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Author: Heather Herring

The Healing Power of Nature: How Connecting with the Outdoors Benefits Your Health

In our modern, fast-paced world, it’s easy to disconnect from nature. The ever changing landscape of the health and wellness industry with new products and supplements make it easy to forget that one of the simplest and most profound ways to improve psychal, mental and emotional health is to go outside. As much as Crunchy believes that our organic ingredients can heal from the inside out, we also believe in the importance of healing from the outside in. So, kick your shoes off, feel the ground under your feet and the sun on your skin. And you don’t just have to take our word for it: we have compiled some research that shows the scientific benefits of nature on the mind and body. Here are a few of the ways nature can act as medicine… 

  1. Stress Reliever 

One of the most significant benefits of spending time in nature is its ability to reduce stress. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce activity in the part of the brain associated with stress. There is a natural therapy often referred to as “forest bathing” that has been shown to have calming effects that promote relaxation and overall well-being.

  1. Immunity Super Hero 

Believe it or not, nature can actually boost your immune system. Phytoncides, the natural compounds emitted by trees and plants, have antimicrobial properties that can strengthen our immune response. Breathing in these compounds while outdoors can increase the activity of white blood cells, enhancing our ability to fight off infections and diseases.

  1. Anti-Depressant 

Nature has a positive impact on mental health, offering relief from depression and anxiety. Research from the University of Michigan suggests that spending time outdoors in green spaces can significantly improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Exposure to nature also encourages physical activity, which further contributes to mental health benefits through the release of endorphins and improvement in cognitive function.

  1. Exercise Instigator 

Being in nature encourages physical activity, whether it’s hiking, cycling, or taking a walk. Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and improves weight management. Natural settings also provide opportunities for vitamin D exposure which is essential for bone health and immune function.

  1. Concentration Aid

Nature has been shown to enhance focus and cognitive function. Taking breaks in natural environments can improve attention span and productivity. Plus, research from the University of Kansas, shows that exposure to nature sparks creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Making time

Now, you may already know the great benefits that time in nature has to offer. In our  modern world, the barrier to these benefits is often time. Therefore, here are a few ways you can try to incorporate outdoor experiences into your daily life:

  • Scheduling

Aim to spend at least 30 minutes outdoors each day, whether it’s a morning walk, eating your lunch outside during your break, or stopping at the beach or a park on your way home from work. 

  • Explore

Seek out local parks, nature reserves, or botanical gardens to immerse yourself in natural surroundings.

  • Mindfulness

Engage in mindful activities like meditation or yoga outdoors to deepen your connection with nature.

  • Family Time

Make outdoor activities a family affair by organizing picnics, camping trips, or nature walks together.

By prioritizing time in nature, we can reap the health benefits that the outdoors offer. Let’s embrace the healing power of nature and go outside, stay hydrated, and get Crunchy!

References

Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. *Psychological Science*, 19(12), 1207–1212. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2008.02225.x

Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., & Daily, G. C. (2012). The impacts of nature experience on human cognitive function and mental health. *Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences*, 1249(1), 118–136. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2011.06400.x

Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). A prescription for better health: go alfresco. Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/a-prescription-for-better-health-go-alfresco-202107292534

Kuo, M. (2015). How might contact with nature promote human health? Promising mechanisms and a possible central pathway. *Frontiers in Psychology*, 6, 1093. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01093

Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. *Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine*, 15(1), 9–17. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-008-0068-3

What Makes our Functional Sparkling Waters “Functional”?

Here at Crunchy Hydration we don’t believe that hydration is just about drinking water—it’s a mindful practice that nourishes your body and soul. Each of our herbal sparkling water blends are crafted with intention: they each include natural ingredients curated to support your well-being from within. Let’s dive into how you can make our functional beverages work for you! Here’s a deeper dive into our Herbal Blends!

