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Coolest Green Energy Tea Fusion – Zest Tea
One of the best substitutes for coffee is the interesting tasting green tea, something that has been growing in popularity for the last 10-years in the West.

Although many people would like to drink green tea more regularly, it can definitely be considered an acquired taste. If you’re searching for solution to this, you needn’t worry!

Zest Tea has an incredibly intriguing Pomegranate Mojito Green Energy Tea Fusion drink that personally blows my mind by the title.

Pomegranate Mojito, really? Yes!

Interested? Keep reading and I’ll do my best to introduce you to every aspect of this product. The best type of purchase is an informed one.

Organization of this article:
- Overview
- Company
- Pros/Cons
- Why Green Tea?
Overview

Click here to view on Amazon!

The company, Zest Tea, offers this bold combination of pomegranate and green tea making is quite an energy tea.

Zest Tea is the strongest caffeinated tea on the market!

The caffeine contents provide about 140 to 160 mg per cup which is the same as the natural caffeine levels of coffee. Something which is almost unheard-of when compared to other energy teas!

No loss of energy by choosing a healthier alternative!

Green tea has a better, less heart-intensive caffeine effect (which I’ll go into more in the last section). But this particular green tea fusion mix has quite an exciting pallet of flavor.

Ingredients:
- Young Hyson Chinese Green Tea
- Peppermint
- Pomegranate
- Lime Flavor
Do you suffer from your coffee needs? Such as jitters, afternoon crash, or indigestion? You should seriously consider switching over to this green tea! Though the taste is a bit bland, Zest Tea’s flavoring is quite unique.

And don’t worry, if you dislike pomegranate, Zest Tea has many other flavors to choose from! From Blue Lady to apple, Earl Grey to pomegranate, their teas are highly intriguing. Some of these combinations I’ve not heard of for tea!

Company

As a Baltimore (MD) company that was founded in 2014, the hip and modern approach is hard to beat. From the modern design of the bag to the goals of the company, Zest Tea is a passionate and idolized company.

They were named Top New Product Winner for the World Tea Expo in 2015 (talk about a good resume!).

They were chosen because of the unique energy characteristics (that match the amount of caffeine in coffee) and their bold/exciting flavors.

Zest Tea was also recognized as the “Best Entrepreneurial Companies in America” in Entrepreneur 360 (a section of EntrePreneur Magazine). From starting out mixing teas for their own benefit to mass-producing and having a large audience enjoy their teas, this startup company has grown significantly with their popularity.

Another tidbit that’s worth mentioning is Zest Tea’s involvement in the answering of Amazon questions. It’s rare that a company participates in helping their customers and potential customers on Amazon.

Pros/Cons

If you do you’re own research of the Amazon customer reviews, there’s definitely a trend found in the over 900 reviews.

YOU EITHER LIKE IT OR YOU DON’T.

83% of the reviews give Zest Tea a 5-star rating. Only 9% give them less than 4 stars (pretty good track record to me).

PROS
- Sourced from Zhejiang Region of Chine
- non GMO
- Great taste, no need to add anything
- Caffience boost – long lasting, without the crash!
- Named “Best New Product” at the World Tea Expo of 2015
- Amazon’s Choice
- SupplySide Editor’s Choice Award 2014
- 20 packs for $12.30
CONS
- Caffeine boost doesn’t have a crash, but the “high” doesn’t last as long
- More expensive than other green teas and coffee
- Some say it’s just “mint tea”
For a company only around for a few years, they have sure grown to offer more than just this one flavor of tea (including Blue Lady Tea, Black Tea, etc.)

The pros far outweigh the cons, but the biggest issue is the price to me.

Although we all want to be healthy and drink the best quality tea, sometimes coffee is just more affordable. This green energy tea fusion offers the best replacement though as far as its caffeine boost without the crash.

Why Green Tea?

Green tea has some natural characteristics that provide caffeine, antioxidants, weight loss effects, amino acids, and more.

If you’re interested in green tea, I recommend this specific article: Best Green Brands!

Green tea is packed with plentiful amino acids such as L-Theanine. This rare amino acid increase cognitive function when working alongside the natural caffeine present in green tea.

With this effect, a longer, more steady “alertness” reduces any chance for caffeine “jitters” that most find as a side effect. But not with green tea!

Benefits of green tea:
- Antioxidants (may help lower risk of some types of cancer)
- Amino acids (such as L-Theanine)
- Caffeine without the crash
- Contains bio active compounds
- May increase fat burning while improving your physical performance
- May lowers risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
- Improves dental health
- May lower the risk for Type 2 diabetes
- Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease
In general, the caffeine stimulates your brain without the effects of higher blood pressure or heart rate.

Overall, green tea offers a lot of benefits most people don’t realize. But there’s a reason green tea is catching on and becoming such a fad in the health community!

Conclusion

Whether you like green tea or not, it is definitely worth considering a switch from coffee.

What better way to acquire the taste for green tea than to add the flavoring of a pomegranate mojito?

I drink green tea all the time and do agree with the healthier caffeine effects, but I also like the taste. My wife on the other hand does not, but with enough almond milk and honey mixed in, she can at least drink it!

There are of course some who dislike green tea and if this is the case, they probably won’t like this green tea fusion drink. BUT. If you do like green tea, this flavor combination might be heaven on Earth for you!

I hope you found this article useful.

Best of luck in all your green energy tea adventures!

Chase

July 2018
July 20, 2018
Design Contest 2018
Call for Graphic Designers!

Do you have a passion for design?

Do you enjoy collaborating?

Do you love a challenge?

Are you able to take a concept and make it your own?

If you answered YES to any of the above, then we want YOU!

For the past several months, Chase Chandler (MusicalGrowth.com) and Leila Marrash (LeilaAmani.com, LLC) have been working on an effective chakra healing and meditation album that’s finally complete (WOOT!). Entitled “Once Hidden: Journey Through the Chakras,” this healing album contains specific tracks for specific chakras with over 70-minutes of music soon to be available this Sept. on Spotify, iTunes, and all over the internet!

Now, we need YOU to design the album cover!

Today (Sun July 15th) through Wed Aug 15th.

We are now accepting submissions (1 per person) from graphic designers who want to win a spot on our team to showcase their talents on the final album, which will be available on Shazam, Google Play and other distribution sites this September (2018).

Here’s a little preview for inspiration as you begin designing!

The WINNER will be announced Sat., Sept 1st!

And they will receive:
- a free copy of the album
- $100 Amazon gift card
- recognition on the album cover
- an article on MusicalGrowth.com showcasing their portfolio
If interested, please submit your work by Wed Aug 15th to: submissions@musicalgrowth.com

Your submission should include a total of THREE (3) works as attachments:
1. Something that showcases your skillset, personal style/uniqueness, and favorite genre
2. Highlights your ability to morph/fade images from one into another (think scenery/nature)
3. Shows your ability to capture feeling through light and color (think sun rays and chakras)
*The album should invoke a sense of grand unification between sound, chakras, Earth, and your creative passion. Whether you present this through symbolism, abstract shapes, hand-drawn elements, or strict chakra symbols is up to you! But make it your own. The more thought-provoking the better! Every detail should have meaning and purpose!

*And no, there is no submission fee – just send your submissions via email! For FREE!

In the body of your email submission, PLEASE include the following information:
- Your First & Last Name (and which name you’d like recognized)
- Your preferred Email Address and Phone Number
- How long you’ve been designing
- Why you want to join us on this project
Deadline: August 15th, 2018

Winners announced: September 1st, 2018

Questions? Email submissions@musicalgrowth.com

We can’t wait to see your works and your creative passion. Thank you for spending time with your submissions and we look forward to contacting you! Welcome you to the team!

Best of luck! – Leila & Chase

A High-Vibin’ Passion Project

In the Spring of 2018, Chase Chandler (MusicalGrowth.com) and Leila Marrash (LeilaAmani.com, LLC) teamed up to combine their vastly different skill-sets in a project that sets the worlds of music and energy healing on the same wavelength… literally.

Chase, a musician and composer, and Leila, a reiki practitioner and lifestyle coach, set out to produce an 8-track album that takes an individual on a journey through the chakras. The goal: to produce 7 short meditation tracks, each track corresponding to each of the 7 most recognized chakras, along with an 8th track that combines all 7 tracks, providing a longer meditation for the individual or background healing music to enhance the client experience during reiki sessions. After much research, crafting, testing and revising, the final product is truly heaven on the ears, and creates beautiful imagery for the third eye while bringing tranquility to the heart and mind. Those who have trouble sleeping may even find this album helpful for clearing an overactive mind and putting the body in a more restful state.

For those unfamiliar, chakras are the energy pools that run along the center of the body, from the base of the spine through the crown of the head, each corresponding to different organs and various physical, emotional and spiritual states of being. Maintaining balance and an unrestricted flow of energy throughout the chakra system is vital to one’s health and well-being. When an individual’s energy is balanced and free-flowing, a person may appear radiant and exhibit a great deal of compassion and creativity.

To craft effective tracks, with the right quality, sound, and feeling, Chase and Leila contributed their specific expertise. Chase researched the sounds associated with each chakra, to create tracks that resonated powerfully in each energy center. He then used his creative flair and intuition to create sounds that painted vivid images of nature in the mind. The listener will find him or herself riding waves rolling into shore, floating on wind blowing through the trees, and being pulled up a stairway to heaven by a happy heart. Taking Chase’s rough drafts, Leila tested out each track on herself and clients. She provided information on the chakras, including the specific states of being associated with each one, and the general feeling each track should create within an individual, along with feedback on focal points within the tracks and overall effectiveness.

“I never thought I’d make an album, but when I heard about Chase and the meditation tracks he was creating, I thought to myself, ‘This could be cool. Here’s an opportunity to do something I otherwise never would have the chance to do, so why not give it a shot and see what comes out of it?’ So glad I did. Chase is incredibly talented, and it’s been a real privilege working with such a talented, creative, passionate professional, who digs deep beneath the surface to truly understand the work he’s involved in and make it the best it can possibly be. This was a real team effort and I’m very proud of the final product.”

