August Inspiration

“Summer afternoon to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” —Henry James

Have any of you noticed how much nature reminds us of the bounty that is available? The constantly changing and growing plants tell me that the same extraordinary potential exists within me. I see how the animals gather and forage what they need and this reminds me that everything I need is right here. I am grateful for the rain and the amazing colors that surround me. My garden is a perfect example to me of “more than enough”– the green beans and cucumbers this year are starting to really take shape and I moved the pumpkin patch to a new location this year and they are all very happy! I am planning to soon make chokecherry jelly and peach jam this year and share with my neighbors! With my bounty of cucumbers I am also going to make some pickles, again. You can find my recipes at the bottom under the DIY section.

For years I have focused on creating a more abundant life and the ways in which that has all happened marvels me on a daily basis. Some may think of abundance as simply financial bounty, but I have come to see it as so much more.

For me abundance shows up in the random acts of kindness I receive, the support I consistently have for my classes, my friendships, the magnitude of joy in my life, colors everywhere, laughter that fills a room, a belly full of food, and enough money for me to live happily and generously.

As we come into the long, and usually hot month of August, I encourage you to look for the bounty in your life….things like lemonade, lazy afternoons in the hammock, delicious ice cream, sunflowers, sweet watermelon, a basket of veggies and much more.

I have lots of fun classes this month and chances to connect with yourself and with others. To me, that is just another great form of abundance. Be sure to check out my returning 30 Days of Yogastarting August 1st and get it delivered right to your inbox!

Love and gratitude,

Stacie

PS. Have you subscribed to my podcast? Each Monday I drop a new episode and we cover just about anything and everything! Check it out!

Embracing Wisdom Podcast

woman surrounded by sunflowers
Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com

30 Days of Yoga

Did you hear I am embarking on 30 days of Yoga this month?? Yep! Each and every day you will get a fresh video to practice in your own time! There is still time to sign up!

Watch this short video to learn more!


Wellness Coaching

I am currently accepting two new wellness coaching clients. This program can be done virtually or in-person and includes a personalized plan, mindset coaching, nutrition, mindfulness, accountability, weekly coaching and more. Reach out to me if you are ready to focus on YOU.

Yoga Teacher Mentoring

Are you a current or aspiring yoga teacher? I am offering a yoga teacher mentoring program to help yoga teachers learn how to modify and teach to those with different abilities. This program includes shadowing me in my assisted living settings and seeing hands-on the magic that happens! Ask me more!

I would love for ANYONE to consider tagging along to see what a day in my life in Assited Living is like. Just think–you may find a deeper calling to serve and be open to spending an hour or two a week a facility near YOU! Spending time with those in need simply requires a loving heart.


Wellness Education

This month I am also offering my wellness education through the platform of a beautiful freeeboos that you can keep for reference. Be sure to bookmark this as it are packed with information.

Understanding the Chakras

Looking for more? I have all seven chakras broken into lessons, a toxic free living guide, a basic essential oil guide and much more on my storefront. Check it out here!

Digital Store Front

two clear glass bottles with liquids
Photo by Mareefe on Pexels.com

Essential Oils & Wellness

Many of you know that I use and rely on essential oils to maintain the health of my mind, body, and spirit. I use them throughout my home from cleaning, to pain management, energy, sleep, mood and much more. One of my favorite things is helping others get started using natural remedies and plant medicine. Right now you can get a free wholesale membership when you customize your own bundle or choose from a perfectly pre-chosen bundle. Either way you get 25% off retail prices for one year and there is never a commitment, just the same savings as me!

You will also get an awesome welcome package from me, access to my VIP community group, education and mentoring and much more. It is easy to get started! I am also happy to chat personally with you to find the perfect options for your needs.

Get Started

i offer FREE wellness consultations to talk about your goals and desire for a healthier, mind, body and spirit virtually or over coffee. Together we will create a personalized plan. Schedule yours today!

Free Wellness Consult

Do you know someone who could benefit from my services? I offer an amazing referral program and would love to help your loved ones find health.

Referral Program

Promotions

This beautifully crafted blend of essential oils, gemstones and flowers is earthy, spicy and full of magic. Just one whiff and you will be transported to a place of abundance and appreciation for the fullness of life. Order here.


Recipes & DIY

Did you know you can use essential oils to make some awesome summer treats? Not just will the flavor be amazing but you’ll also get the benefit of the essential oils!

