The capacity to link information and emotions is why essential oils are such a powerful partner in creating and maintaining emotional health. I love the brain and when I became a Certified Brain Injury Specialist, I learned so much science that validated what I was seeing with my yoga students who have brain injuries. These individuals cannot always easily express themselves. I saw quickly how their affect and attitude would change dramatically after smelling oils.
Curious as to why? Let’s get a little nerdy because you may be wondering how the Limbic System actually works. Well, let’s dive in!
As a person inhales an essential oil, the molecules of the oil go into the back of each nostril to the epithelium patch where the molecules attach to receptors on the cilia hairs. These convert to nerves that send the odor information to the olfactory bulb in the brain. This bulb communicates directly with the amygdala, hippocampus, and other brain structures.
Still with me? Good! Getting to the good stuff – promise!
The amygdala is the center for emotions in the limbic system and it links our sense of smell to our ability to learn emotionally.
This is EXACTLY why smells will trigger memories more than seeing an image, tasting food, or even listening to music!
Some of the most popular oils to start to anchor your emotional brain are citrus oils, as they provoke happy, uplifting, and supportive emotions in most people.
What is your favorite citrus oil to grab and inhale?
Want to learn the basics of essential oils? Download this free eBook! You’re welcome!
One of the most important parts of a skin care regimen for oily skin is keeping it clean. Keeping oily skin clean helps to prevent the oil from building up and causing breakouts. I recently decided to try my hand at making my own cleansing pads and could not be more thrilled. Little things, right?
This recipe is so simple, so clean and so affordable. I love adding pure essential oils to my skin care because of the many benefits! Tea tree is known for its cleansing and antibacterial properties and lavender is soothing for the skin. If you’d like to learn more about the basics of essential oils and how versatile they can be, AND why choosing the most pure essential oils are important just download this free ebook.
Container with a tight-fitting lid (I used a wide mouth pint mason jar)
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Pack the cotton rounds into the mason jar and pour some of the cleansing solution over the rounds. Keep adding rounds and pressing down while adding more solution.
I use these before bed and first thing in the morning. So good!
The thyroid, located in the front of the neck, is a small butterfly-shaped organ. It plays a mighty role in your health by producing hormones which travel throughout the body. These hormones regulate our hearts, digestion, muscle control, and equally important, brain development. As a result, you need your thyroid to be performing well to feel well. Did you know that there are many essential oils for thyroid support?
First let’s look at why the thyroid is so important. Thyroid hormones affect your metabolism rate, which means how fast or slow your brain, heart, muscles, liver, and other parts of your body work. Amazing, Huh?
Paying attention to the language your body is speaking can really give you insight to your thyroid working too fast or too slowly. For example, if you don’t have enough thyroid hormone, you might feel tired and cold. Or, if you have too much thyroid hormone, you might feel nervous, jumpy, and warm.
The thyroid is controlled by the pituitary gland which oversees thyroid hormone production. Additionally, it tells the thyroid to make more or less according to what the body needs. The pituitary gland is even smaller, about the size of a pea, yet still vitally important to our health. In fact, we can use essential oils for thyroid and pituitary support to keep our body working at it’s best. This blend can support the thyroid in staying balanced and healthy.
The best essential oils for thyroid support are Lemongrass, Myrrh, Clove, Frankincense, Basil and Peppermint. I apply this twice a day.
1. Frankincense – Frankincense, also known as the “King of oils”, is a powerfully supportive oil for the body. Its complex chemistry, coupled with a high ratio of Monoterpenes (25%), make it a multi-purpose oil and a strong support on a cellular and DNA level. Furthermore, Frankincense is calming for the immune and nervous systems, skin and emotions. Combine with Lemongrass, Myrrh and Clove for a daily thyroid support blend .
2. Myrrh – Because Myrrh is very high in Sesquiterpenes (75%), it is a strong support for the thyroid. Sesquiterpenes also stimulate the limbic system, hypothalamus, pineal and pituitary glands. Combine with Clove, Lemongrass and Frankincense for a daily thyroid support blend.
3. Clove – Clove is a powerful antioxidant and immune support for the body. High in phenols which stimulate the immune and nervous system, they further help keep your cells performing well. Combine with Lemongrass, Myrrh and Frankincense for a daily thyroid support blend.
4. Lemongrass – Lemongrass is high in aldehydes (up to 80%). This works to calm the nervous system, relieve stress and promote relaxation while also being uplifting. Combine with Clove, Myrrh and Frankincense for a daily thyroid support blend.
5. Peppermint – Peppermint gives us a natural energy boost. If you’re tired, it’s a wonderful pick-me-up during the day, especially in those late afternoon hours. Try it in a diffuser, put a drop in your hands to inhale or just smell from the bottle. It is also supportive to the thyroid.
Remember, essential oils are so potent that it doesn’t take much to be effective. This roller blend will last about TWO months and each bottle of essential oils is 250 drops! That means you’ll have a long supply of thyroid support, but also the oils in this blend are incredibly versatile and you’ll find TONS of uses for them.
If you’d like to learn the basics of essential oils, check out this handy guide. It’s super easy to get these oils at wholesale prices, just pop over here or I am happy to make you a thyroid blend to try before you invest!
I don’t know about you, but I struggle with all the proteins on the market. My preference would be to chew on a nice steak anytime of day but realistically that probably isn’t a good idea, or an easy on-the-go option.
I was in the store the other day trying to find a protein bar that isn’t filled with garbage or proteins that my body doesn’t like. Whey and I disagree greatly when it comes to my skin. Just eating one protein bar with whey protein will cause acne within a day or two. Not fun. Pea protein gives me a huge belly ache and I avoid soy in general. That makes quick and easy options like protein bars and shakes tricky.
Collagen protein however is awesome!
Collagen protein is the major structural component of our body’s connective tissues. It also exists between cells to support body tissues and assist with cell function. Collagen is produced by the body, notably by skin cells, which has led to the marketing of collagen supplements to improve skin’s youthfulness and slow the aging process. Collagen supplement repairs cellular damage, maintains physical structure, aids in joint movement, reverses signs of aging, heals and protects the gut. My skin, nails and hair are super happy, too. Plus, getting 18 grams of protein gives my body the fuel it needs. My favorite brand is vital proteins and the chocolate version is amazing.
I made these little protein bites today in hardly any time or effort. The pure ingredients save my body and my pocketbook! Store bought protein bars are sooooo expensive!
Super simple.
I rarely measure ingredients when I am making something like this, but a rough guess is this:
Toss the ingredients in a bowl and stir until well blended. Use your hands to mix thoroughly and then form into small balls. I store mine in the refrigerator and grab a couple after a workout or when I need a little snack.
If you aren’t sure the the essential oils you have are safe to ingest just take a look at your bottle and make sure it has a nutritional label on it. If it doesn’t, it is likely adulterated and unsafe. Be wise! Be sure to download this free ebook to see why purity is so important when we put essential oils in and on our body.
I mean face it, the last couple of years have been hard. The word pandemic was not everyday lingo and I don’t know about you, but I never thought about the impact a virus could make on the day to day. Before this pandemic, I had a basic understanding of political differences but the depth at which the country has gone the last few years is startling. The division is palpable in our cities and even in our homes.
Along with the collective challenges that we have all endured we each have our own unique challenges layered upon the big challenges. How we face them determines the quality of our lives. This isn’t to say that putting on a smiling face everyday will be the answer, but our ability to shift our mindset and not hold onto the things we have no control over can certainly help our happiness factor.
Mindset matters
Truth is for me personally, I am a self-employed yoga teacher who has had to navigate how to continue to earn an income during these hard times; going from full-time teaching in long term care facilities, my own studio and a large health club to virtual only was a huge hit financially and had a big impact on my ability to feel fulfilled teaching. It is doable, but hard to connect through a screen, especially with individuals with special needs. I am also a full time caregiver for my special needs daughter; so her programming went all virtual which meant not only was I her primary caregiver, I also became her primary friend/peer/teacher/support/transportation/provider, which was hard on both of us. My last major daily hurdle is I have three health conditions that cause me to experience tremendous pain and fatigue. Managing my pain and being able to show up for my students and my family takes grit some days.
Most of the time, my MINDSET allows me to handle it (somewhat) gracefully and I choose to make the best of this precious life. I have a few must-do practices to keep my mindset in the right place:
I am committed to my health and fitness.
I begin and end my day with a walk. I also walk on my lunch hour and anytime during the day I have sat too much or the burdens of life feels heavy. Some days I get over 25,000 steps and that is okay. It works for me. I find walking manages my pain better than anything else. I also practice yoga and do strength training 3-4 times per week.
I am committed to constantly changing my business model for the changing times and am open to always working hard.
I have learned to be flexible (haha, no yoga teacher joke intended). I navigate the demands of the audience and am constantly learning how to best utilize my skills in a virtual world. I also invite small groups into my studio and while the income may not be what a large group is, I feel connected and inspired and that fulfills me. I work nearly 7 days a week either teaching, marketing, following up, promoting, etc. I am committed to this gift.
I am committed to seeing the best in every situations.
Some people have told me that my rosy lenses aren’t accurate for the world, but I love them. I choose to look at both sides of the situation and try to find the small nuggets of wisdom that may be there to learn. I avoid situations that are filled with hatred, division, anger and judgment which means my circle of friends is small, I spend a lot of time by myself and I avoid the news.
I am committed to saying YES!
I have found that when we live in a state of pessimism (I spent decades there), we attract the very things we dislike. When we learn to say yes to the best possible outcomes, we attract that. If you don’t believe me, try it for a month. Say yes to new opportunities, to new experiences, to new friends, to abundance and then sit back and enjoy the ride.
I am committed to a daily Gratitude practice.
It is so easy to get sucked into the unfortunately popular culture that much of the world sees as not enough (time, money, resources, love). When we shift our attention to what we actually have plenty of, we get more (time, money, resources, love). Look around and notice the abundance of color, texture, living things, and feelings. There really is plenty to be thankful for.
It is a choice and although some days it can be harder to stay in a positive mindset given the status of the world, it is possible with a little changes to our thoughts. My mindset has served me incredibly well.
My favorite way to purchase top quality essential oils is with wholesale pricing that gives me the best bang for my buck and also helps farmers and growers all over the world have a better life. Isn’t that a win-win?
In addition to all the gunk that is going around, many of us are challenged by temporary or ongoing respiratory issues. Breathing well is so important to our overall health and having natural tools to support you is so empowering. Plus, the emotional benefits that aroma can give you can help you get through the hardest of days.
Did you know that you can get ten of the most used and most versatile oils AND a diffuser at wholesale pricing and be able to breathe a little better, deal with mood a little better, sleep better, clean better, handle aches and pains better and just have a totally better handle on life’s issues?
This diffuser blend is perfect for better breathing.
This bundle includes:
Lavender: Lavender can be soothing when used internally. Its calming and relaxing aroma promotes a peaceful environment that’s conducive to sleep.
Lemon: Lemon is effective for freshening the air and cleansing the surfaces in your home.
Peppermint: The refreshing, minty aroma and versatility of Peppermint from oral care to respiratory health and digestive support has made it a favorite.
Tea Tree: Tea Tree is best known for its topical purifying qualities. It is useful for cleansing the skin and nails.
Oregano: Oregano isn’t just a great spice. It also serves as a powerful cleansing agent and offers powerful antioxidants.
Frankincense: Frankincense can be used internally for a variety of health benefits* or topically to soothe the skin.
Deep Blue®: Deep Blue is an enriched blend of essential oils—perfect for a massage after a long day or an intense workout.
doTERRA Breathe®: A popular oil blend, the refreshing aroma of doTERRA Breathe helps create feelings of easy breathing.
doTERRA On Guard®: doTERRA On Guard is a powerful proprietary blend that supports healthy immune function.
DigestZen®: This oil blend is wonderful effective when it comes to aiding food digestion, soothing occasional stomach upset, and reducing uncomfortable gas when used internally.*
Other Products:
Pebble™ Diffuser: This ultrasonic diffuser provides several incredible features. Five-hour continuous runtime, a ten-hour intermittent runtime, and multiple light settings.
Better is better. Plus, you’ll get lots of ME to guide you. Which is even better!
When I began this year, I was welcoming in the idea of taking everything that is good in and around me and polishing it off to become great. As I looked at what that would look like in my thoughts, words and actions I decided that the word that would capture this best for 2021 would be refinement. If you have hung around me for any amount of time you know that choosing a word or intention for your year is an absolute must. To me it creates a map or a guide as to how I will navigate the terrain that I will encounter throughout the 365 days of being human.
I set out to start making soft and subtle adjustments to my mindset and how I show up in the world, and the result has been incredible.
For the last eight or nine years I have been pushing so hard in my business(es) and in my own personal life, and my words of the year have been a definite reflection of that push up until 2021. The last several years my words have been ones like bold, reverence, flourish, and limitless. I have spent that last few years rallying around bettering my business and my personal growth. I feel like I have been in a constant push for several years which takes a ton of energy. Prior to that some of my words were essence, discover, and peace and each of those years brought some fantastic and grueling challenges to be within alignment with those intentions. This year though I began the process of softening a bit and living with a bit less intensity and refining aspects of my life. Realizing toward the end of 2020, I was exhausted I decided stop spinning and instead sit with what is already amazing and make it better.
Here is how I did:
I took a chance early this year that I could find work in the big city of Denver serving adults with brain injuries and four agencies said YES. The work has been so fulfilling and validates me in many ways. I have been an adaptive yoga teacher for many, many years but have stayed “safe” within my own little city and venturing out was a definite refining all that is good, and make it better decision.
I let go of teaching classes that drain, exhaust, or don’t align with my soul, and instead dove into more of what DOES feed and nourish me.
I discovered several close people in my life who I thought I knew really well and I felt had my best interest in mind, were very different than I thought. I chose to distance myself from that kind of energy because it was only hurting me. The freedom that has come from cleaning house as far as who I surround myself with has been liberating.
I let go of my attachments to outcomes related to finances and instead decided that as I spend money, I receive money. I opened the flow of reciprocity and the results have been beautiful.
I found my healthy weight about eighteen years ago as I let go of about eighty pounds and I have felt pretty strong despite my orthopedic challenges, BUT I took on a strength training program that has transformed me from being a very fit person to an incredibly strong and toned person. Besides the physical difference, I am empowered and confident in my body which is something of recent years I have not felt often.
I was able to fulfill of dream of refining my living space by renovating my house on a somewhat large scale and pay cash for most of it.
I realized this fall that being in alignment with my values or principles is the number one way for me to stay in the flow of goodness in all areas of my life. Step outside of those, and I become lost quite quickly. I review those vales often, especially before I make a major decision.
Mostly this year I spent cleaning up the parts of my life that were cluttered, unfulfilling, distracting, and at times destructive. Instead, I was busy making a simplified and glorious version of myself shine in the world.
As I gratefully spend the next day or so of 2021, I am soaking in the processes I have discovered and am preparing to close this chapter. Look for something amazing for 2022 for myself and the world.
People will drop over $100 per month on lattes and hundreds more on drinking and eating out, yet not want to spend $80 on a gym membership, or hundreds on therapy or a coaching program.
And then they wonder why they don’t feel good or aren’t reaching their goals.
People spend hours scrolling on their phones or watching Netflix and but don’t have enough time to read, meditate or go for a walk.
Your actions show where your priorities are, not your thoughts and ideas.
If you’re having a difficult time making changes to your health, happiness, relationships, business, whatever, take a look at what you’re investing in. Not just with your money, but your energy, time and/or attention.
The more you give to yourself, the more you’ll get back. You deserve to have everything you desire and nobody else is gonna give it to you but YOU.
If you’re worried about the price of getting started, you should see the cost of staying exactly where you are.
We are in the last few months of 2021 and I am offering this package that is worth well over $500 for a deep discount of just $325.
Time is limited to grab this deal.
This bundle also makes an amazing gift. The awesome thing about this program is some of the content is yours to keep and return to over and over.
•Assessment and Personalized Wellness plan ($125.00) •Two private yoga sessions ($80.00) •Two follow up Wellness Sessions ($80.00) •Seven days of Wellness Program to motivate and inspire you ($125.00) •One-hour body work/energy session. ($50.00) •Crystal and Essential Oil Blend based on you primary wellness goal ($22) •Bonus Self-Care Package ($140) •Essential Oil consultation (free)
You are SO worth it.
Just send me a message and we can roll up our sleeves and get busy! I cannot wait to work with YOU!
“All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
One of my favorite aspect to my “job” is helping people feel empowered by learning how to use natural remedies. These can address everyday issues that come up for most of us at some point; sleep trouble, dealing with anxious moments and life stressors, aches and pains, illness, and energy.
One of the things I love to do is send people a little package with samples. The sample pack also comes with information that explains how to use them. Generally, if you use an oil and don’t get the results you’re looking for, that’s OK, we can try something else.
It is always important to remember that using essential oils should be honored much like a medication. It is a remedy that needs supervision, and a little common sense.
Here are few things to remember before using them.
Safety Precautions:
• Essential oils are extremely potent and some should not be applied directly on the skin without diluting them first. (Cassia, Cinnamon, Clove, Thyme & Oregano to name a few).
• All citrus oils are photosensitive and should not be used on the skin for 12-24 hours prior to sun exposure. This means that if you apply to your skin and go in the sun for a long period of time, you could burn your skin.
• Some but not all doTERRA essential oils are safe for internal use. Do not ingest an oil without triple checking if it is safe for dietary use. Also working with someone closely who understand how to use essential oils is key especially when using internally.
• Babies & the elderly are more sensitive to oils and extra dilution may be required. My favorite carrier oil is coconut or jojoba, but I also add to lotion.
• Keep your oils out of reach of children & pets. Remember these are potent and powerful. They need to be treated like a medication with safety in mind.
To see my favorite essential oils and the ones that I use the most often, check out this free downloadable ebook and then let me know which ones you’d like to try!
Most of you know me as a yoga teacher, but I am also a Healing Touch Practitioner. Awesome, eh? Have you ever had a healing touch session?
In Healing Touch therapy, practitioners use their hands to help restore balance and harmony through working with the human energy field or life force. This is done in a comfortable setting, fully clothed and is a great way to treat unsettled feelings in the mind and body.
Through heart-centered intention and skill, practitioners use their hands to re-establish the natural flow of energy. Healing Touch practitioners do not force or push energy but allow balance and harmony to “reboot” the energy system.
The benefits are amazing:
•Non-Invasive
Healing Touch is done without the use of invasive procedures and offers a gentle, holistic way of healing.
•Effective
Research has shown that Healing Touch facilitates the relaxation response and enhances the healing process.
•Non-Toxic
Healing Touch restores balance and harmony to our natural biofield without the use of pharmaceuticals.
If you are feeling stuck or have feelings that just seem off, or are experiencing pain, I would love to see you! It can be done in person or virtually! Schedule yours today!
It is amazing to me how our inner narrative about ourselves can be so negative. Years ago I started a pretty solid affirmation practice and continue to this day. By rerouting our thoughts and words to a positive place, we actually retrain our brain to think and see the good in our lives.
Affirmations are positive statements that can help you to challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative thoughts.
When you repeat them often, and truly believe in them, you can start to see positive changes in your life unfold. Practicing positive affirmations can be extremely simple, and all you need to do is pick a phrase and repeat it to yourself.
I don’t know about you, but I have spent many years, speaking things like “I am a mess. I am overwhelmed. I am stressed. I am in so much pain.” I still catch myself and can now rephrase to “I am doing my best. I am handling this with grace. I am feeling my body tell me something”.
Affirmations require regular practice they can help you to make lasting, long-term changes to the ways that you think and feel.
Do you have a list of affirmations? What’s your favorite one? I love having sticky notes and reminders around my house and I even have an app in my phone that periodically throughout the day sends me an I am_____ reminder of something good.
I encourage you to start a 30 day affirmation practice and see what shows up in your life. Need some help coming up with affirmations? I am happy to help!
Have you been hearing others talk about adrenal fatigue but not sure what it means?
What is adrenal fatigue?
The theory behind adrenal fatigue basically says that our body’s immune system responds by revving up when we are under stress. The adrenal glands, which are small organs above your kidneys, respond to stress by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones are part of the “fight or flight” response. They increase your blood pressure and your heart rate. When we live in a constant state of stress, emotional/physical pain, we can easily slip into this cycle. Of course, reducing stress and adding in some healthy habits is a great way to stop this phenomenon. Adrenal fatigue is sometimes hard to catch and the symptoms can be vague, but once you know what you are dealing with, it’s fairly easy to treat. Do you feel tired and worn out all the time, even though you’re getting plenty of sleep? Do you crave salty foods and have trouble losing extra pounds? Maybe you’ve been to several doctors and none of them can say what’s wrong with you.
Some signs that your adrenals are working too hard include:
•fatigue
•burst of energy before bed
•low blood pressure
•trouble getting to sleep
•reliance on caffeine
Along with increasing water, reducing daily stress, meditation, movement and eating a healthy diet I have also for many years been using a blend of essential oils to help support my super tired adrenals. Now, we have Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, which increases this already awesome blends effects on combating adrenal fatigue.
My tried and true blend includes: Clove, Rosemary, Frankincense, Lemon, and Basil (or Holy Basil) and literally lasts for months.
I apply this to my low back along the sides twice a day. I can tell the days I don’t use this…so easy. Of course, reducing stress, eating well, movement and plenty of water are a must too! ?
If you opt to buy these oils know that the oils in this blend have a huge variety of uses beyond just the adrenals, so you’re also investing in natural cleaning, mood support, aches and pains, hair growth, endocrine issues, and sleep to name just a few. If you’d love to try a blend, just reach out to me! I’d love to help you!
Check out this amazing ebook to learn more about how plants can help our body and feel free to reach out to me with questions or if you’d like to purchase a pre-made blend from me!
