Rebuilding Strength After Hip Replacement—A New Video Series By Stacie Wyatt
There was a time I never imagined I’d be here—recovering from my fourth surgery in twelve months, wondering if I’d ever feel strong again. For eighteen years, I taught barre, adaptive yoga, and mindful movement, sharing the body’s capacity for grace and resilience. But now the tables have turned: I’ve become the student of my own body, relearning how to stand, how to trust, how to rebuild strength from the ground up.
I’m excited (and a little nervous) to invite you into my healing journey with a brand-new YouTube series: “Post–Hip Replacement Comeback & Strength Program.” This is more than workouts—it’s my story, my sweat, my hope, and my promise that recovery can be transformative.
What to Expect in the Series
Each week, I’ll release a short, 4–6 minute video covering:
Foundational Activation (Episode 1): Simple core and hip-opening moves you can do supine or seated.
Standing Strength (Episode 2): Gentle weight-bearing exercises to rebuild stability.
Seated & Balance Work (Episode 3): Chair-based moves for confidence and coordination.
Mobility & Yoga Stretches (Episode 4): Soft, therapeutic stretches to support flexibility and ease.
Every session meets you where you are—whether you’re one week post-op or several months down the road. I’ll share safety tips, adaptations for pain or limited range of motion, and all the encouragement I’ve been using in my own practice.
Why I’m Doing This
Teaching yoga and pilates for two decades, I always believed in the body’s ability to heal itself. But living through my own surgeries has shown me a different side of strength—the vulnerability, the patience, and the radical self-compassion we need to truly recover.
This series is my way of turning that experience into something powerful and practical. I want you to know: if I can rebuild my strength, you can too.
If you’re ready to join me on this journey back to strength, head over to my YouTube channel and hit Subscribe (and that little notification bell) so you won’t miss a single episode. I’ll see you there—let’s rebuild together, one gentle movement at a time. ?
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
When many people think of yoga, they picture stretchy poses on a mat — but the heart of yoga reaches far beyond movement. For me, yoga has always been about how we live — how we relate to ourselves, each other, and the present moment.
At the core of yoga philosophy is an ancient and beautiful roadmap called the Eight Limbs of Yoga. These eight guiding principles invite us to live more mindfully, compassionately, and authentically. They are not rules to master or steps to climb — they are gentle invitations into deeper awareness.
Here’s a simple, soulful look at these eight limbs and how they can show up in everyday life — from the way we speak to ourselves to the way we breathe through a difficult moment.
1. Yama – Living Kindly in the World
How we treat others and our environment. Can we speak gently, act honestly, and live with kindness? Each day offers a chance to choose compassion over reaction.
2. Niyama – Caring for Ourselves
Our relationship with our inner world. Through self-reflection, gratitude, and letting go, we begin to understand ourselves and grow into who we’re becoming.
3. Asana – Moving with Presence
Yoga poses are not about flexibility, but awareness. When I guide movement, I invite students to feel rather than perform. The body becomes a gateway to listening.
4. Pranayama – The Power of Breath
Our breath is a tool for grounding. A few mindful breaths can soften tension, reset our nervous system, and return us to the moment.
5. Pratyahara – Turning Inward
Sometimes, we need to tune out the noise to hear ourselves. Closing the eyes or taking a quiet walk are ways to come back to your own energy.
6. Dharana – Focused Attention
This is the art of being with one thing. Lighting a candle, repeating a mantra, or washing the dishes with full presence — all are practices of focus.
7. Dhyana – Gentle Awareness
Meditation is not about emptying the mind — it’s about sitting with it. With patience, we notice our thoughts without needing to fix them.
8. Samadhi – Moments of Wholeness
This isn’t enlightenment, but glimpses of peace. It might arrive in silence, or laughter, or the pause between breaths. It reminds us: we are already whole
Yoga, to me, isn’t something I leave on the mat or chair. It lives in my breath, my choices, my ability to pause and soften. It’s a lifelong practice of coming home to myself again and again — and guiding others to do the same.