Recipes

Essential Oil Ice Cubes

Honey Ginger Lemonade

Garden Beet Caprese

Kiwi Strawberry Splash Smoothie

Easy Chokecherry Jelly

Easy Pickles

Summer DIY Ideas

Soothing After Sun Spray

Bug Bite Relief

DIY Bubbles

green popsicles in close up shot
Photo by Anton Uniqueton on Pexels.com

The Benefits of Being Outdoors

Fresh air, sun, trees. Nature is a magical thing, and according to some studies, can have strong healing powers — such as improving mood, boosting the immune system and increasing anti-cancer proteins.

Being outdoors in nature can be healing and beneficial for the body and mind. Whether at the beach, forest or in a neighborhood park, nature offers a calming effect. And when we combine nature with physical activity, it can help fight depression and anxiety.

Being outdoors can improve your health and well-being in the following five ways:

  • Lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress — Spending time walking among or simply looking at trees lowers blood pressure and reduces the stress-related hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
  • Improves mood — Researchers have found that nature simply makes us happy. Anxiety, depression and anger are notably decreased after spending time outdoors.
  • Improves focus — Studies show that both adults and children who have difficulties focusing or controlling impulses are better able to concentrate after being in nature. The natural world allows our brains to take a break from all that mentally drains us, and even reduces symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Helps us heal quicker — Illness and surgery can be painful and frightening, which can increase stress and slow healing. However, researchers discovered that patients who spent time outdoors during their recovery required fewer painkillers, had fewer complications and experienced shorter hospital stays.
  • Supports graceful aging — According to a study in the Journal of Aging and Health, adults over 70 who spent time outdoors experienced fewer sleep difficulties, complained less about aches and pains, and enjoyed improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities.
green leafed tree
Photo by Tim Gouw on Pexels.com

Thank You

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.

As always, it is my hope that you stay healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.

Much love and light to you!

xo, Stacie

Follow Me

YouTube Channel (including my podcast)

Embracing Wisdom Wellness Group

Embracing Spirit Yoga

Instagram




August Inspiration

Summer afternoon to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.

—Henry James

Have any of you noticed how much nature reminds us of the bounty that is available? The constantly changing and growing plants tell me that the same extraordinary potential exists within me. I see how the animals gather and forage what they need and this reminds me that everything I need is right here. I am grateful for the rain and the amazing colors that surround me. My garden is a perfect example to me of “more than enough”– the green beans and cucumbers this year are starting to really take shape and I moved the pumpkin patch to a new location this and they are all very happy! I am planning to make my second batch of chokecherry jelly and pickles again this year and share with my neighbors! You can find my recipes at the bottom under the DIY section.

For years I have focused on creating a more abundant life and the ways in which that has all happened marvels me on a daily basis. Some may think of abundance as simply financial bounty, but I have come to see it as so much more.

For me abundance shows up in the random acts of kindness I receive, the support I consistently have for my classes, my friendships, the magnitude of joy in my life, colors everywhere, laughter that fills a room, a belly full of food, and enough money for me to live happily and generously.

As we come into the long, and usually hot month of August, I encourage you to look for the bounty in your life….things like lemonade, lazy afternoons in the hammock, delicious ice cream, sunflowers, sweet watermelon, a basket of veggies and much more.

I have lots of fun classes this month and chances to connect with yourself and with others. To me, that is just another great form of abundance. Be sure to check out my 30 Days of Yoga starting August 1st and delivered right to your inbox!

Love and gratitude,

Stacie

30 Days of Yoga!

Did you hear I am embarking on 30 days of Yoga this month?? Yep! Each and every day you will get a fresh video to practice in your own time! There is still time to sign up!

Watch this short video to learn more!

Full Moon Yoga in the Park

Join me in person for a celebration of the summer full moon! August 30th at 7pm! We will enjoy a gentle lunar practice that includes essential oils to celebrate the release associated with the full moon.

Your registration includes a custom full moon blend of oils with crystals. You MUST register or pre-pay for this event. (venmo, Zelle, PayPal are options…message me if you’d like to save a spot and pay this way).

cost: $25

Essential Yoga–ONLINE

This gorgeous practice can be enjoyed in the comfort of your home! Message me if you’d like samples of the essential oils used in this session.

