Howard Murad's Blog, page 7

Dr. Murad’s Cucumber Salad Recipe

Not only is this salad light and refreshing, but it is packed with ingredients designed to detoxify the body and give skin a healthy glow from the inside out. Try Dr. Murad’s signature Cucumber Salad as-is, or pepper in some of his favorites add-ins for a tasty twist!

Dr. Murad’s Cucumber Salad Recipe

Serves 2

Ingredients:

3-4 small Persian or Japanese cucumbers, chopped
Tiny cherub salad tomatoes to taste, halved or quartered
Small bunch of fresh mint leaves, chopped with some for garnish
Plain original Greek style yogurt (Aris brand is Dr. Murad’s favorite)Sour salt, to taste
1 cup quinoa
Fresh pepper, to taste

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS:

Ash of sea salt, to taste
Romaine or super greens
Black olives
sunflower seeds
avocado
feta cheese

Directions:

Combine 3 tablespoons plain Greek style yogurt with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
Add few small shakes of sour salt and fresh ground pepper to taste (sea salt optional)

Salad

Cook quinoa for two and hold at room temperature
Chop up cucumbers and tomatoes
Mix dressing with cucumbers (as much or as little as preferred)
Top with quinoa and sprinkle with tomatoes and mint

DRESSING

Combine 3 tablespoons plain Greek style yogurt with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
Add few small shakes of sour salt and fresh ground pepper to taste (sea salt optional)

The post Dr. Murad’s Cucumber Salad Recipe appeared first on Murad Blog.

Detoxifying Yoga Poses

When most people think of detoxing, their minds go straight to changing up their diet or sipping on cleansing drinks (like this Lemon, Ginger and Turmeric tea). But did you know that you’re your body can release toxins through movement? If you have overdone it a little over the holidays or just want to give your body a nudge in the right direction, this yoga sequence is a must-try! Grab your mat and join Katie from Love, Sweat & Fitness as she walks us through her favorite detox poses.

Forward Fold

THE MOVE: Stand with legs widely apart. Draw your belly button in and bend over from the waist. Hold pose and breathe deeply.

WHY IT WORKS: awakes the body by improving circulation

Seated Twist

THE MOVE: Sit on the floor and put your right leg over your left knee. Place your left arm on the right side of your folded leg and twist to the right side. Hold pose and breathe deeply, then switch sides.

WHY IT WORKS: applies pressure to detoxify organs

Plow Pose

THE MOVE: Lay on your back with your legs up in the air. Gently lift your hips off the floor and support your lower back with the palms of your hands, taking care not to put pressure on your head or neck. Let your feet lower all the way to the ground, if you can.

WHY IT WORKS: increases metabolism

Crescent Lunge Twist

THE MOVE: Bring your right foot forward and step your left foot back, ensuring your right knee is stacked over the ankle and your hips are square. Bring your left arm over your front leg and twist to the right. Hold pose and breathe deeply, then switch sides.

WHY IT WORKS: releases toxins stored in fat

Pigeon Pose

THE MOVE: Starting in a plank position, move your right knee to your right wrist, setting the foot down and walking your hips back. Lift your chest and try to square off your front leg so it is parallel to your body and flex into your right foot. To increase intensity, slowly lower your body forward to the floor. Hold pose and breathe deeply, then switch sides.

WHY IT WORKS: releases toxins and tension from the hips

To give your detox a boost from the outside in, follow your yoga session with our new City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturizer. This breakthrough formula uses powerful antioxidants from Marrubium Plant Stem Cells to strengthen your skin’s protective barrier and counteract harmful pollutants while you sleep.

 

Shop this story:

City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturizer

$70.00

SHOP NOW

The post Detoxifying Yoga Poses appeared first on Murad Blog.

Oily Skin, Meet your Matte!

Post by Jen Harmatz,, Murad Director of Retail Education

It’s not a well-kept secret that I am an oily skin gal. Although, I don’t often talk about it, it’s usually the reason why someone might say to me in the middle of the day, “your skin is glowing! What do you use?”  When I first became oily, I used multiple products to make me as matte as possible. Most of them didn’t work and I was left feeling unsatisfied until I finally gave up. The older I get, the less I like powders as they tend to show texture and fine lines making us look older, so I tend to skip them. This means that the majority of the time my face starts to look like a disco ball by late afternoon. Reflecting light in all directions – not a great feeling or look.

This leads to my new obsession: Murad’s new product MattEffect™ Blotting Perfector. It’s a liquid-to-powder formula that’s translucent so it works on any skin tone. It instantly mattifies and can be used as your last step before makeup, to set your makeup and as a touch-up throughout the day!