Mango Energize

Feeling the need for a pick-me-up? Our Mango Energize blend is your go-to solution. Packed with the goodness of goji berry and green tea, this herbal infusion offers sustained energy and stress relief. It’s perfect as a pre-workout booster, ideal for combating midday slumps, or simply as an alternative to your morning cup of coffee. Goji berry is renowned for its antioxidant properties, while green tea provides a gentle caffeine kick without the jitters. Together, they create a harmonious blend that supports focus and vitality throughout the day.

Raspberry Stabilize

Experience the benefits of digestive support with our Raspberry Stabilize blend. Infused with licorice root and dandelion root, this herbal tea promotes gut health and liver function. Whether you’re dealing with nausea, an upset stomach, or simply seeking to support your overall digestive wellness, Raspberry Stabilize is the perfect choice. Licorice root adds a touch of sweetness, making this blend not only functional but also delightful to sip throughout the day.

Watermelon Calm

Unwind and relax with our Watermelon Calm blend, crafted for moments when you need to soothe your nerves. Chamomile and aloe vera are the stars of this calming infusion, offering a gentle remedy for stress and anxiety. This blend is perfect for meditation sessions, stressful days, or winding down before bedtime. The calming properties of chamomile combined with the soothing effects of aloe vera create a serene experience that encourages tranquility and restfulness.

The Power of L-Theanine and Himalayan Salt

In addition to all the goodness of each of our herbal blends, all of our drinks are infused with L-Theanine and Himalayan salt to enhance your hydration experience. L-theanine, by working on your GABA receptors, helps reduce cortisol levels, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Meanwhile, Himalayan salt replenishes essential minerals, supporting proper fluid balance and nutrient absorption.

Crunchy Hydration is more than just a beverage—it’s a commitment to holistic health and conscious living. With our herbal blends, you can elevate your hydration routine while nurturing your body and embrace wellness, one sip at a time.

Stay tuned for more insights, recipes, and wellness tips from Crunchy Hydration. Your journey to mindful hydration starts here!

Let’s Dive into Spring Flavors with Crunchy Hydration Om!

Hey folks, welcome to the second installment of our Sip and Savor Series! Today, we’re pairing our grapefruit and rosemary Om Crunchy with a fresh pork tenderloin, apple, cabbage, and a cucumber salad. This delicious springtime meal is fresh, herby, and packed full of nutrients. Let’s dive into the details!

Imagine this: you’ve just gotten home from the park. Your windows are open and the air is fresh and warm. You’re sipping on a Crunchy Om and searing a juicy pork tenderloin with fresh rosemary. The smell wafts through your house as you whip up a cool and crisp cucumber salad. As you sit down to eat, the zingy grapefruit in your drink complements the rosemary scent coming from the tenderloin. Spring has arrived!

Benefits:

Rosemary: More than just a fragrant herb, rosemary is loaded with antioxidants that aid memory and digestion.

Cabbage: This veggie is a nutritional powerhouse, supporting heart health and promoting detox.

Cucumber: Cucumbers are hydrating heroes packed with vitamins and minerals. They’ll keep you refreshed and your skin glowing.

Crunchy Hydration Om: Infused with rosemary, Vitamin D, L-Theanine and CBD, this drink is like a superhero elixir. Vitamin D boosts bone health and mood, while CBD and L-theanine promote relaxation, making every sip a moment of calm on a busy day.

So, whether you’re having a quiet night in or throwing a spring BBQ, this combo is perfect for any occasion.

