In life, the smallest changes can lead to the most profound transformations, especially in the face of serious health challenges like triple negative breast cancer. When confronted with such a diagnosis, re-evaluating every aspect of one's lifestyle becomes crucial. Giving up a beloved signature scent, though difficult, can symbolize a commitment to choosing a life of renewed health and mindful living.
To prevent cancer from returning, embarking on a journey to detoxify one's life is essential. This involves a complete overhaul of everyday items, replacing them with plant-based alternatives that nurture both the body and the environment. Letting go of conventional scents like candles and air fresheners, though challenging, reinforces the commitment to a healthier lifestyle through consistent, mindful decisions.
These small, intentional changes can lead to a new beginning, such as the launch of a perfume line crafted with plant-based ingredients. Such a collection celebrates life, wellness, and the power of transformation that comes from thoughtful choices. Every small change, no matter how minor it may seem, contributes to building a foundation for lasting health and well-being.
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When it comes to essential oils, we love to talk about all the amazing ways they can be used for health, home, and emotional well-being. But let’s flip the script today—let’s talk about what not to do with your oils. Trust me, I’ve seen (and maybe even experienced) some oily mishaps that you don’t want to repeat!
I’m diving into a few key mistakes people make with essential oils, inspired by the 30 Days of Oily Hacks resource. Whether you’re a seasoned oiler or just getting started, these tips will help you use your oils safely and effectively.
1. Don’t Put Oils in Your Eyes, Ears, or Other Sensitive Areas
Essential oils are powerful. So powerful, in fact, that they can seriously irritate sensitive areas. If you accidentally get an oil in your eye—don’t panic! Just reach for a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) to help dilute it. Water won’t help; in fact, it can make it worse!
Better Hack: Instead of applying oils directly to your ears, use a cotton ball with a drop of oil and place it near the ear opening. For eye support, apply oils to the temples or along the cheekbone—never directly in the eyes.
2. Don’t Use Plastic Bottles for Dilution
Some essential oils, especially citrus oils like lemon and orange, can eat away at plastic. Yep, they’re that potent! If you’re making a DIY spray or drink mix, always use glass, stainless steel, or high-quality PET plastic bottles.
Better Hack: If you love adding a drop of Lemon Vitality to your water, make sure you’re using a glass or stainless steel cup. No one wants a melted plastic mishap!
3. Don’t Apply Citrus Oils Before Going in the Sun
Speaking of citrus oils—did you know they make your skin more sensitive to sunlight? Applying citrus oils before heading outside can cause serious sunburns or irritation. If you’re using oils like lemon, grapefruit, or bergamot, wait at least 12 hours before sun exposure.
Better Hack: If you love the fresh scent of citrus but plan to be outside, apply the oils to areas covered by clothing or diffuse them instead.
4. Don’t Use Oils Without a Carrier on Sensitive Skin
I know, I know—some people love using essential oils "neat" (undiluted). But for most oils, especially hot ones like cinnamon, oregano, or peppermint, this can lead to redness or irritation. Always dilute oils with a carrier oil to keep your skin happy.
Better Hack: Keep a roller bottle handy with pre-diluted oils for easy, safe application. Fractionated coconut oil is a great carrier oil that won’t clog pores!
5. Don’t Assume All Essential Oils Are Created Equal
Not all oils on the market are pure or safe for internal or topical use. Some contain synthetic fillers or are heavily diluted. This is why I always choose Young Living—their Seed to Seal commitment ensures purity and potency.
Better Hack: Always check where your oils are sourced and choose a brand that values transparency. If the label says "fragrance oil" instead of "essential oil," steer clear!
6. Don’t Leave Oils Uncapped or Exposed to Heat
Oils are volatile compounds, which means they evaporate quickly. If you leave the cap off your bottle, you’re literally watching your precious oils disappear into the air. Heat and sunlight can also degrade their quality.
Better Hack: Always store oils in a cool, dark place (like a wooden oil holder or cabinet) and put the cap back on tightly after each use.
7. Don’t Give Up After One Try
Sometimes people say, “I tried essential oils, and they didn’t work for me.” But here’s the thing—everyone’s body is different, and consistency is key. You wouldn’t expect one workout to get you in shape, right? The same goes for oils!
Better Hack: Find an application method that works for you—diffusing, applying topically, or taking Vitality oils internally (if labeled for ingestion). Use them daily, track your progress, and adjust as needed.
The Right Way to Use Oils
Now that you know what not to do, you can confidently use your essential oils in a way that’s safe, effective, and life-changing. Whether you’re looking to support your health, clean your home naturally, or simply enjoy uplifting aromas, essential oils are a powerful tool—when used correctly.
Want to learn more simple and effective oil hacks? I’d love to help! Comment below with your favorite oil tip, or grab my 30 Days Of Oily Hacks guide for more fun and practical ways to use your oils every day.
Happy Oiling Safely!
