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Holistic Health

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In Essential Oils

10 Essential Oils to Help You Out of a Funk

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?

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In Recipes

5 Detox Smoothies Your Body Will Love

Sometimes when we think of the word detox we immediately think it involves drinking some horrible concoction to get our bowels moving.

A colon cleanse can be useful to help the body detox from toxins, however it is not the only way!

These 5 detox smoothie recipes are not only delicious but they use wholefoods that nourish your body while gently supporting your detoxification pathways at the same time.

Simply blend up all ingredients and enjoy!

THE SKIN SMOOTHIE

  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1 tbl acai berry powder
  • 1 tbl hemp seeds
  • 250 mL coconut milk
  • 250 mL almond milk
  • 1 tsp coconut syrup
  • splash pure vanilla extract

THE LUNG SMOOTHIE

  • 1 cup chopped pineapple
  • 1 granny smith apple
  • 1 handful baby spinach
  • 1 Lebanese cucumber
  • 1 lime (skin on for extra anti-inflammatory benefits)
  • 2 cm piece ginger
  • handful of mint leaves
  • 1 cup coconut water

THE KIDNEY SMOOTHIE

  • 2 carrots
  • 1 grapefruit
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 cm piece ginger
  • 1 – 2 cm piece turmeric
  • pinch cayenne pepper

THE LIVER SMOOTHIE

  • 2 lemons
  • 1 grapefruit
  • 1 green apple
  • 1 cup chopped pineapple
  • 2 sticks celery
  • 1 carrot
  • chopped parsley (to taste)

THE COLON SMOOTHIE

  • 1 beetroot
  • 1 red apple
  • 1 pear
  • 2 cups frozen strawberries
  • 1 cup chopped lettuce

Adding lettuce provides beneficial fiber and other benefits to the smoothie but mixing green with red fruit and veg can make the end result brown. Which doesn’t look all that appetising!

If you’d prefer to keep your smoothie nice and red, just skip the lettuce and pop it in your salad instead!

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In Plant Medicine

10 Medicinal Plants to Grow in Your Garden

Does the idea of growing your own medicine seem exciting to you?

Here are 10 plants that you can easily grow in your garden that have medicinal benefits.

COMFREY

Comfrey prefers moist soil in a sunny or partially shaded site. The leaves and flowering tops are gathered in Summer and the roots in Autumn. Wear gloves!

Due to comfrey’s rapid healing potential, use on clean wounds only.

  • useful in First Aid
  • known as ‘knitbone’
  • useful for sprains, strains, bruises, aches and pains, arthritis and ulcers
  • speeds up the healing of bones and tissues
  • useful expectorant
  • reduces gastrointestinal and bronchial inflammation
  • applied topically as a poultice, cream or macerated oil

Avoid during pregnancy. Not to be taken internally.

ECHINACEA (coneflowers)

Echinacea prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun. The leaves can be gathered anytime during the growing season and the roots can be dug out in Autumn after flowering.

Echinacea is best taken as a tincture and combines well with elderberry for respiratory conditions.

Dilute and use as a lotion for wounds and bites.

  • natural antibiotic
  • immune booster
  • shortens the duration of colds and flu
  • useful for coughs, colds, earache, viral infections and sore throats
  • joint and cartilage healer
  • spider and snake bites
  • insect sting
  • may help prevent severe infection

Avoid high doses which may occasionally cause nausea and dizziness.

CHAMOMILE

Both German and Roman Chamomile prefer a sunny position in the garden with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. The flowers are gathered in Summer.

Chamomile is best known as a calming tea but when cooled can also act as a soothing lotion to relieve hot, irritated or inflamed skin.

  • helps to relieve eczema, skin rashes, sunburn and hives
  • calms digestive system and feelings of nausea
  • relieves indigestion and gastrointestinal spasms
  • helps with feelings of nervousness
  • reduces stress and insomnia
  • may relieve menstrual cramps due to antispasmodic nature
  • reduces itchiness
  • reduces fever
  • soothes the nerves

Chamomile may cause contact dermatitis. Avoid if allergic to the Compositae family.

CRAMP BARK

Cramp bark prefers to grow in moist, well drained soil in sun or in dappled shade. Collect the inner bark in Spring and Summer while the plant is in flower.

It’s no surprises how this amazing plant can help you. Just look at the name!

Best used as a tincture.

  • relaxes the muscles
  • antispasmodic
  • useful for menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding
  • reduces backache and muscular spasms

Avoid during pregnancy.

CAYENNE

Cayenne (or chile pepper) loves to grow in pots with loads of good quality compost. Gather in Summer when the fruit is ripe and dry in the shade.

