay present with another person’s experience rather than correcting it.
The 3-2-1 Shadow Process
When a trigger feels confusing, a structured approach can help. One tool that’s been useful for me is the 3-2-1 shadow process, often attributed to Ken Wilber.
Identify the issue in the third person. What bothers you about them? Name it clearly.
Address it in the second person. In your mind, speak directly to the person and express what’s coming up.
Finally, bring it into the first person. Own the trait in some way. This doesn’t mean labeling yourself harshly. It might sound like, “There’s a part of me that struggles with this,” or “I notice this pattern in myself, too.”
When the issue lives in the first person, you have the power to work with it.
Curiosity Instead of Judgment
One of my favorite reminders comes from a scene in Ted Lasso, my favorite TV show. It references the quote, “Be curious, not judgmental.” It’s a simple but profound reminder.
Judgment shuts down learning while curiosity opens it up. When we replace “I hate when people do this” with “I wonder why this affects me?” we reclaim agency. We move from reaction to reflection.
This shift doesn’t excuse harmful behavior. It simply recognizes that our peace doesn’t have to depend on others changing.
Practicing Self-Compassion Along the Way
It’s important to approach this work with self-compassion. Noticing isn’t about fixing or blaming, but about integrating.
Blame tends to create more fragmentation, while compassion allows for healing. When we stay curious and kind with ourselves, even uncomfortable truths become manageable. I’ve found journaling to be a really helpful tool for this. Here are some prompts to get you curious:
What bothers me most in others?
Where does this show up in me, even subtly?
How might this trait serve me if it were integrated?
What would it feel like to be less affected by this?
What Changes Over Time
This work hasn’t been linear or easy, but over time, it’s helped soften my reactions and bring peace. It’s increased empathy and freed up energy that used to be tied up in irritation and judgment.
When triggers become teachers, painful moments turn into guides. They point us toward parts of ourselves asking for attention, healing, or acceptance. The things we judge in others are often the things we’re still learning to hold gently within ourselves.
Final Thoughts on Triggers
The idea that triggers can be teachers isn’t meant to be dogma. It’s an invitation to get curious and as a result find more peace. For me, it’s been a powerful shift from feeling at the mercy of external circumstances to reclaiming internal agency.
“If you spot it, you’ve got it” isn’t about shame but opportunity. It’s about returning our power to ourselves and choosing curiosity over judgment, reflection over reaction.
As Rumi wrote, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” Sometimes our strongest reactions point directly to the places where growth is waiting, if we’re willing to look.
What are some triggers you’ve noticed in your life? How do you think you can turn these around and be more curious? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
Overwatering is the fastest way to kill this aloe. The roots will rot in consistently moist soil, and by the time you notice problems with the foliage, the damage is usually extensive.
This succulent prefers warm temperatures of between 70 and 80°F during the day and 60 to 70°F at night.
As mentioned, it can survive brief drops to 25°F but will suffer damage.
Low humidity is ideal. This is a desert plant that doesn’t appreciate muggy conditions.
Fertilizer
‘Crosby’s Prolific’ doesn’t require much fertilizer.
Feed once a month during the growing season in spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
A product formulated for cacti and succulents works well. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Skip fertilizer for the first few months for newly planted or recently repotted plants. Our guide to fertilizing aloes has more information.
Where to Buy
‘Crosby’s Prolific’ is usually available at nurseries that specialize in succulents and cacti. Many general garden centers also carry it, particularly in spring and summer.
You can find ‘Crosby’s Prolific’ in two-inch, four-inch, and one-gallon pots from Planet Desert.
Maintenance
Remove any dead or damaged leaves by pulling them gently away from the rosette. If they don’t release easily, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut them at the base.
Dead leaves left on the plant can harbor pests and diseases, so remove them promptly.
Repot when the clump outgrows its container or when offsets become too crowded. This is typically needed every two to three years.
Spring is the best time to repot, at the start of the growing season.
Choose a container one to two inches larger in diameter than the current pot.
