Essential Oils

In Plant Medicine

Winter Skincare Tips: Protecting and Nourishing Your Skin During the Colder Months

July 11, 2024

Winter’s cold, dry air can take a toll on your skin, leaving it feeling dry, chapped, and irritated. To keep your skin looking and feeling its best during the colder months, it’s essential to adapt your skincare routine. Today I’ll share top tips for protecting and nourishing your skin this winter, including hydrating skincare routines, natural moisturisers, and herbal remedies for common skin concerns.

HYDRATING SKINCARE ROUTINES

GENTLE CLEANSING

Winter weather can strip your skin of its natural oils, so it’s crucial to use a gentle cleanser that won’t dry out your skin. Opt for a creamy or oil-based cleanser that will remove impurities without disrupting your skin’s moisture barrier.

EXFOLIATION

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows your moisturiser to penetrate more deeply. However, during winter, it’s important to choose a gentle exfoliator to avoid over-scrubbing. Aim to exfoliate 1-2 times a week with a mild scrub or a chemical free exfoliant containing all natural ingredients.

HYDRATING TONER

After cleansing, apply a hydrating toner to help replenish moisture. Look for toners containing ingredients like sodium hyaluronate, apple fruit / green algae extract, or rose water, which help to lock in hydration and soothe the skin.

LAYERING MOISTURE

Layering hydrating products can be particularly beneficial in winter. Start with a hydrating serum or essence, followed by a rich moisturiser. Serums with ingredients like orchid flower extract, boswellia (frankincense) and myrrh resin extract, angelica, and chamomile provide an extra boost of hydration and help strengthen the skin’s barrier.

NATURAL MOISTURISERS

SHEA BUTTER

Shea butter is a fantastic natural moisturiser that provides deep hydration and nourishment. Rich in vitamins A and E, it helps to soothe and repair dry, cracked skin. Apply shea butter to your face, hands, and any other dry areas to keep your skin soft and supple.

COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is another excellent natural moisturiser. Its fatty acids help to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental damage. Use it as an all-over body moisturiser, focusing on particularly dry areas like elbows, knees, and feet.

ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It’s perfect for calming irritated skin and providing light hydration. Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to your skin or mix it with your favourite moisturiser for an extra hydrating boost.

JOJOBA OIL

Jojoba oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it an effective moisturiser for all skin types. It’s non-greasy and easily absorbed, providing hydration without clogging pores. Use jojoba oil as a facial moisturiser or add a few drops to your regular lotion for added moisture.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR COMMON SKIN CONCERNS

CHAMOMILE

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that make it ideal for calming irritated or sensitive skin. Use chamomile tea as a facial rinse or apply chamomile-infused products to reduce redness and irritation.

CALENDULA

Calendula is known for its healing properties and is excellent for treating dry, chapped skin. Look for creams or balms containing calendula to help repair and protect your skin from the harsh winter elements.

LAVENDER

Lavender oil has both calming and antimicrobial properties. It’s great for soothing dry, itchy skin and can also help prevent winter breakouts. Add a few drops of lavender oil to your moisturiser or use it in a facial steam to benefit from its soothing effects.

OATMEAL

Oatmeal is a natural humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture in the skin. It’s also excellent for soothing itchy, irritated skin. Take an oatmeal bath by adding a cup of finely ground oats to your bathwater, or use oatmeal-based skincare products for added hydration and relief.

Winter skincare requires a bit of extra effort to keep your skin healthy and radiant. By incorporating hydrating skincare routines, using natural moisturisers, and trying herbal remedies, you can protect and nourish your skin throughout the colder months. Embrace these winter skincare tips to ensure your skin stays soft, smooth, and glowing all season long. Stay hydrated, stay warm, and take good care of your skin.

My new fave is the Sandalwood Boswellia Firming Cream from Young Living, infused with Swiss fermented grapes and Peruvian carob + nine nourishing essential oils including Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood. There are a few more luxurious ingredients that I haven’t mentioned but wow this product is so nice. It’s designed with mature skin in mind. Tackling wrinkles and fine lines.. tightening up the neck area.. I love it!.