Cayenne is most often used in cooking but has traditionally been used as a warming remedy. Use the powder or fresh fruit (including the seeds) to make a macerated oil or tincture.

Can be used in warm water too.

  • stimulates the circulatory system
  • regulates blood flow
  • helps to maintain healthy blood pressure
  • strengthens the heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves
  • may arrest internal and external bleeding
  • clears phlegm from the lungs
  • reduces sinus congestion

Excessive use of cayenne pepper can lead to gastric irritation. Avoid touching the eyes when handling.

YARROW

Yarrow prefers full sun and well drained soil. Flowers can be gathered as soon as they appear and the leaves and other aerial parts in Summer.

Yarrow was traditionally used to treat wounds however it is also beneficial to both the urinary and respiratory systems.

  • combine with lime blossoms and hawthorn for healthy blood pressure
  • may assist with arteriosclerosis
  • soaked cotton balls in tincture for nosebleed
  • assists with fever, promotes sweating
  • boosts immunity
  • tones blood vessels
  • stimulates digestion
  • urinary antiseptic
  • assists with cystitis
  • wound healing
  • reduces menstrual cramps
  • reduces colds and flu
  • yarrow root for dental pain

Avoid in pregnancy.

GRINDELIA (gumweed)

Grindelia prefers light to medium sandy soil and full sun. Collect the aerial parts as soon as the flower buds open and dry in the sun.

Traditionally Grindelia was used to treat dermatitis caused by poison ivy.

  • assists with asthmatic and bronchial conditions
  • relaxes smooth muscles and heart muscles
  • helps to reduce catarrh and upper respiratory congestion
  • useful in treating cystitis and bladder infections
  • may help to reduce blood pressure
  • may increase heart rate to assist with healing
  • useful expectorant
  • antispasmodic
  • antimicrobial

Grindelia is not recommended for those with heart or kidney conditions.

CALENDULA (marigold)

Calendula prefers to grow in well drained soil in full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Collect the flowers in Summer and take care when drying to prevent discolouration.

Calendula is a popular plant that is prized for its versatility. Best used as an infusion, tincture, cream or macerated oil.

  • stimulates healing and is soothing to the skin
  • useful for abrasions, rashes, eczema, ulcers and wounds
  • antiseptic, great for first aid
  • reduces inflammation on the skin
  • may be useful for wound healing and external bleeding
  • helpful when used on bruises and strains
  • useful cleansing agent and healing cream
  • apply to minor burns and scalds
  • use the macerated oil to prevent stretch marks
  • helps regulate healthy menstrual flow
  • helpful for digestive conditions like gastric and duodenal ulcers

Avoid if allergic to ragweed, daisies, marigold, or plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family.

MALLOW (common mallow)

Mallow loves well drained soil and prefers full sun, however it will tolerate dappled shade as well. Collect the flowers and leaves in Summer.

The entire plant is edible and is commonly used as a compress, tincture or infusion.

  • useful for bladder infections
  • helps to recover from gastritis and stomach ulcers
  • helps to treat bronchial inflammation, laryngitis and pharyngitis
  • aids respiratory health and reduces catarrh
  • used topically against abscesses, boils and minor burns
  • soothing to the throat due to mucilage content
  • soothing to wounds, rashes and insect bites
  • may act as a gentle laxative
  • relieves anxiety and nervousness

Mallow is a safe, edible plant when harvested in proper locations and not contaminated. You might even find it in your own backyard!

PLANTAIN

Plaintain enjoys moist, poor to moderately fertile soil in full sun or partial shade and can often be found growing in hedges, pavement cracks and grassy areas. Gather the leaves in Summer from unpolluted areas.

Plantain is a common weed that is traditionally used in first aid. Use topically in the form of a poultice or ingest as a syrup, infusion, tincture or juice!

  • natural antihistamine action
  • useful for venomous bites and stings
  • soothes irritation from rashes
  • combine with calendula to treat cuts and abrasions
  • treats bladder infections
  • reduces excess fluid in the body
  • useful for coughs and mild bronchitis
  • naturally astringent and antiseptic
  • supports tissue regeneration
  • helps in cases of diarrhoea and haemorrhoids

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.

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In Low Tox Life

The Hidden Dangers of Greenwashing

Greenwashing:

“Greenwashing, also called “green sheen”, is a form of marketing spin in which green PR and green marketing are deceptively used to persuade the public that an organization’s products, aims and policies are environmentally friendly.“

Yikes! Thanks Wikepedia.

I wish I knew about this 25 years ago when I had my first baby.

