Balancing Your Energy: An Introduction to Chakras, Crystals, Essential Oils & Yoga

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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.

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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.

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Gratitude as a Path to Abundance

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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.

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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.

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A Heart-Soothing Essential Oil Blend for Emotional Balance

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After nearly two decades of teaching yoga, supporting others through healing, and walking my own path of recovery, I’ve come to deeply rely on simple, soul-nourishing tools. One of the most powerful and accessible? Essential oils.

This Heart-Soothing Blend is something I’ve been wearing for years—especially when I need a gentle emotional reset. Whether I’m navigating physical pain, emotional overwhelm, or just trying to stay grounded in the midst of life, this blend brings me back to center.

It’s warm, calming, uplifting, and designed to support the heart space—physically, emotionally, and energetically. Think of it as a wearable ritual, a breath of support right when you need it most.

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Heart-Soothing Essential Oil Remedy Blend

Ingredients:

  • 10 drops Tangerine – uplifting, gently energizing
  • 10 drops Wild Orange – encourages creativity and optimism
  • 6 drops Patchouli – grounding and deeply calming
  • 5 drops Lavender – soothing and nurturing
  • 4 drops Roman Chamomile – emotionally balancing
  • 2 drops Tulsi (Holy Basil) – restorative and heart-protective
  • Carrier oil of choice (I use fractionated coconut oil)
  • 10ml roller bottle

To Make:

  1. Add the essential oils to a 10ml glass roller bottle.
  2. Top off with your carrier oil.
  3. Roll between your hands to gently blend.

To Use:

Roll over your heart space, the inside of your wrists, or even behind your ears. I personally love applying this over my adrenals, especially in times of high stress or fatigue.

Use it as part of your daily mindfulness or yoga practice, as a pre-bed ritual, or any time you need a moment of calm clarity.

Why This Blend Matters

Each ingredient in this blend was chosen with purpose. These oils work together to uplift the spirit, soften anxious energy, and create a sense of emotional safety. For me, this blend is a sacred little anchor throughout the day—reminding me to breathe, to pause, and to offer myself the same compassion I offer others.

If you try this blend or adapt it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Healing is never one-size-fits-all—but we can always share what supports us along the way.

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Lemon Blueberry Sourdough

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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:

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  • 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:

  1. Mix: In a large bowl, combine starter and water. Stir in flour until fully incorporated. Cover and rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.
  2. Add Salt + Lemon Zest: Sprinkle salt and lemon zest on top of dough. Gently fold in until evenly mixed.
  3. 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.
  4. Shape + Cold Proof: Shape your dough and place it in a floured banneton. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours).
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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18 Years of Adaptive Yoga: Healing Through Service

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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.

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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. ?

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Rustic Sourdough Strawberry Pie

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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!

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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!

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DIY Magnesium Balm for Deep Sleep and Muscle Relief

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DIY Magnesium Balm for Sleep & Muscle Relaxation

Calm your body and soothe sore muscles with this simple homemade balm

If you’ve ever dealt with restless nights, muscle tension, or stress, magnesium may be your new best friend. Magnesium plays a key role in hundreds of bodily functions, including sleep support, nervous system regulation, and muscle recovery. And while you can get magnesium through food or supplements, applying it topically through a balm allows for direct absorption—and some seriously relaxing benefits.

Today I’m sharing a super easy recipe for a DIY Magnesium Balm that you can rub on your feet, shoulders, neck, or any sore muscles before bed. This recipe fills six 2oz jars and makes a lovely gift or addition to your nightly routine.

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Why Magnesium Balm?

Unlike oral supplements, topical magnesium bypasses the digestive system and is absorbed through the skin. Many people find it helpful for:

• Easing muscle cramps and soreness

• Promoting restful sleep

• Soothing anxiety and stress

• Supporting hormonal balance

Step 1: Make Your Own Magnesium Oil

Magnesium “oil” isn’t actually an oil—it’s a highly concentrated solution of magnesium chloride flakes and water that feels slippery like oil when applied.

You’ll need:

• 1/2 cup magnesium chloride flakes

• 1/2 cup distilled water

• Small saucepan

• Glass bowl or jar for storing

Instructions:

1. Boil the distilled water, then pour it over the magnesium flakes in a glass bowl.

2. Stir until completely dissolved.

3. Let cool, then transfer to a clean glass jar or spray bottle.

4. Set aside 6 tablespoons for the balm recipe below.

DIY Magnesium Balm Recipe (Fills 6 2oz Jars)

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons magnesium oil (from recipe above)

• 1/2 cup unrefined coconut oil

• 1/2 cup shea butter

• 1/4 cup beeswax pellets

• Optional: 15–20 drops of essential oils (lavender, Roman chamomile, and cedarwood are great for relaxation)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler or heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together until fully liquid. I also use a mason jar and just stick it in the simmering water with the lid on.

2. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly (just a few minutes so it’s not too hot to touch).

3. Slowly whisk in the magnesium oil. It may separate at first—just keep whisking until it starts to emulsify.

4. Add your essential oils and stir well. I love lavender and cedarwood.

5. Pour into six 2oz glass jars and let them cool completely. They’ll firm up as they cool.

6. Label your jars and store in a cool, dry place.

How to Use Your Magnesium Balm

• Rub a small amount onto your feet, legs, shoulders, or back before bed.