Essential Yoga–BALANCE

Online Yoga and Pilates

Wanting to have access to yoga and pilates that fits in your schedule? You can access my entire library of videos on my website. I haven’t created any new content but my website is full of chair yoga, sensation and intuition based guided gentle yoga, pilates and meditation all on a donation basis.

Wellness Coaching

I am currently accepting two new wellness coaching clients. This program can be done virtually or in-person and includes a personalized plan, mindset coaching, nutrition, mindfulness, accountability, weekly coaching and more. Reach out to me if you are ready to focus on YOU.

Yoga Teacher Mentoring

Are you a current yoga teacher? I am offering a yoga teacher mentoring program to help yoga teachers learn how to modify and teach to those with different abilities. This program includes shadowing me in my assisted living settings and seeing hands-on the magic that happens! Ask me more!

Wellness Education

This month I am also offering my wellness education through the platform of beautiful freeebooks that you can keep for reference. Be sure to bookmark these as they are packed with information.

Essential Oil Basics

Essential Oils for Every Age

Toxic Free Living

Understanding the Chakras

Essential Oils & Wellness

Many of you know that I use and rely on essential oils to maintain the health of my mind, body, and spirit. I use them throughout my home from cleaning, to pain management, energy, sleep, mood and much more. One of my favorite things is helping others get started using natural remedies and plant medicine. Right now you can get a free wholesale membership when you customize your own bundle or choose from a perfectly pre-chosen bundle. Either way you get 25% off retail prices for one year and there is never a commitment, just the same savings as me!

You will also get an awesome welcome package from me, access to my VIP community group, education and mentoring and much more. It is easy to get started! I am also happy to chat personally with you to find the perfect options for your needs.

Get Started

i offer FREE wellness consultations to talk about your goals and desire for a healthier, mind, body and spirit virtually or over coffee. Together we will create a personalized plan. Schedule yours today!

Free Wellness Consult

Do you know someone who could benefit from my services? I offer an amazing referral program and would love to help your loved ones find health.

Referral Program

Promotions

This beautifully crafted blend of essential oils, gemstones and flowers is earthy, spicy and full of magic. Just one whiff and you will be transported to a place of abundance and appreciation for the fullness of life. Order here.

Recipes & DIY

Did you know you can use essential oils to make some awesome summer treats? Not just will the flavor be amazing but you’ll also get the benefit of the essential oils!

Recipes

Essential Oil Ice Cubes

Honey Ginger Lemonade

Garden Beet Caprese

Kiwi Strawberry Splash Smoothie

Easy Chokecherry Jelly

Easy Pickles

Summer DIY Ideas

Soothing After Sun Spray

Bug Bite Relief

DIY Bubbles

The Benefits of Being Outdoors

Fresh air, sun, trees. Nature is a magical thing, and according to some studies, can have strong healing powers — such as improving mood, boosting the immune system and increasing anti-cancer proteins.

Being outdoors in nature can be healing and beneficial for the body and mind. Whether at the beach, forest or in a neighborhood park, nature offers a calming effect. And when we combine nature with physical activity, it can help fight depression and anxiety.

Being outdoors can improve your health and well-being in the following five ways:

  • Lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress — Spending time walking among or simply looking at trees lowers blood pressure and reduces the stress-related hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
  • Improves mood — Researchers have found that nature simply makes us happy. Anxiety, depression and anger are notably decreased after spending time outdoors.
  • Improves focus — Studies show that both adults and children who have difficulties focusing or controlling impulses are better able to concentrate after being in nature. The natural world allows our brains to take a break from all that mentally drains us, and even reduces symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Helps us heal quicker — Illness and surgery can be painful and frightening, which can increase stress and slow healing. However, researchers discovered that patients who spent time outdoors during their recovery required fewer painkillers, had fewer complications and experienced shorter hospital stays.
  • Supports graceful aging — According to a study in the Journal of Aging and Health, adults over 70 who spent time outdoors experienced fewer sleep difficulties, complained less about aches and pains, and enjoyed improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities.

Have a beautiful month of abundance in all forms! xo, Stacie

About Stacie

Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.

With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes. Stacie offers adaptive yoga in a variety of assisted living settings in Colorado Springs and Denver Colorado.

Essential Oil Infused Popsicles

Summer time means frozen treats are hanging around far more often. I am not a huge fan of store-bought ice creams or other frozen treats, but I do love the occasional cool down summer treat on hot days. By using natural ingredients, fruit and essential oils I am getting a little health kick while nurturing that summer sweet tooth.