Remove the plant from its pot and brush away loose soil. Inspect the roots and trim any that are dead, mushy, or damaged.
Set the plant at the same depth it was growing before, backfill with soil and water lightly.
As the clump expands, you can divide it to create new plants or reduce crowding, as discussed below.
You can propagate ‘Crosby’s Prolific’ easily by dividing offsets. Leaf propagation doesn’t work with this plant and will result in rot.
From Offsets
Offsets, or pups, are the small rosettes that form around the base of mature plants.
Wait until offsets are at least two inches across and have developed their own roots before removing them. Offsets that are too small or lack roots are unlikely to survive on their own.
The best time to divide is in spring or early summer during active growth.
To remove an offset, unpot the plant or carefully dig away soil to expose where the offset connects to the parent.
Check that the offset has visible roots of its own. If it doesn’t have roots, leave it attached to the parent to develop further.
Gently wiggle the offset to see if it separates easily from the parent. Some offsets pull away cleanly with their roots intact.
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Cross-section of a two-month old cerebral organoid observed under a fluorescence microscope.
Institut Pasteur-SupBiotech/NASA
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Institut Pasteur-SupBiotech/NASA
Research on conditions like autism, schizophrenia and even brain cancer increasingly relies on clusters of human cells called brain organoids.
These pea-size bits of neural tissue model aspects of human brain development as they grow for months and even years in a lab. They also make many people uneasy, in part because the brain is so closely tied to our sense of self.
A group of scientists, ethicists, patient advocates and journalists met for two days in Northern California this fall to discuss how scientists, and society, should proceed.
Among the questions:
Is it okay to place human organoids in an animal’s brain?
Can organoids feel pain?
Can they become conscious?
Who, if anyone, should regulate this research?
“We are talking about an organ that is at the seat of human consciousness. It’s the seat of personality and who we are,” says Insoo Hyun, a bioethicist at the Museum of Science, Boston, who attended the meeting.
“So it’s reasonable to be especially careful with the kind of experiments we’re doing,” he says.
Societal issues by the sea
The event was hosted by Dr. Sergiu Pașca, a prominent organoid researcher whose lab at Stanford University used the technology to develop a potential treatment for a rare cause of autism and epilepsy.
Organoids are allowing scientists to study brain cells and circuits that don’t exist in animals,Pașca says.
“For the first time, we have this ability to really work with human neurons and human glial cells,” he says, “and ask questions about these really mysterious disorders of the brain.”
“Of course, there are issues of ethics and societal implications and religious views that have to be taken into consideration,” he says. Many of those issues were outlined in a recent article by Pasca and others in the journal Science.
To take the next step, Pașca invited a group to the Asilomar Conference Center on the Monterey Peninsula. It’s the spot where, 50 years earlier, another group met to hash out the first ethical guidelines for genetic engineering.
Organizers of the organoid event had more modest expectations.
“Our goal for this meeting was to just bring everybody together across all these fields and start brainstorming,” Pașca says.
That happened — in formal sessions, coffee breaks, after-hours social gatherings and even walks on the beach. And participants brought widely varying perspectives.
Risk vs. reward
Scientists and patient advocates at the meeting often emphasized the need to quickly answer questions and find cures.
Bioethicists were more likely to speak about the importance of guardrails to make sure people consent to having their cells made into organoids, and to discourage any efforts to enhance the brains of animals or humans.
There was consensus, though, on the need to keep the public informed.
When people hear about brain organoid research, they tend to have one overarching and quite reasonable question for scientists, says Alta Charo, professor emerita of law and bioethics at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
“How far along are they in building organoids that can actually recapitulate something that we associate with human capacities?” she says. “Have we reached a point where we’re worried?”
Not yet, probably. But the prospect seems closer now that scientists are linking multiple organoids to create more brain-like structures called assembloids, Charo says.
Pasca’s team, for example, has built a network of four organoids to model the pathway that carries pain signals to the brain.