I eventually figured it out, but it wasn’t because somebody told me.

So here I am today to let you know, just in case you’ve never heard of it!

GREENWASHING

Greenwashing has been around probably as long as we’ve had people waking up and realising that the products they were putting on their family weren’t really that nice.

Companies recognised a trend that mummas and care-givers were looking for natural solutions and environmentally friendly products, especially those with little ones that were struggling with conditions like asthma and eczema. So they rebranded their products, or came up with some new ones, that would be more appealing and sell well in the market.

Sadly, greenwashing is a ploy to make you think you’re doing the right thing, using “natural” products, but when you dig a little deeper and research the ingredient list, you find out that what you thought you were putting on your brand new baby, isn’t “organic” at all and it’s actually really bad for the environment.

Yep, that was me. I trusted the company and brand because the label said things like “100% pure” and “organic”. It had a pretty picture of a cute baby and a serene earth and I thought, this HAS to be natural.

I was horrified to discover that what I was putting on my little one had ingredients that were linked to infertility, hormone disruption, asthma, neurological problems and skin allergies.

From that moment on I decided to always look closer and make sure the company truly delivers a product that is safe and beneficial to me, my family and the planet.

So how do you feel about greenwashing?

Let me know down below.

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In Essential Oils

12 Reasons to Love Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is such an underrated essential oil, maybe because it’s so readily available!

Do you have some at home? Most people do.

Or maybe you have a grandma who used to grow it in her garden..

12 REASONS TO LOVE LAVENDER

  1. Lavender works on serotonin receptors in the body to help balance the mood. It has been used to treat anxiety and depression and it helps to calm the nerves. Use it after a long day when you feel mentally and physically drained and any time you need to de-stress.
  2. Lavender helps regulate sleep patterns and prepares the body for a restful night’s sleep. Insomnia is a common issue today and studies have shown that the chemical structure of lavender may increase time spent in deep, slow-wave sleep. Sprinkle a few drops on your pillow or diffuse at bedtime.
  3. Lavender is soothing and balancing to the skin. Use it on itchy bites or any areas that are red or inflamed. Skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis may also benefit from lavender’s soothing nature. Use it to hydrate irritated and sensitive skin.
  4. Lavender naturally contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can be a useful ally during seasonal changes. Dilute and apply topically alongside the nose, sinus, throat and chest area and try a swipe along the inside of cheek. Be sure to always only use the absolute purest and unadulterated essential oils. Most on the market are not what they say they are!
  5. Lavender helps fight infections with its natural antiseptic and antifungal properties. Keep it on hand to treat minor cuts, scrapes, irritations and burns. Lavender essential oil is also great for when you’ve been a little too kissed by the sun. Combine with aloe vera or use on its own.
  6. Lavender promotes hair growth by protecting the hair follicles from oxidative stress. Add it to your all natural hair care routine to nourish the scalp, or try out this Mermaid Waves Hair Spray recipe!
  7. Lavender helps to relax the muscles, reducing discomfort in the body. Dilute and apply topically to any areas that need support. Apply to the temples and breathe in the aroma to help alleviate a tight headache. (Try peppermint if your headache is of the pounding variety).
  8. Lavender can even out skin tone and help reduce redness. It may also help to prevent scarring by promoting cell and tissue growth. Lavender helps to balance acne prone skin.
  9. Lavender helps promote collagen synthesis and stimulates fibroblasts, making it a good choice for wound healing. Quick application post-injury can also reduce bruising. Try making a cool compress.
  10. Lavender has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays that accelerate the skin’s aging process. Use it in your favourite organic moisturiser or make a facial spritz and use any time of the day.
  11. Lavender supports respiratory and immune health. Use it alongside eucalyptus and frankincense (or on its own) during times of physical exhaustion or anytime you need to breathe deeply and easily.
  12. Lavender is a true adaptogen bringing peace and calm to you and your personal space. Breathe in straight from the bottle or diffuse in your favourite ultrasonic diffuser for lasting, healing benefits.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PURE

Lavender is such a readily available and abundant herb that you don’t have to look far to find the essential oil on the shelves. Unfortunately there is no governing body that ensures that what you purchase is actually what’s written on the label. Many manufacturers cut corners, adulterate and synthetically manipulate their “essential oils” to reduce costs but at the end of the day you are left with a product that has no therapeutic value and can even cause more harm then good!

If you have ever received a headache from smelling Lavender essential oil, it may very well be because it was synthetically put together or had a synthetic component added to it. It really pays to know where your oils come from and how the plants are farmed, harvested and distilled.