– Leila Marrash
July 14, 2018
How to: Self Help for Finding Success
If you’re anything like me, the word “success” is a vague word that causes self-doubt.

Questions pop in your head like:
- “Am I successful?”
- “Will I ever find success?”
- “Do I deserve success?”
Obviously, I won’t go over what success means to you (because success means different things for different people). But I will help you find success or at least give you ideas to reach farther.

In the Western world, “success” tends to have a monetary definition but there are a lot of ways to define success, which SHOULD be defined as happiness.

“Some people are so poor, all they have is money.”

Money is not the answer to your problems. Finding happiness through helping others is the greatest way to find true, long-lasting success.

Time is Everything

Opportunities rarely come knocking on the door asking if you’re ready for success. If that was the case, everyone would be happy, right?

Time is the deciding factor in making something valuable. The investment of time, the compromise of sharing your time, spending time in giving to others or soaking yourself in a seemingly pointless project.

Money is important, yes, but when someone hits your car, the pain of realizing the amount it takes to repair your car is less about the tangible money and more about the TIME it takes to gain enough money to pay off the repairs. “Time” isessentially why money is so valuable.

Plus, those who have unlimited amounts of money tend to look for other ways to fill the void of happiness (shopping, partying, drugs, travel, etc.). Money is a distraction for those who don’t see it for what it truly is – a “distraction.” And making money is a time investment. “Time is money” and thus, “money is time.” BUT.

“Money cannot buy happiness.”

Another well-known quote.

If you think about it, your most valuable friendships are the ones that have involved the most time, whether from years of knowing each other or from countless hours hanging out (ranting about work, talking about relationship troubles, etc.). The time you invest in your friendships is what inevitably ups the value of them.

Family has a value you can’t replace, but without the proper time investment, relationships with your family members can deteriorate, thus decreasing the potential value. Friends can feel more like family than actually family to some, right?

So.

Think about what you do with your time.

Do you spend most of your time watching TV? Or do you use your time to create? Do you spend quality time with your pets? Or do you cook more than you talk to others?

Whatever it may be, whichever you spend the most time with will eventually turn into what means the most to you. And this includes doing nothing with your time.

Work Hard No Matter What

The worst thing you can do with your time is waste it.

Wasting time is the complete opposite of what I was talking about before. If you “waste your time,” you begin to feel accustomed to not improving something in your life. And if you think about it, “wasting time” actually just improves your ability to waste time without guilt. Which is the worst consequence of not doing something with your time!

Think back in school when you were completing assignments, reading books, fulfilling to-do lists that most adults don’t have the patience for – which is backwards to me! I teach private music lessons and I find middle schoolers often more productive than adults students! But why is that?

As we grow older, we grow accustomed to a certain level of productivity and where it takes places. Usually, this productivity occurs when a boss or manager tells you to meet a deadline (for example). When this becomes the standard for working hard toward something, something that is not for personal reasons, then when given the opportunity to work on your own time, things tend to “fall through the cracks.” Right?

When sitting at home on the weekends, without a boss to tell you what to do, usually the time is full of relaxation and non-productivity (which don’t get me wrong, is healthy to a certain degree). But when sitting at home doing nothing becomes the standard, then there’s a disconnect. You’re only productive at work and you can’t find inspiration for productivity at home.

It’s a type of psychological association that makes “productivity” difficult to achieve when a boss isn’t telling you what to do. Like at work.

How do you fix this?

Be productive ALL THE TIME.

Even relaxing can be productive. Plan to sit and relax for a few hours for the sake of re cooperating, but force yourself to keep a limit. When things are planned and time is set aside to achieve more than one thing, you might find a level of SUCCESS that is ultimately more fulfilling.

Take the financial strategy of 50/20/30 and apply it to your life:
- 50% will be focused toward a career/job/work
- 20% will be focused on relaxing
- 30% will be focused on fulfilling hobbies, socializing, working on personal projects, etc.
Everyone needs to waste time now and then, but be structured about it.

By maintaining a level of structure in every activity, the sense of productivity will be kept and your overall mood will shift. You will find yourself more focused, more engaged in life, and generally more driven. And this drive will result from being more goal-oriented.

So.

Work hard all the time, no matter what. Be as productive as possible at your job. Take the most relaxing hour at a massage place. Fulfill a passion by investing time into a hobby. Each activity should have purpose. This in turn, will help you find a level of success not found with money.

Success in this fashion is far more rewarding.

Build and They Will Come

There’s another old quote that states, “if you build it, they will come.”

It’s a quote to help inspire productive people that everything will be worth it in the end even if it may not seem like it during the process.

For example.

Scientists on Antarctica have searched for nearly 100 years for secrets beneath the snowy, unwelcoming weather. Through all their hard work there was very little reward, until Vostok station finally uncovered a magnificent find.

The world’s 5th largest lake was discovered and named Lake Vostok, buried under 2.2 miles of snow and ice. An entire ecosystem untouched by the changing elements of the Earth’s climate for over 30 million years! An amazing find for the scientific community – something of which was never expected.

No one knew this lake existed until only 30 years ago. A huge lake discovered only recently. Thank goodness the scientists kept going with only a DREAM to inspire them.

When working hard, when building your dream, you might never know the outcome. Working hard for the sake of working hard is an important factor for a well-rounded human being. The reward and promise of “success” might come in many shapes and forms, sometimes not in monetary value, but it will come if you work hard.

So although being productive and shaping out your time into a 50/20/30 strategy may not seem like much, shooting for a consistent level of personal improvement will set you up for whatever success might come your way.

Always Be Prepared

Another quote that happens to be the Boy Scout Motto is “be prepared.”

If you don’t work at keeping a consistently productive and organized life you will not be PREPARED for success.

“Dress for success” is another quote that applies too. Without the look, the attitude, the ability for success, you may never find it. Dress for the job you want or else you won’t look the part and my never be offered the job.

Study, learn, and practice your craft or else you may never be prepared for the opportunities you come across.

Amateur opera singers are known to learn full operas in preparation for the slight chance a lead singer becomes ill and a replacement is needed. This is exactly how Alfredo Kraus came to fame (if my memory serves me correctly).

So work hard. Make specific short term goals that are achievable. And then continue working hard!

Conclusion

I hope you found this article inspiring. Or in the very least, thought-provoking.

“Success” is a strange label for “happiness,” so just keep in mind that chasing after a passion while helping others around you will be the best way to go. Money isn’t everything, despite how the media wants us to believe.

The Western “consumer society” psychologically manipulates its audience into thinking:

Without that product I won’t be happy.

But don’t fall for it. It’s been a marketing strategy for a hundred years to play on human emotions.

Comparing yourself to others more fortunate is sadly human-nature. We want what is best for us to ensure our survival. But in today’s world, there are so many ways to survive. And money is only a necessary evil to help fund the true goal of finding happiness. Without a level of financial support, happiness will always be tainted. But having enormous amounts of items, products, things and materials will not be the deciding factor of your happiness.

Feeling fulfilled in life, feeling that your life matters and that you’ve made a difference is the goal. This will bring more happiness than a generic definition for “success.”

Best of luck in everything you do.

I hope I’ve helped encourage you into believing in yourself!

Chase

July 2018
July 13, 2018

Best Online Yoga Classes – YogaDownload.com

Exercising in front of other people can be embarrassing and some of us don’t have the body, confidence, or desire to show off our “talent” as we breathe heavy and sweat profusely.

I’ve had many friends lose SO much weight with “at-home” programs such as P90X or Zumba and I personally prefer to exert myself in semi-amateur yoga poses at home without the scrutiny of others (or the instructor). I’m not as flexible as I want to be!

Sound familiar?

Don’t feel abandoned if you’re a shy yogi trying to save money with ineffective YouTube videos, because there is another option out there for people like you and me! Technology sure is becoming helpful for us introverts.

With 10-years of online success, YogaDownload.com is the leading source for high-quality at-home yoga instruction with over 20 styles of yoga, 80+ different instructors and channels, 450+ music albums for sale, and nearly 1,000 informative articles. Their community of over 200,000 members span across 53 countries (and counting) and help to encourage challenges, improvement, and giving back to the world.

Other reviews of YogaDownload.com don’t do it justice, so I’m very excited to share this wonderful resource in a new light!

Organization of this article:

What is YogaDownload.com?
Benefits of Doing Yoga
How It Works
Pros
Cons
Pricing Breakdown

What is YogaDownload.com?

“YogaDownload” is an online-based service that provides more variety of yoga videos than you can imagine, while also offering challenges, packages, classes, instructions pose videos and much more!

Here’s the layout of the site in a nutshell:

Classes (free online classes, charity classes, meditation, yoga challenges)
Yoga Styles (27 styles to choose from including beginner, Pilates, power, prenatal/postnatal, yoga in Spanish, etc.)
Programs (beginner, fitness, detox/cleanse, therapy, chakras, online yoga teacher certification program, etc.)
Retreat (first ever YogaDownload retreat in August held in Colorado!)
Instructors (87 different instructors/channels)
Music (450+ available music albums varying from yoga to meditation and beyond)
Poses (yoga pose videos and printable pose guides)
Blog (960+ informative articles offered to the public)
Other (customer support, gift certificates, donations, newsletter, etc.)

YogaDownload is a huge conglomerate of world-renowned, certified yoga instructors sharing their expertise in high-quality videography and high-def audio.

There are so many options when it comes to at-home instruction, but it is hard to beat their mobile-friendly capability and unlimited streaming options (with membership).

So if you want to take a yoga class with you on the road by downloading it or quickly open a class in your home by streaming, the convenience is difficult to match.

(YouTube does not compare people!)

I love that YogaDownload gives back.

With all their success, they stay rooted in the foundation of yoga’s spirituality by helping others and the countries they affect. As they put so wonderfully, giving back is a critical element in “enriching our lives.”

Here’s all the programs YogaDownload is associated with:

Give Back Yoga Foundation
American Cancer Society
FINCA – Foundation for International Community Assistance
Plan USA
Cambodian Children’s Fund
Yoga for Peace (a YogaDownload FREE 6-month member for active military, veterans, and Peace Corps started in 2008)
Read YogaDownload’s “ABOUT” page here!

