Purity Woods: Redefining Skincare with Organic “Age-Defying” Solutions

Women's Journal Staff on March 14, 2025

Today, many, if not most, skincare products on the market are loaded with synthetic and potentially toxic ingredients that could lead to premature aging and even more serious health issues. That’s where Purity Woods comes in. Formulated with only nature’s potent organic botanicals to combat the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sagging, dullness, and other signs of aging like nothing else out there can, all Purity Woods products are USDA Certified Organic, meaning zero worries about any artificial and toxic ingredients that don’t belong on your body.

The Purity Woods Difference

What truly differentiates Purity Woods is, first and foremost, that all Purity Woods products are fully USDA Certified Organic. This strict third-party certification ensures that the products are free from synthetic additives, toxic fragrances, dyes, and other harmful chemicals often found in conventional skincare. It also ensures that the botanical ingredients used are grown organically, without the use of pesticides, herbicides, synthetic fertilizers, or genetic engineering.

This certification is no small feat. It requires significant time and skill to create highly effective formulas that are independently certified as organic – so most other companies simply won’t do it. However, it’s more than a label to Purity Woods. It’s a promise that you are, number one, feeding your skin nature’s potent anti-aging botanicals; and that, two, all the botanicals are of the finest quality and you will have zero worries about potentially toxic ingredients.

What’s more, unlike many brands, Purity Woods doesn’t need to rely on the extremely common practice of “greenwashing” their products. This is where brands may try to trick shoppers into believing their products are “clean” by using deceptive marketing tactics or misleading labels. Instead, they let their USDA Certified Organic certification speak for itself, ensuring transparency and building trust with their customers.

Another key differentiator lies in the unique and highly potent ingredients that Purity Woods utilizes. Their products are formulated with a blend of nature’s potent botanicals, many of which you’d be hard-pressed to find in other skincare products. This includes, for example, organic red maple leaf extract to boost elastin production for improved skin elasticity. It includes organic astaxanthin extract, a powerful antioxidant derived from red algae that helps combat photoaging. And it includes a combination of organic Indian gooseberry, camu camu fruit extract, and mango seed butter, all rich in vitamin C to help promote collagen production. They also incorporate deeply hydrating and moisturizing ingredients such as organic aloe vera leaf juice, organic cacao seed butter, and organic sunflower seed oil, along with organic German chamomile extract to help soothe inflammation and redness.

Beyond the ingredients themselves, Purity Woods is deeply committed to ethical and sustainable practices. All Purity Woods products are Leaping Bunny Certified, guaranteeing that no animal testing is involved in any stage of product development or their supply chain. Plus, they demonstrate environmental responsibility by donating a portion of the proceeds from every order to One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization dedicated to reforestation efforts.

The Age-Defying Dream Cream

Purity Woods’ #1 bestselling flagship product, the Age-Defying Dream Cream, perfectly embodies the brand’s commitment to organic ingredients and highly effective age-defying solutions. This USDA Certified Organic cream is meticulously formulated with over 25 of nature’s potent botanicals to combat the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, dullness, loose-looking skin, and more. It addresses the key factors that contribute to aging skin, including declining elastin and collagen levels, photoaging, and moisture loss. Many Purity Woods customers see a noticeable difference in their skin after the very first application. In fact, the product comes with a guarantee to help you achieve healthier, more radiant, and younger-looking skin within the first 60 days—or your money back.

Why Choose Purity Woods?

Choosing Purity Woods means choosing safe and effective products that are USDA Certified Organic and cruelty-free. It means opting for transparency and trust, and avoiding greenwashed products that may be doing a lot more harm to your skin and health than good. It means experiencing the power of unique and potent formulas crafted with nature’s effective botanicals to combat the appearance of signs of aging like nothing else out there can. And finally, it means supporting a brand that prioritizes cruelty-free, ethical, and sustainable practices so you can feel good about looking good.