Recipe:
serves 4
Ingredients
Tenderloin
2 1-pound pork tenderloins
Spice Rub
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons paprika
2 Tablespoons of fresh rosemary- minced or 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
Demi-Glace
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1½ teaspoons coconut aminos
1 cup stock of choice (chicken, beef, vegetable)
Cabbage
1/2 head green cabbage, sliced
1/2 pound slab bacon, diced
1 medium local apple, thinly sliced
Topping
2 tablespoons pine nuts, to taste (toasted)
2 tablespoons blue cheese, to taste
salt + pepper to taste
Cucumber salad
1 french cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 white onion, thinly sliced
1 TBL fresh dill- minced
1 Tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup white vinegar
salt + pepper to taste
Combine ingredients and let rest while preparing remainder of meal
Directions
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees fahrenheit.
Heat cast iron skillet on medium high until smoking.
Dry pork tenderloin, roll in spices.
Sear on each side.
Put in oven until reaches internal temp reaches 145 degrees.
Let rest on cutting board until ready to serve.
Deglaze pan using apple cider vinegar, add demi-glace ingredients and simmer until reduces. Drizzle on top of tenderloin before serving.
While tenderloin is cooking, sautee 1/2 pound of diced bacon until crispy.
Set aside cooked bacon and add thinly sliced cabbage to pan until almost wilted. Add apple slices and sautee until soft.
Top cabbage with pine nuts, bleu cheese and salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Spring into Self-Care: 7 Essential Ways to Renew and Refresh!

As the days grow longer and nature comes alive, spring offers a perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care and renewal. Crunchy Hydration was created to enhance mindfulness through the daily act of hydration. As a new season begins, we want to encourage you to bring mindfulness to the forefront of your life. Let’s use the start of spring as a reason to refresh our routines, reset our priorities, and focus on what matters most. Here are some ways you can revive your self-care routine this spring!


Spring cleaning
Everyone can use a closet clean out every once in a while! As new plants blossom from a sleeping ecosystem, it’s time to embrace “out with the old, in with the new!” Whether it’s deep cleaning your space, donating clothes you no longer wear, or reorganizing your closet, use the start of spring as an excuse to tackle those big goals you’ve been wanting to accomplish. Clear space, clear mind 😉
Nurture relationships
Invest in your relationships with loved ones by making time for meaningful connections. Reach out to friends and family members to catch up, plan outings together, or simply enjoy quality time spent bonding over shared interests. Cultivate a sense of belonging and support by nurturing your connections with the people who matter most.
Nourish your body
Nourish your body with nutrient-rich foods and plenty of hydration. Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals to support overall health and well-being. Plus, remember to stay hydrated! Dehydration can lead to fatigue, so be mindful about your hydration to keep your energy levels high throughout the day!
Prioritize rest
Make time for rest and relaxation to recharge your batteries. Create a bedtime routine that promotes quality sleep, such as dimming the lights, avoiding screens, and practicing relaxation techniques before bed. Treat yourself to a soothing bath, indulge in a good book, or simply unwind with a cup of tea.
Connect with nature
Embrace the beauty of the outdoors and reconnect with nature. Spend time in green spaces, go for walks in the park, or enjoy picnics surrounded by blooming flowers. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of spring to nourish your soul and lift your spirits.
Reflect and renew
Take advantage of the fresh start that spring offers to reflect on your goals and intentions for the season ahead. Set aside time for journaling, visualization, or creative expression to clarify your priorities and envision your dreams coming to fruition. Embrace the spirit of renewal and welcome the opportunities for growth and transformation that spring brings.
Stabilize and detox
Our culture is obsessed with detox! From green juice to saunas, we love that clean feeling we get from purging negative elements from our body. But did you know you can detox everyday with the simple act of hydration? Crunchy’s Raspberry Stabilize has licorice and dandelion root, which promote gut health and grounding. There’s no better way to transition to the new year than with a grounded purpose. Order your Stabilize here!


This spring, prioritize your well-being and embrace self-care as a way to refresh and rejuvenate. Whether you’re nourishing your body with healthy foods, finding moments of peace in nature, or simply taking time to rest and recharge, remember to listen to your needs and honor your journey. By embracing these self-care practices, you can cultivate a sense of vitality, balance, and joy that will carry you through the season and beyond.

Savor the start of Spring with our seasonally inspired salmon bowl! Pairs perfectly with a Lime Elevate!