That sounds disturbing, Charo says, unless you understand that this network of cells lacks the circuitry to feel pain.
“The mere existence of the pain pathway, I think, is enough to give a public perception problem that the organoid or the assembloid is suffering,” Charo says. “And yet, if the pathway that allows for this emotional aversion doesn’t exist, then there’s no suffering.”
And no ethical issue, for now.
Even so, she says, researchers and regulators should probably be looking ahead, rather than waiting until there is an actual problem.
A perception problem
Several participants faulted the media for glossing over the current limits on what organoids can do, and for describing these clusters of cells as “mini-brains.”
That sort of coverage has led some people to falsely believe there are labs with “brains growing in a petri dish,” says Dr. Guo-li Ming, an organoid researcher at the University of Pennsylvania.
Scientists need to counter that notion and explain how organoid research is helping people with life-threatening diseases, Ming says.
Her own lab, for example, is working to customize brain cancer treatment using organoids derived from a patient’s own tumor cells. That allows doctors to ensure a cancer drug is effective for the patient’s specific tumor.
Ming also thinks it’s too soon to worry about organoids becoming conscious because “we’re far from mimicking the brain activity in real human beings.”
Even so, organoid scientists “definitely need some guidelines,” Ming says, because of current public concern and the potential for inappropriate research in the future.
New cells, old issues
The ethical and societal issues surrounding brain organoids echo those related to stem cell research more than 20 years ago.
Back then, there was concern that neural stem cells might give animals human-like cognitive abilities.
It turned out those human cells didn’t do well in another species’ brain. But organoids, which start out as stem cells, can thrive in animal brains and even integrate with their circuitry.
“So what used to be a very hot issue in stem cell research has now come back,” Hyun says.
Hyun was part of a group that worked on organoid guidelines for the International Society for Stem Cell Research five years ago, when the need for oversight seemed less pressing.
“We had a let’s wait and see attitude,” he says, because it was not clear how long it would take for organoid technology to become concerning. “We’ve gotten to the point rather quickly.”
Hyun’s immediate concern is protecting research animals from organoid experiments that could cause suffering. But in the long term, he says, it may take guidelines and government oversight to ensure that organoid research doesn’t harm, or horrify, people.
The Asilomar meeting suggests many scientists know that, and want help navigating this new scientific frontier.
A new year means a new batch of gardens to showcase, but as I was preparing for the holiday break I realized it has been awhile since I’ve given an update on some of my favorite plants: my cacti and succulent collection. When I became Garden Photo of the Day editor back in May 2024, I introduced myself with a handful of photos from my indoor garden (Cacti and Succulent Gardening in Connecticut). Since then, I have occasionally shared a few highlights, but there have been plenty of updates and additions that I haven’t gotten around to sharing on the blog. Today I’m finally sharing some new houseplant photos in hopes of inspiring more GPODers to submit photos of their indoor plant collections.
My taste in plants might not be for everyone, but I’ve always been attracted to unconventional shapes and interesting growing patterns. Cacti and succulents are no longer hard to find at nurseries and plant shops, but I’m always keeping my eye out for species that stand out from the crowd. When I was browsing one of my local indoor plant stores, this variegated Joseph’s Coat (Opuntia monacantha variegata, Zones 9–10) instantly grabbed my attention.
Another new addition that was too fascinating to leave behind was this ‘White Ghost’ euphorbia (Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’, Zones 10–11). At the time of purchase, it was flushed with pink, but that has since been replaced with lots of new growth. This is by far the largest plant in my indoor collection and it has been a big adjustment adding it to my maintenance routine, but it has encouraged me to consider even larger additions in the future.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, some old favorites gave me new excitement this year. This Zebra haworthia (Haworthiopsis attenuata, Zones 9–11) is one of the oldest in my collection, a plant I’ve had for many years now. It has been low-maintenance and soldiered on through extended periods of neglect. What started as three little rosettes has grown wider and much taller, but, for the first time this year…
We have babies! As if out of nowhere, I peeked inside this pot one day and saw three offshoots reaching for the sun. It might be time to start dividing this plant, but that is a decision and project for spring.