Living Yoga isn’t about how many poses we can master or how long we can hold a handstand. It’s about how we meet each moment—with compassion, presence, and breath. It’s the way we tend to our homes, the way we speak to ourselves in silence, the way we show up for others even when life feels heavy.
There is yoga in the way we rise in the morning and set intentions with clarity. There is yoga in the pause before responding, in the mindful sip of tea, in the willingness to begin again when we feel we’ve strayed.
Living Yoga invites us to step off the mat and into our lives with a softened heart and steady courage. We begin to see every encounter as sacred—whether it’s folding laundry, walking the dog, or comforting a friend. It becomes less about doing yoga and more about being yoga.
When we truly live our yoga, we embrace the wholeness of who we are—perfectly imperfect, always becoming.
Call to Action:
Curious how to live yoga off the mat? Join me on the podcast this week as I share more about how I weave these limbs into daily life, my teaching, and my healing journey.
Also watch for a deeper dive into these throughout the next month.
If you love hearty, nutrient-dense bread with a satisfying crunch, this seeded sourdough is pure magic. Inspired by the beloved Dave’s Killer Bread, this homemade version is loaded with texture and flavor—crackling with pumpkin, flax, chia, and sunflower seeds both inside and out. It’s chewy yet tender, with that unmistakable sourdough tang and a golden, rustic crust. Each slice is packed with wholesome goodness, perfect for avocado toast, hearty sandwiches, or just slathered with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt. This is not just bread—it’s a celebration of nourishment, flavor, and homemade comfort.
Optional: 1 Tbsp maple syrup or honey for a slightly sweet note
Extra seeds for coating the outside
Instructions:
Autolyse: Mix flour and water. Let rest for 30–45 minutes.
Mix: Add starter and mix until combined. Let rest 30 minutes, then add salt and sweetener (if using). Mix well.
Add Seeds: Fold in seeds until evenly distributed.
Bulk Fermentation: Cover and let rise 4–6 hours, performing 3–4 stretch and folds.
Shape: Shape into a round loaf. Roll the outside in extra seeds to coat.
Proof: Place into a floured banneton or bowl. Refrigerate overnight.
Bake: Preheat Dutch oven to 475°F. Bake 20 minutes covered, then 20–25 minutes uncovered until golden brown.
Cool: Let the loaf cool fully before slicing to allow the crumb to set.
As you knead or shape your dough, take a moment to feel the texture under your hands. Let the act of baking become a meditation—slow, intentional, and grounded.
“Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.” ? Roy T. Bennett
It is hard to believe just how fast this year has already flew by and here we are embarking on a new season. Mother Nature has been quite active this spring giving us many days of wind which feels like a lot of opportunities to lean into patience. As I write this I am watching the snow gently fall after enjoying a couple days of sunshine and 70 degrees. Oh, Colorado. She sure keeps us on our toes.
One day we are basking in the sun and the next we are shoveling snow. I recently read a passage in a book about how we interpret, and perhaps even how we have been trained or conditioned to view something that really is neutral. She uses the example of rain (or in Colorado’s case, snow) and how we might habitually complain about the gloom and doom of rain, when instead we could feel happiness that the flowers are being watered and rejoice in the sound and fresh fragrance. Rain is neutral, it is how we choose to view it. Another example is how we have been accustomed to dreading Mondays, when really it is a neutral and naturally occurring event. Rather than say, “ugh, its Monday”, try shifting your thinking to seeing a Monday as a whole new experience that you get to create a week of productivity, learning, joy, and love.
I love when I am called back to the simplicity of choice.
I encourage you to look at your thoughts and when a neutral event occurs (weather, Mondays, traffic), shift your immediate thought that is usually negative into an opportunity to create a beautiful new experience.
Ultimately we get to choose how we react, or respond to the events and experiences around us.