My first reaction in judging a large company is to check the about page. Though they’re a bit vague on their origin story, they do pride themselves in creating and maintaining a community through the sharing of ideas and financial aid.

YogaDownload is helping quite a number of organizations and non-profit for being an online-based company.

Benefits of Doing Yoga

OK, but why pay money to follow these instructional yoga videos?

Having a resource like YogaDownload at your disposal can help inspire you to do more yoga in general! And the benefits of yoga are worth restating for the purpose of this article.

Most of you already know the benefits, but I’ll list the main ones briefly to help put value to what YogaDownload is actually providing (in short, they’re providing tools to improve mental and physical health!).

Benefits of yoga:

Improved sleep, flexibility, athletic performance, balance, joint health, posture, etc.
Reduced chronic pain, lower stress levels, and relief from back pain
Increased muscle tone, energy, bone density, body awareness, self-acceptance, positive thoughts
Weight loss, immunity boost, and mental calmness

I won’t go into detail about why these benefits occur or have been proven. But, if you’re truly curious about the benefits of yoga, I would like to suggest reviewing this article from the American Osteopathic Association.

Consider reading about the top 14 styles of yoga here!

Yoga is often underestimated. When physically holding yourself in difficult poses while breathing and maintaining a sense of calm can prepare your mind for difficult positions or situations in life.

Definitely research more about the mental benefits if you don’t already know!

For now, I’ll continue reviewing YogaDownload.com!

How It Works

YogaDownload.com has a three-step process with so many varieties in these simple steps that tailoring your perfect yoga session can be quite an empowering step on your first day!

Browse classes by style, focus, or instructor
Download or stream HD instructional video
Begin your yoga session alongside the video at home or one the road (compatible with phones, tablets, Roku, game consoles, etc.)

Though it is a simple process, they do a great job with giving their community choices upon choices with thousands of videos and more instructors than you might ever need – all of which are chosen with high-standards set by YogaDownload.com.

The above photo shows an example of a great yoga video offered for FREE for those who sign in to YogaDownload.

Click here to view Eric Paskel’s FREE yoga class!

Another little tidbit – the other student in the video aren’t super great at balancing. It allows for the instructor to show how to fix issue while also making you feel better about yourself! (Such as “oh, well I’m better than that guy!”)

Pros

For easy clarification, I’ll review the advantages of YogaDownload as compared to other at-home yoga instructionals or the infamous YouTube. Here are the pros:

Not a gimmick or a scam
Convenient
Huge variety
HD Quality
Affordable (5 different membership options)
Unlimited streaming and downloads
New classes added weekly
Perfect for any level
Easy to follow instructions
Different level students in videos to allow for more realism
Cheaper than studio classes
Community of over 200,000 members
10 years of online yoga
9.5 out of 10 (TrustPilot rating based on 200+ reviews)

What stands out the most to me is their variety, their membership options, and the decade of experience YogaDownload has used to perfect their service.

Everything on their website is easy to navigate and easy to read – the graphic design and website layout is wonderfully organized. Finding classes and yoga instructors is made extremely easy with their advanced filters and customizable criteria settings.

Cons

There are a few things YogaDownload can’t improve upon just because of the nature of their service. So while these cons do apply to YogaDownload, they apply to most (if not all) other services like it.

No socialization (introverts stay introverts!)
Must rely on “self” motivation to get started
No personal attention from instructors
Costs money (monthly or annually)
No options to Skype with instructor

The biggest downside of using at-home instructional services is that it is, well… at home!

Part of the issue with using internet services is that it will never be better than in person services – we will always compare to in-person yoga studios where you can meet friends, ask questions, and join a community (not just online).

But, if you’re needing to save money or want to improve your skill before doing yoga in front of others, then you really can’t find a better route than online yoga videos.

Pricing Breakdown

As with any online services, pricing options can be hard to find after scrolling through information and sales tactics.

So to make your life easier and to help YogaDownload out (because their prices are fair), I’ll clearly list them below or you can visit their membership page here.

$1 (2-week trail)	Unlimited class streaming	2 class downloads	50% off all programs and packages
$12 (monthly)	Unlimited class streaming	2 class downloads	50% off all programs and packages
$18 (monthly)	Unlimited class streaming	Unlimited class downloads & programs	Costs $0.60 per day
$40 (per 3 months)	Unlimited class streaming	Unlimited class downloads & programs	FREE programs & packages
$120 (per year)	Unlimited class streaming	Unlimited class downloads & programs	Costs $0.33 per day

Want to save up to 33%?

Follow this link, scroll down to their yoga challenge and get the discount!

Yes! I want to save up to 33% off my YogaDownload membership!

It’s not a secret, but they do make it hard to find! Scroll down past their information about their “Boot Camp” challenge and sign up for a membership through one of the link below! That easy. Your welcome 😉

But, I’m not sure how long this challenge and the associated membership discount will last – so sooner rather than later, right? It’s still up as of July 5, 2018!

Conclusion

As far as yoga videos go for online instruction, nothing compares to YogaDownloads options, variety, quality, and experience in the industry.

The fact they give back to their community and continuing improve their service (by adding weekly classes and providing an online yoga instructor certification program), YogaDownload.com is a masterpiece in maintaining or improving your yoga routine.

Curious to try YogaDownload without spending money? Try their free online classes by clicking here!

Overall, I would highly recommend this online video service.

I’ve tried a couple already and plan to continue their service for a bit longer to get a grip of some harder poses. Their instructional pose videos and printable pose guides are very handy when practicing on your own!

I hope this article helped! If you’re interested in more yoga type articles, you might benefit from my other in-depth articles:

Have you tried YogaDownload before? What is your opinion? Let me know and share in the comments below!

Best of luck with all your yoga adventures!

Thanks for reading. And as always, feel free to sign up for the newsletter to hear more from me and my in-depth research!

Chase

July 2018

July 5, 2018

Vita Coco Review – Most Refreshing!
If you love coconut and happiness, try it in a bottle.

Vita Coco is a favorite among the coconut lovers community for many reasons and after trying many different brands, I’m convinced Vita Coco is the best you can find when it comes to coconut water!

Not convinced?

Let me take some time to explain that amazing benefits behind Vita Coco’s coconut water that has become my wife and I’s most favorite drink! (We drink too many as it is… probably an unhealthy amount).

Organization of this article:
- What is Vita Coco?
- Benefits of Coconut Water
- Pros of Vita Coco
- Cons of Vita Coco
What is Vita Coco?

Vita Coco is often the name referring to their brand of coconut water which has been around more than 10 years! The company’s name is “Vita Coco” and while they sell coconut water mostly, they do have other really cool products such as coconut oil, coconut milk, Coco Cafe Mocha Coffee, and plenty of other creative flavors.

While this article mostly reviews their coconut water, the company itself is worth describing a bit because they’re actually far more credible than the “gimmicky” design style might suggest.

Established in 2003, Vita Coco produced their first drink in Brazil with founders (and best friends) Mike Kirban and Ira Liran. This company began functioning in NYC and became a sensation among popular names such as Rihanna, Madonna, and Matthew McConaughey. From a small company over 15 years ago, to a global brand now distributing to dozens of countries, Vita Coco has grown to serve a large population of coconut lovers.

Vita Coco, as a coconut water drink, is an amazingly hydrating option that is never from concentrate and always full of nutrients and electrolytes. The only ingredients in Vita Coco’s drink is coconut water, less than 1% fruit sugar, and vitamin C. As a verified NON GMO project drink, you can rest assured it is 100% natural and truly a “straight from the coconut” kind of taste.

What are coconuts?

Coconuts are technically a drupe (like plums, cherries, peaches, etc.) with 4 parts: outer hunk, inner shell, coconut meat, and coconut water. The water is usually taken from young coconuts about 6 to 7 months of age, but can sometimes be found in more mature coconuts over 10 to 12 months old.

The coconuts used for Vita Coco are sourced from “thousands of farmers” throughout Brazil and Southeast Asia (Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, etc.) and the drink itself is produced in the Philippines with 100% juice (or in this case coconut water).

Nutrition facts (as seen in the photo above) state it has 35mg of salt per serving, 470 mg of potassium, and 11g of carbohydrates (10g of which is natural sugar). It is gluten free and has no fats, cholesterol, or protein, but it does have vitamin C and some calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Overview

Vita Coco coconut water is really very tasty and very beneficial. The company itself has a great purpose and serves its international community well.

Click here to view Vita Coco on Amazon!

Keep reading for more details about the benefits, pros, and cons of their coconut water! There a few more things to cover.

Benefits of Coconut Water

Coconut water has become more and more popular and not just because of its amazing taste! The benefits might surprise you and have you drinking it every day like my wife and I!

Here are the main benefits of coconut water:
- Source of nutrients
- Antioxidants
- Help against diabetes
- Can prevent kidney stones
- Supports heart health
Source of Nutrients

Coconut water is different than coconut milk (which contains bits of coconut meat, only half water, and is high in coconut fat). The water found in the center of coconuts is about 94% water and a little fat with one cup about 46 calories with about 9 nutrients:
- Calcium (6% RDI)
- Sodium (11% RDI)
- Potassium (17% RDI)
- Manganese (17% RDI)
- Magnesium (15% RDI)
- Vitamin C (10% RDI)
- Protein (2 grams)
- Fiber (3 grams)
- Carbs (9 grams)
Antioxidants

Although there are no direct studied of the antioxidant effects of coconut water on humans, a few animal research studies have concluded improvement of stress in rats with liver-damage. Rats with a high-fructose diets were noticeably effects by coconut water by their decrease blood pressure, triglycerides and lowered insulin levels.

Essentially, it is safe to believe coconut water have antioxidant characteristics that help defend cells again free radicals. This can in turn help humans maintain proper fluid balance making it a great high-electrolyte sports beverage.

Helps Against Diabetes

Research studies have shown that diabetic animals drinking coconut experience lower blood sugar levels, lower hemoglobin, and a reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA). Coconut water has yet to be directly confirm beneficial for diabetic humans, but its potential shows possible involvement in diabetic meal plans.