These cool Soft-Focus Mattifying Spheres absorb your oil while minimizing the appearance of pores and imperfections. Marshmallow Powder gives you cushiony softness and is designed to absorb sebum but not water. This means it won’t dehydrate your skin. Genius!

It comes in a cushion compact with an antimicrobial cooling puff. Lightly tap the puff into the compact to get a light amount of product. Be careful to not over-saturate the puff. Then gently tap the puff in your oilier areas or all over the face to give skin a natural matte finish. A little of this goes a long way.

To clean the puff wash in mild soap and warm water once a week.

MattEffect Blotting Perfector takes the place of any powder and blotting papers, won’t disturb your makeup and leave your skin looking beautifully perfected. I hope you become just as obsessed as I am with it! Happy tapping!

SHOP THIS STORY:

MattEffect™ Blotting Perfector

$39.00

SHOP NOW

The post Oily Skin, Meet your Matte! appeared first on Murad Blog.

7 Ways to Rock Your New Year Resolutions

2017 is a good year to have a good year, with January promising a new opportunity to be your best self and live the life you’ve always imagined. If you’re like 40% of Americans, this probably means that you’ll start by setting New Year’s Resolutions – but did you know that only 8% will cross the finish line?

Making and keeping New Year’s resolutions can be hard, but losing track of them doesn’t mean your goals aren’t achievable. It simply means that the methods used weren’t effective enough to take root. Here are a few tips on how to make your goal-setting a little less stressful and a little more inspiring.

Evaluate your life now.

When deciding on your New Year’s resolutions, looking at your current situation is a great place to start. Rate certain aspects of your life – such as finance, personal growth, health, family, relationships, and career – from 1 (not where you want it to be) to 10 (exactly where you want it to be). Recognizing the areas that you’d like to focus on can help you determine the goals that will make the most impact on your life.

Start small.

Using your overarching resolutions as a starting point, create a list of smaller steps you can take in making them a reality. For example, if one of your goals is to reach a target weight, create a list of healthy and measurable ways that you can embrace a healthier lifestyle. This can include:

Dedicating 30 minutes at day, five days a week, to working out.
Packing a healthy lunch Monday through Thursday.
Exploring a new fitness class, activity, or challenge each month, even if its outside your comfort zone.
Walking to your favorite coffee shop on the weekends instead of driving.
Joining an adult sports league or starting a weekly running club.
Attending a new cooking class each month focused on healthy recipes.

Creating small goals that end up helping achieve a larger resolution down the line not only helps you feel as if your resolutions are within your grasp, but also allows you to build upon a solid foundation going forward.

Keep a gratitude journal.

Taking time each day to recognize the good in your life is a great way to keep a positive and healthy mindset. This gives you an opportunity to pay attention to the beautiful things in your life and continuously motivate you to create even more positivity moving forward. Use this opportunity to be kind to your mind as a response to your goals – celebrating the progress you achieve, reflecting on opportunities for growth, and cheering yourself on every step of the way.

Create a mantra.

Creating a phrase (or using one that already inspires you) can help to remind you why you are perusing your resolutions. Write it down and put it on display, or repeat it to yourself every day whenever you need to be inspired. Sometimes a few positive words are all you need to keep your goals in motion.

Get An Accountability Partner.

Goal setting is a very personal thing by nature, but the truth is that you don’t have to do it on your own. People are stronger when they can rely on each other, and letting a trusted friend in on your transformation is one of the most important steps you can take for yourself.

You don’t have to let this person know what the scale says on weigh day or how much you have in your savings account, but be vulnerable enough to let your accountability partner be your cheerleader when you smash your goals or pick you back up when you fall off track. Discussing your journey helps to put things in perspective as you forge ahead.

Make resolutions your personal policies.

Sometimes, refocusing your goals into something else can make them seem less overwhelming. For example, try turning your resolution of “more family time” into a personal policy of sitting down at the table at least once a week for a family meal. It lessens the stigma that New Year’s resolutions can carry with them and can make those goals seem more personal and meaningful.

Check Yourself.

Plan a monthly self-check to keep an eye on your progress and get back on track if you fall off the wagon. After spending a 5-6 months living your life in the new year, take the opportunity to reevaluate and readdress the resolutions you’ve set. This allows you to focus in on what goals have been achievable, what goals are still achievable, and what goals may require a change of approach.

