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My Favorite Morning Time Diffuser Blend

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Let’s talk about setting the tone for the day, shall we? I’m a firm believer that starting the day with the brightest, happiest vibes sets one up for a great day emotionally. I’m also a firm believer in morning workouts for this same reason, but understand that not everyone is a morning person like I am. This diffuser blend is much easier than lacing up, but just as healthy!

Meet my go-to morning time diffuser blend – Morning Joy.

Add these oils to your diffuser (I use my desert mist with this amount):

3 drops Frankincense + 3 drops Orange + 2 drops Peppermint

Diffuse and enjoy all of the sunshine and positive vibes filling up your home. And if you’re curious, you can learn more about essential oils here.

5 of my Favorite Young Living Products

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Last year a wrote a post around my birthday with some of my favorite Young Living products and I figured I’d do it again because it’s fun looking back to see what I was enjoying at a specific time. That was a long list and at 33 I don’t have it in me – read: I don’t want to spend my day off in front of the computer. I took the day off to reflect, make lists, write down goals and get shit done. My birthday is my New Year and it’s only fitting that I include a short list with some of my favorite green products.

This is what I do to all of my bib numbers (if you’re a weird numbers person and a runner, you’ll get this, ha) 23 = 2+3 = 5

  1. Thieves Laundry Soap: I only have one designated job in our home and that’s laundry. The beau does the dishes and I do the laundry. I’ve always been sensitive to scented laundry soap and after doing my research about free & clear, decided to make my own. (BTW, that post was written 8 years ago.) I continued to make my own but to be honest, DIY everything can be a little overwhelming. So when Young Living released their laundry soap I jumped on that train as fast as I could, ha! This is and has been the only laundry soap used in our home for the last 3+ years. Yes, the bottle is small and when you order it for the first time you’re going to say, “holy heck this is so tiny?! You’re kidding me!” – I know, because I said the same exact thing. But it works. And it’s mega concentrated. The bottle says it’s good for 64 loads but I’d like to say at least 75. The scent is light (Thieves oils = hello extra immunity boost) and it’s plant based. Oh, and marathon tested and approved. Ha! If you order it on Essential Rewards, you’ll also earn $2.95 – $7.38 back on future orders, all depending on how long you’ve been participating in the wellness program. For me, I’m at 25% or $7.38, so I’m paying $22.13 for the bottle = 30 cents per load. Remember, what you wash your clothes with stays in your clothes. You then wear your clothes which touches your skin, which is your body’s largest organ. What goes on your skin goes in your body. This is why I love the Young Living laundry soap = no worries!
  2. Clary Sage: In 2018 I made the decision (with the advice of my OB/GYN PA) to take myself off of birth control. I had been on it for 15+ years which honestly scared the crap out of me. The reason why I had originally gone on it wayyyyy back in high school (or was it middle school?) was to regulate my cycle and reduce the amount of cramping I was experiencing. Now as an adult, I’ve found a way to support my endocrine system without the use of medication: clary sage. This oil has been a game changer for me. For the first couple of months off birth control I did nothing to support this system to see what my body would do on its own. My cycles were irregular, as expected, and oftentimes accompanied with heavier cramping like the good ‘ole days. Then I started using Clary Sage. I’d like to think this oil supported my endocrine system to regulate my cycles, which are now just as predictable as they once were. The week prior and during menstruation I specifically use Dragon Time, which also contains Clary Sage, directly on my abdomen or inner arms. Cost breakdown: there’s about 250-300 drops in each 15ml bottle. Depending on the day (and I don’t wear this oil daily), I’m using anywhere between 1-5 drops (smell is strong and a little goes a long way), about 20 cents per use. I can’t tell you the last time I purchased this oil but it was a least a year ago.
  3. Lavender Calming Bath Bombs: If you know me, you know I hate showering. And I love to take baths! I’ve swapped the classic Avon bubble bath (RIP my beloved childhood scent) for this fun, fizzy (and safe!) option. The smell is so relaxing (hello, lavender!) and because there’s coconut and sweet almond oil in the mix, my skin feels so so soft afterward. Another perk: because there’s no artificial coloring, they won’t stain your tub! Oh, AND THERE’S ZERO FRAGRANCE! I took this off of Lush’s website: “Settle in for a good soak with an original Lush invention, exploding with essential oils and tons of fizzy fun. Whether you’re after a relaxing, petal-laden floral soak or an invigorating multilayered explosion of color and scent, there’s a bath bomb perfect for every bathing experience.” but when you look under ingredients, what do you find? Fragrance. FRAGRANCES ARE NOT ESSENTIAL OILS. Oh, and before I end this rant: just because something is vegan DOES NOT MEAN IT’S HEALTHY. Hello, Oreo example, ha! Price breakdown: there are four per package = $6.43 per bomb and that doesn’t include the 25% back if you order them on Essential Reward. Lush = $6.95 per bomb. Boom.
  4. Thieves Roll-On: Same great oil, even easier to use throughout the day! This essential oil blend aka powerhouse supports your immune system and comes pre-diluted so you can just roll it on whenever it’s needed. I keep this product on my dresser and use it in the morning while I’m getting dressed (bottom of my feet) and at night before I slip under the sheets (also great on the back of your neck). And because it’s already diluted, kiddos can easily grab and use as well. Because it’s the winter and we’re all locked inside with yuck circulating in the air, I recommend this product for every single person. You get a Thieves! You get a Thieves! Everyone gets a Thieves roll-on! (said in my best Oprah voice)
  5. ART Intensive Moisturizer: I just ordered this product for the first time back in November because I knew the cold air was coming and I wanted to be prepared. I’ve been using and love the light moisturizer for years but knew I’d need something a little heavier December thru February. The scent is light and it doesn’t feel heavy – I’ve been loving it! I use this cream daily after washing and using the toner. As you can tell, I’m a mega fan of the ART line. It works for me and it’s simple to use; I’m a not-too-many-steps kind of gal. Wash. Toner. Moisturize. Two months in and the container still feels full. I know the light container lasts me about 6 months so if this is similar, it would be about $10 per month.