Here are a few of my favorite popsicle recipes. Be sure if you do choose to add essential oils to your popsicles you are using pure essential oils otherwise you may be adding things to your body that would not be healthy. You can find the brand that I trust the most in the highlighted links for oils in each recipes. You can also find out how to use essential oils safely in this free digital brochure.

Popsicle Recipes

cherry lime popsicle

  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 2 cups pitted cherries
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 drops lime essential oil 

lemon berry yogurt popsicle

  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2/3 cup berries
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1-3 drops lemon essential oil

coconut lavender popsicles

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2/3 cup frozen blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1-3 drops lavender essential oil

strawberry mint popsicles

  • 3 cups strawberries
  • 1 lemon, zested
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (I used the juice from the zested lemon)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1-2 drops peppermint essential oil

If you choose to add essential oils to the popsicles, make sure that they are pure and safe for internal use. You can get these essential oils at wholesale pricing with 25% off!

How to Make Popsicles

  1. Place all ingredients in the blender and blend until well combined
  2. Pour mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for 4-6 hours.

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Sun Damage Face Serum

I grew up in the 70’s era where the only sunscreen around was the infamous zinc oxide slapped onto the nose long after the sun had already blistered it a few times. There might have been something call sea and ski that had a distinct smell but the memory of it is not super vivid. All I know is that this redheaded gal spent most summers with sunburns and blisters. As an adult I admit I was far from consistent when it came to sunscreen, until a few years ago.

Sadly, the damage of 50+ years in the very strong Colorado sun has taken its toll. I have had more basal cell cancers cut out than I can recall and a few squamous ones, too. A recent trip to the dermatologist resulted in yet another biopsy and the unexpected follow up call saying I need to have surgery to get the rest of it. Not fun. This particular spot is on my collarbone where the skin is super thin and fragile.

Most people who know me are surprised that I am a mom to a 32 year old and that I have a handful of grandkids because honestly, I do not look 52… at first glance anyway. Sometimes my son and I when out together get confused as siblings or worse, that we are a couple. (It helps that he is balding and looks much older than his 32 years and I can most days pass for 40-ish). Overall despite the decades of sun exposure my face has not taken too much of a beating and I have been taking really good care of it.

For the last 10 years I have been very diligent with what I put on my skin and besides sunscreen, the only thing I use on my skin is stuff that I make myself so I know the ingredients are pure. Our skin is after all our largest organ and it absorbs everything we put on it. I make my own foot salve, body butter, eye lash serum, cuticle and nail serum, and hand balm. Sure, it takes a little time but it is so worth it. I know exactly what I am putting on my skin and consider it to all be the cleanest and purest skin care. Plus, I cringe at the thought of paying upwards of $50 – $100 for a high quality facial serum.  The DIY facial serum that I use works the same or better, lasts longer, and costs significantly less.

I have been making a face serum to offset the damage of the sun for quite some time and I think it is amazing. I use pure essential oils and rosehip oil as my carrier. I have found rose hip to work best with my aging skin, but I also know that jojoba is a great option, too.

You only need 3 items to make this DIY Face Serum.   
These are my favorites— dropper bottle, carrier oils, and essential oils.  

  1. Dropper Bottle
  2. Carrier Oil
  3. Essential Oils

The carrier oil is generally inexpensive and can be used for other DIY projects.  All together, depending on the essential oils you use, this serum will likely cost under $10 per bottle. The essential oils you invest in can be used for a variety of other uses, or you can just use them for serums and they will make about twenty-five 2oz serums. Can you imagine spending department store prices twenty five times??? Another benefit to this investment is that I know exactly what I am putting on my skin. There are no unnecessary fillers, synthetic ingredients, or preservatives that are not good for me. 

A few words of caution when it comes to essential oils.

First, please be sure you are using a high quality essential oil, and do not use fragrance oil from the drugstore.  Even though these are labeled as pure oils, they have been tested and they are synthetic. These will damage your skin!  If your bottle of essential oil states fragrance oil anywhere on it, do not apply it to your face.