How are you taking care of your skin this Winter? Send me a message, I’d love to here from you.

In Holistic Health

Natural Strategies to Combat Stress

July 5, 2024

As the seasons change, many of us find ourselves facing increased stress that can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Fortunately, there are natural strategies to help manage and reduce stress. I want to share with you today a few effective stress-relief techniques, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, aromatherapy, and the use of adaptogenic herbs, to help you stay calm and centered during the season.

MEDITATION

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. It helps you become aware of your thoughts and feelings, allowing you to respond to stress more calmly. Start with just five minutes a day, sitting quietly and focusing on your breath.

DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES

DIAPHRAGMATIC BREATHING

Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing, involves breathing deeply into your diaphragm rather than shallowly into your chest. This technique helps activate the body’s relaxation response. To practice, sit comfortably, place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly, and take slow, deep breaths, ensuring your belly rises more than your chest.

BOX BREATHING

Box breathing is a simple technique that involves inhaling for four counts, holding the breath for four counts, exhaling for four counts, and holding the breath out for four counts. Repeat this cycle several times to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

calming lavender bunch held in hands for relaxation

AROMATHERAPY

Aromatherapy uses essential oils to promote relaxation and well-being. Oils such as lavender, frankincense, and orange are known for their calming properties. Use a diffuser to fill your space with soothing scents, or apply diluted essential oils to your wrists and temples. Find the best quality and most effective oils here. These are the only ones I’ll ever use!

AROMATHERAPY BATHS

Taking a warm bath with added essential oils can be a luxurious way to unwind. Add a few drops of your favourite calming oil to your bathwater, (my fave is a blend called Peace & Calming) and soak for at least 20 minutes to enjoy the stress-relieving benefits.

ADAPTOGENIC HERBS

ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body adapt to stress and supports overall well-being. It can reduce cortisol levels, which are often elevated during periods of stress. Ashwagandha is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and teas.

RHODIOLA ROSEA

Rhodiola Rosea is another adaptogen known for its ability to enhance resilience to stress. It can improve mood, reduce fatigue, and support mental clarity. Rhodiola can be taken as a supplement or in tea form.

HOLY BASIL (TULSI)

Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its stress-relieving properties. It helps regulate cortisol levels and supports a calm, balanced state. Enjoy Holy Basil in tea form for a soothing and beneficial drink.

ADDITIONAL STRESS-RELIEF TECHNIQUES

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Regular physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or dancing, can significantly reduce stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and helps clear the mind. Just don’t go too heavy or too fast for too long. This will increase your cortisol and potentially lead to burnout and a negative effect on your immune system.

JOURNALLING

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a powerful way to process stress and gain perspective. Try journalling for a few minutes each day, focusing on what you’re grateful for and any positive experiences you’ve had.

CONNECTION WITH LOVED ONES

Spending time with friends and family can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of stress. Engage in activities you enjoy together, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed.

Managing stress naturally involves a combination of practices that address both the mind and body. By incorporating techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, aromatherapy, and adaptogenic herbs into your routine, you can better navigate seasonal stressors and maintain your well-being. Embrace these strategies to create a more peaceful and balanced life, no matter the season.

In Low Tox Life

Detoxifying Your Home: Tips For a Healthy Life

June 15, 2024

Our homes are our sanctuaries, but they can also harbor hidden toxins that impact our health and well-being. From cleaning products to indoor air quality, many factors contribute to the overall healthiness of our living environments. Today we’ll explore practical and effective tips for detoxifying your home. By reducing exposure to toxins, using natural cleaning products, and improving indoor air quality, you can create a healthier, more harmonious space for you and your loved ones.

SWITCH TO NATURAL CLEANING PRODUCTS

Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Switching to natural, eco-friendly cleaning products is an easy and impactful way to reduce your home’s toxic load. Look for products labeled as non-toxic, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals like ammonia, bleach, and phthalates. You can also make your own cleaning solutions using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. I keep it simple in my home with the one and only Thieves Household Cleaner. It’s super versatile, highly concentrated and I love it’s spicy, warm, citrusy smell. Use my referral number here for a huge discount.