Purity Woods’ Mission

Purity Woods’ mission is simple: to, one, provide the world’s most effective age-defying skincare products to eliminate and prevent the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sagging, dullness, and other signs of skin aging. And, two, to provide these in only USDA Certified Organic formulas, so you have zero worries about the artificial and toxic ingredients so common in other skincare products that work against your skin and health.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Individual experiences and results may vary. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any changes to your health or wellness routine.

Published by Anne C.

Do Women Need Sleep More Than Men? Exploring the Sleep Gap

Women's Journal Staff on March 14, 2025

By: Jacob Maslow

When it comes to sleep, you might wonder if there’s a difference between what women and men need. Research suggests that women may generally require more sleep than men due to biological and hormonal factors. This means if you often feel drained while your male friends seem to bounce back quickly, there could be a reason for that.

It’s not just about quantity; the quality of sleep also varies. Women may experience sleep disturbances related to hormonal changes, such as during menstrual cycles or pregnancy, which might impact their overall sleep needs. Understanding these differences can help you find ways to improve your rest and manage your energy levels better.

Getting enough sleep is crucial for everyone, but recognizing your specific needs may make all the difference. Whether you’re a woman trying to catch more z’s or simply curious about sleep dynamics, exploring this topic can lead you to better habits and a more energized life.

Exploring Sleep Needs

Understanding sleep needs involves looking at how biology and sleep quality impact your rest. Both factors play significant roles in how much sleep you truly require.

Biological Differences in Sleep

Research indicates that women may need more sleep than men. This difference can stem from biological variations tied to hormonal cycles. Women experience fluctuations in hormones that can affect sleep patterns, leading to potentially increased sleep needs.

Additionally, women tend to have a higher core body temperature, which can influence sleep quality. Higher temperatures can cause disturbances in sleep, prompting longer sleep durations to compensate. This means that the environment also plays a role alongside biological factors in how much sleep you might require.

Importance of Sleep Quality

Sleep quality is just as critical as sleep duration. Poor sleep can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, and mood swings, which could impact daily life. For women, factors like hormonal changes, stress, and responsibilities can influence sleep quality dramatically.

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine with an ergonomic bed, and optimizing your sleeping environment might enhance sleep quality. Adequate sleep is essential for both physical health and mental clarity, making it crucial to prioritize it in your life.

Lifestyle and Health Factors

Your lifestyle and health significantly influence how much sleep you need. Various factors, including women’s specific health issues and the impact of caregiving and stress, can play a crucial role in determining sleep patterns and requirements.

Women’s Health Issues

Women experience unique health issues that can affect sleep quality. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause, and menstrual cycle changes might disrupt sleep. Hormonal fluctuations during these times could lead to sleep disturbances.

Additionally, women are more likely to face anxiety and depression, which may further impair sleep. Research shows that hormonal changes can lead to increased anxiety in women, contributing to sleepless nights. If you’re dealing with these conditions, it’s essential to prioritize sleep hygiene and seek support when needed.

Effects of Caregiving and Stress

Caregiving often falls disproportionately on women, which can add stress and affect your sleep. Balancing the demands of caregiving with personal needs can create a strain that might lead to chronic sleep deprivation.

The constant worry about others’ well-being can lead to heightened anxiety levels. This stress not only shortens sleep duration but may also impact sleep quality. Incorporating self-care routines and stress management techniques, like mindfulness or regular exercise, can help mitigate these effects and promote better sleep. We also recommend investing in a memory foam, comfortable mattress so you can get quality sleep.

Sleep Disorders and Disturbances

Sleep disorders can significantly impact your rest and overall health. Women often experience unique challenges, especially during specific life stages such as menopause. Understanding these disorders may help you manage your sleep better.

Common Sleep Disorders in Women

Insomnia is a prevalent issue among women. Factors like hormonal shifts, stress, and anxiety can contribute to difficulties falling or staying asleep. You might also encounter symptoms like sleep deprivation, which could affect your mood and cognitive function.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is another concern. This condition causes uncomfortable sensations in your legs, leading to an urge to move them. Such disturbances can make it hard to settle down at night.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is common as well. It causes breathing interruptions during sleep, leading to fragmented rest. Symptoms include loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. Addressing these issues is crucial for better sleep quality.