New to me but not necessarily new, this bird’s nest snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Hahnii Jade’, Zones 9–11) has grown from remnants of a plant that my mother was planning on sending to the trash. After potting up a couple cuttings and a tiny chunk of the plant that hadn’t completely died, it sprung right back to life. During the summer it started thriving, sending out lovely, bright green growth.
Lastly, a plant I’ll never tire of sharing: Baby’s Necklace succulent (Crassula ‘Baby’s Necklace’, Zones 10–11). Last year my plant suffered some serious leaf loss and needed major rehabilitation. After hours of trimming I collected enough cuttings to fill two small pots. This is the smaller of the two, and it brings me so much joy to see them thriving again and soon in need of a repot.
I hope you all enjoyed this little indoor plant update! Now that most of our outdoor gardens are in their winter slumber, many of us turn to houseplants to itch that gardening scratch. Although Garden Photo of the Day tends to be dominated by the outdoor plants that make our hearts sing, I hope this post inspires you to share some of the indoor plants that make the colder months a little bit more green. Follow the NEW directions below to submit your photos to Garden Photo of the Day!
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You can also send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.
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Green juice has become more popular in recent years, especially during fasting or detox. It’s one of those wellness trends people either swear by or completely write off. For some it’s a daily habit that brings energy, while others just notice blood sugar spikes and get hangry (hungry + angry).
I’ve experimented with green juice for years. And while they’re not a magical cure all, they can have some very real benefits. It depends on how you use it, what you put in it, and when you drink it.
Instead of framing it as simply a detox or a meal replacement, I look at green juice as a healthy addition. When used intentionally as a nutrient boost (not a nutritional crutch) it can be a really helpful addition to a whole-foods lifestyle.
Green Juice as a Meal Replacement
One of the most common ways people use green juice is as a breakfast replacement or as part of a juice fast. It sounds great: flood the body with vitamins and give your digestion a “break.” But in reality, that approach can backfire.
Juicing removes most of the insoluble fiber from fruits and vegetables. Fiber plays an important role in slowing down sugar absorption, feeding beneficial gut bacteria, and helping us feel full. Without it, juices, especially fruit juice, can quickly raise blood sugar. Sugary juice for breakfast means higher cortisol levels, energy crashes, sugar cravings later in the day, and disrupted hunger hormones.
This is why I’m not a huge fan of drinking only juice for breakfast. I like to front-load my hydration and protein early in the day to stabilize blood sugar and support hormones. Research consistently shows that higher-protein breakfasts keep us feeling fuller longer. They also help with insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health compared to carbohydrate-heavy ones. Starting the day with juice alone doesn’t offer those benefits.
That said, a green juice doesn’t have to be sugary or metabolically disruptive.
Green Juice as a Nutrient Boost
I prefer to think of green juice as concentrated nourishment. A well-made green juice is naturally lower in sugar than most juicing recipes. Plus you get a large amount of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that are easily absorbed.
According to the CDC, about 90% of Americans don’t eat enough veggies. Even with the best intentions, getting several cups of leafy greens, herbs, and hydrating vegetables into meals every single day is a challenge. Green juice is an easy way to get more veggie nutrition without all of that chewing.
Another benefit is hydration. Green juices contain potassium, magnesium, sodium, and trace minerals that help water actually move into cells. This is why many people find green juice more hydrating than plain water alone. Proper hydration isn’t just about fluid, it’s about electrolytes, and vegetables naturally provide them in balanced amounts.
Of course, eating whole fruits and veggies is still important!
Juicing vs. Smoothies: Why Both Have a Place
I love smoothies, especially ones that combine fruit, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. They’re filling, support healthy blood sugar, and taste refreshing. Sometimes drinking a thick smoothie feels like too much though. It can be heavy, especially if digestion is sluggish or appetite is low. Juicing is a great alternative.