May Prevent Kidney Stones

Kidney stones is usually preventable by drinking plenty of water, but one study suggests that coconut water might be even better than plain water!

A study involving rats with kidney stones proved that coconut water lowered the number of crystals formed in the urine as well as prevented the few crystals from sticking to the urinary tract and kidneys. Because of the reduction of free radical production due to the high oxalate levels in urine (due to coconut water), there is great promise in determining direct benefits for humans drinking coconut water.

Supports Heart Health

One small study proved significant improvements to systolic blood pressure in people (drinking coconut water) with high blood pressure (about 71% found improvement). Due to the potassium content in coconut water (an outstanding 600 mg in 8 oz), lower blood pressure is a direct result in people with high to normal blood pressure.

Another animal study proved that coconut water has some anti-thrombotic characteristics that can also help prevent blood clots. Rats, in one study, experience reductions in triglycerides, liver fat, and blood cholesterol when drinking coconut water. It was proven accurate when these same researchers conducted the same experiment and found similar results: a reduction in triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

Many convincing results have been found from countless animal-testing studies, but only a few direct studies can attest to human benefits from drinking coconut water. Still, it is all very intriguing and promising (to say the least).

Pros of Vita Coco

Apart from the benefits listed above, there are a few benefits of this particular brand of coconut water. Not only does bottle design remind the drinker of a tropical paradise, but the trust in Vita Coco is unparalleled.
- 100% coconut water
- World’s best selling coconut water
- Natural hydration (vitamins, nutrients, electrolytes, etc.)
- Low calories: 45 calories per serving (with more potassium than a banana!)
- Low sugar (10g per serving)
- Fat-free, gluten-free, NON-GMO
- Save $14 by buying Amazon’s 12-pack!
- Multiple flavors (Pineapple, Lemonade, Peach & Mango)
The taste is amazing!

My wife and I have tried a few different brands such as ZICO (more expensive), Naked (even more expensive), O.N.E. (most expensive), this other type that tasted like sunscreen, and we have concluded Vita Coco to be the best tasting.

Save money!

We were buying 4 at a time at our nearest grocery store (Ralph’s) at about $2 or so each, but Amazon sells them in a pack of 12 for only about $11! Talk about saving money. True coconut water for this price is almost unsettling. Almost all other brands of coconut water are more expensive than Vita Coco.

Save time!

Many sites that inform you of coconut water benefits tell you to buy young coconuts and to drink the water within a few weeks of purchase. It might be around $2 to $4 to buy each coconut, but think about Vita Coco’s solution. No need to store multiple coconuts in your fridge! You can store 100% pure coconut water in easy to drink containers that don’t take over your fridge or cause you to plan your day around drilling a hole in each coconut.

Taste is everything!

And the taste truly is great. I mentioned one of the brands my wife and I bought tasted like sunscreen (and I tried multiple times to drink a single bottles, but I couldn’t finish one!). Vita Coco is amazing and my wife and I can’t get enough. I’ve already finished one Vita Coco while writing this article and I already want another!

Cons of Vita Coco

Really, there aren’t many things I would complain about when it comes to Vita Coco. But if I was to be picky, their design is kind of bright. I wouldn’t be proud drinking straight from the bottle at the gym because it is rather “cheesy.”

I also am not sure why Vita Coco hasn’t implemented Fair Trade regulations. They boast about their international recognition and how they employ thousands of farmers, but it’s hard to tell how well they are treated. I also have a high standard after learning about the company, So Well, who treat each worker fairly and pay them adequately. It is definitely something Vita Coco needs to consider, before my rating of their company reaches 5 out of 5.

Conclusion

When it comes to hydrating, mix things up and try some coconut water every now and then.

With it’s many benefits and affordability, it is hard to deny the reasons why you shouldn’t! My wife and I tried it once out of the same reasoning and we haven’t looked back. Once we tasted the sweet, refreshing water of coconuts, we haven’t wanted any other juice (except maybe orange juice!).

For only $11, Vita Coco has made it amazingly affordable to access 100% pure coconut water 24/7.

I’m so glad I had the chance to recommend Vita Coco’s coconut water because there is truly a reason behind this trend of tasty hydration! From minerals to electrolytes, from potassium to 94% water, coconut water is almost better than plain water! So why not give it a shot!

Have you had coconut water? What do you think? Which is your favorite brand? (Hint: Vita Coco). I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Interested in other trends?

Try reading about Himalayan Pink Salt Lamps – they’re amazing too!

Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter too so I can bother you about more cool finds 🙂

Thanks for reading!

Chase

June 2018

Sources

https://www.vitacoco.com/about

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-coconut-water-benefits

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3115/2

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18044138

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22449517

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26146124

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24089547

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3192488/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22257640
June 19, 2018
17 Best Wireless Outdoor Speakers of 2018
Music is a powerful asset when trying to relax in your backyard, at the beach or just on the go. Whether you’re meditating or just kicking back after a long day’s work, music is one of the most powerful ways you can improve your atmosphere.

When it comes to wireless outdoor speakers, there are many MANY options. So for those who hate reading, here’s my breakdown of the best speakers, right here, right now.

RESULTS – Breakdown:
- Best price: #4 VAVA Rugged Portable Speaker ($30)
- Best portability: #15 Yatra Aquatune Portable Speaker ($80)
- Best Bluetooth: #7 OontZ Ultra Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker ($40)
- Best sound: #12 Poweradd 36W Waterproof Speaker ($50)
- Best battery: #5 Hompie Lantern Speaker Light ($35)
- Best waterproof: #13 Aomais GO Fully Waterproof ($70)
- BEST OVERALL: #11 Hcman Waterproof Lightweight Speaker ($50)
*If you want more detail in my choices above, continue reading or skip to the conclusion at the bottom!

Time for more DETAIL.

For this particular article, I’ll be listing 17 speaker options in order of least expensive to most expensive ($15 to $300). All for the purpose of portability (apart from installing speakers or the like).

We’ve come along way in weatherproof technology, so sit back, scroll down, and read about the plentiful options you have when looking for the best wireless outdoor speakers.

I guarantee you there’s a speaker to fit your budget!

1. $15 Kunodi Portable Mini Speaker

This is literally the cheapest speaker option I can recommend without getting embarrassing. A low price generally leads to low-quality, BUT, with Amazon’s Choice badge and a 4.5/5.0 star customer review rating, be assured this is a good quality mini-speaker.
- - 4″ in diameter (9.6 ounces)
  - 600MAH built-in battery
  - IPx45 Water resistant/Dustproof
  - Phone-call capability with built-in mic
  - Included carabiner
  - 4 to 5 hrs of play time (2 to 3 hrs charging time)
  - 3 ways to connect: TF card, Bluetooth, aux line
Click here to view on Amazon!

I LOVE the idea of the speaker’s battery showing up on your phone while connected. It makes it so functional when on the go, especially with a sturdy carabiner attachment like it has.

It does state that you CANNOT immerse in water, so it should advertise it as water-resistant and not waterproof (those sly dogs).

But regardless of a few compromises, you really can’t beat the price for a battery-powered, portable outdoor speaker.

2. $17 Lujii Touch Lamp Outdoor Speaker

This light is definitely designed for camping or night-light use. The round design allows the light to spread across an area evenly and the white light is actually more natural and warm – said to even protect your eyes!
- - Bluetooth 2.1+EDR
  - About 5″ in diameter
  - Dimmable night light (3 brightness options with 7 color modes)
  - 5 to 10 hrs of functionality (depending on the amount of light/music use)
  - Phone call functionality (built-in mic)
  - Portable hook design
Click here to view on Amazon!

It does take a while to recharge (about 4 hrs), but if used as a night light you won’t have to worry about it during the day (as it charges). The touch sensitivity is very useful and convenient for children to use and it seems very bright!

3. $22 Ozzie Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker

Most waterproof speakers have an ugly design, but this circular speaker isn’t an eye-sore! And with the hook, it could definitely be used in the shower as well as outdoor venues.
- - Water resistant (IP 5)
  - 3 ways to connect: Bluetooth 4.1, Aux cable, & Micro SD
  - 5 to 8 hrs operating time (charge less often)
  - Built-in microphone (can be used for phone calls!)
  - Sweet crystal clear sound (bass only goes to 100Hz though)
  - About 5″ in diameter
  - 100% satisfaction guarantee
Click here to view on Amazon!

It’s hard to beat the price for 5-hours (maybe 8 hrs) of operating time and the fact its waterproof makes me envision taking phone calls in the shower (which I guess it pretty cool!). But I’m not too fond of 1.5hrs of charging time and the fact the bass doesn’t go down below 100 Hz. Though, with a speaker this size, you wouldn’t really use it for the bass (keep in mind that for meditation music, it does matter).

The warranty they offer lasts for 18-months as well which is nice. And with the little hook attached to the speaker itself, this nifty little audio player makes for a good budget-friendly option that’s hard to beat.

4. $30 VAVA Rugged Portable Speaker

So far this is the best option for battery life when it comes to playing music – with an enduring 5200mAh battery, it can last up to 24 hours of use. With the included carabiner, this portable speaker is built to “outlast the adventure” (as they advertise).
- - 8″ in length (1 pound in weight)
  - HUGE battery: 24 hours (2 hrs charging time)
  - Waterproof construction (IP 6 rating)
  - Bluetooth 4.1
  - Includes 3.5mm audio port and micro USB charging cable
Click here to view on Amazon!

I’m not completely sold on the sound quality of this speaker system, but with everything else in consideration, it does seem like the best package for the price. Especially considering the battery life which is far above average for the price and size of the speaker.

The customer reviews are glowing and with all the ruggedness of its design, it is less than a pound in weight. Not bad for such a small device.

5. $35 Hompie Lantern Speaker Light

If you’re looking for the best price with the most utility, look no further.