Coping with Menopause-Related Sleep Issues

Menopause can significantly disrupt sleep patterns. Hot flashes and night sweats are common experiences that can wake you up at night. Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause often lead to insomnia or increased awakenings.

To cope with these issues, consider lifestyle adjustments. Keeping your bedroom cool or using breathable bedding may help reduce night sweats. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques before bed could improve your ability to fall asleep.

Over-the-counter remedies or consulting a healthcare provider for tailored solutions might also be helpful. Addressing sleep problems during menopause is important for your health and well-being. Prioritizing restful sleep can make a notable difference in your daily life.

Improving Sleep for Better Health

To enhance your health through better sleep, developing effective sleep habits and creating a soothing environment are key. Prioritizing these factors could significantly improve your overall sleep quality.

Effective Sleep Habits

Start by establishing a consistent sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your internal clock.

Another important habit is limiting screen time before bed. Blue light from devices can interfere with melatonin production, making it hard to fall asleep. Aim to turn off screens at least an hour before you hit the hay.

Incorporate relaxation techniques into your bedtime routine. Activities such as reading, meditating, or gentle stretching can signal your body that it’s time to wind down. Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime, as they may disrupt your sleep patterns.

Creating an Optimal Sleep Environment

Your sleep environment plays a crucial role in how well you rest. Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool to promote better sleep quality.

Invest in comfortable bedding that suits your preferences, including pillows that support your neck and spine.

Consider using blackout curtains or an eye mask to block out light, and white noise machines or earplugs to minimize disruptive sounds.

Maintaining a clutter-free space may help create a calming atmosphere. Reducing distractions helps signal to your mind that it’s time to rest, giving your heart the chance to recover overnight and reduce stress-related health risks.

Summary

Sleep needs can vary between individuals. Research indicates that women generally experience differences in sleep patterns compared to men.

Factors like hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, and caregiving roles can influence how much sleep women might need.

Here are a few key points to consider:

- Hormonal Changes: Menstrual cycles can impact sleep quality.
- Caregiving: Women often take on more caregiving responsibilities, leading to disrupted sleep.
- Sleep Disorders: Women are more likely to experience conditions like insomnia.

Published by Tom W.

Sandra Schuck: The Heart of Health and Leadership

Women's Journal Staff on March 14, 2025

Sandra Schuck’s journey is an inspiring example of how prioritizing health and community can lead to positive transformation. Her story highlights personal growth and its potential to empower others. It’s a narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and the rewards of contributing to the well-being of those around her. Sandra’s experience offers valuable insights into the connection between personal well-being and community impact.

Sandra’s Path of Empathy

In 2021, Sandra found herself at a turning point, seeking to improve her health, including managing her weight. Recognizing the need for change, she began a personal health journey. This wasn’t simply about appearance; it was a deeper commitment to her overall well-being. Through a dedicated program, she experienced changes in her health, including weight management. This experience sparked an interest in helping others facing similar challenges and led her to become a health coach.

Her approach is empathetic and understanding, recognizing that each individual’s journey is unique. She goes beyond general advice, creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. She emphasizes understanding individual needs, circumstances, and goals, empowering clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Sandra understands that well-being is multifaceted, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health. She addresses the interconnectedness of these aspects in her coaching.

Community and Contribution as Guiding Principles

Sandra’s health coaching practice is deeply rooted in her core values: community and contribution. These values serve as guiding principles in her work, shaping her interactions with clients and informing her approach to wellness. She believes that true success is not measured solely in personal achievements but in the impact one has on the lives of others.

Sandra’s coaching and mentorship connect individuals with resources and support for improved health and well-being. She emphasizes community and creates a welcoming space where clients feel understood and empowered. She cultivates a sense of belonging, recognizing the importance of shared purpose.