Hey, foodies! Welcome to the kick-off of our new series, Sip and Savor, where we’ll be pairing delicious, healthy meals with all the Crunchy flavors! In this first edition, we’re diving into the lime and basil goodness of our Crunchy Elevate flavor. To match the citrusy, herbal flavor of the Elevate, we’ve curated a bright, zesty salmon bowl to ring in spring! 

When choosing a recipe, it was important to us to choose ingredients that are in season. Vegetables such as carrots, brussel sprouts, asparagus, radishes, and avocados are all in season in March and are absolutely delicious! But why do we care about our ingredients being in season? Seasonal vegetables are harvested at their peak ripeness, meaning they are packed with nutrients and flavor. By consuming them, we benefit from all of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support our immune system and overall well-being. Plus, eating seasonal vegetables supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. By choosing vegetables that are in season, we contribute to sustainability and promote biodiversity. This helps us not only nourish our body but also preserve the health of the planet: it’s a win-win!

Spring Salmon Bowl

Ingredients

Salmon marinade

  • 1 salmon filet- cubed 
  • 1 Tbsp of olive oil or avocado oil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses 
  • ½ tsp white miso paste 
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice
  • ¼ cup fresh basil
  • ¼ tsp sea salt, to taste
  • Mix all in a blender or food processor until smooth.  Pour over salmon and marinate in the fridge for an hour to 2 hours.  Sear salmon to desired doneness and set aside.

Spring Vegetable Medley (feel free to sub in your favorites!)

  • 6 Brussel Sprouts- thinly sliced
  • 1 Bunch Asparagus, trimmed and chopped
  • 4 Rainbow Carrots- sliced
  • 4 Radishes- sliced 
  • ½  Ripe Avocado
  • Fresh Basil for garnish

Lemon basil Pearl CousCous

  • 2 cups Pearl Couscous (Israeli Couscous)
  • Water or broth
  • 1/2 of a lemon juiced and zested
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh basil chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cook the pearl couscous according to the package. Drain, rinse with cold water and place in a large mixing bowl.
  • Add the lemon juice, lemon zest and herbs in and stir well.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste along with crushed red pepper {optional}.

Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • ¼ to ½ cup fresh lemon juice
  • Tsp honey
  •  1 tbsp white miso paste*
  •  Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Whisk all ingredients together.
  • Store any remaining dressing in the fridge.

Assembly

  1. 1 to 1 ½ cups of CousCous on the bottom 
  2. Top with raw vegetable assortment and salmon . Drizzle with dressing and top with fresh basil.

That’s a wrap on our first Sip and Savor adventure, but this is just the beginning. We’ve got plenty more seasonal, healthy meals coming your way, so be sure to stick around. Until next time, keep on sipping, savoring, and most importantly, staying Crunchy! Cheers to good food, good company, and good vibes!

Come see us at the VA Food and Beverage Expo!

We are so excited to be back at the VA Food and Beverage Expo for our second year! We will be onsite sharing amazing samples of Crunchy and don’t miss us this year on the demo stage where we will show you how you can take an already amazing can of Crunchy and create a simply delicious mocktail!

Celebrating International Women’s Day: Honoring our All-Women Team

As International Women’s Day approaches, we want to give a big shout out to the incredible women who make the Crunchy team shine. We are a small (but mighty) crew of three ladies, but together, we pack a punch! Today, we’re putting the spotlight on our awesome all-women team and showing them some well-deserved love for all they do. We’ve asked everyone to spill the beans on their favorite Crunchy flavor, so let’s dive in and see what makes each of us tick!

Megan, CEO

I love all the flavors (obvi) but my current favorite is the lavender lemon Bliss. Instead of a glass of wine at night, I’ve made the Bliss my ritual. I pour it into a wine glass and let the lavender, lemon balm, L-theanine, and 50mg of CBD work its magic. The bliss has really helped with my stress, anxiety, and sleep

Heather, COO

I adore our OM’s delicious blend of grapefruit and rosemary!  As a “foodie” the herbaceous tones resonate with me. Packed with a full dose of vitamin D, infused with L-theanine for enhanced focus and relaxation, and boasting an incredible taste, it’s an absolute must-have.