This little 3-in-1 outdoor speaker definitely packs a punch and offers more use than any option I’ve listed so far. Below I list the capabilities/specs and after reviewing it, you’ll soon understand why my previous statement might even be an understatement! It’s really amazing.
- - 5″ tall, 3″ in diameter with built-in hook
  - Multi-functional: speaker, lantern, and phone charging station
  - Bluetooth 4.2
  - 4.8W, 16 beaded LED lights with 5 light modes (including SOS signalling): up to 196 lumens
  - HUGE battery: 92 hrs when just playing music, 200 hrs when just using LEDs, 16 hrs for both audio/LEDs
  - 7 hours to charge
  - Direct USB plug-in for charging phones (as small as a phone too!)
Click here to view on Amazon!

It’s amazing to think this little device can hold such a powerful lithium battery when it is the same size as a normal phone!

I am disappointed though that there doesn’t seem to be any mention of waterproofing. But despite that, this mini-speaker really allows for a lot of wiggle room for extended hikes or camping adventures. For the price, it is really hard to beat that battery-life, which to me is the most important aspect of a chargeable device.

If you like this speaker, check out this other one too!

Click here to view the Yosoo version with a bigger battery, more durable hook, and square design!

I can just see myself camping with one of these speakers – hiking all day while listening to music and using it as a flashlight when I’m walking back to the campsite at dusk. Such great usability for this mini-speaker.

IF YOU LIKE the 30-hours of battery life but aren’t fond of the LED light, then check out the Vtin Outdoor Speaker by clicking here! Or click on the photo above. It is water resistant and provides the same huge battery as the Hompie speaker.

6. $35 Photive Waterproof Portable Speaker

If you care more about the sound quality of the music you’re playing while on the road adventuring, then forget the previous options and go for the Photive Hydra. This beast is rugged (waterproof and shock-proof) while enclosing two high fidelity stereo speakers and a passive subwoofer (the best I’ve seen yet).
- - 7″ wide, 2″ in circumference
  - Superior water resistant rating (IP 66 – higher than most)
  - 8-hrs battery life
  - Bluetooth 4.0
  - 1-year parts guarantee
Click here to view on Amazon!

While there’s no light attached, the sound is unparalleled and the durability of this small portable speaker is rated much higher than any previously listed. It is practically waterproof, meaning it will be safe in the shower but not safe submerged (IP 67 is waterproof, but this speaker is IP 66).

There’s one customer review on Amazon that literally claims this speaker survived an EF4 tornado after their house had been demolished.

I mean, talk about impressive.

So far, this portable speaker is my pick – especially if its only $35! That is a crazy deal.

I like it so much that I put the second photo up above to help persuade you! I mean, look how cool.

7. $40 OontZ Ultra 14W Speaker

The OontZ speaker designed by Cambridge SoundWorks WINS for the longest Bluetooth range of 100-feet and at only $40, it surprisingly beats out its $150 competitor (by 50-feet more!).
- - 6.4″ x 2.8″ x 2.8″ (15 ounces)
  - Bluetooth 4.2 (100-foot range!)
  - Waterproof (IP 6 rating)
  - 4,400mAh battery for 20-hours of playtime
  - 14W stereo sound with rich full bass
  - Multiple OontZ speakers can pair
Click here to view on Amazon!

The Bluetooth quality is no joke and can even play in sync with a video playing on a device (kind of unheard-of in the Bluetooth world).

So if you’re looking for the best connection without sacrificing sound quality or features, no need to look anywhere else – this speaker is the best option.

8. $44 DIKAOU Outdoor LED Torch Speaker

The atmosphere is a big deciding factor for me, so when a high-quality speaker acts as beautiful decor at the same time, it seems like a no-brainer to me! The slick design of this portable outdoor stereo speaker provides a warm LED light that mimics the intensity and “dance” of an actual flame.
- - 96 LEDs
  - Bluetooth 4.2 connection with 33-foot distance
  - 5W high-power sound with powerful bass
  - Almost 7″ tall with 4″ diameter
  - Rechargeable battery
Click here to view on Amazon!

If you’re looking to create a soothing (maybe romantic) atmosphere outside, this speaker might do the trick. With a 4.3 out of 5 stars in Amazon’s customer reviews, it has held up pretty well for only being on the market for almost a year.

My only complaint would be the lack of weatherproofing, so don’t use it when it is raining! It might be worth the compromise for the price, but I would suggest widening your budget – for just $10 more there are a bit more “safe” outdoor options.

If budget IS the biggest concern, Mayzo does have a $27 option that is very similar to this one with torchlight LEDs and HD audio, etc. Click here to view the cheaper Mayzo version of Outdoor LED Torch Speaker!

If budget is LESS of a concern, for $2 more you can get the LEDMEI version of this speaker. It has the same specs with the addition of USB charging and the ability to connect a tripod to the base. Click here to view the LEDMEI version!

9. $46 AUKEY Outdoor Speakers

When it comes to battery life, this portable speaker boasts 30-hrs of playtime (the best of all the options so far – and I mean it this time!).
- - 8″ x 3″ x 3″
  - Dual 5W speakers (larger than average)
  - 30-hrs playtime
  - Bluetooth 4.2
  - Water resistant & shock/drop resistant
  - Mounting Socket
  - 45-day money back guarantee and 1-year warranty
  - Phone call enabled
Click here to view on Amazon!

While it doesn’t come with its own carabiner, it does have a sturdy place to hook from. The sleek design is water resistant (unfortunately not waterproof, so no submerging in water!) and the speakers are actually larger than the previous options (at 5W).

If budget isn’t a concern for you, you might consider this for your outdoor adventures. Amazon’s Choice badge and it’s 4.5/5.0 rating (with almost 500 customer reviews), it definitely is proven to please the owner. HIGHLY recommended.

10. $50 Pohopa Waterproof Lantern Speaker

Despite your initial speculations, this c. 12″ tall LANTERN-style speaker does actually light up with 36 LEDs while also offering high-quality wireless audio. It also comes with an amazing little remote too!
- - 20 LEDs
  - Waterproof (IPx54)
  - 7.75″ x 7″ x 11.75″
  - Superior bass (10W full-bodied stereo)
  - Wind/noise reduction technology
  - Includes remote & micro USB charging cable
  - Bluetooth 4.1 and aux cable
  - Battery life is about 4-hr functionality (with both speaker and lights on)
Click here to view on Amazon!

With the remote control, LED lights, subwoofer, handle and waterproofing, this little lantern speaker is truly the full package. My only issue would be the lack of battery as it can only last for 4 hours with both music playing and the LED light on. If you don’t have parties longer then 4 hours, then you’ll be good to go! I really like this option, but it does take 2.5 hrs to recharge.

There is a black version of this lantern that is a bit more expensive ($80), but click here if you’ll like to view the black version!

There is a copper version of this lantern that I have below – but it doesn’t have the same features.

Unfortunately, it is not necessarily waterproof, but light mist would probably be okay. It does charge with USB and appears to be louder then most expect. Click here to view on Amazon!

It definitely is not my first choice, but the design is far different than most outdoor speakers. The copper body might go very well with your decorations! But if not, I would venture forward to find a bit more quality and bang for your buck.

11. $50 Hcman Waterproof Outdoor Speaker

If you’re looking for lightweight and waterproof, this speaker offers everything you need from clear sounds to carabiner hook. This sturdy speaker can be submerged under 3-feet of water for up to 30 minutes! Best waterproof rating for such a small and nifty speaker.
- - Fully waterproof (IP 7 rating) & shockproof
  - 20W stereo speakers
  - 3600 mAh battery for 24-hr endless music (6-7hrs recharge time)
  - Bluetooth and phone-call capabilities
  - Light-weight: less than a pound – 14.6 ounces
  - 1-yr warranty
Click here to view on Amazon!

The rubberized exterior helps protect the slick design and this speaker is built for adventures around water such as pools, ocean, or showers. And like other speakers, this one connects to your phone via Bluetooth and can display the charge so you’ll never be caught off guard by a low-battery speaker.

The 20W speakers offer a clear-cut, stereo sound while also staying completely waterproof! Most small, portable speakers have 15W or lower, so 20W is actually really good and hard to find in a speaker less than a pound in weight.

If budget isn’t a concern, I’d highly recommend checking out the next option for just a few extra dollars ($12 more)!

12. $62 Poweradd 36W Waterproof Speaker

If you want a waterproof speaker without sacrificing sound quality, this is the speaker for you. While the battery only lasts half as long as the previous option, it does pack a punch when it comes to its massive speaker setup.
- - About 9″ x 3.5″ x 2″
  - 36W speakers (two 13W stereo drivers, two 5W subwoofers)
  - 2 color options
  - Bluetooth 4.2
  - Waterproof (IP 7 rating) & sandproof/shockproof
  - Up to 24-hrs playtime (at 20% volume)
  - 1-yr warranty, 30days money back policy
Click here to view on Amazon!

With 4 speakers in total, this 36W portable stereo can impressively last 12hrs at 50% volume (which is a lot of power). The previous option is only 20W, so it makes sense the battery only last for half as long (the power in these speakers is almost double!).

The buttons themselves are large enough to press easily and also have a backlight to help you find them at night.

I also just love their advertisement photo with the water jumping off the speakers. The subwoofer is much bigger than other options previously listed as well!

13. $70 Aomais GO Portable Speaker

If you’re not opposed to a larger speaker, this is the BEST one on the market. I’ve researched a lot of speakers, but this beautiful stereo system provides the most features at top-notch quality. It beats every speaker previously listed!
- - 4.7 pounds (13.5″ x 7.5″ x 3.8″)
  - Fully waterproof (IP 7 rating – full 33 feet immersion for 30min)
  - Bluetooth 4.2
  - 30W sound (two stereo and two subs)
  - Can pair with another Aomais speaker for double the sound (60W)
  - 8800mAh battery for 30hrs of playtime (at 50% volume – 3 hrs charge time)
  - Charge devices and emergency power supply to prevent fadeouts
  - 1-year warranty
Click here to view on Amazon!

From the highest waterproof rating to the biggest sound, from an affordable price to a market-winning battery life, the AOMAIS GO portable speaker can improve any party inside or outside.

The battery in this system is so large it can play high-quality music for 30hrs!