Leadership and Mentorship: Extending the Circle of Influence

Alongside her health coaching, Sandra also contributes to her community through a corporate leadership role. This position allows her to apply her values and support others in a different setting. She mentors and guides colleagues, helping them develop their skills and navigate professional growth.

She believes leadership is about fostering growth, inspiring collaboration, and creating a positive work environment. In both her coaching and leadership roles, Sandra prioritizes the development of those around her. She finds satisfaction in witnessing their progress, celebrating their successes, and providing support. She believes empowering others is a key aspect of leadership.

The Intrinsic Rewards of Impact

Sandra’s definition of success goes beyond financial measures. While financial well-being is important, she places greater value on the positive changes she observes in others. Seeing someone achieve a health goal, navigate a personal challenge, or develop professionally is deeply rewarding. She finds meaning in contributing to the lives of others. This is what drives her work and her commitment to helping others. It highlights the importance of human connection and the value of supporting others.

The Power of Shared Experience: Inspiring and Empowering Others

Sandra’s journey exemplifies how personal transformation can inspire and empower others. From overcoming health challenges to guiding others on their paths, she demonstrates resilience and a deep commitment to her values. She believes success is rooted in contributing to the well-being of others and fostering a supportive community.

As a health coach and mentor, Sandra emphasizes personal growth and collaboration, recognizing that shared experiences strengthen connections. Her approach highlights the importance of uplifting others and creating a supportive environment. Her story reminds us that authentic leadership is about empowerment, and lasting impact comes from helping others thrive.
To learn more about Sandra, you can find her on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Disclaimer: Testimonials in this article reflect personal experiences and aren’t guaranteed. Results vary based on effort, experience, and commitment. Use your judgment.

Published by Art B.

From Crisis to Calling: How One Woman’s Wake-Up Call Became a Movement for Women’s Wellness

Women's Journal Staff on March 14, 2025

By: Sarah Walters

Jennifer Wren Tolo, a former Critical Care Nurse turned Transformational Resiliency Coach, is no stranger to crisis. After experiencing life-threatening medical challenges with 2 of her four children, followed by her health crisis, Jennifer changed the trajectory of her life forever. Their collective healing journeys awakened her to her purpose—bridging significant gaps in healthcare, particularly mental well-being and self-care.

Today, Jennifer, known as “The Soul Connector,” is an award-winning health and wellness educator, renowned speaker, and transformational life coach. She empowers multitasking, success-minded women to reclaim their happiness, health, and personal power. Combining personal experience with professional expertise, Jennifer integrates reality-based strategies to help women find inner calm and resilience. Over the past 18 years, she has helped clients transition from surviving to thriving through her signature method, the “ABCs of Stress Management.”

Many women live in survival mode without even realizing it. They are accustomed to operating on autopilot—doing, achieving, and keeping everything afloat—and don’t stop questioning why they feel exhausted, unfulfilled, or disconnected.

When burnout takes hold, questions like, “Why am I having trouble sleeping?” or “Why am I not happy when I have everything I thought I wanted?” often surface.

Jennifer understands this firsthand. As a woman, nurse, and mother, she wants to do everything “right” and succeed. She believes that she can keep her family safe and healthy with enough effort and control. But despite her efforts, life took an unexpected turn.

Her son suffered a massive stroke at birth, and years later, another son was diagnosed with high-risk leukemia. Science and logic didn’t have all the answers. Instead, intuition, deep breaths, and self-trust became her guiding forces through uncertainty and fear.

The breaking point came during what Jennifer calls her “911 Moment.” She was reading to her two youngest children when exhaustion overwhelmed her. The words on the page blurred, her speech faltered, and her arm and tongue soon went numb. When her husband urged her to call 911, fearing she might be having a stroke, she resisted.

“I can’t call 911! I don’t have time—who will watch the kids?” she recalls saying. It was an atypical migraine, but the episode was a wake-up call.

She realized that stress and neglecting her self-care were at the root of her health struggles.