Sara Rose, Social Media Manager

My favorite Crunchy is definitely the lime Elevate flavor. As someone with chronic fatigue, having a natural energy source from green tea is exactly what I need throughout the day. When you add CBD and relieve daily aches and pains, I can’t think of a more necessary combination. Plus, I’m a lime lover. The earthy basil and hemp with citrusy lime and functionality that caters exactly to my needs is why Elevate will always have a special place in my heart. 

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let’s not only celebrate the achievements and contributions of women worldwide but also within our own team. By recognizing the diverse talents, perspectives, and strengths that women bring to the table, we can continue to foster an inclusive and empowering work environment for all. So, let’s raise a toast to the incredible women on our team, honoring their achievements, embracing their unique qualities, and sharing all things crunchy that they love, reminding us that even in the smallest moments, we can find joy, camaraderie, and the power of diversity. Happy International Women’s Day!

Crunchy CBD x My Self Care Journey

Hi friends! I’m excited to share my new self care obsession with you all: Crunchy CBD. We all know how much I love the Crunchy Hydration CBD blends, but the Crunchy CBD tinctures are a game-changer. Let’s jump into why I’m loving them…

What’s special about Crunchy CBD? 

Crunchy CBD stands out for its commitment to quality, offering non-GMO, organic, and gluten-free CBD tinctures that are rigorously third-party tested. And get this – Crunchy’s got a green side too. They partner with farms that care about the environment, offsetting their carbon emissions. It’s nice to know I’m supporting companies that give back to the planet.

When do I use it? 

Like with any supplement, I use Crunchy CBD when my body needs it. Most nights, I take it before I go to bed. This helps me sleep better, harder, and longer. And the best part is that even if I didn’t sleep as long as I wanted to, the quality of my sleep improves, so I still feel rested and ready to go when I wake up. 

Another time I use CBD is after an intense training session. CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. After an intense workout or if I’ve flared up a lingering injury, taking some CBD provides just the right amount of relief without the negative side effects of traditional medicine. As someone with chronic pain, CBD tinctures have been a life-saver for flare-ups. I used to take 4-6 ibuprofen almost everyday to deal with body aches and pain, but now if I take a dropper full of CBD in the morning, my whole body feels better throughout the day. 

How much should you take? 

Whether you’re new to CBD or a seasoned pro, Crunchy has you covered. They offer 1,000 and 2,000 mg tinctures, so you can choose what works best for you. I started with 1,000 mg and have recently started using the 2,000 mg version for a stronger dosage. One serving of the 1,000mg is 33 mg and one serving of the 2,000mg is 66 mg. With the 2,000mg dosage I feel the effects hit harder and last longer. 

How do you use it? 

CBD tinctures are my go-to because of how simple they are. Just squeeze the dropper to your preferred amount and put it under your tongue for approximately 30 seconds. Curious why you have to leave it under your tongue? I was too! Turns out, there’s a large number of capillaries under your tongue and putting the CBD there helps it absorb into your bloodstream faster, so you can start feeling relief ASAP! After holding it under your tongue for 30 seconds you can swallow the oil. 

And here’s a fun tip – you can add Crunchy CBD tinctures to your favorite beverages! I love adding a dropper to the raspberry Stabilize to support balanced gut health with licorice and dandelion root while regulating my anxiety with CBD. 

So, if you’re looking to add a little relaxation to your life, I highly recommend giving Crunchy CBD tinctures a try. With their simple goodness, eco-friendly vibes, and customizable potency options, they’re a welcome addition to any self-care routine. Trust me, your mind and body will thank you!