If you need emergency phone charging, this AOMAIS speaker allows you to recharge. When the speaker itself is out of battery, it only takes 3hrs to charge! An amazingly short amount of time and beats out smaller speakers in charge time!

The two subwoofers (frontside and backside) provide the best bass sound yet and for extra potential, buy a second one and pair them to each other for double the impact at 60W of stereo sound! No wonder its an “Amazon’s Choice.”

Click here to view the $21 travel case for the AOMAIS GO!

Have children or a rowdy dog at your pool party? Don’t worry, this speaker can be fully submerged for 30-minutes in up to 33-feet of water! Unheard of for only $70. I’m floored by the price and the quality of the speaker. It would definitely be worth saving up for this beast of a stereo system because you’d never need another speaker again. And you can feel safe spending the money with their 1-year warranty too!

I’m amazed by this speaker and has undoubtedly become my number one choice for this price range.

14. $75 Innovative Weatherproof Speaker

From the options, this is not the best overall but it does offer comfortable carrying and a unique mood lighting LED. I list it because it offers some features other speakers don’t, so who knows! You might really want an LED light on your 20W stereo speakers with 20hrs of music. Definitely look into it if these features are important to you!
- - 6″ x 15″ x 6″ inches (6 pounds)
  - Bluetooth connection
  - Waterproof
  - 20W stereo speakers
  - 2200mAh battery for 20hrs of sound with 4 hrs of recharge time
  - Built-in LED light (mood lighting)
  - Adjustable carry handle (set up vertically or horizontally)
  - 90-day warranty (not listed on Amazon)
Click here to view on Amazon!

Compared to most products on Amazon, this speaker doesn’t have much action on its Amazon page (such as comments, reviews, descriptions, etc.), but that’s because its only been on the market since Feb. 2, 2018! So you could be the first to leave a helpful comment to influence others to venture forward with this great option!

Also, you can save $5 by ordering on Amazon (as compared to Bed Bath & Beyond)

15. $80 Yatra Aquatune Rugged Speaker

If you’re planning to use your portable speaker for outdoor adventures close to water (or in the water), this little speaker packs a punch! Its lightweight design allows it to fit wherever a water bottle can! Never be without music with its AWS – “All Weather Sound.”
- - 7.2″ x 3.2″ x 2.7″ inches
  - Two color options
  - Included carabiner and bike mount
  - 12W stereo sound
  - Waterproof (IP 6 rating)
  - Lightweight (less than a pound)
  - 10-hour battery life (2 hours charge time)
  - Hands-free calling capabilities
Click here to view on Amazon!

Rain or shine, this speaker will serve you well with 10-hours of playtime and 12W of sound. Not the best, but its a worthwhile compromise for the 0.9 pound of weight!

Aside from the all-black version, the orange and black color option is also very adventurous looking and received a lot of praise in the Amazon customer reviews.

16. $130 Altec Heavy Duty Waterproof Speaker

Rugged, waterproof, and impressively loud, the Altec Lansing “Heavy Duty” portable speaker is a great option, but definitely a bit more pricey. What’s most impressive is the battery life on this one and blows the other speakers out of the water!
- - 5 color options
  - 4.3″ x 8.7″ x 4.7″ inches (2.8 pounds)
  - Bluetooth enabled (50-foot range!)
  - 30-hour battery life
  - Waterproof/weatherproof (IP 67 rating)
  - Extra audio horsepower & can pair with another speaker!
  - Universal mount built-in
Click here to view on Amazon!

Although the design looks as if it would be HUGE, it is actually fairly small and weighs less then 3 pounds. The rubber cover keeps the stereo speakers safe from weather and even a teething dog! (One of their photos has a dog chewing on it – its great!)

This speaker also wins for having the most color options!

So with the durability and the customization, you can mount this baby on your motorcycle, mountain bike, boat, or other means of adventure and you’ll never have to worry about rain or weak sound. And the 50-foot Bluetooth range is also impressive since most only have a 33-foot range.

17. $300 Braven Waterproof Power Bank Speaker

The biggest, the badest, the Braven BRV-XXL outdoor portable speaker system is definitely the best when it comes to sound output and cool features.
- - 20″ x 8″ x 9.5″ inches (18 pounds)
  - Bluetooth sound with adjustable bass/treble settings
  - 14-hours playtime
  - 4 audio drivers and subwoofer (HUGE SOUND & big bass)
  - Water resistant/weatherproof (IP 5 rating)
  - 15,600mAh battery with charging capabilities (for phones, etc.)
  - Includes carrying strap with bottle opener
  - Built-in Microphone jack
Click here to view on Amazon!

For those looking for a speaker system to MC their parties, this loud stereo system has a built-in microphone jack! The HUGE power bank allows for recharging of devices and you never have to worry about weather since its IP 5 rated.

Although its the heaviest out of all the options, it does include a carrying strap (which is really cool) and an intense amount of sound to make up for the weight. It does break the bank a little, but for the incredible features, it might be worth saving up for this rugged outdoor speaker system (such a cool design).

Conclusion

My biggest point I want to make by publishing this article is that OH MY GOSH there are a lot of options out there.

You can be certain though, that after reviewing 25+ speakers on Amazon, I have found and listed the BEST. Among all these choices, each speaker provides something unique and can serve different situations better than others.

So to help break down all these options, please review my BEST choices for each feature.

BREAKDOWN:
- Best price: #4 VAVA Rugged Portable Speaker ($30)
- Best portability: #15 Yatra Aquatune Portable Speaker ($80)
- Best Bluetooth: #7 OontZ Ultra Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker ($40)
- Best sound: #12 Poweradd 36W Waterproof Speaker ($50)
- Best battery: #5 Hompie Lantern Speaker Light ($35)
- Best waterproof: #13 Aomais GO Fully Waterproof ($70)
- BEST OVERALL: #11 Hcman Waterproof Lightweight Speaker ($50)
The reason I chose #11 (HCMAN speaker) for the BEST speaker overall is because of a plethora of reasons: it is second best in waterproof rating (can be fully immersed), it has the best battery life for 20W of sound (24hrs of playtime), it has a lightweight, sleek design (less then a pound), and the price doesn’t break the bank ($50).

*For me personally, the sound quality is something I do not want to compromise on and 20W is more than enough to satisfy my pickiness. And after some bad experiences with cell phones in pools, I don’t want to ever have to worry about water when it comes to my electronics. The Hcman meets all my needs and also stays at $50 – not too cheap, but worth saving up for!

But of course, my opinion is my opinion. Take a look for yourself and see if you like any of these speakers.

I hope you found this article useful! I have spent DAYS going over each speaker on Amazon and I literally could not find any other options that contend with these amazing speakers on this list of the 17 best wireless outdoor speakers.

Which one is your favorite? Have you used one of these yourself and would you recommend it? Drop a comment below, I’d be very interested in your opinion!

If you want to hear more from me, feel free to sign up for the newsletter!

Take care and best of luck with all your musical adventures out in the wilderness!

Chase

June 2018
June 12, 2018
Best Free Numerology Reading – Tried & True
Your skepticism is understandable.

I, too, was not a believer, but after my recent free numerology reading, I’m starting to understand the popularity.

I’ve tried a number of numerology reports over the years, because hey, I’m always interested to hear potential insights about myself – but after trying Numerologist.com, I am beginning to appreciate “numerology” on a whole different level.

If you’re skeptical, like I always am, I understand you need more reason to just try a supposed “FREE” numerology reading.

So for all you out there wanting a reason to trust the link above, I’m here to help.

Click here for your own FREE report, or continue reading to learn about why the source of this report is trusted. Here at MusicalGrowth.com, I always do my research and never lead my readers in the wrong direction – to the best of my ability! So I invite you to read up before providing your information to Numerologist.com.

The organization of this article:
- Overview
- Pros
- Cons
- Credibility
Overview

Ever wanted a few insights into your personality?

Or possibly answers into why you behave certain ways?

Do you desire more success in your life?

Answers to these questions can be found through many different sources. For a growing population, numerology is a source for such questions and more!

Want an accurate numerology report now? All you need to provide is this information:
- - Your full given name
  - Your birthdate
  - Your marital status
Click here for your free numerology reading from a trusted source!

Numerologist.com offers a truly FREE report that goes into more detail than I originally expected. By taking a bit of information you provide, their automatic algorithms build a report tailored quite accurately to each user (my wife and I tried it and it was scary accurate).

Their JavaScript, animated and customized presentation of your FREE numerology report is beautiful and easy to follow. As you fill in a few bits of information, each section is presented in the same location for easy access – no need to navigate to any other page! And a voice narrator shares with you all the information you’re looking for in a FREE reading.

When I say free, I truly mean FREE.

Here’s everything this report comes with:
- Life Path (birthday number and interpretation)
- Expression or Destiny (full name number and interpretation)
- Soul Urge (number and interpretation)
If you’re wondering why I’m talking up this report with such a positive review, I’d like to invite you to read the “Credibility” section below.

Want the best free numerology reading right now!? Click here!

Otherwise, keep reading!

Pros

A lot of landing pages for websites are somewhat put together and keep you interested for only a few minutes, but Numerologist.com is different.

I found myself on it for an easy 10-minutes! And then I couldn’t help but invite my wife to do it, too. And then maybe put in my friends’ information to see into their “secret” selves (I don’t care if it’s wrong, I was curious!).

Here’s a few quick bullet points for the reasons why I appreciate their setup:
- Beautiful interface
- Serene meditation music
- Intriguing graphic design
- Clear and understandable narration
- Closed captioning
- Gorgeous background animation
- Single interactive interface to receive report
- Live comments and feedback below
- Large website to dig deeper into the company
- No need to check your email for the report – they provide the reading on the same page
The overall experience is very impressive. The creative team behind this interactive reporting system really paid attention to detail from the graphics to the clarity of the narration.

As a musician, I found the music inviting and atmospherical. As a vocalist, I found the narrator amazingly well-spoken and pleasing to listen to (even after 15min!). The graphic design aided in drawing me into a world of mysticism and insight.

I found the philosophy of numerology to be very friendly thanks to Numerologist.com’s cohesive and beautiful approach.