Throughout the last fifteen months, I sure have learned a lot about responding or reacting. Many of you know that I am once again facing hip surgery. This time to remove the implant due to infection and a possible adverse reaction to the metal material used in the implant. In the meantime, I will keep baking, creating and choosing everyday to find joy.
Finally, remember to honor the Mom’s and other lucky ones who have nurtured you. It is so important to acknowledge those who give so much love to others, and have one of the hardest (and most rewarding) job in the world. Also, don’t forget about the grandmothers out there–we are extra special people!
In health and gratitude,
Stacie
check out these fun goodies perfect for the mom’s in your life
Since I am still tempering myself back into a normal work/life balance, I have limited my classes. I do plan to offer more in the coming months, including a possible sourdough class! Enjoy these self-paced virtual programs that are fan favorites.
Wellness Packages
The following packages are always available and worth the investment. The content is yours forever so you can return time and time again to the practice.
SELF CARE
Self-care is the most important gift you can give yourself. Self-care encourages you to maintain a healthy relationship with yourself so that you can transmit the good feelings to others. While some may misconstrue self-care as selfish, it’s far from that. When you pay adequate attention to your well-being, you’re not considering your needs alone. The ripple effect that you will have on others is endless.
Have you been wanting to learn about, or better understand, the aspects of yoga and how you can live yoga off the mat? This three week series will explore the practice of yoga and its eight limbs, as well as guide you through gentle and nurturing yoga practices to bring a sense of wholeness to the mind, body and spirit. In each 90 minute session there will be a discussion, a practice and a meditation. The content is yours forever and it is currently on sale.
I am inspired to create and share with you some mindfully themed blends each month that I spend time thoughtfully crafting. This month’s blend is called NURTURE and is a gorgeous blend that includes Myrrh. Vetiver. Ylang Ylang. Frankincense, Clary Sage, Marjoram, Labdanum, Spearmint, Magnolia, Amethyst Crystal, and Lavender Petals.
Not sure where to start? How about with a free essential oil sample? I love sharing with others and finding tools that are personal to YOU. Just fill out this form and I will be in touch!
The season of renewal brings a sense of self care to mind. Enjoy these wonderful self care recipes or if that is not your thing, check out some of my hand crafted goodies–perfect for mom1
To be a mom is to support in times of trouble and strife.
To be a mom is to know you can’t be perfect all the time.
To be a mom is a having a mountain every day to climb.
To be a mom is to nurse, to protect, to nurture.
To be a mom is knowing your words will hold, even on your departure.
To be a mom can be hard, can be painful.
To be a mom can be rewarding, can be joyful.
To be a mom is to say I love you, I care,
And whenever you need me, I’ll be there.
~Jenny Elvy
Thank You
So many of you have been so supportive of me over the years. I am so blessed that I can continue to share my passion and touch your life. It means a lot to me that you know that you are very important to me, and I am incredibly grateful that our paths have crossed. I believe that now more than ever, we need to recognize the people and meaningful connections that we all have.
As always, it is my hope that you stay healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
Balancing Your Energy: An Introduction to Chakras, Crystals, Essential Oils & Yoga
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from ourselves—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. One gentle way to restore harmony is by tuning into the chakra system, the body’s energetic centers. This ancient system reminds us that healing often begins within, and that we are whole, vibrant beings made of energy, breath, and intention.
The chakras are seven main energy centers that run along the spine, each associated with specific emotional and physical states. When energy flows freely, we feel balanced and alive. When blocked, we might notice tension, fatigue, or emotional overwhelm.
Here’s a simple guide to each chakra—and how yoga, essential oils, and crystals can support balance and well-being:
Root Chakra (Muladhara)
Theme: Safety, stability, grounding
Yoga: Child’s pose, mountain pose
Oil: Vetiver, patchouli
Crystal: Red jasper, hematite Try standing barefoot on the earth and breathing deeply to feel grounded.
Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana)
Theme: Creativity, pleasure, emotional flow
Yoga: Hip circles, goddess pose
Oil: Sweet orange, ylang ylang
Crystal: Carnelian Place a warm compress on your lower belly and breathe into your creative center.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)
Theme: Confidence, personal power
Yoga: Warrior II, boat pose
Oil: Lemon, ginger
Crystal: Citrine, tiger’s eye Use empowering affirmations like: “I am strong. I am capable.”
Heart Chakra (Anahata)
Theme: Love, compassion, connection
Yoga: Cobra pose, heart openers
Oil: Rose, geranium
Crystal: Rose quartz, green aventurine Place your hand on your heart and take three long breaths of love and kindness.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)
Theme: Communication, truth, expression
Yoga: Neck rolls, shoulder stand (modified)
Oil: Peppermint, eucalyptus
Crystal: Blue lace agate, aquamarine Journal your truth or speak an affirmation aloud.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna)
Theme: Intuition, insight, inner wisdom
Yoga: Child’s pose, supported forward fold
Oil: Clary sage, frankincense
Crystal: Amethyst, lapis lazuli Meditate with your eyes closed and bring attention to the space between your eyebrows.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)
Theme: Spiritual connection, oneness
Yoga: Meditation, seated stillness
Oil: Lavender, sandalwood
Crystal: Clear quartz, selenite Practice stillness and visualize a gentle light above your head.
You don’t need to do everything all at once. Start small. Choose one chakra to focus on this week—use a crystal, diffuse an oil, or add a mindful movement. Energy healing is a journey, and the more we tend to our energy body, the more vibrant and aligned we feel. I have a full breakdown of each chakra that includes a yoga practice, discussion, and tips for balancing.
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
Gratitude as a Path to Abundance: More Than Just Money
When we hear the word “abundance,” our minds often leap to money, success, and material gain. But true abundance is much deeper than what we can count or measure. It’s the feeling of contentment after a good laugh, the peace of morning sunlight, the love in a quiet hug. Abundance, at its core, is a state of being.
Gratitude helps us see what’s already here. It softens our striving and reminds us of the everyday miracles we might overlook. With gratitude, we begin to notice the richness in our lives that has nothing to do with wealth or possessions.
Ways to Recognize Non-Tangible Abundance:
A conversation that nourishes the soul
The scent of blooming flowers in spring
A moment of silence where everything feels okay
A deep breath after a hard day
The inner strength that carried you through a storm
Practicing gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring challenges or pretending everything is perfect. It means making space to honor what’s good—even when life is messy.
A Simple Gratitude Practice:
Each evening this week, write down three things you’re grateful for that can’t be bought. Let this shift your awareness from “more” to “enough.” You might be surprised at how abundant your life already is.
Affirmation:
I honor the richness of my life. I am surrounded by quiet abundance.
Abundance blooms when we realize how much we already hold. Gratitude is the doorway.
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
There’s something deeply grounding about mixing, folding, and baking. Since my surgeries, the kitchen has become more than just a space to prepare food—it’s become a place of presence and peace. When I bake, especially something bright and nurturing like this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, I feel a connection to the rhythm of life again. The rising dough, the pop of juicy berries, the zest of lemon—it’s all a quiet reminder that healing takes time and joy can be found in simple rituals.
This loaf is subtly sweet, naturally leavened, and absolutely bursting with flavor. The combination of tart lemon and fresh (or frozen!) blueberries gives a burst of spring in every bite. Whether you’re baking to share or simply to nourish your own heart, this one’s a favorite.
? Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Recipe
Ingredients:
100g bubbly, active sourdough starter
375g warm water
500g bread flour (you can use a mix of all-purpose and bread flour too)
10g salt
Zest of 1 large lemon
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (toss in a bit of flour to prevent sinking)
Optional: 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a touch more sweetness
Instructions:
Mix: In a large bowl, combine starter and water. Stir in flour until fully incorporated. Cover and rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.