A new year can seem overwhelming and scary, but it also can be beautiful and exciting. Above all, it’s a great time to recognize the accomplishments we’ve had in the past year and the successes we want to achieve in the next year!

The post 7 Ways to Rock Your New Year Resolutions appeared first on Murad Blog.

Season’s Greetings!

On behalf of the Murad family, we’d like to wish you a warm and bright holiday season full of love and laughter!

The post Season’s Greetings! appeared first on Murad Blog.

Upgrade Your Store-Bought Wreath

Are you looking to add a fresh and festive touch to your home? We love the warmth that an ornate wreath can bring to a space, but finding the perfect design to compliment your holiday style is sometimes easier said than done. Fortunately, with a store-bought wreath and a little imagination, you can create a chic custom arrangement to show off your yuletide flair. Follow along with Jen Harmatz, Murad’s Director of National Retail Education, as she transforms a basic wreath to a festive statement piece.

ChoosE Your Wreath.

To ensure that your adornment stands the test of time, opt for a wreath that looks as green as possible and snap a few needles to check its freshness. If they feel brittle between your fingers and snap too easily, your wreath will have a harder time supporting your additions and will be more likely to shed needles. It also is important to make sure the size will achieve the right look on your door. Too small of a wreath can get lost in the scheme of things, while a massive wreath can overwhelm your entryway.

MakE it Your Own.

When you get your wreath home, take a look at its shape and structure as you decide exactly what your theme should be.

Get creative! Sometimes I make my own decorations – like getting pine cones and covering them in glitter or panting them. I also enjoy using a variety of different decorations that I find at local craft stores.

Intertwine battery operated LED lights throughout the branches to give your creation a festive glow – I prefer the warm variety over the cool blue lights. Secure the battery pack safely out of sight using some florist wire.

Once you have a theme in mind and the lights in place, lay everything out before attaching anything. That way you can rearrange your design, making changes or additions where needed. If you want help remembering your arrangement, you may want to snap a photo on your phone to refer back to.

Use florist wire to secure your different elements into place. Do your best to get a secure hold while keeping the wire hidden, and use very sharp scissors or cutting pliers to handle the wire. 

Start adding the elements you have chosen, referring to your photo as needed.

Care for Your Creation.

To help your creation last, mist your wreath with water daily and display your wreath away from of direct sunlight and other heat sources. You can expect your fresh trimmings to last indoors for about two weeks and even longer outdoors in cooler climates. We love these tips from Martha Stewart to care for your greenery!

The post Upgrade Your Store-Bought Wreath appeared first on Murad Blog.

A Joyful Holiday Season

It’s the home stretch! The last few weeks of the year can become chaotic, but there are ways to thrive even when you are under pressure and pressed for time. Wondering where to start? Read on for a few tips to stay relaxed and look your best amidst, no matter what the holiday season sends your way.

Slow Down.

‘Tis the season, and it comes with a mountain of invites. Pause and look at your calendar before replying; it really is okay to admit you can’t do it all! Instead of rushing around to multiple events, enjoy quality time with relatives and close friends by starting a group game like Pictionary. As an added bonus, this will mean less time to engage in stressful political conversations or queries about your current relationship status (you can thank us later).

Unplug.

We’re all hyper-connected nowadays, so take opportunities to unplug from social media. You can opt for a phone-free evening and devote quality time to your loved ones by scheduling a one-on-one dinner or a walk with an old friend or a relative to catch up.

Detox Your Mind.

Combat frazzled feelings with calming meditation sessions to stay anchored during the momentum of the busy holiday season. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, downloading a meditation app or finding a quiet place to sit and mentally unload stress will help you engage on a more present level, provide clarity, and set the stage perfectly for a serene transition into 2017.

make Healthy Choices.

While you’re in meditation mode, detox your body as well! Sure, those Christmas cookies were calling your name and maybe you snuck in an extra glass of wine, but partake in moderation – it’ll make it easier to get back on track with healthier eating habits once the holidays are over. In the meantime, hit a holiday-themed fitness class to keep your energy level up as you check off your to-do list!

Cherish “Just For Me” Moments.

Prevent burnout by scheduling rejuvenating “me time” just like all of your other events. You can indulge in small acts of self-care by getting a chic manicure or starting a new book. Work these moments into your event prep routine by drawing a relaxing bath and slathering on our Age-Diffusing Firming Mask. Finish up by applying our luxurious Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture to battle harsh winter weather.

Give Back.