Second, be wary of ordering on Amazon because most of these have been tampered with.  If you’ve ordered from there and your oil has smelled or looked “off”, then you’ve experienced this.  These can damage your skin because you don’t know what’s in them. They are frequently diluted with low cost coconut oil which can sometimes clogs pores. Because of this, the essential oils I trust to use with my skin and my family are doTERRA essential oils because of their purity, testing standards, and commitment to sustainable practices.  

You can customize this serum to your skin’s specific needs. Since I am targeting aging and sun damaged skin, I carefully selected the essential oils listed below. At my age, I need all the anti-aging wrinkle fighting help I can get.  So I chose some specific oils to help with those needs, like Blue Tansy. You can use as few as 1 or 2 essential oils in this, or as many as you like.   Use what you have or grab a few new ones.

If you’re not sure where to start, Lavender and Frankincense would be good choices.  Of course grabbing these at wholesale makes the most sense and is easy to do! With wholesale pricing you get a 25% off retail cost and there is no requirement to make purchases.

  • Frankincense – I consider this one a must in this recipe.  They knew even thousands of years ago the amazing benefits of Frankincense.  It can help with fine lines and wrinkles, reduction of the appearance of scars, and give an overall radiant and youthful glow.
  • Lavender– The is one of the most popular essential oils of all time and with good reason.  It has incredible benefits for the skin.  It can help reduce redness, blotchy patches and reduce acne.  It has anti-inflammatory properties that help your skin heal from irritations, sun burn, insect bites, or bacteria.  It can also help detoxify the skin, heal, soothe, and prevent wrinkles.  It’s a superstar!
  • Helichrysum  – This is a beautiful healing oil that is great for inflammation, cell regeneration, and can help diminish scars.  It is called “The Everlasting Flower” because of its ant-aging rejuvenating benefits for the skin and ability to improve the complexion.
  • Yarrow | Pom – This is so wonderful for skin all on it’s own that many people will slather this all over their face to reap the benefits.  It has a beautiful blue tint to it that may turn the skin a bit blue at first, but will go away in a few minutes.  
  • Geranium – Geranium essential oil has fantastic benefits for the skin.  It can help with acne breakouts, wrinkles, skin irritations, and skin infections. I highly recommend adding this one.
  • Tea Tree – Tea Tree essential oil especially good for acne prone or oily skin.  It is naturally cleansing and purifying and will help fight acne causing bacteria. A must for any serum.
  • Copaiba –  Copaiba essential oil is widely used in cosmetic products including soaps, creams, lotions, and perfumes.  It is high in beta-caryophyllene which has been studied for its affects on skin. Perfect for any facial serum.
  • Cypress– Cypress oil supports restoring skin’s hydration and eases oil and dry skin issues. The decongestant quality of cypress oil reduces skin pigmentation and puffiness. Skin-soothing properties calm the irritated and inflamed skin and accelerate the healing process.
  • *Blue Tansy occasionally I add this special blue oil because it truly is amazing for the skin. While it is a pricier one, it has some amazing benefits and is a very popular essential oil in many skin care products you can buy anywhere. This one is the purest of the pure.

I apply the serum to a clean face at night and use the rose quartz roller to spread it all over my face and neck area. I smell amazing and while I sleep my face is getting restored by the essential oil benefits.

This gorgeous ebook has some great ideas and tips for how to use essential oils in your home. The investment goes way beyond this face serum!

Follow me for more goodness!

Please note that I may receive commissions when you click my links and make purchases. This doesn’t affect your price in any way and helps offset the cost of running this website.

Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life. Stacie is currently contracted across the country in a variety of residential programs for adults with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities.

With over fifteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-RYT 500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, a Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes. In addition to teaching classes in her studio and in the community, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.

August is Abundance

According to the Cambridge dictionary, abundance is defined as an amount that is more than enough.

Have any of you noticed how much nature reminds us of that same bounty that is available? The constantly changing and growing plants tell me that the same extraordinary potential exists within me. I see how the animals gather and forage what they need and this reminds me that everything I need is right here. I am grateful for the rain and the amazing colors that surround me. My garden is a perfect example to me of “more than enough”– the green beans and cucumbers this year may just feed the neighborhood! Oh, and I made my first ever batch of chokecherry jelly and it is amazing.

For years I have focused on creating a more abundant life and the ways in which that has all happened marvels me on a daily basis. Some may think of abundance as simply financial bounty, but I have come to see it as so much more.