ALL NATURAL BEAUTY WITH LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

Here are some recipes for you to try that incorporate the soothing and healing benefits of this gentle oil.

Mermaid Waves Hair Spray

Lavender-Infused Dry Shampoo

Royal Hawaiian Face Serum

OTHER RESOURCES

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.

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In Recipes

The Ultimate Self Love Smoothie

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s a necessity! Don’t you agree?

As mummas we often put the needs of others before our selves and wait until we get a break before we do something, “just for us”. But what if we do the thing, when we need to?

Too often we wait until our body is screaming out for a rest or we literally flip out and yell at our kids because our emotional needs haven’t been met. It’s ok to need to stop. It’s ok to take 5, 10 or 20, whatever it is you need to do so you can keep on being the awesome mumma you are.

FRESH WHOLE FOODS

One of the simplest ways that you can nourish your body is with a hit of fresh whole foods. And my favourite way to do this is to whip up a superfood smoothie.

THE BENEFITS OF THE GOJI BERRY

Goji berries (wolfberries) protect the eyes and provide immune system support. They protect against cancer and promote healthy skin. Goji berries contain a high amount of antioxidants which fight harmful free radicals and inflammation in the body.

CHIA SEEDS

Chia seeds are rich in Omega 3 fats and provide a good source of fiber. They contain quercetin which is a bit of a buzz word at the moment, but basically quercetin is also another antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation in the body and keeps your immune and cardiovascular system working well.

STRAWBERRIES AND BLUEBERRIES

Berries in general keep your mind and eyes sharp and help to promote lovely skin. They protect against heart disease and are considered a low GI fruit. This makes them a great addition to your smoothies. Berries are also a great source of antioxidants which helps keep those nasty free radicals at bay.

HEMP SEEDS

Hemp seeds are a great source of protein and pack a punch in your smoothie. They assist with healthy weight management by stabilising blood sugar levels and are a good source of essential fatty acids.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED..

1 cup frozen blueberries
1 cup frozen strawberries
1 tbl chia seeds
1 tbl hemp seeds
3 medjool dates (pitted)
1/4 cup organic goji berries
juice of 1 lime
3 drops of YL Lemon essential oil (optional)
2 drops YL Grapefruit essential oil (optional)
3 tsp organic coconut oil
1 cup filtered water
5-7 cubes ice

METHOD

  1. Blend frozen fruit, seeds, dates, goji berries and ice.
  2. Add water, juice of lime, essential oils and coconut oil and continue to blend until smooth.
  3. Decorate the top with shredded coconut, chia seeds and blueberries!
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In Holistic Health

Top 8 Foods for the Brain and Nervous System

GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES

– rich in Vitamin B complex, C, E and Magnesium.

FISH (especially salmon)

– rich in essential fatty acids.

DARK CHOCOLATE

– high in flavonols and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

EGGS

– rich in choline and used by the brain to make acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter for memory and brain cell communication.

AVOCADOS

– rich in both Vitamin K and folate. They’re also high in protein and low in sugar. Avocadoes are said to prevent blood clot in the brain and stroke and they also improve memory and concentration!

BROCCOLI

– rich in Vitamin K and glucosinolates that slow down the breakdown of acetylcholine, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s.

ALMONDS

– contain high levels of omega-3s and brain protecting Vitamin E.

PUMPKIN SEEDS

– an excellent source of magnesium, copper, iron and zinc.

Which one on this list is your favourite?

Could you add each one to your weekly healthy eating plan?

Find out why these foods are so good for the brain and nervous system over on this post:

Essential Brain and Nervous System Nutrition

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In Essential Oils

12 Tips to Detox Your Bedroom

REMOVE ELECTRONICS

Don’t take your phone to bed. Switch it off and charge it in a different room of the house. Seriously consider removing all electronics from the bedroom, including the TV.

REDUCE OR ELIMINATE VOCS

Volatile Organic Compounds can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation and have even been linked to cancer and other diseases. They are found in new paint, new carpet, new furnishings, cleaning products and mattresses. So do your best to eliminate or at the very least, reduce VOC exposure.

UPGRADE YOUR MATTRESS

Many mattresses prior to 2004 were treated with flame retardants known as PBDEs. Research has linked PBDE exposure to thyroid hormone disruption, memory impairment and other adverse health effects. Is it time you upgraded your mattress?

CHECK YOUR BED FRAME

Check your bed frame and how it’s put together. Some are made with chemical adhesives that can emit potentially toxic formaldehyde fumes. Formaldehyde is the #1 cancer causing chemical and is what embalmers use!