By removing most of the insoluble fiber, you’re able to get the nutrients without getting full so fast. Vitamins and antioxidants are absorbed quickly in liquid form since our body doesn’t have to work as hard to digest them. For someone recovering from illness, dealing with low appetite, or just looking for an easy nutrient boost, juicing can be incredibly helpful.
Juicing isn’t better than blending, it’s just different. Smoothies are more complete and filling. Juices are lighter and more concentrated. Having both tools gives you flexibility instead of forcing one approach to fit every situation.
Hydration at the Cellular Level
Hydration is about more than drinking enough water. Our cells need minerals for proper fluid balance, nerve signaling, and muscle function. When we don’t have enough minerals, water doesn’t hydrate as effectively.
Vegetables like celery and cucumber are naturally rich in electrolytes, especially potassium and sodium. Coconut water adds additional potassium and small amounts of magnesium. Together, these ingredients support cellular hydration.
Studies on electrolyte balance show that fluids with minerals are retained better than plain water, especially during physical activity or periods of stress. While green juice isn’t a replacement for water, it can be a meaningful complement to hydration. Especially for anyone struggling to drink enough fluids throughout the day.
The Benefits of Green Juice Ingredients
I’ll get to the actual recipe in just a second, but first I wanted to explain why I chose these ingredients. You’ll notice there’s a whole lot of veggies and not a lot of fruit here. And the fruits I do use are naturally very low in sugar. This combination offers hydration, micronutrients, antioxidants, and gentle digestive support.
Celery
I’m a big fan of celery juice even by itself. Celery is high in water, potassium, and sodium, which is great for hydration and electrolyte balance. Unlike conventional sports drinks, celery provides these minerals in a whole-food form our body recognizes and uses more efficiently. It’s great for anyone who feels dehydrated despite drinking water.
Celery also has antioxidant flavonoids like apigenin and luteolin, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory effects. You’ll also get vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and iron with celery.
Cucumber
Next to celery, cucumbers are one of the most hydrating vegetables, with over 95% water content. They also provide small but meaningful amounts of potassium and vitamin K to support fluid balance and normal blood clotting. Their high water content also helps dilute some of the stronger flavors in green juice.
Beyond hydration, cucumbers have antioxidants like cucurbitacins and flavonoids. Researchers have found that the compounds in cucumbers have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antidiabetic effects. Plus, cucumber is just so refreshing.
Green Apple
Green apples add just enough natural sweetness to balance out the bitter greens without adding too much sugar. Compared to sweeter apple varieties, green apples are lower in fructose and have a more gradual impact on blood sugar when used in small amounts.
They also have polyphenols like quercetin, an antioxidant that helps support the immune system. Not only does quercetin show anti-cancer activity, but it’s also antiviral and supports healthy blood vessels. And with potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin K, it’s a delicious and healthy addition to green juice.
Kale
Most green juice recipes feature leafy greens like spinach, kale, or chard. Kale is really nutrient-dense, providing vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate and manganese. These nutrients support immune function, collagen production, and normal blood clotting, all of which are essential for overall health.
More importantly, kale is low in oxalates compared to greens like spinach and Swiss chard. It also has calcium, which can bind to oxalates in the digestive tract and reduce absorption. Not everyone has issues with high oxalate foods, but over time, especially in large amounts, they can cause problems.
Lemon Juice
Lemon adds brightness and some tang from vitamin C, a key nutrient for immune health and collagen synthesis. Vitamin C also enhances the absorption of certain minerals, including non-heme iron from plant foods. Lemon stimulates digestion and can help green juice feel lighter, especially when combined with mineral-rich vegetables.
Some recipes call for adding a peeled lemon to the juicer, but I don’t want to bother with peeling a lemon. Instead, I just cut it in half and squeeze the lemon juice in. It’s also great for grip strength!
Ginger
Ginger has been used for thousands of years to support digestion, circulation, and immune health. Modern researchers have looked at its active compounds for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Ginger can help calm nausea and move food from the stomach into the intestines for better digestion.