DIY ALL PURPOSE CLEANER RECIPE

– 1 cup white vinegar

– 1 cup water

– 10-15 drops of essential oil (like lemon, lavender, or tea tree)

Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and use it to clean countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.

IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Indoor air pollution can be caused by a variety of sources, including dust, pet dander, mold, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paint, furniture, and household products. Improving indoor air quality is crucial for a healthier home environment. Here are my favourite tips..

Ventilation

Regularly open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce indoor pollutants.

Houseplants

Certain houseplants, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants, can help purify the air by absorbing toxins. Check they’re ok for your pets!

Air Purifiers

Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture airborne particles and allergens.

Regular Cleaning

Dust and vacuum your home frequently to reduce the buildup of allergens and pollutants.

CHOOSE NON-TOXIC FURNITURE AND DECOR

Many conventional furniture and decor items contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, flame retardants, and VOCs. When shopping for new pieces, opt for non-toxic, sustainably-made items. Look for furniture made from solid wood, natural fibers, and low-VOC finishes.

ELIMINATE PLASTIC

Plastics, especially those containing BPA and phthalates, can leach harmful chemicals into your home environment. Reduce plastic use by choosing glass, stainless steel, or bamboo alternatives for food storage, kitchen utensils, and children’s toys. Additionally, avoid heating food in plastic containers, as this can increase the release of toxins.

USE NATURAL PEST CONTROL

Chemical pesticides can introduce toxins into your home. Instead, use natural pest control methods to keep your home pest-free. Here are some of my favourite tips..

Essential Oils

Use essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, geranium and citronella to deter insects. You can order the same ones I do here. 24-50% discount.

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Sprinkle this non-toxic powder around entry points to kill insects without harmful chemicals.

Borax and Sugar

Mix equal parts borax and sugar and place it in areas where you’ve seen ants to eliminate them naturally.

FILTER YOUR WATER

Tap water can contain contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and pesticides. Using a water filter can reduce these impurities and provide cleaner, safer drinking water for your household. Choose a filter that meets your needs, whether it’s a simple pitcher filter, a faucet-mounted filter, or a whole-house system. We’ve been loving and using Southern Cross Filters for years. Make sure whichever filter you choose can also remove fluoride.

DECLUTTER AND ORGANISE

A cluttered home can contribute to stress and reduce the overall feeling of well-being. Regularly declutter and organise your living spaces to create a more peaceful and inviting environment. Donate or recycle items you no longer need, and consider adopting a minimalist approach to reduce the accumulation of unnecessary possessions.

Detoxifying your home is an ongoing process that involves making conscious choices about the products you use and the environment you create. By incorporating these tips, you can reduce exposure to harmful toxins, improve indoor air quality, and create a healthier, more harmonious living space. Let’s move towards a detoxified home, and enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, greener, and more vibrant environment for you and your family!

Happy Detoxing!

In Holistic Health

Embrace Winter Wellness with Holistic Self Care

June 5, 2024

Winter is a time of reflection, rest, and rejuvenation. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s essential to embrace self-care practices that nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits. Let’s explore a variety of holistic wellness rituals designed to help you stay healthy, balanced, and serene throughout the Winter months. From mindfulness exercises to relaxation techniques and stress-relief rituals, these practices will support your overall well-being during this introspective season.

MORNING MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Start your day with a few minutes of mindfulness meditation to set a calm and positive tone for the day ahead. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath. As you inhale and exhale, gently bring your attention to the present moment, letting go of any thoughts or worries. This practice can help reduce stress, increase mental clarity, and enhance emotional resilience, setting the stage for a balanced day.

WARMING HERBAL TEAS

Incorporate warming herbal teas into your daily routine to support your body’s natural rhythms and promote relaxation. Teas made from ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric are not only soothing but also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Sip on a cup of herbal tea in the morning, afternoon, or evening to warm up from the inside out and enjoy a moment of tranquility.