Every explanation was relatable and each interpretation was well explained. I really was impressed by the whole experience! Especially because it was free and there’s really no harm in trying it.

I actually am really glad I did, because I found it to be informative and risk-free. The only contact info you give them is your email and from there you can cut ties if you want to, but I’d highly recommend going a step further!

Cons

These “cons” are very picky details that maybe some wouldn’t notice, but I feel every little thing matters. Especially when your asked to spend money at the end.
- Heavy loading at first (a lot of JavaScript)
- Comments aren’t too insightful
- A few design/animation flaws but nothing too distracting
- After the free report, they do invite you to spend a bit ($37) for more information about your numerology report
I don’t blame them for, as they put it, “drawing the line.” They do give quite a bit of information out for free, so for $37, it’s more than worth diving deeper for more.

There aren’t too many cons, but of course the biggest one is they do ask for more money if your want a “full” report. But keep in mind, the “free” information they give is to prove their credibility and quality. And the amount they give is more than enough to help decide the value of their “full” report.

So although it is a way to draw in more customers, the free numerology reading is completely worth it and fully risk-free with no personal information except your birthday, your full name, and an email address of your choosing. And no, you do not have to check your email address in order to receive your report (this being an important “pro” to take into consideration).

Credibility

So. My wife and I both tried their FREE numerology reading, because we were both genuinely interested.

Seeing the system work through two reading, one after another, was very helpful in determining the quality of the supposed “reading.”

I found that between the two readings, there were far more differences than I expected. The only “repetitive” text was for more informative directions or instructions.

All other information was truly unique to each of our separate life path’s, expression numbers, and soul urges.

They advertise this report as “shocking.”

Let me share a few insights as to why it was “shockingly” accurate for us:
- My wife is a nurse and it stated “when there’s a dirty job that needs to be done, you aren’t afraid of doing it.” ACCURATE.
- It stated that I’m determined: “you can sit down and work until a project is done properly”. ACCURATE.
- It stated I have a strong calling to “work independently as a scientist, writer, or scholar.” ACCURATE, well as far as I know – some evidence can be found in this website!
- My wife wants to be a charge nurse and it stated “you find yourself in leadership positions in work and in relationships.” ACCURATE.
- It stated I have “unparalleled creativity and am willing to work hard to make your dream-life come true.” ACCURATE.
- It stated that I’m somewhat of a mystic: “you have the rare ability in understanding abstract concepts and chase after philosophies, maybe even mathematics.” ACCURATE
- For both my wife and I, it stated that we’re pretty picky when it comes to romantic partners and know what we want. ACCURATE.
*There are a few more accurate tellings into our lives that were a bit shocking, but it’s a little too personal to share publicly here in this article.*

But let me assure you that, although I don’t really “believe” in astrology or numerology or mumbo-jumbo, I did find this report truly interesting and more than anything, intriguing.

I love numbers, because numbers don’t lie!

So calculating numbers from our lives is rather… cool. For lack of a better term.

Conclusion

Ask yourself – is a few minutes worth experimenting with a credible source for numerology readings?

The answer is yes! I mean, why not? I am never one to shy away from experimenting with possibly insightful tellings of my life, future, karma, destiny, personality, IQ, etc. So for only a few minutes here and there, I have fun learning about different approaches in finding extra information about the world and myself. I might experiment through astrology, numerology, or philosophy, but I have yet to be persuaded by one school of thought enough to follow it with 100% faith.

So far though, especially after this report, I find an intense amount of intrigue for numerology and the application of algorithm, numbers, and systems.

Like I said, numbers don’t lie.

So for me, finding numbers in things is a fairly cool concept – albeit difficult to prove scientifically though.

All in all, it is well worth your time to receive one of the best FREE numerology readings out there, so no need to research anymore – get your free report now from Numerologist.com!

I’ve ran through the process twice now and each time it has been completely free and hasn’t asked for any other information besides my name, birthday, and email. Totally risk-free!

SO HAVE FUN. Experiment a little and take some time to learn about a new way of thinking!

Numerology has been around since Egypt and Babylon!

And this is according to the earliest written records, so numerology might be an even older tradition. You might as well learn about this tried and true form of deep insight!

After all, it’s thousands of years old. It can’t be all false – right?

What do you think? Is taking this free numerology reading worth the time? Please share your thoughts in the comments below! I’d be happy to read each and everyone of them!

Thanks for reading and best of luck with your numerology reports! If you’d like to hear more from me, feel free to sign up for my newsletter!

If you’re interested in philosophy, I invite you to read a few more of my articles:
- Music Philosophy
- Art is Undead
Thanks again! Take care!

Chase

June 2018
June 6, 2018
Large Wall Decor – May 2018 Best Picks
Most of us don’t live in amazing wood cabins in Switzerland or abandoned warehouses in NY or even recycled storage containers in LA.

We don’t all have antique materials holding up the roof over our head where each wall tells an intricate story of history and unparalleled character!

For those like me who live in a “cookie-cutter” apartment, large wall decor is a reliable way to improve any room’s dull egg white paint. Because let’s face it – the default off-white walls that every rental company seems to adore has the equivalent atmosphere to a sturdy cardboard box. It ain’t great, am I right?!

As I further my investigation into sprucing up my own place, I’d like to share some of my best picks for large wall decor that are inexpensive, yet majestically transformative. In other words, I want to help transform your dull living space into a metropolis of ever-expanding ideas! Or at least make you more happy to come home to your living room after work.

So here are some great ideas for large wall decor – my best picks for this month (May, 2018).

1. Lotus Flower Wall Decal

On a budget? This decoration might be for you, because it is one of the cheapest options on this list at only $9! Wall decals can looks great depending on the type of wall you have (maybe not the best for textured walls). For yoga studio, offices, or your living space, this giant lotus flower can remind everyone in the room of the peace and serenity that comes with “OM” and spiritual awakening.
- 24″ x 14″
- 16 different colors to choose from (default is black)
- High-quality Oracal vinyl material (5-year indoor life)
- Fully removable
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
If you’re looking to experiment, this is a great option due to the ease of removable – unfortunately, it isn’t designed to be reusable after removing, so do be careful!

2. Elephant & Tree of Life Tapestry

One of the most iconic ways to decorate any space is with an elaborate tapestry! I always find hanging fabric material on walls makes the room feel more “homey” – maybe because is feels more warm because there’s no glare. Plus it’s softer than the actual wall!
- 82″ x 52″
- Other color options
- Includes 4 pins for hanging (flat head, flower shaped clear pins)
- Includes free PDF guide to taking care of your tapestry as well as their history
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
This particluar tapestry is very elegant in its design. The use of black and gold offers great contrast and the size isn’t overbearing. A tapestry such as this can be used in other ways as well! Which is why they make for such versatile purchase. Instead of using the tapestry as a wall hanging, consider it as a beach throw, picnic blanket, table cloth, porch hanging, bed spread, or maybe even a sofa cover. With the free PDF that comes with the tapestry, you’ll be sure to take good care of it.

3. Three Piece Canvas Wall Art

I absolutely love art that is separated into sections such as this three-piece canvas. The fantasy scene of an autumn night with pink leaves is stunning. Not too modern, but also very unique with the brush strokes.
- 36″ x 24″ (or 24″ x 16″) two sizes
- The canvas is printed and hand stretch in the USA by professionals
- Hanging accessory kit included
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
I picked the canvas above because of the wonderful color choice by the artist, but if you’re looking for a specific color scheme or love options, no need to worry.

There are 24 canvas choices in total, all of which are unique in their own way. I chose three to show you, but I would highly recommend looking through all of wall26’s options (wall26 is the company’s name).

From the 24 choices, these three are the best in my opinion. Feel free to click on one of the photos above to view it Amazon!

4. Seven Chakra Wall Art Decals

Each of these seven chakra decals represent the continuing need to balance our energy and with artistic reminders like these, it might be easier to achieve with these symbols to remind you of life’s true priorities.
- Seven high quality, adhesive gloss or matte vinyls, each 19cm x 19cm in diameter
- 5 year outdoor life; lifetime indoor rating
- Non-toxic, eco-friendly, waterproof removable stickers
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
With an indoor lifespan of virtually forever (according to them), it can be scary to put up vinyl on a wall. So Drocellatech (the company) provides a demo decal to test things out first before committing to 7 full wall decals! Although these symbols are fairly intricate, the artistic art idea behind these decals is minimalist. It makes for a great balance for any space.

5. Minimalist Floating Quote Wall Art

Yoga or meditation art is usually found in one or two ways: embellished and colorful or minimalist and mindful.
- “Inhale, exhale.”
- Expert print on transparent film between two pieces of glass
- Two sizes: 9″ x 11″ or 12″ x 15″
- Frame included and sawtooth hanger installed
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
I can never decided between decor with color and lavish design or minimalist reminders of mindfulness and thought. Sometimes there’s more in simple design, as stated by famous jazz pianist, Thelonius Monk: “Less is more.” The company that creates these hangibles goes by “The Burnt Branch” which specialized in personalized and unique home decor. Though there’s only one review on Amazon, it is a glowing acknowledgement to this product’s quality.

6. Blue Tapestry Wall Hanging

I wouldn’t be doing justice to yoga/meditation decor without the quintessential blue mandala tapestry design.
- 100% cotton
- 3 sizes: Twin, King, or Queen.
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
The mandala design, which in Sanskrit translates to “circle,” symbolizes spiritual and ritual circle that represents the universe, both in Hinduism and Buddhism. So while this design is gorgeous and wraps the viewer into circled artistry, it does have a far deeper meaning than some might be aware of! And for only $10, you can’t beat a 100% cotton.

7. Removable Wall Tree Mural

Maybe it’s my obsession with trees, but this wall mural is one of my favorites on this particular list. There are so many reasons why I love this particular piece – but my biggest hope is that you share a love for trees so I don’t sound too subjective!
- 66″ x 96″ in total (comes in 4 pieces for easy installation)
- 100″ x 144″ size option as well
- 25 design options in total (the tree is the best in my opinion!)
- Indoor/Outdoor walls or windows
- Won’t leave a mark after removing
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON AMAZON!
Most decals have so much color it looks distasteful and out of place. With this particular design, the color scheme is minimalist (being only black) but the detail is intricate. Because the detail is from the natural silhouette of a tree (with no leaves), it looks more like an open window that a piece of artwork.