• Apply after a workout to tired muscles.

• Massage into the neck and temples when feeling stressed or anxious.

Note: A slight tingling sensation is normal when first using magnesium topically. If you have sensitive skin, test a small area first or reduce the amount of magnesium oil.

Final Thoughts

This balm is a beautiful addition to your self-care routine. You’ll love how nourishing it feels, and the calming effects might just help you drift into dreamland a little easier. Plus, knowing you made it yourself makes it even more special.

Have you tried magnesium topically before? Let me know in the comments or share your favorite sleepytime rituals!

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Adapting Yoga for Recovery: My Post-Surgery Practice

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When the Mat Meets the Moment: How My Yoga Practice Is Evolving Through Surgery and Recovery

For years, yoga was my sanctuary—a sacred space where I found strength, flexibility, and healing. My mat traveled with me through seasons of growth, loss, celebration, and quiet introspection. But recently, that relationship has shifted. After multiple hip surgeries (with two more on the horizon), my yoga practice is no longer about pushing boundaries or mastering poses. It’s about listening, softening, and surrendering.

These days, my practice looks very different. It’s slower. It’s quieter. It often begins in a chair or even in bed. There are times when I simply breathe with intention or gently move my arms while seated. And you know what? It’s still yoga. In fact, it’s some of the most profound yoga I’ve ever experienced. The essence of the practice—presence, compassion, and connection—has only deepened.

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This shift has humbled me in the most beautiful way. I’ve let go of what I thought yoga “should” look like and embraced what it needs to be for my body right now. Some days it’s breathwork. Other days, it’s lying in stillness and offering gratitude for what my body can do. It’s become a dialogue between me and my healing—not a performance.

In my new YouTube video, I’m sharing a glimpse into this evolving journey—how I’m adapting my practice to meet my body where it is and finding peace in the process. Whether you’re healing, aging, or simply rethinking what yoga means to you, I hope this encourages you to honor your practice in whatever form it takes.

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Living with Uncertainty

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Living with Uncertainty: Navigating the Unknown with Mindfulness

Uncertainty has been a constant companion in my life lately. On a personal level, my journey with my hip—multiple surgeries, setbacks, and unknowns—has tested my patience and resilience in ways I never expected. Beyond my own experience, the world around us seems equally uncertain. From global challenges to personal struggles, we are all living in a space where certainty feels out of reach.

Setting intentions is like planting seeds in the garden of our hearts—each thought, belief, and action nurturing the growth of something beautiful. Just as a seed needs sunlight, water, and care to flourish, our intentions require patience, faith, and gratitude to take root and bloom.

For me, this season is about growing faith over uncertainty, trusting that even in the unknown, something meaningful is unfolding. I choose to fertilize this seed with gratitude, focusing on what is present rather than what is missing, and allowing each small step forward to strengthen my roots. With time, love, and consistency, these intentions will blossom into something greater than I ever imagined.

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In addition to intentions, how else do we cope when the ground beneath us feels unsteady?

1. Acknowledging the Uncertainty

For a long time, I resisted uncertainty, desperately wanting answers and a clear path forward. But I’ve learned that fighting the unknown only creates more stress. Instead, acknowledging it—saying, This is hard. I don’t know what comes next, and that’s okay—allows me to soften into the moment.

2. Grounding in the Present Moment

Mindfulness has been my anchor. When my mind races with “what-ifs,” I come back to my breath, to the feeling of my feet on the ground, to the smallest sensations that remind me this moment is manageable. Even when the future is unclear, I can still find moments of peace in the now. I also find daily gratitude is the soothing balm for the painful uncertainty.

3. Finding Stability in Rituals

In a world that feels uncertain, small rituals create a sense of stability. My morning tea, my mindful movement (even if it’s limited), my evening gratitude practice—these simple things remind me that I still have control over my mindset and how I show up for each day. As I said a few days ago, a daily routine or ritual is key to stability.

4. Trusting the Process

Healing—whether physical, emotional, or collective—takes time. I don’t have all the answers about my hip or where this path is leading me. But I trust that I am moving forward, even when I can’t see the destination. The same is true for the world around us. Even in chaos, change is happening, and growth is unfolding.

5. Leaning on Community

Uncertainty can feel isolating, but we are not meant to navigate it alone. Talking about it, sharing the struggle, and finding connection reminds us that we are in this together. Whether it’s through a message, a mindful conversation, or just knowing someone else understands, community is a powerful antidote to fear.

Final Thoughts

Uncertainty is uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be paralyzing. By grounding ourselves in the present, creating small moments of stability, and trusting that clarity will come in its own time, we can move through uncertainty with more ease and grace.

If you’re navigating uncertainty in your own life, know that you’re not alone. How do you find peace in the unknown? Let’s start a conversation in the comments. 

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Daily Mindfulness Routine

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“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.

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  • 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!

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The Power of Scent: My Signature Essential Oil Blend for Mind, Body, and Spirit

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“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.

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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.

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The Healing Power of Giving: How Baking Bread Connects Me to Kindness

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“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.

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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.

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