GENTLE YOGA AND STRETCHING

Engage in gentle yoga and stretching exercises to keep your body flexible and your mind centered. Practices like yin yoga, restorative yoga, or simple stretching routines can help release tension, improve circulation, and enhance your sense of well-being. Aim to dedicate at least 15-30 minutes each day to these mindful movements, focusing on deep breathing and mindful awareness as you stretch.

AROMATHERAPY FOR RELAXATION

Harness the power of aromatherapy to create a calming and peaceful environment in your home. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus can be diffused, added to a warm bath, or used in massage oils to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Experiment with different blends to find the scents that resonate most with you, and incorporate them into your daily self-care rituals.

JOURNALING FOR REFLECTION

Use the Winter season as an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth by keeping a journal. Write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and set intentions for the months ahead. Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing emotions, gaining insights, and cultivating a deeper sense of self-awareness.

NATURE WALKS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Even during the colder months, spending time in nature can have a profound impact on your well-being. Bundle up and take regular walks in natural settings, such as parks, forests, or along the coast. The fresh air, natural light, and connection to the earth can help boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve overall health.

EVENING RELAXATION RITUALS

Create a calming evening routine to unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. This might include activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath with Epsom salts, practicing gentle stretching, or listening to soothing music. Avoid screens and stimulating activities at least an hour before bedtime to support a more restorative sleep.

Winter is a season of rest and reflection, offering a unique opportunity to focus on holistic self-care practices that nurture your body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating these winter wellness rituals into your daily routine, you can stay healthy, balanced, and serene throughout the colder months.

From morning mindfulness meditation to warming herbal teas, gentle stretching, aromatherapy, journaling, nature walks, and evening relaxation rituals, these practices will support your overall well-being and help you embrace the season with grace and ease. So, take the time to slow down, tune in, and nurture yourself this Winter. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you.

Which of these self-care practices appeal most to you? Send me a message, I’d love to know.

In Natural Parenting

Natural Medicine for Childhood Ear Infections

January 13, 2023

ARE ANTIBIOTICS NECESSARY

Ear infections are the most common of all childhood infections and when your little one has one, you certainly know about it. It can be very distressing for your child. The usual route is to take bub to the doc and a round of antibiotics is prescribed.

In many cases, antibiotics are not necessary. A build up of fluid in the Eustachian tube can cause a lot of discomfort but it does not mean your child has an ear infection. Even redness of the ear drum does not guarantee an infection is present. Prescribing antibiotics ‘just in case’ is not only harmful but often sets the child up for recurring ear infections. This was my story with our eldest.

A BUILD UP OF PRESSURE

Children’s ear canals are horizontal in structure. They don’t slant down like they do for adults. This makes it more difficult for the body to drain lymph from the ears and nodes, down into the throat for removal. When the lymph fluid doesn’t drain as needed it moves back up into the Eustachian tubes which presses on the back of the ear drum, causing swelling and pain. This is why it is commonly mistaken for an infection. If left untreated, this can advance to an infection so taking measures to address this stage is important.

TEETHING AND EAR INFECTIONS

When babies are teething there is a lot going on in the gums and mouth.

Being close to the ears, there will naturally be some discomfort and stress in this area. Sometimes this will present as swelling, redness and irritation.

If your child is running a mild fever, you will have to be the judge whether you need to take action to stabilise body temperature or just make bub as comfortable as possible.

WHAT DOES AN INFECTION LOOK LIKE

A lot of heat! High body temperature, hot to touch on side of face and head, pus oozing from the ear.. Obviously we want to prevent this from happening by supporting the body early.

If your child is presenting with a true infection, they may need urgent medical support. It’s always best to act quickly with small children.

WHAT CAN YOU DO

The first step is to help the lymph drain from the body so it doesn’t build up in the ear canal.

Increase circulation to the area by wetting a washer with warm water and applying it over the ear and down the sides of the neck.
Gently massage behind the ear and down the sides of the neck with extremely light strokes. Don’t apply too much pressure here. The lighter strokes will help move the lymph more effectively than firmer strokes. Keep the movement in a downward motion and you are doing it right.
Use essential oils to support the immune system and promote lymph flow. I only use and recommend Young Living Essential Oils as I know their standards are extremely high and their farming and extraction processes ensure the healing potential of the oil remains intact.