Get in the spirit of the holiday season by giving back to your community. Share in abundance by volunteering with your friends and family to create a fulfilling experience that you can reminiscence over for years to come. It could be as simple as cleaning out a closet and donating clothing or as involved as food prepping at a shelter!

Have Fun.

We can all become caught up in the busyness of the holidays, but we can’t forget the season is rooted in joy. Enjoy this special time and forge new connections, create sweet moments with old friends, and embrace the last weeks of the year with gratitude to thrive all the way into the New Year.

Shop this story:

 

Hydro-Dynamic®

Ultimate Moisture

$72.00

Shop Now

Age-Diffusing

Firming Mask

$70.00

Shop Now

The post A Joyful Holiday Season appeared first on Murad Blog.

Holiday Eats

Understanding that the adult human body is made up of approximately 50% water (on average 50% if you are female and 60% if you are male), there is no question that it needs water to keep it functioning at its best. Water is life, it cleanses, lubricates and hydrates; however, the human body naturally loses water as it ages.  At birth, we are approximately 80% water, but with age, daily habits, internal, external and emotional stressors, this level reduces significantly as we become progressively “drier” with time. Without and adequate water supply, the skin cells disintegrate.  Structures that support skin become thin and flat. Blood vessel walls become fragile, porous, and leak water like old pipes.  Nutrients cannot be delivered, and waste materials aren’t carried away. And the more water that’s lost, mean the more fragile and penetrable the barrier is. That weakening means even more water is lost, and a destructive, self-perpetuating cycle is set in motion. Replacing lost water seems simple enough if we believe what physicians, the general public and health magazines have espoused for ages: “drink more water.” But how much is adequate? Eight, nine, 10 glasses? And is drinking water really sufficient enough to return the body to its infantile levels of hydration?

You can put a stop to this water loss.  You can rebuild a vital strong barrier that not only gives you more youthful appearance but also functions at its full potential, defending itself against further water loss. The question remains, however, what is the best way to get water back into the body and keep it there? The answer lies not in how filtered your water is at home, or even if you religiously drink 10 or more glasses of water a day, but rather how many fruits and vegetables you consume daily. The best way to replenish the body and quench thirst is not with the water we drink rather, to consume water through foods.

Choosing juicy foods offers cells the much-needed hydration they require for basic everyday functioning as well as vital nutrients to repair and fortify their membranes. What has been gleaned from scientific literature is that certain phytochemicals may offer important cytoprotective capabilities, among other benefits, that may preserve cutaneous barrier function and cellular immunity. Simply put, it is far more hydrating to eat a cucumber than drink water.

The most hydrating foods, fruits and vegetables, are those packed with the highest levels of nutrients and are beneficial to cell health. In general, this includes foods that are anti-inflammatory and as low acid to alkaline-forming as possible. Most low acid to alkaline fruits and vegetables are also anti-inflammatory.

Today, I wanted to call out one of my favorite hero ingredients, the pomegranate:

Pomegranates (about 80% water content) contain high levels of polyphenols and offer positive and preventive effects on cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke and inflammation. Most berries are moderately acidic, but contain strong anti-inflammation properties.  Flavonoids, a kind of polyphenol found in berries, help regulate nitric oxide, a free radical that regulates blood flow, and protects against blood clots and oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Systemically, flavonoids have shown to lower blood pressure. The strongest polyphenol is ellagic acid, with high levels found in raspberries, strawberries and pomegranates. The scientific study of polyphenols is a relatively new but exciting area of research as early studies on the potency of these elements have been promising.  While I could continue to extensively expand on this powerful fruit, I wanted to share two of my favorite holiday recipes to provide you with the tools to hydrate from the inside out.

Beet, Pomegranate and Pistachio Salad

When it comes to the holudays, I like to make powerful side dishes to boost cellular hydration and this dish can be served hot or cold and is the perfect accompaniment to any meat or served as a main dish on its own.

 

Prep time: 30 mins

Cook time: 45 mins

Total time: 1 hour. 15 mins

Serves 4-6 as a side.

Ingredients:

3 pounds beets (you can use any color) – scrubbed and cut into wedges not more than ¾ inch thick. Peel if preferred first.
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for cooking beets)
½ teaspoon cumin seeds
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
½ cup balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon maple syrup
½ cup pomegranate seeds
¼ cup crushed roasted pistachios
1 tablespoon orange zest, optional
2 sprigs of flat leaf parsley

Instructions

Pre-heat oven to 425F

Roast Beets: Toss beets, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper in a bowl to coat well and place on parchment lined baking sheet and roast until fork tender, stirring every 15 minutes, about 45 minutes.
Mix: The maple syrup and ½ cup of balsamic vinegar and place in small pot on medium low heat, and reduce 20 minutes or until you have about 3 tablespoons.
Garnish: When beets are done, place in a serving dish and toss with balsamic glaze, pomegranate seeds and pistachios. Garnish with orange zest and chopped parsley.