Add Salt + Lemon Zest: Sprinkle salt and lemon zest on top of dough. Gently fold in until evenly mixed.
Bulk Fermentation: Over the next 4–5 hours, perform stretch and folds every 30–45 minutes. Add blueberries gently during the second fold to avoid crushing them.
Shape + Cold Proof: Shape your dough and place it in a floured banneton. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours).
Bake: Preheat oven to 475°F with Dutch oven inside. Score your loaf and bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for another 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Cool: Let your loaf rest at least 1 hour before slicing (the hardest part!).
? A Gentle Reflection
As the loaf rises, so do we. Through setbacks, surgeries, uncertainty, and slow healing—rituals like baking remind us that care and consistency matter. I hope this lemon blueberry loaf brings some sunshine to your day and a sense of steadiness to your week.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Tag me on social media and let me know how yours turned out.
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
This month marks 18 years since I first began teaching adaptive yoga to people in assisted living communities. What started as a small offering has become a deep, lifelong calling—one that has transformed me as much as it’s supported those I’ve served.
Over nearly two decades, I’ve witnessed the incredible power of mindful movement, community connection, breathwork, and presence. I’ve seen how a simple chair yoga practice can bring light to someone’s eyes, offer relief from pain, or create a moment of true joy in the middle of a hard day. And in holding space for others, my own heart has found a kind of healing I never expected.
Especially in the past year—navigating multiple surgeries, physical limitations, and ongoing recovery—the foundation of service has kept me grounded. Even when I couldn’t teach in person, the energy of this work stayed alive through mentoring, podcasting, and online teaching. It reminded me that no matter our circumstances, we all have something to offer. Service doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful.
Benefits To Being of Service
There are so many benefits to being of service. It connects you to something bigger than yourself and creates a sense of purpose and belonging. It can ease anxiety, reduce stress, and even boost your mood. Research shows that acts of kindness release feel-good hormones like oxytocin, which support heart health and emotional resilience. Giving from the heart has a beautiful way of healing the heart.
What I’ve learned is this: Helping others is one of the most powerful ways to heal yourself. When you witness another’s resilience, you’re reminded of your own. When you offer compassion, it echoes right back into your own spirit. There is something sacred about showing up—for yourself and others—even when things are messy or uncertain.
So today, I celebrate this milestone not with fanfare, but with deep gratitude. For every student who has sat in a circle with me, every breath shared, every story held with tenderness—thank you. This path has shaped me, softened me, and given me purpose.
Here’s to many more years of mindful service. ?
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
Rustic Sourdough Strawberry Pie (AKA: Sourdough Discard Strawberry Galette)
There’s something magical about taking a humble sourdough discard and turning it into a buttery, flaky crust for a rustic strawberry pie. This recipe is the perfect way to use up that leftover starter while indulging in the sweet, tangy goodness of fresh strawberries. With a touch of vanilla and a hint of lemon zest, this rustic sourdough strawberry pie is sure to steal the show at your next gathering.
The best part? It’s as easy as it is delicious—no fancy pie pan required, just a bit of love and a whole lot of flavor!
Crust Ingredients:
• 120g all-purpose flour
• 113g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 60g sourdough discard (unfed)
• 1–2 tbsp ice water, as needed
Filling Ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of half a lemon (optional)
Topping:
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Make the crust:
• In a bowl or food processor, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
• Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add sourdough discard and mix until combined. If dry, add a little ice water until the dough comes together.
• Shape into a disk, wrap, and chill for 30–60 minutes.
2. Make the filling:
• Toss strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and lemon zest. Let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Assemble the galette:
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out dough on parchment into a rough circle (about 12 inches).
• Pile strawberry mixture in the center, leaving a 2-inch border.
• Fold edges over the filling, pleating as you go.