LEMON ESSENTIAL OIL

Assists with congestion and helps support the immune system. Dilute 1-2 drops in a little coconut or olive oil and apply to the sides of the neck using the same light stroke massage technique as described above.

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

Contains properties that assist with inflammation. Apply directly to the bottom of the feet or at the site of discomfort. Dilute well for infants and small children.

COPAIBA ESSENTIAL OIL

This is THE oil for teething and discomfort. Blend with lemon and lavender or use on its own, diluted with carrier oil (coconut or olive). Apply in the same manner to help move the lymph out of the Eustachian tube. Some mummas will put a drop of Copaiba oil on their finger and rub onto swollen gums as needed.

WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO?

COLLOIDAL SILVER – A few drops of colloidal silver in the ear canal will help to kill off bacteria thereby reducing swelling and pain.

GARLIC OIL – Garlic acts as a natural antibiotic and olive oil helps with inflammation. Gently heat 2 tbl olive oil in a pan with 1 clove organic garlic, crushed. Keep on low heat for 20 minutes then strain. Cool to skin temperature then apply two drops into the ear. Does not store or keep so make fresh each day if needed.

MULLEIN DROPS – Make the above garlic oil, adding 2 tsp dried mullein flowers to the recipe.

BREASTFEED – If baby is still nursing, keep feeding on demand. This provides the necessary antibodies to help fight off an infection as well as providing comfort and circulation to the area.

IMPORTANT NOTES AND SAFETY

NEVER drop essential oils into the ear canal, no matter how pure. This will cause undue pain to your child and risk irritating the thin mucosal membrane that lines the ear canal.

Only ever use essential oils that are trustworthy. Message me for a referral!

In Essential Oils

Boost Your Mood With Essential Oils

January 5, 2023

What the world needs now is love, yes, more love.. but also.. more light.

Maybe they’re one and the same.

Most of us know how to express love whether that’s to the people we are closest to, or strangers on the street. But do you know how to give more light?

It starts with first recognising it within your self and then as if by magic, or more likely by divine grace, your light inspires someone else to shine too.

THINGS HAVE CHANGED

Have you noticed a change in the energy of people these days?

Truly, the last few years have knocked us all for a six.

Even for those who are usually pretty good at keeping their vibe high. It’s been hard hearing all the stories of people who have been hurt and lost so much. But there’s been a lot of growth too. A lot of reaching out and community spirit resurfacing. And that’s a good thing!

So what can you do to help boost your own mood?

LET’S TALK ESSENTIAL OILS

I know there are a lot of things you can do, and I talk more about that here but this post is supposed to be about how to boost your mood with essential oils, so that’s what we’ll talk about today.

First of all, essential oils by their very nature have a profound effect on our mental and emotional health.

Simply by inhaling them you immediately activate the limbic part of the brain which is where we process emotions and house memories.

You can’t really go wrong with choosing an essential oil to try, however there are some that are especially helpful to boost the mood.

THE POWER OF CITRUS ESSENTIAL OILS

Any of the citrus oils, hands down, will do the job.

Lemon, orange, bergamot, lime etc. They’re just so vibrant, smell so fresh and are super high in d-limonene. You can’t help but smile when you breathe these babies in.

OTHER MOOD BOOSTERS

Clary Sage (floral)
Lavender (floral)
Frankincense (balsamic/resin)
Geranium (floral)
Ylang Ylang (floral)
Eucalyptus (wood)
Ginger (spice)
Rosemary (herb)

All of these oils will help to boost the mood either by awakening the senses, reducing stress or both!

You don’t need to use all of them all at once, just intuitively choose one or two to work with and switch it up from time to time. Inhale straight from the bottle, diffuse or dilute and apply topically as needed.

NEW TO OILS?

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same top notch oils that I use.

In Recipes

4 Massage Blend Recipes for Relaxation

May 4, 2022

Massage is one of those things that not everyone enjoys but everyone needs!