For me abundance shows up in the random acts of kindness I receive, the support I consistently have for my classes, my friendships, the magnitude of joy in my life, colors everywhere, laughter that fills a room, a belly full of food, and enough money for me to live happily and generously.

As we come into the long, and usually hot month of August, I encourage you to look for the bounty in your own life that exist all around you….Simple things like lemonade, lazy afternoons in the hammock, delicious ice cream, sunflowers, sweet watermelon, a basket of veggies, the feel of a breeze against our cheek, the laughter of children chasing the ice cream truck and much more.

When we recognize all that truly IS, we can shed the notion that there is not enough.

Follow me for more goodness!

Grilled Garden Veggies

I honestly can’t wait until this time of year despite my often endless complaints about the heat. I balance out my intolerance for long summer days of high temperatures with plenty of time to play in my garden and marvel at the bounty of goodness that comes with a little time and patience.

Usually by this time of year I am also getting a little bored with variations of salads so it is always a thrill to find the first few summer squashes or yellow crook neck zucchini’s because one of my favorite summer foods is grilled vegetables. I also love to grill peaches, drizzle with honey and top with fresh ice cream!

I usually pair grilled vegetables with a juicy steak or a grilled chicken breast but these are also delicious just on their own. Simple, fresh and super tasty.

Here is how easy it is:

Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat. (I have also been known to use my indoor grill if I am in a hurry or it is the middle of winter and I am craving some summer flavors). Cut three zucchini or crook neck into thin lengthwise planks. Brush with one tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper. I also love to use garlic salt instead of plain salt. Arrange on the grate with plenty of space between. Grill until tender, lightly charred or about 3-4 minutes per side (unless you’re using an indoor grill that closes it would be just 3-4 minutes total). Transfer to a plate. In a bowl mix together cherry tomatoes and one tablespoon olive oil, apple cider or balsamic vinegar and I love to add some fresh chopped mint or rosemary. Stir up the tomatoes, smash a few for a splash of juice and pour over the grilled veggies.

Delicious!

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Summertime Drinks

On those hot summer days, when hunger gives way to thirst, there’s nothing that tastes better than a refreshing drink. Smoothies and lemonades are a great way to quench your thirst, plus they help to incorporate more fruits into your diet! Adding a few drops of essential oil will bring an extra twist to the flavour. Here are some simple and tasty ideas to juice up your family’s summer!

Lemon Berry Smoothie

A great start to the day and the perfect breakfast on the go. Berries have countless anti-oxidant properties — plus nutrients and fibre — which help protect your body against seasonal threats.

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup (230ml) of plain yogurt
  • 3/4 cup (130g) of frozen mixed berries
  • 2 drops of Lemon essential oil

Lemon Berry Smoothie

A great start to the day and the perfect breakfast on the go. Berries have countless anti-oxidant properties — plus nutrients and fibre — which help protect your body against seasonal threats.

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup (230ml) of plain yogurt
  • 3/4 cup (130g) of frozen mixed berries
  • 2 drops of Lemon essential oil

Instructions 

  1. Add all the ingredients into a blender and blend on high speed until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
  2. Serve immediately.

Honey Ginger Lemonade

A twist on classic lemonade, Honey Ginger lemonade is the perfect refreshing drink to help lift your mood. The juiced ginger helps add a little spicy kick, while both lemon juice and Lemon oil keep the recipe light and cool.

Ingredients

  • 1–2 tablespoons of ginger juice
  • 3 lemons, juiced
  • 3–5 drops of Lemon essential oil
  • 1 cup (230ml) of water
  • 3 tablespoons of raw honey
  • 1 cup of ice

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients, except the ice, into a jug. Mix well.
  2. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
  3. Serve with some ice cubes.

Raspberry “Lime-onade”

If you are having friends over, then surprise them with a very bright pink “lime-onade”. With only three ingredients, this combination of raspberries and lime is definitely a crowd pleaser. 

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) of raspberries
  • 3 cups (720ml) of water
  • 1 drop of Lime essential oil
  • Juice of one lime
  • 1 cup of ice
  • 3 tablespoons of raw honey

Instructions 

  1. Add the raspberries to a blender, and blend until smooth.
  2. Press through a fine strainer into a jug, and discard the seeds and pulp.
    (TIP: You can also put the seeds and pulp in a small jar, cover with vinegar—like white wine or rice wine vinegar—and store mixture in the fridge. Strain later for salad dressings or for marinades).
  3. Add the lime juice, essential oil and water. Stir to combine.
  4. Stir in the honey until combined.
  5. Pour into glasses, and top with ice cubes. Serve and enjoy!

Tropical Smoothie with Tangerine Essential Oil

This tropical smoothie is just like a dessert (a healthy one!) that will make you forget your sweet cravings. Omega-3, fibre and potassium are just a few of the benefits you will pour in your glass. 

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup (230ml) of organic coconut milk
  • 4 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 banana
  • 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed, sunflower and pumpkin seed
  • 120g of frozen mango chunks
  • 1 drop of Tangerine or essential oil
  • 1 passion fruit, to finish

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
  2. Pour into two glasses.
  3. Cut the passion fruit in half and scrape the seeds on top.
  4. Serve immediately.

Follow me for more goodness! Also check out this gorgeous ebook to learn the basics of essential oils!

Frozen Yogurt & Berry Bark

Summer time is in full swing and not only is it hot out there, but all the great berries and produce are in full abundance! It’s so fun to eat fresh, sweet and amazing fruits and veggies.

I love summer, but the heat is not my friend. I get easily cranky on hot days and am always looking for a healthy way to cool down. This little snack is a go to for me…I can swipe a piece mid afternoon or as a dessert and not feel guilty at all.

It’s simple to make and tastes amazing. You’ll see I add a few drops of lemon essential oil. Be sure the brand you choose to use in recipes is safe to ingest. Most aren’t and you have to be safe. The lemon oil gives a pop of summertime flavor but is also has amazing health benefits. Peek at this gorgeous ebook to learn more.

HERE IS WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Yogurt: Use a full fat yogurt for the best texture and flavor. Vanilla yogurt is a great base to use, but you can use any flavor you like.

• Fruit: Fresh strawberries and blueberries add a great pop of color and it’s a tasty way to get some fruit into your family’s diet. You can make this bark with other fresh fruits like mango, raspberries or kiwi fruit.

HOW TO MAKE YOGURT BARK


1. Before you spread the yogurt evenly over a lined baking sheet, add two drops of lemon essential oil and stir.
2. Top with chopped strawberries.
3. Top with blueberries or any other fruits. I love kiwi!
4. Option to finish with granola and freeze until firm. I usually skip the granola but it does give it a great crunch.
5. Once it is fully frozen, slam on counter and remove pieces. You can also cut into bark shapes if it doesn’t make its own by slamming it. I store in a Tupperware up to three months, but it also never lasts that long.

TIPS FOR MAKING FROZEN BARK


1. Use full fat yogurt. Using yogurt with full fat means that the texture will less likely get icy when frozen. It will also have a better taste that’s more creamy. I have used Greek Style Coconut milk yogurt too and it’s fabulous for the dairy free people.
2. Chop everything small. Small fruits like blueberries work very well here and chopping larger fruits to be about the size of blueberries helps with cutting the bark. Make sure the fruits are not too bulky either so the bark looks flat.
3. Line your baking sheet. This will help to remove the bark easily from the tray, if you don’t line it, the yogurt will freeze to it and it will be really tough to remove. Use parchment or wax paper to line the entire surface of your sheet pan.
4. Allow time for the bark to set. It will take around 3 hours for the bark to fully set in the freezer. Make it the night before to enjoy the next day.

Enjoy!

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To Bloom

Have you ever spent time looking at a flower that is about to bloom?  The rose that is still tight in a bud?  The daisy that is closed and not yet in full happiness mode? Whichever flower you have gazed at has spent months growing into what was about to happen.  Day after day this amazing form of life kept the course of growth, never wavering despite the external elements.

Here we are halfway through the year and if you are like me, you might be thinking about that intention you set back in January.  You know, when the year felt fresh and new?  And yet, it was during the heart of winter you were thinking about growing your goals and dreams.

Here we are in the start of the growing season and it is a great time to look at your intention again and see if some of those seeds you planted in the dormant season have started to take shape into small shoots of growth.  Seeing the beginnings of growth is a great motivator to keep going because in time, the bloom will come.

For me, I am reviewing all of my goals; business goals and personal goals.  I am looking at the areas in my life that I have succeeded, and areas that I have developed some gaps, and how I can fill them in.

As I plan to teach the concept of blooming this month  I am going to return to nature time and time again to be both marveled and motivated.

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