By Dr. Robin Armstrong • July 12th, 2010

Yoga teaches us a number of beautiful tenets: satya (truthfulness), aparigraha (non-attachment), and ahimsa (non-violence) to name a few.  Literal applications of these teachings are often easier than more abstract applications.  Such as: How can I apply non-violence to my….bath?

The cosmetic industry that manufacturers our lotions, potions, soaps and shampoos is beginning to come under more scrutiny as we discover the harmful affects of some ingredients on our bodies and on the environment around us.  From disrupting our hormones, potentially contributing to cancer, and polluting our water, our grooming routine might be straying far from the concept of ahimsa.

The good news is that more than likely there are products in your local health food store that have eliminated many of the harmful chemicals.  When looking at your self care products it’s best to be informed. 

Here are the top 5 chemicals to avoid and to make peace with your body and our environment:

1. Parabens:  This suspected endocrine disruptor, known also as methyl /ethyl /propyl /butylparaben, is found in many everyday products such as shampoo, moisturizer, shaving gel, and even toothpaste.  Parabens act as an estrogen mimic in the body and some studies have found parabens in breast tumors, causing scientists to speculate that the use of parabens may be linked to cancer.  Although no study has drawn this conclusion, there have also been no studies to show that parabens are completely innocuous.
2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS):  This foaming agent also known as Sodium Laureth Sulfate is found in soaps, toothpaste, shampoos and anything else that gets bubbly and sudsy.  It is a known skin irritant and therefore not advised for people with skin sensitivities or allergies.  This chemical ends up in our water supply and is damaging to fish and other wildlife.  It can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane which may cause cancer.
3. Parfum or Fragrance: Used to scent products (even the “unscented ones”), this is often a mixture of chemicals that may not be explained because it is the company’s big secret to beat out the competitors.  Phthalates are sometimes included as an ingredient – the infamous chemical in dangerous plastics. Other chemicals typically used to make up parfum have been shown to cause neurotoxicity, trigger asthma and allergies, and be harmful to fish and wildlife.  Since we don’t know what chemicals are actually being used, it’s best to avoid.
4. Diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA), and monoethanolamine (MEA):  Another foaming agent found in moisturizers...
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   Tags : Ahimsa, Healthy Living, natural beauty tips

Location:  Vancouver, CA

Dr. Robin Armstrong is a chiropractor and yoga teacher in the Kitsilano neighborhood of Vancouver.  Combining her two roles, she has taught yoga anatomy for a number of yoga teacher training programs as well as workshops...