• Brush crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
4. Bake:
• Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
• Cool slightly before slicing.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a slice of homemade comfort, this rustic sourdough strawberry pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The combination of tangy sourdough crust and sweet, juicy strawberries creates a balance of flavors that’s simply irresistible. So go ahead, grab a fork, and savor every bite of this delightful, seasonal treat. After all, good things—like this pie—are meant to be shared and enjoyed.
Happy baking!
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
“As you walk and eat and travel, be where you are. Otherwise, you will miss most of your life.” — Buddha
A Day in the Life: My Mindful Routine
Mindfulness is more than a practice—it’s a way of living that allows us to stay present, reduce stress, and embrace each moment with intention. Over the years, I’ve developed a daily routine that supports my healing, fosters inner peace, and helps me move through my day with more awareness and gratitude. In this post, I’ll walk you through my mindful routine, offering practical tips that you can incorporate into your own life. If you’d like a deeper dive, be sure to check out my podcast episode on this very topic!
Morning Mindfulness Rituals
The way we start our day sets the tone for everything that follows. Instead of rushing into the morning, I take time to ease in with intention.
Breath Awareness: Before getting out of bed, I take a few deep breaths, tuning in to my body and setting an intention for the day.
Gratitude Practice: I reflect on three things I’m grateful for, which shifts my mindset toward appreciation.
Gentle Movement: A short stretching or chair yoga practice helps awaken my body and ease any stiffness.
Mindful Sipping: I make my morning tea or coffee a ritual, savoring each sip instead of mindlessly drinking while multitasking.
Try This: Before reaching for your phone in the morning, take five deep breaths and set an intention for your day. Notice how it shifts your mindset!
Midday Practices for Presence and Grounding
The middle of the day can often feel hectic, so I incorporate small mindful moments to stay balanced and centered.
Mindful Eating: I slow down and focus on my meals, appreciating the flavors, textures, and nourishment they provide.
Stretch Breaks: Gentle stretching or a short movement break helps prevent stiffness and resets my energy.
Fresh Air & Stillness: Stepping outside, even for a few minutes, to breathe deeply and notice my surroundings keeps me grounded.
Pause & Reset: If I feel overwhelmed, I take a few conscious breaths to recenter.
Try This: Set a reminder on your phone to take a deep breath and stretch mid-afternoon. A few mindful moments can bring a fresh sense of clarity to your day.
Evening Wind-Down and Reflection
As the day comes to a close, I focus on slowing down and preparing my mind and body for rest.
Digital Detox: I set aside my phone at least an hour before bed to reduce stimulation.
Journaling: I write down a few reflections on my day, focusing on what brought me joy and what I learned.
Restorative Yoga or Breathwork: A few minutes of gentle stretching or deep breathing helps signal to my body that it’s time to relax.
Gratitude Reflection: Before closing my eyes, I think of three positive moments from my day.
Try This: Before bed, take a few moments to reflect on something that went well today. It can be a small win, a kind interaction, or a moment of peace.
Encouraging Your Own Mindful Routine
Mindfulness isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Your routine doesn’t have to look exactly like mine; the key is to find small, meaningful ways to weave mindfulness into your day. Whether it’s taking deep breaths in the morning, savoring your meals, or ending the day with gratitude, every mindful moment adds up to a more intentional life.
If you’re curious to hear more about how mindfulness supports my journey, tune in to my podcast episode, A Day in the Life: My Mindful Routine. I’d love to hear about your own mindful practices—feel free to share in the comments!
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
“The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind.” — Caroline Myss
The Power of Scent: My Signature Essential Oil Blend for Mind, Body, and Spirit
For many years, I have worn a signature blend of essential oils that has become more than just a fragrance—it’s a daily ritual, a source of balance, and a reflection of my journey. This unique blend of tangerine, wild orange, patchouli, lavender, and Roman chamomile supports my emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being in profound ways. Each oil contributes its own therapeutic benefits, creating a harmonious synergy that uplifts, grounds, and soothes.