There are so many health benefits that I could write numerous posts on it, but for now, I’ll just list a few..

reduces stress and anxiety
reduces tension in the body
relaxes tight muscles
improves digestive function
lowers cortisol
relaxes nervous system
lowers heart rate and blood pressure
improves blood circulation
improves function of lymphatic system
improves function of immune system
improves sleep
increases energy
improves alertness
improves flexibility

I could literally go on and on and if you are someone who has experienced a wonderful massage, you will know how it feels to float off the table when it’s done.

The effects of a good massage can last for weeks, especially if taken regularly.

AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE

Have you ever added essential oils to your treatment?

Aromatherapy massage has its own unique sequence, primarily to improve lymph flow and relax the body.

By adding essential oils to any massage session you will not only be gaining the benefits of the massage but also of the specific oils that are chosen.

Your therapist may already have a selection of oils to choose from, however they also may allow you to bring your own.

Here are my favourite massage blend recipes for relaxation..

Add essential oils to a 50mL glass amber dropper bottle, then top up with your chosen carrier oil.

15 drops Eucalyptus radiata, 10 drops Tangerine, 5 drops Geranium

15 drops Orange, 10 drops Sandalwood, 5 drops Ylang Ylang

15 drops Roman Chamomile, 10 drops Geranium, 5 drops Lavender

15 drops Geranium, 10 drops Eucalyptus radiata, 5 drops Lavender

NEW TO OILS?

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.

In Essential Oils

6 Bath Soak Recipes for Relaxation

May 4, 2022

Nothing beats a good soak in the tub with warm water and some essential oils.

Adding the Epsom salts not only acts as a carrier but it also provides the following health benefits:

improves sleep
reduces stress and anxiety
reduces pain and muscle soreness

Here are my favourite bath soak recipes for relaxation..

Choose one of the blends below and add to 1 cup of Epsom Salt.

Use 1/4 cup per bath.

3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Cedarwood, 2 drops Eucalyptus radiata

3 drops Bergamot, 3 drops Lavender, 2 drops Tangerine

3 drops Patchouli, 3 drops Orange, 2 drop Frankincense

3 drops Roman Chamomile, 3 drops Cedarwood, 2 drops Lavender

3 drops Sandalwood, 3 drops Lavender, 2 drops Lemon

3 drops Grapefruit, 3 drops Geranium, 2 drops Ylang Ylang

NEW TO OILS?

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.

In Essential Oils

10 Essential Oils to Help You Out of a Funk

April 13, 2022

Ever been stuck in a funk that you just can’t seem to shift?

Try one of these 10 restorative and uplifting essential oils to rebalance and improve the mood and get you moving in the right direction.

PEPPERMINT

Peppermint essential oil has a sharp, stimulating aroma that can feel like an energetic slap in the face. Breathe it in to increase vitality and motivation, especially if you are feeling disconnected with your surroundings and what you’re doing in this life. Peppermint helps us to refocus on who we are and what we want to achieve. It brings wisdom, alertness and spiritual awareness.

BASIL

Basil essential oil has a warm, peppery, aniseed-like aroma that is stimulating to the mind and emotions. Breathe it in to encourage positivity and creativity and help you to tap in to your true desires and purpose. Basil is a great oil to use when you need to make big decisions as it ‘switches’ on the mind while cleansing any lingering thoughts away that no longer serve you.

ORANGE

Orange essential oil has a fruity, fresh aroma that imbues the essence of creativity and childhood. Breathe it in to uplift the mood and create a space of lightheartedness and regeneration of spirit. Orange encourages feelings of positivity, joy and magnificence, while allowing the body and mind to let go of past experiences that may be keeping you feeling stuck.

BAY LAUREL

Bay laurel essential oil has a spicy, sweet, fresh fragrance that has traditionally been used as a symbol of victory. Breathe it in to encourage confidence and fortitude when planning and reaching for your goals. It’s also a useful oil for those times when the way ahead seems uncertain or when you need a little extra courage. Bay Laurel provides inspiration, protection and a sense of direction.

YLANG YLANG

Ylang Ylang essential oil has an intensely sweet, floral aroma that increases self-esteem and confidence. Breathe it in to uplift the mood and to awaken a feeling of enthusiasm for life. Ylang ylang helps you to forgive yourself and others and has the ability to dissipate anger. It’s calming, yet joyful, playful energy reminds you of all the beauty and wonder in the world and that you equally are a part of it.

