I am SO not a morning eater. Or a midday eater for that matter. I get busy doing my life and skip eating more times than not. I am trying to get a handle on upping my intake and specifically my protein since I work out and walk so much. I prefer to eat my meals so smoothies are a no go for me.
I have made these many times and always tweak them a little each time depending on my mood. Sometimes I add ham or bacon and sometimes I go with all veggie.
These are so easy and keep nice in the fridge for the week. Whip them up on a Sunday and you’re good for the week!
BASE:
12 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 TBSP fresh parsley, chopped
2 TBSP fresh basil, chopped (or other herb)
¼ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
Veggies*:
1 cup broccoli, cut into teeny tiny florets
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped small
¼-1/2 cup onion, diced fine
1 jalapeno pepper, seeds and veins removed, diced fine (optional)
Add-ins (optional):
1½ cups cheddar, gruyere, mozzarella, or other cheese, divided
1 lb. bacon, sausage, or other meat, fully cooked
INSTRUCTIONS:
If using meat (bacon, sausage, etc.), cook it fully first. Set it aside to cool, then cut into small pieces.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F., and thoroughly grease (butter, coconut oil, or non-stick spray) a muffin tin. (NOTE: I recommend using a non stick muffin pan or silicone mold even easier removal.)
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, milk, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Get all your veggies diced up and ready to go. Optionally, you can saute your onion with a bit of olive oil to soften it up and take away some of its bite. Set aside and allow to cool.
Add all the veggies to the bowl with the egg mixture, and stir to combine. Stir in half of the cheese, and all of the meat, if using.
Using an ice-cream scoop or ¼ cup measure, scoop the mixture into the prepared muffin pan. Fill to about ¼ inch from the top, then sprinkle a small amount of reserved cheese over each. Place in the oven, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg is fully set and the cheese has just started to turn golden on top.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before running a butterknife around each muffin, and gently removing from the pan. Enjoy while warm, or let cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. Leftovers can be reheated for several seconds in the microwave (time will vary depending on your microwave), or a few minutes in a preheated oven or toaster oven.
Tell me what do you love or admire about yourself?
I asked this question in all of my adaptive and traditional Yoga classes last week as we delved into the idea of Self-Love. The answers often are so sad when it comes to my students with brain injuries. You see these people have lost what most of us value and are having to rediscover the aspects of themself that they actually like. Most have lost their livelihood, their purpose, their families, their independence, their freedom to come and go, and oso much more. When they look in the mirror they often see the challenges and the impact of the injury so finding the qualities within can usually be really challenging. I also have enjoyed asking my group of students that are all over the age of 85 and living in assisted living. I am startled that so few of them can proclaim something that they love about themselves. Perhaps it is a generational thing where they didn’t spend as much time as younger people these days who seem consumed with the Self.
The answer seem to be so hard for them to find.
I ask the question anyway and the answer is usually that they are blank on what they love about themselves.
I keep asking, though.
On one particular day in a class that included a range of ages and abilities, I asked a woman living with a brain injury who is close to my age and is often very down on herself the question. When I asked her what she liked about herself her eyes dropped down to the ground and she quietly said, “nothing”. She was hunched over with her arms on her legs looking so hopeless and sad. This woman is so kind, so willing, so sweet and is so beautiful.
I knelt down so that I was in her eye gaze and asked again. And again, I got the same response.
I knew that I was about to open a beautiful can of worms and an opportunity to teach exactly what Rumi was saying.
I turned the question around. I asked this woman what she liked about me. She looked at me and easily said, “You are brave, and strong and so beautiful”.
We smiled at each other and I looked into her eyes.
My response wasthis—I am simply a reflection of you. What exists in me is also in you otherwise you would not recognize it. We are indeed a mirror reflection of each other.
She sat tall and said, “really?” Yes my sweet friend, really.
I learned this concept many years ago and try to always remember it, especially when I am with someone who feels that they are not enough or someone who struggles with identifying what makes them special. I ask them to think about someone they admire and what qualities do they see in them that they like? It is those qualities that also exist in ourselves.
Consider that. What you see in others exists in you. Kindness, integrity, compassion, love, bravery, beauty, honesty, humor, etc. If it was not part of you and familiar, you would not recognize it.
The tricky and often sticky part about this is that when we also see a quality within others that we find less appealing, it is because that too is familiar in us. When this happens to me I say, “ahhhhhh yes, there you are to remind me what I am here to work on”.
When we stumble through those ordinary days of self doubt and wondering what is really good about ourselves this can be an amazing concept to return to. When we feel burdened by life’s hardness and separate from the ideals in which the world has attempted to create, and we feel so less than, simply look into the eyes of someone you admire and know that the only way you can see those qualities is because they also exist in you.
It is familiar. It is a mirror reflection of yourself.
Over the years I have mastered a few things—making bath bombs and body butter, and mastering the art of serious self-care.
Like truly mastering it. My self care practices include walking, investing in good coffee, reading uplifting books, and walking a little more, surrounding myself with quality people, eating well, using top notch essential oils, learning to make my own blends and skin care, taking time to crochet, and long luxurious bubble baths.
You gotta have bath bombs when you take a soak in a bubble bath. And there is no way I would spend what they cost in a store when it is so easy and affordable to make them. I always have a batch on hand. A batch of bath bombs cost me literally less than a dollar a batch for ingredients. Since I enjoy making them and they are quick I don’t even factor in my time!
Today I grabbed my heart shaped molds just for the heck of it and they turned out so cute!
Seriously, using a mold like these or a round disc mold is so easy for everyday bombs. If I am making a gift set of bombs I usually make the traditional round ones but they take a bit more time. And I prefer to use my time doing other things so the mold is what works for me.
What You’ll Need
1.5 cups baking soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/2 cup Epsom salt
Food safe coloring (optional)
Essential oils (my faves are lavender, mints, and eucalyptus for a bath bomb)
Tiny bit of water
Here Is How You Do It
Combine the soda, salts and citric acid in a bowl with a whisk.
Add in a few drops of coloring and about 20-25 total drops of essential oils.
Slowly and gently pour in about 2-3 tablespoons of water and stir.
The mixture should feel like slightly wet sand. Not super wet, but enough to where you can make a ball if you squish it in your fist.
Pour the mixture in the mold and pat down.
Let sit for 24 hours and then store in a cute jar or give them away in cute bags.
You can find my favorite molds in my Amazon shop here. I prefer to use the most pure oils on the market since our skin absorbs everything we put on it. Check out my my favorites here. Of course these essential oils have way more use than just bath bombs—sleep, energy, aches and pains, tension, belly aches, and more. Learn how versatile they are in this free downloadable ebook.
“All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
Part of my wellness coaching is offering my clients an alternative to address common everyday ailments like sleep trouble, mood support, and general detox. These simple tools are appropriate for most populations and can be used with or without medications. I can almost guarantee tho that when you see how simple and easy (and natural) it is to treat common things you wont be reaching for the over-the-counter stuff that is packed with side effects. Here are my most requested and popular samples. I hope that you will soon see all of the versatile ways you can use essential oils in your home. It is hard to choose my favorites and keep it simple and approachable but let’s go! Just click on the highlighted text to learn about each one!
Using Essential Oils
Safety Precautions:
• doTERRA 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
• 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
• Babies & the elderly are more sensitive to oils and extra dilution may be required
Balance (grounding blend). This powerful blend promotes tranquility, connectedness and well-being and has a powerful effect on the central nervous system. I like to apply to the back of my neck and under my nose throughout the day and before bed.
The warm, woody aroma of doTERRA Balance Grounding Blend creates a refreshing environment. We perfectly blend Spruce, Ho Wood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, and Blue Chamomile with Fractionated Coconut Oil to offer an enticing fragrance that creates a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Spruce, one of the oils in doTERRA Balance, was used by Native Americans for health and spiritual reasons and is still used today to bring harmony to the mind and body.
Primary Benefits
Adds to a relaxing massage
Creates a calming atmosphere
When diffused, provides a tranquil aroma
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Direct Inhalation: add two drops to your palms, cup your nose and breathe.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. I love to add to unscented lotion and apply to my shoulders and neck. This is also lovely in the bath.
Lavender: Sourced from France + Bulgaria this is often considered the ‘swiss army knives’ of essential oils because of its versatile uses and safety for all ages, and animals. Lavender is a beautifying and calming oil.
Lavender oil has been used and cherished for centuries for its unmistakable aroma and variety of benefits. In ancient times, the Egyptians and Romans used Lavender for bathing, relaxation, cooking, and as a perfume. Its calming and relaxing qualities, when taken internally, continue to be Lavender’s most notable attributes. Applied topically, Lavender oil is frequently used to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections. Add to bath water to soak away stress or apply to the temples and the back of the neck. Add a few drops of Lavender oil to pillows, bedding, or bottoms of feet to relax and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. Due to Lavender’s versatile properties, it is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times.
Primary Benefits
Soothes occasional skin irritations
Taken internally, Lavender oil reduces anxious feelings and promotes peaceful sleep
Helps ease feelings of tension when used internally
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Direct Inhalation: add two drops to your palms, cup your nose and breathe.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area (feet are a favorite place for this at bedtime), or on any scrape, bruise, cut, burn or abrasion. This is also great added to epsom salt in the tub.
Wild Orange: Sourced from Greece and Brazil the essential oil is expressed from the peel. It’s powerful aroma is energizing and uplifting when diffused or added to the palm of your hand to breathe in. I like to add one drop to sparkling water, smoothies and greek yogurt to flavor without having additional sugar. It supports toxin elimination from the body and stimulates the lymphatic system. It’s also excellent for disinfecting – whether you add a few drops to your diffuser to cleanse the air or add 10 drops to 1/2c vinegar + 1/2c water and voila – instant all purpose cleaner!
Packed with antioxidants, Wild Orange oil offers many benefits. Taken internally, Wild Orange essential oil supports digestion and cleanses the body. When diffused, Wild Orange refreshes and purifies the air with its bright and energizing aroma. Diffuse throughout the day during periods of low energy. It can be helpful and invigorating while studying or doing tedious tasks. You can also make a Wild Orange spritzer to freshen the air and cheer you up and to dispel fatigue and tension.
Primary Benefits
Diffuse, or inhale the aroma directly with help with anxious feelings
Topically apply on the belly for help with digestion
Diffuse or Topically for trouble sleeping
Topical use for nervousness
Internal use supports healthy immune function
Uplifting to the mind and body
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Direct Inhalation: add two drops to your palms, cup your nose and breathe.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid or in a plain yogurt, added to brownies or a smoothie are a few of my favorites
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. This is a great oil for belly aches, especially in children. Apply with a carrier oil.
Peppermint: Sourced from Washington where the highest amount of menthol is found in the peppermint leaves. My favorite essential oil for relieving tension headaches. Simply apply 1 drop to your hand and rub hands together. Take a deep inhale and then massage into temples being mindful too avoid the eyes. It is also fantastic to add a drop to your drinking water especially if you feel bloated/gassy.
The peppermint plant is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint and was first described by Carl Linneaus in 1753. A high menthol content—like that found in the doTERRA Peppermint essential oil—distinguishes the best quality Peppermint from other products. Frequently used in toothpaste and chewing gum for oral hygiene, Peppermint also helps alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function when taken internally. Peppermint continues to be one of the bestselling favorites among doTERRA essential oils.
Primary Benefits
When ingested, promotes healthy respiratory function and clear breathing .
Promotes digestive health when taken internally.
Repels bugs naturally. You can put around the doorways and windows where ants and other insects enter.
Helps relieve occasional tension, aches and pains
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Direct Inhalation: add two drops to your palms, cup your nose and breathe.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 8-10oz of warm water to aid in digestion.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. I love to apply this to my neck and jaw if I am having head tension, and I LOVE to use this in my shampoo, body wash and even a bubble bath.
Deep Blue (soothing blend). This is a game changer for anyone who experiences sore, tired, aching muscles and joints. The chemical constituents penetrate deep into the tissues to reduce discomfort. I just add 1-2 drops to a 1 tsp of carrier oil and massage into the area.
doTERRA Deep Blue is perfect for a soothing massage after a long day of work. Wintergreen, Camphor, Peppermint, Ylang Ylang, Helichrysum, Blue Tansy, Blue Chamomile, and Osmanthus work together to soothe and cool. After long hours on the computer, try rubbing Deep Blue proprietary blend on your fingers, wrists, shoulders, and neck. A few drops of Deep Blue Soothing Blend diluted in doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil can be part of a cooling and comforting massage.
Primary Benefits
Soothing and cooling oil blend
Comforting part of a massage
Excellent choice for aches and pains
Directions for Use
Topical use: Apply to desired area. Dilute with a lotion or carrier oil to get best coverage and absorption.
Adaptiv Calming Blend oil is perfect for life’s most stressful moments. Useful when a big meeting is coming up, or for other important events, Adaptiv Calming Blend helps improve sustained attention while easing the body and mind.
When stress and tension seem to be relentless, Adaptiv Calming Blend is the precise solution. Use Adaptiv to help get comfortable with new surroundings or situations. When a big meeting is coming up, or for other important events, keep Adaptiv Calming Blend on hand. In preliminary studies, the scent of Lavender, a main ingredient of Adaptiv, has been found to contribute to an environment conducive to performing tasks requiring sustained attention. Lavender, Magnolia, Neroli, and Sweetgum provide stress-relieving effects while Wild Orange and Spearmint energize and uplift. Copaiba and Rosemary soothe anxious feelings to round out the calming blend. Whether you’re feeling fatigued or restless, indecisive or irritable, Adaptiv Calming Blend is part of the toolbox to help the body and mind to stay balanced. Use Adaptiv Calming Blend in combination with the Adaptiv capsules for synergistic results.
Primary Benefits
Helps boost mood
Complements effective work and study
Increases feelings of tranquility
Soothes and uplifts
Calming and relaxing aroma
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Direct Inhalation: add two drops to your palms, cup your nose and breathe. I like to swipe this under my nose and behind my neck.
Topical: this blend makes a great bath bomb or added to epsom salt.
There are over 200 different essential oil companies in North America – but they vary greatly in their chemical constituents. In fact about 98% of these other companies are only interested in the aromatic effects of their oils – many of them using synthetics to create that aroma. There are 3 reasons I chose to use doTERRA in my home + coaching:
All doTERRA oils are independently tested through 54 processes to ensure that the CPTG label represents the purest and most potent oils on the market today.
The oils are sourced across the globe where the plant grows abundantly as that is where the highest chemical constituent will be found for that plant.
The company culture is incredible. This was what drew me the most – I feel very aligned with the vision they have and the impact they are having on the world. I believe that your ‘vibe attracts your tribe’ and this is so evident in doTERRA.
It’s because of these 3 things that they became the largest essential oil company in the world. They have the respect of both the growing community across the globe & the medical community where the opportunity to use a therapeutic grade oil is evident in research and practice.
I know once you take the caps off – you’ll see the difference right away.
In addition to supplying the highest quality essential oils doTERRA is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of farmers, harvesters, and distillers who contribute to doTERRA’s oil production.
Co-Impact Sourcing creates shared value for all stakeholders in the supply chain by being at the source and intentionally implementing environmental stewardship and/or social impact initiatives. Co-Impact Sourcing seeks to develop long-term, mutually beneficial supplier partnerships while creating sustainable jobs and providing reliable income in underdeveloped areas. doTERRA is committed to the ethical treatment of its suppliers by providing on-time payments at fair prices. Growers and harvesters are encouraged to form cooperative groups to share collective benefits and bargaining power while improving skills and capacity.
Additionally, the doTERRA Healing Hands Foundation® helps support development projects in sourcing communities. Projects include schools, health clinics, improved infrastructure and clean water systems.
What I love so much about Co-Impact Sourcing is that I know that when I use a drop of oil or share samples with people like you, I am also helping families all over the world. How awesome is that?
Embracing Spirit Essential Oil Community
There is something so powerful when like-minded people come together to learn and grow together. I realize that you can choose to buy your essential oils from anyone, but I hope you will resonate with my energy and vibe and feel like you fit and belong. I have a great community and opportunities to not just learn about essential oils and wellness, but a chance to grow as an individual and be encouraged to be the best version of yourself. In addition to essential oils, I also teach topics like gemstones, meditation and mindfulness, and yoga. Feel free to check out my other services and learn a little bit more about me. I would love to link arms with you.
In addition to the ongoing support and mentoring that you will receive in your essential oil and wellness journey, you will become part of a beautifully soulful tribe of women who are all linked in bringing light to the world.
Plus when you get started with me you will get a wonderful welcome package from me that includes resources, glass bottles and other fun things to get you started.
How Would You Like to Change Your Life?
Now you know how and why plant medicine is so powerful, but how would you like for that to create change for YOU and your family?
Would you like to feel more energy? Would you like to experience less pain? Would you like to feel happier and more joyful? Would you like to feel less anxious? Would you like to breathe better? Would you like to have a stronger immune system? Would you like to sleep better? Take just a minute and jot down your top health concerns…All the areas you would like to see improve!
If you’d like to personally connect with me, go over your health concerns and create a wellness plan with essential oils just click the button below! I look forward to connecting with you!
You have two options that I recommend the most to get essential oils into your home. You can buy essential oils at retail price, or you can become a wholesale customer (think along the lines of how SAM’s and Costco work…) and get 25% off retail prices!
The wholesale customer fee is only $35 to join, but if you get a kit that membership fee is waived! I love these kits because they are a sampling of the most widely used essential oils. It gives you the opportunity to get a bundle of essential oils at a huge discount.
This is my favorite bundle and covers everything you’ll need to get started.
$160 WHOLESALE
doTERRA Healthy Start Kit (5 mL Bottles)
Lavender
Lemon
Peppermint
Tea Tree
Oregano
Frankincense
Deep Blue®
doTERRA Breathe®
doTERRA On Guard®
Brevi® Stone Diffuser
Wellness Advocate Introductory Packet
FREE Wholesale Membership
Welcome Gift
The biggest mistake is investing in essential oils and then not knowing how to use them. I will make sure that you have everything you need to get started.
Your welcome package will include a resource book, a few glass bottles to start making your own blends, and a few other goodies.
Once you get your essential oils in your hands we will set up a personal meeting (virtual or in person) to answer questions and go over some initial protocols for getting started using your oils.
Plants are our food, oxygen, and medicine. Some even say they are one of the most pleasurable experiences on earth! From the flowers to the trees and the seas filled with coral dreams; the earth’s natural flora has inspired and enhanced humans for as long as time can tell. That’s why the power of plants is the key to unlocking our enjoyment of life.” ? Natasha Potter
Essential Oils are similar to other things we try to help ourselves feel better in the fact that each oil is not going to have the exact same effect on every single person. So if you use an oil and don’t get the results you are looking for, that’s OK, we can try something else. I like to say that learning to use essential oils is much the same as learning to cook–some trial and error, a good book and someone you can ask questions is the way we learn! Check out this free downloadable ebook to get the basics!
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 fourteen 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.
In addition to teaching a variety of Yoga and Wellness classes, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.
This soup is absolutely delicious and is one of those soups that tastes even better the next day.
Add some crusty hot bread for an extra treat. It is warm and satisfying and perfect all year long.
Ingredients 2 tablespoons coconut oil 2 large onions, peeled and chopped 4 cloves garlic finely chopped or pressed 1 tablespoons fresh ginger root, minced 1–2 drops Lemongrass oil 4 tablespoons tomato paste 4 carrots, peeled and chopped 4 tablespoons curry powder 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 8 cups vegetable broth 2 cans coconut milk 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped 3 cups dried red lentils 4–6 handfuls baby spinach Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat coconut oil over medium heat; add onion, garlic, and fresh ginger. Cook until onion is translucent then add carrots and sauté five to seven minutes.
Add tomato paste, curry powder, and red pepper flakes; cook for another one to two minutes stirring constantly until all vegetables are coated and flavors combined.
Add vegetable broth, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and lentils. Cover and bring to a boil on medium high heat; reduce to simmer (low heat).
Add Lemongrass oil and cook for approx. 30 minutes until lentils are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add spinach and stir until wilted.
Garnish with one tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro and one tablespoon sour cream.
Tip: Add some brown sugar for a sweeter curry taste. Adding a drop of Lime oil to the cilantro and sour cream garnish is also delicious.
Using essential oils in a variety of ways including internally should be done with some education and awareness. Choosing essential oils that are tested for purity is key.
Learn more about how to use oils and which ones are helping humanity and the planet here. I’d love to walk you through choosing the best for your family.
Deliberate is defined as done consciously and intentionally.
I chose DELIBERATE as my word for 2022 because I wanted to be more in tune with the choices I was making and what I was saying yes to. It has become a it overused to say “boundaries” and I wanted a softer approach to how I began to create some space in my life. I opted to think of my choices as filling the margins rather than having boundaries around my time or myself. I knew that after my previous year of refining my life I was ready to take it to the next level with pausing before I said yes to anything, and also being very intentional with my communication.
Early in the year I decided to carve out Friday as my day to only choose things that led to life I was trying to create. Previously I had a tendency to say yes to everything and everyone except myself which led to me often feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and at times resentful.
I am amazed at how setting an intention, pausing before saying yes and acting with a more conscious approach to life has become now a lifestyle. Of all the years I have been choosing a single word (about 18), this one had the most evident change in several different areas of my life.
Of course one of the biggest changes to my life was choosing that one day a week to be fully aware of what I put into the margins of my day. However, there were subtle changes to my style of communicating with others, especially under emotional strain. I took the same principle of pausing before speaking and the results were a much more peaceful commutation style and way more listening happening. I found that by slowing down I was able to clearly communicate my feelings and needs without sounded ungrateful or demanding. This was across people and situations. It was really amazing to see the shift in my communication enhancing my relationships.
I also found that as I commuted twice a week, driving sometimes up to 300 miles, I was very deliberate on the road and it became a very calm, focused almost meditation. The results were that as I became more intentional of my own driving, I was far less reactive to other peoples. This created delightful drives to work and I entered into my job with a very peaceful state.
As I flip back through my planner for the year I smile as I see how many great things happened on Fridays. Some of the adventures included:
•picking up golf clubs again and doing surprisingly well!
•hiking in my old favorite spots and rediscovering some of my old trails.
•lingering coffee shop dates alone where I could write or think or simply enjoy my coffee.
•mastering a pull up and a chin up became a late in the year goal and I claimed it! So fun!
•reading books during the day instead of just before bed where I usually read only a sentence or two before my eyes became too heavy.
•crocheting a few easy hats for myself and others is a great happy hour at home pastime.
•miles and miles of walks filled each day but I was able to log longer ones on Fridays.
•developing a deeper yoga practice was important to me this year and I found having a little more time allowed me to linger a bit on my mat.
•cultivating an amazing garden has been a pleasure of mine for years and each year it gets better! Fridays were weeding days and it is so soulful.
•massages are so important for my wellness and I found Friday afternoons to be the prime time for getting one.
•strength training became a must-do habit and I could not be more thrilled. I am so much stronger and have successfully achieved a pull up! I will never not life weights again.
I am so proud of myself for making this word stick and for the essence of what it means to be deliberate and to have it become a habit. I am way more balanced and definitely happier. I intend to continue my deliberate Fridays into next year and beyond.
Did you choose a word for your year? How did it play out in your world?
The word “solstice,” in Latin, means sun standing still, so in a sense, we could say the soul stands still on the solstice—maybe even long enough for you to catch a glimpse of it, as some legends say you can at this divine time of year. The darkest night contains the most magnetic power, too; this is a time to draw forth what you want, to incubate your best intentions.
As you enjoy the longest night and the brightest lights of the season, please remember this: your soul is the light of the world. You carry the light within you. You shine.
We cannot change the fact that life has heartbreaking challenges any more than we can change that winter has storms. Viktor Frankl wrote in his quintessential book, Man’s Search for Meaning, “When we are no longer able to change a situation we are challenged to change ourselves.”
When we or someone we love are in a storm, try to recognize the good alongside the bad, and find your inner resilience.
Many years ago I would get out of bed and just start “doing”…. I was asleep living my life and just going through the motions of existing.
Then I started a ritual of being quiet and still. I made a commitment to getting up a little earlier before the house woke up and began making time for myself. I say this a lot, but when I WOKE UP to living, I became a better person. Part of the waking up process was cultivating a morning ritual.
The results were amazing. I yelled less, I reacted less, I was angry less, and I was peeling off all the garbage I had accumulated through my life. It was clear to me that anger can erode every cell of your being and I was a perfect example of what that looked like.
I was toxic mess in every aspect of my life. Physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. A toxic, heavy mess.
And then I began this simple morning ritual. I started the great wake up. The rest is history ?
I usually take 30 minutes to do some of these things before the day gets busy. I am a big intention for the day person and I almost always pull a positive card that gives me something to think about throughout the day. I note all the goodness in my life and welcome in the day with an open heart. After this part of my morning is complete and my spirit is cared for, I go and take care of my physical body with movement.
Once I have had a little time for myself I can be ready to give to others. You know the old saying you cannot pour from an empty cup.
It is crazy to think that we truly are in the final months of the year. While it is a time for celebrations, gatherings and gift-giving it is also a time to complete the inward cycle. With winter solstice coming this month it is a time when we complete our inward look, release what no longer serves us, and step back into the light. It is when we begins to emerge from our inner landscape to reveal a fresh, new season of growth. Crazy to think that winter is a time for that but in the solstice world after the beautiful pause and standing still of winter solstice where everything stops, the days begin to get longer as light returns.
I have used this blend for many years during this month as I am intentional about releasing the years baggage that holds me back; fears, worthiness, vulnerabilities and more. I use this blend before meditation and before sleep to facilitate a letting go so that when the month is over, I am a clean slate ready to walk into a new year.
Read on as to why I chose these oils and crystals-
Thyme —empties the soul of negativity, leaves the heart open wide. This oil helps with emotional release.
Lemongrass is the oil of cleansing. It helps us let go of toxic energy and negativity. It helps release limiting beliefs. It allows us to move past old trauma and to gain clarity to move forward.
Cypress is the oil of motion. Ever feel stuck? Cypress will help you let go of worry and the need for control, and help you have trust in the flow of life. It will help with getting unstuck and moving forward.
Peppermint is the oil of a buoyant heart. It is a very invigorating oil to both mind and body. It is an encouraging oil that helps us rediscover the joy of life and being alive!
Basil essential oil is helpful in dealing with feelings of anxiety, panic, or apprehension, and has been said to be the oil of “renewal”, both emotionally and spiritually. It provides strength and tranquility to the heart and mind, making it perfect for overwhelm, stress, fatigue, and may even assist a person in their efforts to overcome addiction–which makes it a great choice for overcoming ruminating thoughts and self-sabotaging behaviors that often result from toxic relationships
Cedarwood oil is a great oil for times of crisis or sudden change, such as when there is an adjustment in households, jobs, and/or relationships. These events often lead to feeling isolated or knocked off balance. Cedarwood provides feelings of stability and grounding when external circumstances threaten your feelings of stability. It also helps lessen fears that deter your ability to realize your potential.
Bergamot helps us transfer love back to ourselves. We can be so fixated on wanting other people to make us happy that we forget we can do that for ourselves. Bergamot is uplifting, has natural anti-depressant properties, and helps us to relax and regain self-confidence again. Bergamot oil helps us in the areas of self-love, self-worth, self-acceptance, self-judgment, and self-loathing. It instills validation within, allowing us to accept our own authenticity, and not spend so much time worrying about the opinions of others.
Frankincense In addition to alleviating and eliminating depression, Frankincense is known as the “Oil of Truth”, revealing deceptiveness and false truths. It invites the individual to let go of lower vibrations, insults, and negativity. This oil helps create new perspectives based on integrity and enlightenment. Frankincense is also is a powerful cleanser of the spirit. It assists in removing malevolent energies attached to a person, allowing them to open to enlightenment. It addresses the emotions of abandonment and spiritual disconnectedness and releases them.
Lemon In addition to its bright aroma, lemon is also a great cleanser and purifier. This is a perfect choice to bring clarity, focus and brightness to the end of the year.
Smokey Quartz–The Smoky Quartz crystal is a grounding stone known for its ability to help you move on from difficult or painful experiences. It guides you to a higher state of being, a place where you can let go of the past and welcome in the future.
Not only does it smell heavenly it is powerful in it ability to shift emotions. Ready to try it?
Gratitude is the #1 way to shift out of low frequency emotions like fear, grief, shame and lack… and into high frequency emotions like joy, peace, trust and love. Gratitude produces dopamine! Dopamine is our brain’s pleasure chemical. The more we think positive, grateful thoughts, the healthier and happier we feel. Amazing, eh?
What if you started saying 5 DIFFERENT things you’re grateful for every single day. Try it! it has changed my life!
Gratitude. Gratitude. Gratitude.
I hope you enjoy this diffuser blend today and I invite each of you to pause for a moment, and recognize all that is GOOD!
Gratitude Essential Oil Blend
• Siberian fir; breaking negative emotional and spiritual patterns
• Frankincense; raise awareness, shine your bright light
• Grapefruit; appreciate who you are
• Wild Orange; abundance and bright future, gladness to the heart
• Geranium; heart opening, realize security in what you do have
• Clove; instills power, sense of protection, integrity
Amber chips—A fossilized tree resin, amber radiates laughter, vitality, and courage. This stone holds the protective energy of our beloved trees, the guardians of Earth. Radiating the golden ray, amber shines light on new paths as obstacles become the stepping stones of growth. Amplifying one’s life force and physical drive to fulfill one’s destiny of simply being human. Amber is a powerful healer and cleanser of the body, mind and spirit. It also cleanses the environment. Amber draws disease from the body, healing and renewing the nervous system and balancing the right and left parts of the brain. It absorbs pain and negative energy, helping to alleviate stress. Amber clears depression, stimulates the intellect and promotes self-confidence and creative self-expression. It encourages decision-making, spontaneity and brings wisdom, balance and patience.
The circadian rhythm, also known as your internal body clock, is responsible for making you feel alert and sleepy throughout the day. Ideally, you should feel most alert early in the morning and sleepy as it becomes darker and later in the day.
The circadian rhythm is the reason why teenagers find it difficult to go to bed and wake up early, because their melatonin is released later than adults and children, so they’re awake later. Jet lag and shift work also interfere with the natural body clock as well as long and irregular hours.
Get ready to hack your circadian rhythm for sleep:
•Go to bed and get up at the same time every day and diffuse trees and flowers • When you wake up, take a morning walk and get some sunlight on your face • Try a sunlight alarm clock that wakes you up with light • Pop citrus and mint oils in your diffuser to start waking up your senses
The number one reason people give for not using essential oils is because they are expensive. Here is the deal—a drop is a considered a “dose”. A typical bottle has 250 drops (doses).
Lavender—9 cents to sleep well for over half a year….plus amazing skin benefits for burns or cuts. Oh, and anxious feelings—a drop.
Melaleuca—8 cents a drop will give you amazing skin cleansing, germ removal and if you put a few more drops into a spray bottle with water you just made an awesome household cleaner.
Peppermint—9 cents a drop and you can ditch the Tylenol for your headaches and fevers. One drop equals 28 cups of peppermint tea. You’ll be getting digestive support for a long time with this one.
Lemon—4 cents. Yep, 4 cents to detox your body, clean you house, brighten your mood and just basically feel amazing.
Breathe—8 cents a drop to breathe easier going into the winter season. Congestion and coughs will be much easier for 8 cents a drop. You know that Vick’s stuff is full of yucky chemicals right?
Drop=dose. It literally costs you pennies.The initial investment is so worth it.
This is my absolute favorite starter kit. There are others to choose from though!!
Plus until the end of the month, I am tossing in a bonus oil, plus my usual amazing welcome package! Yay! Let’s do this!