Conclusion

While there are practically unlimited amounts of decor options for large walls and big spaces, I hope this article at least sparks ideas or introduces you to some new ways of decorating.

I named this article “May 2018” because I hope to continue exploring and providing the best options I find online – let’s face it, so many options can sometimes be overwhelming! I’d like to narrow it down somewhat by doing the research for you (maybe even save you some time by listing them in one easy to navigate article!).

So if you’d like to hear from me and my future decor articles (among other things), feel free to sign up for my newsletter!

Which one of these large wall hangings did you like the most? Leave your thoughts in the comments below, I’m curious!

If you’re curious for more decor ideas, I recommend reading these other articles:
Thanks for dropping by,

Chase

May 2018
May 31, 2018
Best Stone Garden Statues of 2018 – For Sale!
Some of my favorite types of decor are made using Earthly materials. By transforming naturally found items into a work of art suitable for a zen meditation room can prove to be an amazing way to add a sense of “calm” to any atmosphere. Whether it be wood-based, plant material, sand, rope, etc., materials like these have such a potential to alter any outdoor (or indoor) space in a positive way.

Today, I would love to share some of the best stone garden statues I could find on BuddhaGroove.com (click here for review) and Amazon.

If you’ve seen or know of rock balancing, you may not be aware there is a certain name associated with the the end result. Cairns and rock balancing is a far older tradition than some might think! So don’t be confused by products entitled, “cairns.” A friendly definition of “cairn,” would be: balanced rocks made into statues.

1. Zen Garden Cairns

When you think of rock balancing, this piece of decor is definitely the most traditional route. These seemingly balanced rocks are held together using a metal support beam inside these natural rocks. Cairns (balanced rocks acting as statues) are seen all over the world and symbolize hope, safety, and direction for those who see these statues along life’s path.
- Natural rocks with metal supports
- Made in Indonesia
- Triple size – about 6″ high and around 4 lbs
- Quintuple size – about 9″ high and around 6 lbs
- Septuple size – about 12 “high and around 9 lbs
- Click here to view on BuddhaGroove!
The beauty about these cairns is that they fit nearly any garden space due to their relatively small size. Thanks to the natural durability of stone, these statues will last a lifetime! Only minor (natural) variations might occur from prolonged outdoor exposure – which is to be expected. I also love that they keep slight imperfections (such as color or on the surface) to keep the natural appeal of these stone cairns.

2. Cairn Arch Stone Statue

Taking a little detour away from the traditional vertical cairn, these rocks are designed to appear balanced on top of each other to form an archway. The picture doesn’t do this statue justice, because although these river stones are smaller, this statue stands at approximately 8″ tall!
- River stone with metal wire
- Made on Java Island, Indonesia
- About 12″ wide, 8″ high and around 5 lbs
It is recommended to have some gorilla sealant handy in case you find a stone falls off after prolonged outdoor exposure to natures elements! But no need to worry, for these river stones are all-natural, being gathered by the villagers in West Java in Indonesia.

3. Glass Cairn Garden Statue

If you’re looking for a more unique color scheme while staying semi-natural, I would highly recommend this gorgeous garden statue with natural rock, rounded-glass, and other types of rocks. With the frosted glass mixed with natural stone, the color palette includes aqua, beige, cream, gray and sea green.
- Natural stone and frosted glass with metal support
- Made in Indonesia
- Around 12″ tall and about 9 lbs
- Click here to view on BuddhaGroove!
The “natural” appeal to this statue is maintained through some minor imperfections that can be found on the stones, but again, outdoor durability will be fairly similar to strict stone statues (glass is still durable!). Just make sure, if you do end up buying this garden cairn, that you purchase a sealant for freezing temperatures.

Also, keep in mind that prolonged exposure to outdoor elements will obviously alter the color and finish on these stones, but it will always happen naturally. I actually think decorative stones with a bit of weather and dirt look far more appealing!

4. Side 2 Side Rock Cairn Sculpture

If you’re looking for a different look (that kind of defies the laws of gravity), this “side 2 side” rock cairn is a great addition to any outdoor garden or indoor meditation space. With the rocks at constant unbalance, though held together through a metal rod, this simplistic statue offers a sense of wonder for spectators and a state of constant “now” for those nearby.
- Made on Java island, Indonesia
- THREE SIZE OPTIONS: 11″ high, 17″ high, or 22″ high
- Click here to view on Amazon!
I only mention so much about the off-balance design because it defies the laws of gravity! You’ll constantly want to stare at it to make sure it doesn’t fall over. It will always make you wait for that moment when it falls over – though it will never come thanks to the metal rod that support this “side 2 side” cairn.

Garden Age Supply, the company who makes these statues, say it adds a new sense of balance and calm to the hectic pace of daily life. Keep in mind, as with all decorative products made from natural materials, that each piece is unique and may have varying design dimensions, colors, and slight imperfections. But these little differences are why we love natural decorations, right?

5. Inspirational Cairn Garden Statue

Cairns are none to be inspirational to big with by reminding travelers of hope and security on life’s path. These natural rocks go a bit further by engraving a great reminder to “stop, look around, and breathe in the present.” So far the tallest of the Buddha Groove options, standing at 13″ tall and maybe the most inspirational to you!
- Stacked natural rocks with metal support
- Made in Indonesia
- About 13″ high and about 9 lbs
- Engraved with “BE HERE NOW”
- Click here to view on BuddhaGroove!
When I was growing up, my mother loved having engraved stones (singular stones) with one-word engravings sitting all over the house. These little reminder would really stick in your mind, such as “be calm,” “laugh, “smile,” etc. With a reminder such as “be here now,” you can rest assured you’ll have more chances to stop and remember to live in the present.

Reminders as important as “be here now” is also more convenient when engraved on stone, because this particle decoration is good for both indoor and outdoor use. Remind yourself of mindfulness anywhere you’d like!

6. Natural River Stone Septuple Cairn

As the last option, I wanted to go back to the traditional look of a rock balanced decoration or as you may now have learned is called a cairn. Garden Age Supply offer this 12″ high cairn of natural river stone for only $33! The “septuple” in the title refers to the fact there are 7 stones, but what I love is the intense organizational look of this cairn.
- Natural river stone support by a metal rod
- Made on Java Island, Indonesia
- Click here to view on Amazon!
I’m amazed the design of this cairn has seven stones and yet it comes together to create such a uniformity in its triangle. The natural appeal comes from the uniqueness of each stone found in rivers of west java island in Indonesia and the calming comes from the never ending balance shown by this cairn (even if it is manufactured balance by way of a metal rod!).

Conclusion

I hope you found a new appreciation of cairn and rock balancing – please consider improving your garden with a cairn! Natural stone balanced on natural stone always looks so gorgeous when the sun hits them and a shadow law on a dirt path.

Five years of my childhood was spent in Santa Cruz, California where cairns would be found on a regular basis, on almost every beach. Only occasionally would you catch someone in time to see them making a stone balancing “art installation,” or as we now know them as cairns!

The intensity and patience needed when balancing large stones is enormous.

I’ve only ever gotten to about 5 rocks balanced on a beach! But I have come across many cairns and each one is a testament of someone’s patience. There was one time in Sequoia National Park that my wife and I came across about 30 cairns in the same area, each with about 5 to 7 stones! It was truly an amazing landscape.

One of the most disappointing parts of balancing stones is their inevitable collapse.

Luckily, there’s a loophole around this disappointment! Each of the options listed today have a metal rod inserted within the “balanced” rocks to help keep them together for good! And now you’ll never have to worry about your cairn falling over by the hands of a curious toddler.

Thanks for reading! If you’re looking for more amazing decor to help improve your lifestyle and atmosphere, I would highly recommend reading these other articles here on Musical Growth:
If you’d like to hear more from me, you are more than welcome to sign up for the newsletter.

Thanks again for dropping by!

Chase
May 24, 2018
FREE Relaxing Piano Piece – “Peaceful Waters”

This short, but warm piano piece was composed for @natalie_paulina_veijanen after she commissioned me to write a piece to express “peace.”

I’m always happy to compose calming music, but when she told me of an old dream of hers to take lessons and be able to play piano, I had an idea.

I would compose a piece easy enough to learn for a beginner!

“Peaceful Waters” – piano solo

I entitled this piece, “Peaceful Waters,” because of the flowing, rhythmic 8th notes accompanying the simplistic melody. There are really only two primary chord in this short, 1-min piece: C-major and F-major. I chose the key for obvious reasons – no accidentals to worry about! Makes things far easier for a beginner.

The reason behind the commission started from a celebratory post on MusicalGrowth’s Instagram account (@MusicalGrowth). I offered to write original music for 5 people and out of the pieces I wrote, I chose this was to share! Mainly because I’ve decided to provide the sheet music for this piano piece for FREE.

So if you liked this piano piece enough, you are more than welcome to download the PDF and begin learning it! I would love if you contacted me when you’re able to play it – I truly hope this piece inspires you to learn.

DOWNLOAD PDF HERE

Click the button above to download the one page PDF document of “Peaceful Waters.”

DISCLAIMER: Please be respectful though and only use this for educational or recreational purposes. DO NOT sell this or distribute without permission. It is owned by Chase Chandler and written on May 21, 2018. If you’d like to perform it, you are more than welcome to! I would love if you record the performance and contact me though – I would be honored to see it performed!

Conclusion

I’ve taught private music lessons for over 8 years now and I’m beginning to realize how little repertoire there is for the beginning music student.

If you found this piece useful and are looking for me, please drop me a comment below. Let me know! If you’d like a piece commissioned for yourself, feel free to contact me. I’d be happy to help you out!

Best of luck learning this piece – let me know if I can help you out in anyway! It shouldn’t be too difficult to learn.

Thanks for stopping by! If you’d like to hear more from me, I invite you to sign up for my newsletter.

Chase

May 21, 2018