Michael Franti & Spearhead: The Sound of Sunshine Album and Stay Human Yoga Gear {Review}

There are often times when I glance at the clock and can't believe the day has passed already. Similarly, I'm constantly amazed when I look at the calendar and see just how much of the month (or year) has gone by in flash. How has life gotten so hectic that I feel like I'm missing it?

Therefore, I look for any and all opportunities to add some peace and relaxation into my routine as much as possible and one way that happens for many people across the world is through yoga. And no one knows more about that as well as how important of a role that music can play in inspiring you to slow down and let go than Michael Franti & Spearhead and their new album, The Sound of Sunshine.

“Music is sunshine,” says world famous music artist Michael Franti, and his new, amazing CD is all about discovering what inspires you. With a goal to bring listeners an inspirational album to bring a sense of new energy and a stronger sense of purpose, these lyrics are perfect to listen to during your yoga routine or just whenever you need a little extra calming in your life.

Compared to the words (and actions) of the pop stars that are filling the airwaves these days, The Sound of Sunshine is completely the opposite. Michael Franti & Spearhead combine vocals and instruments into a soothing yet very upbeat experience that has a way of getting his message of hope and dreams and thankfulness across.

Download and purchase information for The Sound of Sunshine (this album really is a lot of fun!) is available right on Michael Franti's website, along with much more information about him, the band, their tour and more.

In addition to being a musician, Michael Franti has turned his dedication to yoga (he even has a Bali Yoga Retreat) into co-creating a line of stylish and functional apparel and gear: Stay Human.

According to Michael Franti, the name Stay Human means "to hold onto one’s humanity, spirit and open-heartedness in a complex, fast-paced and sometimes crazy world. The clothing line as well as the retreat center are dedicated to these ideas."

All of the products are eco-friendly and made from organic, sustainable and recycled materials and Stay Human even donates 10% of their proceeds to charitable organizations... how can you go wrong?

The Stay Human women's tank top grabbed my attention right away, as the 100% organic cotton is extremely soft to the touch and the brown background with the blue jellyfish is unique and different. Although this design is not shown on the website any longer, prices range from around $20 - $36... and I would love to wear this comfortable and stylish top if it had come in a larger size.

Because as much as I could hope that it would fit me, I'm thinking that for now I have someone else who isn't too far from being able to wear it for fashion and her own expert yoga poses...

The Stay Human Water Bottle retails for $12 and is made in the USA out of 18/8 food grade Stainless Steel. I really like the 20-ounce size and that you have the option of flipping back the cap when using the sport top or switching to the wide mouth, removable top instead.

With the infinity fish art on one side and the Stay Human logo on the other, this is an affordable and quality alternative for those who are conscious about their health and the environment.

Known as such a positive and conscious artist in music today, Michael Franti believes that “like sunshine, music is a powerful force that can almost instantly and chemically change your entire mood.” He has spent his career trying to bring that sunshine into others' lives through his music and his charitable efforts.

And Stay Human and the commitment that is made to organic and recycled materials ties it all together with fashion, function and style. The music, the company and the products all just come together to make you feel good!

For much more information, find Michael Franti on his website, Twitter and Facebook and Stay Human on their website and Facebook as well.

(Other than the Michael Franti & Spearhead CD and Stay Human items that I received to facilitate my review, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this album, this company and their products.)