It’s warming and I love the bit of a spicy kick it adds.
Parsley
When you think of parsley, garnishes on restaurant plates and hospital food may come to mind. In reality though, parsley is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s rich in vitamins C and K and chlorophyll to support immune function, detox, and blood health.
Parsley also has apigenin, a flavonoid known for its antioxidant and cell-protecting properties. Traditionally, parsley has been used to support kidney and urinary health.
Coconut Water
Optional, but I like adding this sometimes for more electrolytes. Coconut water naturally contains potassium, magnesium, and sodium to support electrolyte balance and hydration. These minerals are vital for regulating nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and fluid movement into cells.
When used in moderation, coconut water gives the green juice an extra hydration boost without overdoing it on the sugar. Be sure to look for coconut water without added sugar!
Oxalates, Greens, and Context
Oxalates are naturally occurring and found in many plant foods. They often get labeled as bad, but it’s not so simple. We only absorb about 2–5% of oxalates in our food. When we eat high-oxalate foods on an empty stomach or in large amounts (especially in liquid form) absorption can increase to around 10–12%.
Too many oxalates can irritate the kidneys and contribute to kidney stones for some people. It’s also important to note that only about 20% of our oxalates come from food. The rest are produced in our bodies naturally through metabolism and other factors.
This is one reason I prefer kale over spinach in green juice. Kale is low in oxalates and also contains calcium. Oxalates carry a negative charge and readily bind to positively charged minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. When we eat oxalate-rich foods alongside calcium, it reduces the absorption.
Who Should Drink Green Juice?
Green juice can be especially helpful for people who:
Struggle to eat enough vegetables
Have low appetite or difficulty digesting large meals
Need extra hydration and electrolytes
Want a light, nutrient-dense snack between meals
Want a nutrition boost
Green juice that’s heavy on fruit isn’t ideal for anyone with unstable blood sugar or as a meal replacement. Like most wellness tools, it’s about using it intentionally.
Green Juice Recipe
This delicious green juice has a pleasant earthy taste with a sour twist from the lemon.
Add all of the ingredients except lemon and coconut water to the juicer.
Once the juice is pressed, squeeze in the lemon juice and add the coconut water if desired.
Keep in the fridge for up to 72 hours.
Nutrition Facts
Green Juice Recipe
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 113 Calories from Fat 9
% Daily Value*
Fat 1g2%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.1g
Sodium 127mg6%
Potassium 849mg24%
Carbohydrates 25g8%
Fiber 4g17%
Sugar 15g17%
Protein 4g8%
Vitamin A 5083IU102%
Vitamin C 78mg95%
Calcium 178mg18%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Opt for organic produce as much as possible.
Add more or less of certain ingredients to suit your tastes.
With my juicer, I found it worked best to add the leafy greens first before adding the other veggies.
How To Make Green Juice Without a Blender
If you don’t have a juicer, you can still make green juice. Add all of the ingredients to your blender and add just enough water or coconut water to get the mixture to blend. After you’ve blended it to a smooth consistency, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the fiber.
How Long Does Fresh Green Juice Last?
I’m a big fan of bulk meal prepping whenever I can for faster meals. Juicing doesn’t always work well with that strategy though. Low-acid green juices (like this recipe) will last for 24-72 hours in the fridge before they start to go bad. I like to drink it fresh as soon as I make it, but you can make a few days’ worth at a time if you prefer.
Final Thoughts on Green Juice
While green juice does help our bodies detox and function better, you don’t need to go on a full green juice cleanse. It is however a great way to pack in some extra nutrition from fruits and veggies. When used thoughtfully, it can support hydration, boost nutrition, and overall vitality without sabotaging blood sugar.
Using green juice alongside real food and prioritizing protein and healthy fats helps support the body rather than overwhelm it. Play with the ingredients and the amounts to suit your tastes!
Are you a fan of green juice? What are some of your favorite ways to use it? Leave a comment and let us know!