Julie Stough
407-388-5754
Anxiety can sneak up on us in the most unexpected moments, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, restless, or just plain exhausted. While prescription medications can help in certain situations, they’re not the only solution. Many people are turning to natural remedies that promote calmness and relaxation without unwanted side effects. Let’s explore three tried-and-true options you can try today.
1. Herbal Allies: Nature’s Anxiety Soothers
Mother Nature has gifted us a variety of herbs that work wonders for calming the mind and body. Here are three of the best:
- Chamomile: This gentle herb is often enjoyed as a tea before bedtime. Chamomile contains apigenin, a compound that binds to receptors in your brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Lavender: Known for its soothing scent, lavender can be used in essential oil form for aromatherapy. Try adding a few drops to a diffuser or dabbing it on your pulse points.
- Ashwagandha: A powerhouse adaptogen, ashwagandha helps your body manage stress by lowering cortisol levels. It’s available in powder or capsule form and can easily be added to your daily routine.
🌱 Tip: Create a relaxing ritual with a cup of chamomile tea or a lavender-scented bath to unwind after a long day.
2. Mindfulness Practices: Find Your Inner Calm
Anxiety often stems from feeling out of control, but mindfulness practices can bring you back to the present moment. These simple techniques are scientifically proven to reduce anxiety:
- Deep Breathing: Slow, intentional breaths help calm the nervous system. Try the 4-7-8 method: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.
- Meditation: Even five minutes a day can make a difference. Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided meditations tailored to anxiety relief.
- Grounding Exercises: When anxiety strikes, focus on your surroundings. Use the “5-4-3-2-1” method: name five things you see, four things you can touch, three things you hear, two things you smell, and one thing you taste.
🌟 Tip: Incorporate mindfulness into your morning or evening routine to start or end your day with a sense of peace.
3. Nutritional Support: Fuel Your Body and Mind
What you eat can play a big role in how you feel. Certain nutrients are particularly effective in reducing anxiety:
- Magnesium: Often called “nature’s chill pill,” magnesium helps regulate the nervous system and prevent overexcitement of brain signals. Find it in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon and seeds like flax and chia, omega-3s have been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms by supporting brain health.
- Vitamin B6: This vitamin helps produce serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone. Bananas, avocados, and poultry are great sources.
🥗 Tip: Add a handful of nuts to your afternoon snack or a piece of dark chocolate to your dessert for a natural anxiety-relief boost.
Managing anxiety naturally is all about finding what works best for your body and lifestyle. Whether you’re sipping a calming cup of chamomile tea, taking a mindful moment to breathe, or fueling your body with nutrient-rich foods, small steps can lead to big changes in how you feel.
💬 What’s your favorite natural remedy for anxiety? Share your tips in the comments—we’d love to learn from you!
The Raindrop Technique is a non-invasive method designed to aid the body in correcting spinal and foot curvatures. Originating in the 1980s from Dr. Gary Young's research and collaboration with Lakota medicine man Wallace Black Elk, this technique helps align the body structurally and electrically. It utilizes a sequence of immune-enhancing essential oils that support the body’s various systems and promote overall health, vitality, and longevity.
These therapeutic-grade essential oils are known for their antiseptic, antioxidant, and oxygenating properties, making them capable of penetrating cell walls and boosting cellular function. Essential oils raise the bio-electrical frequency of the body, restoring it to a normal, healthy level while addressing nutritional deficiencies that lead to disease.
A Raindrop Technique session involves applying therapeutic grade essential oils to the spine and/or feet and can last about an hour with benefits extending beyond the session. This method combines Aromatherapy, Vita Flex Technique, and Feather Stroking, making it a deeply relaxing and holistic therapy. Expect a soothing experience that can support the body's natural defenses and enhance overall wellbeing.
Essential oils, distilled from the very essence of plants, provide an array of benefits for the mind, body, and spirit, each type boasting unique therapeutic qualities. They can be utilized in several ways, including aromatherapy to foster a tranquil environment conducive to relaxation and improved sleep; topical application for addressing muscle discomfort, skin conditions, and inflammation; and even as a natural alternative in household cleaning products, offering effective cleaning capabilities while also lifting moods with their refreshing fragrances. Lavender is celebrated for its serene scent that enhances sleep, while peppermint offers relief for sore muscles, and tea tree oil is noted for its anti-acne properties.
However, the essential oils market faces challenges regarding purity and quality due to adulteration and dilution, potentially diminishing their therapeutic value and posing health risks. This issue is compounded by the current lack of stringent regulation, making it difficult for consumers to ascertain the quality and safety of the products they purchase. Consumers are encouraged to conduct thorough research into brands' sourcing practices and their commitment to quality and sustainability to support a market that values transparency and ethical responsibility.
The importance of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the essential oils industry cannot be overstated, with concerns such as overharvesting and exploitative practices posing threats not only to plant species but also to communities involved in their cultivation and processing. Embracing essential oils in daily wellness routines invites a holistic approach to health, promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, provided consumers stay informed and cautious about their choices, prioritizing products from companies dedicated to quality, purity, and ethical standards. Check out Seed to Seal
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