Jennifer began bridging the gaps in healthcare first for her children and herself, then for other women and families. She discovered that the difference between illness and wellness is prioritizing self-care and managing stress effectively.

“I am passionate about helping women reclaim their health and happiness by learning the power of the pause and viewing their well-being as a priority,” she says. “After all, we can’t help anyone else if we are on our sickbed or worse.”

In 2005, Jennifer founded Butterfly Family Wellness to help women address the root causes of stress-related mental and physical imbalances. Research suggests that stress may influence a significant number of chronic health issues, including physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual factors. Calming the nervous system and reframing perceptions of stress can alleviate or even prevent these issues.

Jennifer’s “ABCs of Stress Management” has helped hundreds of women regain control over their health, happiness, and sense of personal power.

Like the traditional healthcare model, many people struggling with mental and physical health challenges seek a quick fix and look to others for help and healing. However, Jennifer believes true healing requires active participation.

“People need to remember that they are co-creators of their health and happiness,” she explains. “I recognized that I cannot do the work for people or fast pass their healing. They must trust their intuition and connection to self to guide their journey.”

As her healing evolved, Jennifer’s business naturally transitioned from holistic health coaching to transformational life coaching. She recognized that lasting health and happiness extend beyond diet and exercise.

By setting boundaries, recognizing what she could and could not control, and being intentional with her energy and time, Jennifer found balance, clarity, and confidence in her purpose.

Her unique blend of personal experience, professional knowledge, and intuitive connection sets Jennifer apart from other health and wellness coaches. She meets people where they are and helps them take soul-aligned steps toward where they want to be.

Author, motivational speaker, and physician Dr. Bernie Siegel states, “Jen is full of practical wisdom and soulfulness. She brings out the best in her clients and guests when she interviews and interacts with them. Like the butterfly, she helps us transform our lives by freeing ourselves from the cocoon of expectations.”

Tolo helps people understand the subtle messages of the mind, body, and soul, acting as a translator to help women understand their inner wisdom and what they need to be their selves. She believes women already know, deep down, what they need. However, they often seek external validation or follow others’ advice due to self-doubt or fear. Jennifer’s mission is to help women quiet the overthinking, fear-driven ego mind so they can listen to their soul’s guidance.

Her client, Megara, describes her experience: “After working with Jen, I finally feel free—like I’ve let go of a huge, heavy anchor. I feel incredible calmness and openness to whatever happens.”

Another client, Shirley, shares, “Before working with Jen, I didn’t know who I was or what I needed. Now, I feel the healthiest and happiest I’ve ever been. I know and understand myself, allowing me to connect more deeply with my kids, work, and life.”

In March 2025, Jennifer will celebrate the 20th anniversary of Butterfly Family Wellness. She recently launched her signature coaching program, Reclaim Your Power, incorporating her 6 S’s System (Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, Setting Boundaries, Self-Care, Self-Trust, and Self-Reflection). This system helps independent, multitasking women shift from autopilot to actively driving an empowered life.

Jennifer is also working on her second book, chronicling her healing journey with her children and life lessons. Her first book, Family Fuel: A Busy Mom’s Guide to Healthy Living, was highly popular on Amazon. Jennifer has been featured on FOX News, ABC News, and BRAINZ Magazine and hosts the Simple Awakenings Podcast.

She continues teaching her “Holistic and Complementary Approaches to Health and Healing” course at Endicott College’s School of Nursing. Despite her busy professional life, she prioritizes quality time with her husband, four sons, and two dogs. She enjoys playing tennis, hiking, biking, dancing, and traveling on family adventures.

Jennifer’s journey inspires us to remember that while life’s challenges may be beyond our control, how we respond to them is within our power. Her work empowers women to shift from mere survival to thriving by tuning into their inner wisdom, setting boundaries, and embracing self-care as a non-negotiable foundation for a healthy, fulfilling life.

For more information on Jennifer Wren Tolo, visit www.jenniferwrentolo.com or connect with her on Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook.

Published by Anne C.