Having recently completed filming the movie “Lure”, this former pageant queen is known for her role as “the new girl” on the hit reality show Laguna Beach. A student at Pepperdine University, Casey juggles her role as a full time student and actress. I interviewed Casey because she is an example of someone who walks the walk and talks the talk for natural and organic living. Not only does she live the lifestyle, but she also uses organic make-up and is actually working on her own organic make-up line. You go girl!
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): When did you become interested in living a natural and organic lifestyle?
Casey Reinhardt: It was how I was raised. My mom was very much into a natural and organic way of life and always fed us organic chicken, milk, eggs, wild fish, fruits and vegetables. She also gave me vitamins. She laid the foundation for me early on and it was all I knew.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): Was there ever a time when you strayed from this lifestyle?
Casey Reinhardt: When I first went to college I lived in the dorm and I started eating dorm food because it was less expensive. But when I moved out and starting buying my own food it really made a difference for me on how I looked and felt. When I eat organic food, I feel better. My body feels cleaner, I have more energy and my skin is nicer.
Now I make an organic smoothie every morning. I mix blueberries, strawberries and raspberries with organic yogurt, ground flaxseeds, and a little bit of stevia and water. It helps to get my day going.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): You mentioned eating organic foods can be a little bit more expensive. Can you tell us what you do to maintain a healthy lifestyle on a budget?
Casey Reinhardt: I shop at the farmers market in Santa Monica. They have a great variety of products that are organic and clean. I find that their products are cheaper [than the grocery stores] and taste better.
I make it a point to shop there once or twice a week to buy my fruits and veggies – and in order to stay within my budget, I buy a little bit at a time so I don’t waste anything. I only buy what I need.
I love fruit. My favorites are tangelos and strawberries. I could live on just fruit if I had to.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): You are amazing shape. How do you keep your body fit?
Casey Reinhardt: I love anything that takes me outside like swimming in the ocean, hiking, and running on the beach (the sand makes for a great work out). I’m an outdoor lover and I find it clears my mind. I also work out with a trainer who helps me with weight training.
Because I love to work out outside in the fresh air and sun, I always make sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): What keeps you motivated to stay in shape?
Casey Reinhardt: I have been doing it for so long it has become a way of life for me and it is part of my everyday routine. I have to work out to keep my energy levels up. My mom is the same way. She works out on her treadmill to keep her energy levels up. I’m really health conscious and I want to be fit. I’m in the entertainment business so I have to look good.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): How do you maintain balance in your life?
Casey Reinhardt: I pray a lot. I work out. I go to school. I’m very positive. I love life and don’t take things too seriously.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): Tell us about your charity and why you founded it
Casey Reinhardt: My charity is called the C.A.S.E.Y. Foundation, Children's Alliance for the Success and Education for Youth in need, It helps children who need help from foster children to sicknesses. I’m passionate about making a child’s life better any way I can. My stepdad inspired me to be charitable. I started with Olive Crest (an organization for abused, neglected and at-risk children and their families) then decided to start my own foundation. It also helps with education and very rewarding. I’m glad I started it.
Naturally Savvy Guide (Andrea Donsky): Thank you Casey. You are quite an inspiration.
Above Photo Credit: Jsquared Photography