MELISSA

Melissa essential oil has a light, fresh and somewhat citrus aroma that brings understanding and a feeling of strength. It’s a useful oil when dealing with negative and repetitive emotions as it helps us to break through these limitations and rise above what we once thought we couldn’t. Melissa brings a sense of peace and protection as you take steps forward to improve your life.

LEMONGRASS

Lemongrass essential oil has a grassy, lemony, citrus aroma that not only cleanses the physical body but also the spiritual. Use this oil to help clear negative experiences such as shame, regret and unforgiveness to encourage feelings of positivity, upliftment and progression. Lemongrass helps us to become clear with our thoughts and reminds us that all outcomes are based on the choices we make.

CARDAMOM

Cardamom essential oil has a spicy, green and sweet aroma that enlivens the spirit and increases feelings of abundance and prosperity. It can be used to clear the senses, stimulate creativity and help motivate you to reach for your heart’s desire. Cardamom helps us to connect to our higher purpose, especially during times of overwhelm and stress and can improve feelings of gratitude.

CISTUS

Cistus essential oil has a musky, sweet balsamic aroma that has traditionally been known to soothe the heart. It is a useful choice when feeling disconnected from your spirituality and life purpose. Cistus can be used to help shift from a place of fear, to a place of unconditional love and acceptance. Use it during times of loneliness, isolation and grief or when you just need some more harmony and balance in your life.

FRANKINCENSE

Frankincense essential oil has a warm, sweet and spicy, balsamic aroma that has been traditionally used in spiritual practice for thousands of years. Breathe it in to help you stay connected to spirit and help induce feelings of emotional stability and a sense of unity. Frankincense gives courage in hard times as it calms the emotions and helps you to feel grounded and secure. The ultimate comforter and protector.

So that’s my Top 10 essential oils to help you out of a funk.

Which one have you tried or which one would you like to add to your emotional home wellness kit?

In Low Tox Life

All Natural DIY Linen Spray

March 25, 2022

Have you used one of these before?

Linen sprays are designed to freshen up sheets and sometimes clothing between washes.

You might be thinking you don’t really need one because your fabric softener leaves a pretty smell on your clothes and bed linen, but I’m here to let you know that those aromas are doing more harm then good!

I talk a bit more about it over here on this post, but any ‘fragrance’ you come across these days is more likely to be a cocktail of hundreds of synthetic ingredients that are linked to all kinds of illness and disease.

Not too long ago, all fragrances came from pure extracts of plants, aka essential oils. For most big companies, it’s a lot cheaper to fabricate scent in a laboratory.

I don’t know about you, but I’m all about quality and not compromising my health.

ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils have become quite popular these days but they really aren’t a new thing.

Their use dates back to thousands of years ago where they were used not only to heal and nurture the body, but to anoint it in spiritual practice, embalm the deceased, protect from illness and disease and to simply fragrance the environment and home.

Because of their comeback, many companies have jumped on the ‘oily’ bandwagon purely for profit and so there are a lot of ‘essential oils’ out there that simply are not true, authentic extracts from the plant.

Then there is the issue of how they are farmed, distilled and tested..

but that’s another story for another day!

Essential oils, if pure and unadulterated can bring a lot of joy and healing to your life. Plus they are really handy for all your DIY creations.

Here’s a very simple linen spray that you can use to freshen up your towels and sheets.

WHAT YOU NEED

10 – 20 drops of essential oil
70 mL distilled or filtered water
30 mL vodka
100 mL glass spray bottle

METHOD

Add essential oils to 100 mL glass spray bottle.
Add water and vodka.
Gently invert to mix.
Lightly spray from a distance on sheets and other household linen.

Fragrances to try:

Bergamot, Lavender, Geranium (fresh floral and citrus scent)

Lavender, Cedarwood, Frankincense (great for sleep)

Orange, Patchouli, Ylang Ylang (sensual and intimate)

NEW TO OILS?

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.