CHECK PLACEMENT OF BED

Check placement of your bed head and any mirrors in the room. The practice of Feng Shui is super interesting!

DECLUTTER

De-clutter! Tidy up bedside tables, remove excess furniture and random items. Keep surfaces dust-free.

DITCH THE CANDLES

Swap out toxic candles for an ultrasonic diffuser and some therapeutic oils. Fragrance is the number one killer in the home. It’s literally a combination of hundreds of toxic chemicals that have been known to cause disruption to the hormones, cancer and irritation to the respiratory system. Here’s what I recommend instead.

LET FRESH AIR AND SUNLIGHT IN

Open windows and curtains during the day to let fresh air in and natural sunlight. Sleep with windows open if weather permits.

USE PLANTS TO PURIFY

Use plants to purify the air. Japanese royal ferns, spider plants and aloe vera are among the most useful plants for eliminating VOCs and other toxins.

USE NATURAL FIBERS

Use natural fibers for bedding and switch to laundry products made from pure plant-based ingredients and essential oils. Ditch those that contain phosphates, synthetic dyes and fragrances. Here’s what I use.

CHANGE YOUR LINEN

Change your pillowcases every few days and wash pillows regularly. Change sheets weekly and dry in the sun if possible.

LEAVE YOUR SHOES AT THE DOOR

Leave your shoes at the front door to prevent bringing in any pesticides or other toxins in your home. Especially no shoes in the bedroom where you’re sleeping.

So there you have it! 12 Tips to Help you Detox Your Bedroom. Which one do you think you’ll try first?

WANT TO TRY ESSENTIAL OILS?

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In Essential Oils

Positive Affirmations for Autumn

Autumn is the season of harvest, letting go and tidying up of loose ends.

Use your ‘gratitude’ oils and diffuse them while you say these positive affirmations…

MY FAVOURITE ‘GRATITUDE’ OILS

Orange

Grapefruit

Ylang Ylang

Frankincense

Myrrh

Spruce

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

Using essential oils to help you live in the moment is so lovely. I use them every single day. One blend I am loving is Gratitude™ by Young Living Essential Oils. It contains the soothing qualities of a number of beautiful oils and every time I breathe it in I am reminded of how grateful I am to have this beautiful life.

Have you started using essential oils yet?

What are your favourite oils to express gratitude?

HERE’S HOW TO GET STARTED

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In Holistic Health

How to Blissfully Welcome Your New Baby

Little babies need little more than warmth, comfort, love and milk. So when setting up space for the arrival of your little one, here are a few tips..

KEEP THEM CLOSE

1. Keep them close! The closer your baby is to you, the less they will cry. It’s a very raw and biological instinct to keep your baby near you. If baby can smell you, hear your heartbeat and touch your skin, they will feel safe.

LESS IS MORE

2. Less is more! Babies don’t need all the bells and whistles or the latest pram, cot, highchair or toys. Let’s be real.. grown ups want those things, babies don’t actually care. Our precious little ones just want you to engage with them and teach them how to smile and laugh.

AVOID ELECTRONICS

3. Avoid electronics. Babies do not need the latest technology. They will actually be smarter and healthier without it! Babies are hardwired to learn about the people around them and their natural surroundings. Truly, that’s all they need! It’s very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that they need so much more, but it simply isn’t true. Save your money.

REMOVE TOXICITY

4. Remove all toxic cleaners and personal care products from your home. These are an insult to the senses, especially for baby, and they are also harmful to their growing bodies. This is a priority!! You are better off washing your baby in plain old water then buying that “organic” baby wash from the supermarket that promises to take care of your baby “naturally”. Most products, even those that are marketed for sensitive skins, are full of harmful ingredients that are toxic to your beautiful bundle of joy.

USE NATURAL AROMAS

5. Use natural aromas to gently fragrance your home and to create a peaceful environment. This will benefit both you and baby. Just a word of wisdom.. go easy on the oils, especially in the early hours of birth, and only use the purest you can find. It is critical for bonding for both baby and mother to recognise each other’s smell. A blessing of Frankincense here and a drop of Lavender there will be beautiful, but heavy doses of any fragrance may disrupt this natural process.

GET YOUR REST

6. Get your rest, ask for help and RELAX. Listen to your body and the needs of your baby. They don’t come with a manual but both mother and baby have been gifted with this thing called intuition. The two of you have been working harmoniously for the last 9 months, living and breathing together. Read all you can, connect with your support network but keep the focus on reading your baby and tuning in to the signs that he or she is giving you. And above all else.. don’t be in a hurry. I promise you those precious early days will fly by and someday you will cry at how little they once were.

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