Keep it Crunchy, 

Sara Rose 

“What happened to Bliss?”: A Message from Megan Riggs, CEO of Crunchy Hydration

Hi Crunchy Crew! We know many of you have been asking, “Where’s Bliss?” and “What’s happened to the CBD blends?” Well, we want to give you a peak behind the small business curtain to answer these questions. 

In recent months, we’ve faced unexpected challenges due to proposed legislation that threatened the availability of CBD products in the market. This legislation posed a potential barrier for retailers, leading some to remove our CBD blends from their shelves out of caution. Understandably, this led us to worry about the future of our blends. We started to ask ourselves, “Will we be able to sell these products in Virginia?” “How many stores are going to keep us stocked if this legislation is passed?”

Initially, we chose to monitor the situation, hopeful for a resolution that would allow us to continue offering our blends without disruption. However, as time passed without a clear outcome, we found ourselves at a crossroads. We realized that our customers deserved transparency and reliability, and it was time to take action.

With careful consideration, we’ve made the decision to ramp up production of our CBD blends. This decision wasn’t made lightly, but it reflects our unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of our community. We understand the importance of consistency and access to products that enhance your Bliss, and we’re dedicated to delivering that.

I want to express my deepest gratitude for your patience and understanding throughout this process. Your support as consumers and as a community is what keeps us moving forward. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of the beverage industry, we ask for your continued understanding and support.

Moving forward, we’re committed to keeping the lines of communication open and ensuring that you have access to the products you love. Your feedback, suggestions, and stories drive our passion for innovation and reinforce our commitment to serving you better every day.

Thank you for being a part of the Crunchy Hydration family. Your loyalty means the world to us, and we’re excited to continue this journey together. Here’s to a future filled with refreshing hydration, wellness, and community.

Warm regards,

Megan Riggs  

CEO, Crunchy Hydration

Love Yourself! Simplifying Self Care

Life gets busy, here’s how we simplify self care.

February is all about love, right? What’s more important than loving yourself? At Crunchy, we’re all about simplifying self-care because, let’s be real, life’s already complicated enough. So take a moment, breathe deeply, and focus on the little things that bring you peace. Here are a few simple ways you can celebrate self-love this month with simplified self care. 

The Power of Deep Breaths

First things first, take a breather. Seriously, find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and just breathe. It’s amazing what a few deep breaths can do for your stress levels. Research shows that taking deep breaths helps reduce stress and anxiety by telling your body to relax.

Nature’s Therapy

Step outside and soak up some nature. Whether it’s a stroll in the park or sitting by a tree, spending time outdoors can work wonders for your mood. It’s like hitting the reset button on your day.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Don’t forget to drink your water and treat yourself to a moment of mindful hydration with a Crunchy Hydration. WIth each flavor curated to soothe your mind and body, choose the flavor or function that speaks to you and sip away! Make hydration fun again with a can of Crunchy.

A touch of CBD

Looking for an extra boost of relaxation? Consider adding Crunchy CBD tinctures to your self-care routine. Just a few drops under the tongue can promote relaxation and ease stress, making it easier to unwind after a long day.

Keep it simple, find what works for you, and make it a part of your daily routine. Trust me, your mind and body will thank you for it. And remember, February might be all about love, but the most important kind of love is the love you give yourself. Grab a Crunchy and take a moment for you. These are the self-care moments that matter most.

Crunchy Cran-Mango Crush

Enjoy this delicious mocktail or feel free to add in your favorite spirit if that’s your jam!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 can of Crunchy Energize
  • 2 oz. Cranberry juice
  • Spritz of lemon juice
  • Fresh cranberries for garnish
  • Lemon slice for garnish

Recipe:

  1. Start by filling a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in 1/2 can of Crunchy Energize.
  3. Add 2 oz. of cranberry juice.
  4. Give it a spritz of fresh lemon juice for that zesty kick.
  5. Gently stir to blend the flavors.
  6. Top it off with fresh cranberries and a slice of lemon for that extra flair.