So… Christmas is over. The lights are packed away, the ornaments are back in their boxes, and now you’re standing there looking at your tree thinking, “Okay, what now?”
Good news — your Christmas tree’s job isn’t finished yet.
Real Christmas trees are 100% biodegradable and surprisingly useful long after the holidays end. Instead of tossing it to the curb, you can give it a second life that’s good for your garden, wildlife, and even your community. Let’s break down all the clever ways to make the most of it.
Composting and Mulching
One of the easiest and most eco-friendly options is turning your Christmas tree into compost or mulch.
Pine needles break down slowly, helping improve soil structure and prevent compaction. They’re especially helpful in gardens with heavier or alkaline soil. If you have a wood chipper, run the tree through it and add the chips to your compost pile or spread them around garden beds.
No chipper? No problem. Cut the tree into smaller sections and let them break down naturally. Many cities also offer Christmas tree recycling programs where trees are shredded into free mulch for community use — definitely worth checking out.
Your tree can keep working even in the coldest months.
Lay branches over garden beds to insulate plants from harsh temperatures and sudden freeze–thaw cycles. This natural cover helps protect roots and keeps soil from eroding during winter storms.
The trunk can also be repurposed as a sturdy support for climbing plants like beans, peas, or cucumbers in the spring. Bundle several trunks together to create a simple garden trellis or teepee structure that looks rustic and functional.
Creating a Wildlife Haven
Old Christmas trees make excellent shelters for local wildlife.
Set one up in your yard and decorate it with bird feeders, pinecones, or suet cages. Birds will quickly turn it into a safe haven for resting and nesting. The dense branches offer protection from wind and predators, making it especially valuable during colder months.
If you live near a lake or pond, some wildlife agencies accept trees for fish habitat projects. Submerged trees provide shelter for fish and help improve underwater ecosystems. Just be sure to check local guidelines before placing a tree in water.
What Happens to the Rockefeller Christmas Tree?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has a second life that’s just as meaningful as its time in the spotlight.
After the holidays, the massive Norway spruce is carefully removed and transported to a milling facility. There, it’s cut, dried, and transformed into lumber. That wood is donated to Habitat for Humanity, where it’s used to build homes for families in need.
This tradition has been going strong for years and even inspired a children’s book, The Carpenter’s Gift, celebrating the tree’s journey from holiday icon to symbol of hope and community.
Firewood and Ash Benefits
If you have an outdoor fire pit, your Christmas tree can double as fuel.
Evergreens burn quickly and hot, making them great for outdoor fires (but not indoor fireplaces due to sap buildup). After burning, the ash can be sprinkled into garden beds to add potassium and trace minerals to the soil.
Just be sure you’re using clean, untreated wood — and skip coal ash, which isn’t garden-safe.
Feeling crafty? Your tree has plenty of creative potential.
Dry the needles and use them in sachets for natural air fresheners. Slice the trunk into wooden rounds to make rustic coasters, ornaments, or decorative accents. Once dried and sealed, they add a charming, handmade touch to any space.
These small projects are a great way to hold onto the holiday spirit a little longer — without clutter.
Replanting a Living Tree
If you chose a live, root-balled tree this year, you’re in luck.
With proper planning, you can replant it outdoors and enjoy it for decades. Dig the hole before the ground freezes, and gradually reintroduce the tree to outdoor temperatures after the holidays to prevent shock.
Once planted, your Christmas tree becomes a permanent part of your landscape — a living reminder of holidays past and a gift to the environment for years to come.
When the holidays come to an end, your Christmas tree doesn’t have to become waste—it can simply begin its next chapter.
Whether you compost it, turn it into garden mulch, support local wildlife, reuse it for DIY projects, or even replant it for years of growth ahead, there are plenty of meaningful ways to extend its purpose.
Choosing a sustainable option not only reduces waste but also turns a seasonal tradition into something that continues giving back to your home, garden, and community. With a little creativity, your Christmas tree can live on long after the ornaments come down.
Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting
