We recently spoke to founder and formulator Tami Blake of Free + True Skincare to learn more about her newly-launched ingestible powders.

We discussed what wellness means to her, what inspired her to create an edible wellness line, the link between gut and skin health and more

What does the word “wellness” mean to you?
I approach wellness from a complete mind, body, spirit perspective. My mental and emotional health are just as important as my physical health. They are all connected, so I spend a lot of time tapping into my inner wisdom to find balance when things are out of alignment. 

Surrounding myself with positive people, healthy food, movement (roller skating) and meditation seem to be a recipe for success.  I’m not always perfect, but I know the tools are there when I need to tap into them to find balance. 

What inspired you to create this line of ingestible powders?
As an esthetician who takes a holistic approach to wellness, it is difficult to address skin without considering lifestyle, diet and emotional state. 

Healthy skin starts from within. Life in the 21st century, and all that comes with it, from stress and pollution to a not-so-clean diet, can impact skin. By crossing into the edible wellness category, it’s my intention to further align mind, body, spirit, and skin, optimizing health in a way that can be seen and felt. 

What is more challenging, formulating skincare or edible wellness?
Since this is a new product category for me, it was somewhat challenging because I am formulating a product that you ingest. It starts with intention. I worked on these formulas with my team for about two years.  We tested them extensively and tried to connect the dots between creating beneficial ingredient synergies while mindfully crafting wellness rituals.  

It’s much easier to take a few vitamins, but to actually prepare a smoothie, latte or wholesome snack you are setting aside time to slow down and take time for your overall health and wellness.

Can you talk about the link between gut health and skin health?
There are so many studies that link our gut’s microbiome with our overall wellness from skin, to immune system and mood. 

A diet that is high in sugar and processed food can disrupt the balance of good and bad microbes in our gut and digestive health. Studies show that a stagnant digestive system causes acne, inflammation and other skin issues. Plus, when you’re eating right, you feel right! No flow, no glow! 

Do you have a favorite superfood ingredient?
I love chlorella.  It’s a freshwater algae that is vegan and naturally high in protein, nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s rich in chlorophyll (giving it its famous green glow). It’s incredible for your health and skin.  

Chlorella (found in Make Me Whole)  boasts a plethora of benefits for mind, body, spirit, soul, and skin. As an esthetician, I have a particular love for its detoxifying properties. Not only can chlorella boost immunity and brain power, but it’s known to lower blood pressure and blood sugar while fighting oxidative stress (a contributor to aging). It’s rich in fiber, iron, and prebiotics — essential for a healthy gut-to-skin connection. It has also been known to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light, improve cholesterol, and help to decrease the severity of menstrual cramps. Talk about superfood.

What is your favorite way to enjoy the ingestible powders? 
It’s hard to pick a favorite, but I probably reach for Make Me Whole the most.  I love to mix it into cashew yogurt for breakfast.  Or,  adding a tablespoon to my smoothie with a handful of frozen fruit and spinach is a great way to get all the vitamins and minerals I need to keep me energized and happy throughout the day.  

Body Harmony is my go to after dinner and before bed.  I mix it with some warm coconut or cashew milk and sip slowly. It helps me to unwind and promotes healthy digestion.

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