Emotional Benefits
The emotional power of scent is undeniable. Essential oils can directly impact our mood and emotions, providing comfort, inspiration, and peace.
Tangerine & Wild Orange – These citrus oils are known for their uplifting properties. They promote joy, creativity, and a sense of positivity, helping to dissolve feelings of stress and stagnation.
Patchouli – This deep, earthy scent is grounding and stabilizing. It helps ease anxiety, encourages self-acceptance, and fosters emotional resilience.
Lavender – A universal oil for relaxation, lavender calms the nervous system, reduces feelings of tension, and promotes inner peace.
Roman Chamomile – Known for its gentle yet powerful soothing effects, Roman chamomile supports emotional balance and helps ease irritability, restlessness, and worry.
Spiritual Benefits
Essential oils have been used for centuries in spiritual practices, meditation, and rituals. My blend enhances my spiritual connection by fostering mindfulness and presence.
Citrus oils (Tangerine & Wild Orange) encourage openness and creativity, making them excellent for setting intentions and manifesting positivity.
Patchouli is often associated with grounding and connecting to the earth’s energy, deepening meditation and promoting spiritual awareness.
Lavender & Roman Chamomile help cultivate a sense of serenity, aiding in deep breathing and enhancing moments of stillness and reflection.
Physical Benefits
Beyond their emotional and spiritual impact, these oils provide tangible physical benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
Citrus oils are rich in antioxidants and support immune function while promoting a sense of alertness and mental clarity.
Patchouli has anti-inflammatory properties and supports skin health, making it a great addition to a personal fragrance.
Lavender & Roman Chamomile are well known for their ability to ease muscle tension, support restful sleep, and promote relaxation.
How I Use My Blend
I apply this blend daily as a personal fragrance, diffusing it in my space, and using it as part of my mindfulness rituals. Whether I’m preparing for a meditation session, winding down for the evening, or simply looking for a boost of joy and balance, this blend is my go-to companion.
Essential oils hold the power to transform our mood, enhance our energy, and create a sense of inner harmony. My signature blend is more than just a scent—it’s a reflection of my journey and a tool for supporting my mind, body, and spirit each day.
Do you have a signature blend that you love? I’d love to hear about the scents that bring you peace and joy.
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” — Pablo Picasso
The Healing Power of Giving: How Baking Bread Connects Me to Kindness
Pain has a way of making our world feel small. When we’re struggling—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—it’s easy to become consumed by what we’ve lost or what feels out of reach. For me, my journey with chronic pain and the inability to work in assisted living has been a deeply challenging transition. But I’ve found that one of the most powerful ways to shift my focus away from what I can’t do is to pour my energy into something kind, something bigger than myself. For me, that something is baking bread.
Every week, I bake fresh sourdough loaves for a church that feeds the homeless. There is something profoundly healing about mixing just three simple ingredients—flour, water, and salt—into a wholesome, nourishing loaf. But the true magic lies in the love and intention that go into each batch. With every stretch and fold of the dough, I pour in my care. As the bread rises, so does my heart. And when I place those warm loaves into the hands of someone in need, I feel a connection that transcends my own struggles.
Science supports this too.
Acts of kindness release endorphins, reduce stress, and even lower levels of pain. When we give from the heart, we create meaning in the midst of our own suffering. Baking bread has become more than just an act of service; it’s a form of therapy, a way to stay connected to purpose when my body limits me in other ways. It reminds me that even when I can’t show up in assisted living facilities like I once did, I can still contribute in a meaningful way.
I talk more about this on my podcast, where I share how acts of kindness can be a profound part of our own healing. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your own pain, I invite you to listen and explore ways to shift your focus outward. Maybe for you, it’s writing letters, making meals, or simply offering a kind word to someone in need. Whatever it is, I promise—it will not only lift others but will also lift you.
So, the next time you’re feeling lost in your own pain, ask yourself:
What can I do for someone else today? The answer might just bring a little healing to your own heart.
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