 

The post Holiday Eats appeared first on Murad Blog.

Recipe: Cranberry Chutney

Post by Carly Portalupi, Murad Senior Producer

‘T is the season to be merry and bright…and to overindulge. If you’re like me, it’s hard to resist all the delicious holiday chocolates, cookies, cakes, and pies! Having worked for Doctor Murad for over 10 years, I try and stick to his 80/20 rule for eating healthy: “Eighty percent of the time, commit to eating a healthy plant-based diet…But the other 20 percent of the time it’s OK to give yourself permission to splurge on your favorite comfort foods, like chocolate.” I must confess, some days are more like 20/80!

This is one of my favorite holiday recipe that falls into both categories. It’s my Grammy’s Cranberry Chutney, chockfull of healthy, water-rich foods and just a “little” sugar to make it sweet while still maintaining a tangy bite. This chutney dish is easy to make, looks beautiful with its rich holiday-red color and texture, fills your home with a comforting aroma, and pairs well with any feast.

From my Grammy’s kitchen to yours, enjoy and Happy Holidays!

RECIPE

Makes about 4 cups. Can be made up to a week ahead and refrigerated.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups raw cranberries (a very good source of vitamin C, which helps produce collagen!)
2 cups coarsely chopped peeled apples (full of minerals and vitamins, apples can help brighten and smooth your complexion)
2 cups coarsely chopped peeled pears (loaded with dietary fibers, which help keep skin smooth and soft)
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup raisins (high in antioxidants, raisins help protect your skin cells from sun and environmental damage)
1/4 cup cider vinegar (rich in acetic, citric and malic acids as well as vitamins, enzymes, mineral salts and amino acids, apple cider vinegar is used to treat a wide range of ailments while boosting your natural beauty)
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground allspice
3/4 teaspoon ground cloves

DIRECTIONS

Combine all ingredient in a large pot.
Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and simmer gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally at the beginning and more frequently toward the end until the fruit is tender and the chutney is about the consistency of a salsa.
Cool and store covered in refrigerator until ready to serve.

The post Recipe: Cranberry Chutney appeared first on Murad Blog.

Cranberry Chutney Recipe

Post by Carly Portalupi, Murad Senior Producer

‘T is the season to be merry and bright…and to overindulge. If you’re like me, it’s hard to resist all the delicious holiday chocolates, cookies, cakes, and pies! Having worked for Doctor Murad for over 10 years, I try and stick to his 80/20 rule for eating healthy: “Eighty percent of the time, commit to eating a healthy plant-based diet…But the other 20 percent of the time it’s OK to give yourself permission to splurge on your favorite comfort foods, like chocolate.” I must confess, some days are more like 20/80!

This is one of my favorite holiday recipe that falls into both categories. It’s my Grammy’s Cranberry Chutney, chockfull of healthy, water-rich foods and just a “little” sugar to make it sweet while still maintaining a tangy bite. This chutney dish is easy to make, looks beautiful with its rich holiday-red color and texture, fills your home with a comforting aroma, and pairs well with any feast.

From my Grammy’s kitchen to yours, enjoy and Happy Holidays!

RECIPE

Makes about 4 cups. Can be made up to a week ahead and refrigerated.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups raw cranberries (a very good source of vitamin C, which helps produce collagen!)
2 cups coarsely chopped peeled apples (full of minerals and vitamins, apples can help brighten and smooth your complexion)
2 cups coarsely chopped peeled pears (loaded with dietary fibers, which help keep skin smooth and soft)
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup raisins (high in antioxidants, raisins help protect your skin cells from sun and environmental damage)
1/4 cup cider vinegar (rich in acetic, citric and malic acids as well as vitamins, enzymes, mineral salts and amino acids, apple cider vinegar is used to treat a wide range of ailments while boosting your natural beauty)
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground allspice
3/4 teaspoon ground cloves

DIRECTIONS

Combine all ingredient in a large pot.
Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and simmer gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally at the beginning and more frequently toward the end until the fruit is tender and the chutney is about the consistency of a salsa.
Cool and store covered in refrigerator until ready to serve.

The post Cranberry Chutney Recipe appeared first on Murad Blog.