You gals (and guys), it’s hard to choose only 5 items! But these are the items I use the most at 33, so far. Young Living is so much more than oils and as someone who prefers not to have to stop at multiple locations, I love the simplicity of having everything shipped to my doorstep from a single website.

What are your 5 favorite Young Living products?

My Favorite Young Living Products for the Holidays

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‘Tis the season to be:

  • eating a ton of junk food
  • burning those holiday scented candles
  • over-committing to everyone and every thing – shopping, wrapping, party-going etc.

Fa la la la la, la la la, la!

I’ve compiled a short list of my favorite healthy swaps, gifts and tips to help you get through this crazy time of the year.

Healthy swaps 
This concept is easy: replace items you already use or purchase for a different item that’s less toxic and healthier for your home.

  1. Candles: I know, I get it. They smell good, I use to burn them all the time. The section at TJMaxx use to get me every.single.time. But CANDLES ARE TOXIC. FAKE FRAGRANCES ARE TOXIC. Breathing in that gunk directly into your lungs has a negative affect on your body. It does, look it up! This whole post won’t be me shaking my finger, I promise. But seriously, this is one of the easiest swaps you could make… a diffuser! The possibilities are endless with Young Living, there are hundreds of oils and blends to choose from and not only do they replace candles, but they also replace plug ins and air sprays. Classic option: Christmas Spirit! I personally like to add a drop or two of Orange to the mix as well. I’ll start diffusing this blend the day after Thanksgiving. The desert mist diffuser is my favorite right now because it has the flickering candle light option and runs for up to 10 hours!
  2. Emergen C: I drink at least of 2 oz of Ningxia Red a day and kick it up a notch by supplementing with a probiotic during the colder months. Both help support your immune system (well, whole body! happy gut = happy face hint hint). I personally love the taste of the MightyPro option but when that’s out of stock, I reach for the Life 9. Everyone in your family will benefit from this swap!
  3. Hand soap/ hand sanitizer: similar to the candles up above, fake scents are a no-go in our household. There’s nothing worse than washing your hands and then 2 hours later still having that unnatural scent lingering around. Remember: your skin is your biggest organ. We’ve swapped out traditional hand soap for the Thieves foaming hand soap and the Thieves water less hand purifier. Both contain the proprietary Thieves blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata and rosemary. Have you ever seen this graphic? It’s pretty powerful!

4. Car air freshener: fake scents… seeing the theme? One new item in the holiday catalog is the car vent diffuser! Simply add a drop or two of your favorite oil or blend before hitting the road, and you’ll be breathing easy while rockin’ out to holiday tunes.

Gifts
Here are a few of my stocking stuffer or grab-bag favorites:

  1. Do you know someone who could use a little more sleep support? Do you need more sleep support? I love love love the Tranquil roll-on essential oil blend. It’s already got coconut oil in the blend, so it’s safe to use on the whole family. Keep one by your bedside and pass one along to someone you know who deserves sweet dreams.
  2. Someone on your list deserve a little relaxation? I love the Stress Away bath bombs! No fake fragrances, no fake dyes = they aren’t going to stain your tub! And they are cheaper per bomb than those sold at Lush, I did the math for you. You’re welcome. They are vegan (whoop whoop!) and with their skin-loving ingredients, your skin is going to be soft, smooth and moisturized.
  3. Any athletes on your list? I’ve tested and approve of the Cool Azul Pain Relief Cream! This cream helped me get through my 50k training and is perfect for any athlete that has occasional aches and pains. Or for the parent’s on your list that are chasing little ones. Or anyone really who slept the wrong way. I call this item nature’s bengay… minus the synthetic ingredients. Love!
  4. Lip Gloss – color abundant. I’m not a lipstick kind of gal, I’m a balm kind of gal. And it took me a while to try this lip gloss because I thought it would be a waste of money. But it’s light and adds the perfect amount of color for my special occasions – or day to day wear if the gal on your list is into that kind of stuff. There are a number of color options to choose from with the same formula – no parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, bismuth, talc, synthetic fragrances or colorants – so it’s even safe to use on the little ones when they ask to dress up as well.

Tips
Have too much to eat or too much of one food group? Grab the Digize essential oil blend that came in your starter kit and rub a drop or two directly on your belly for digestion support.

You feeling a little run down? Need a pep in your step? Get your diffuser crankin’ with a few drops of Citrus Fresh and Peppermint (both in your starter kit) right when you hop out of bed to help you feel energized and ready to take on your day. Kick it up a notch by showering with one of the new Citrus Fresh Energizing Shower Steamers! Make them last even longer by breaking them in half; they’re pretty big!

Get a stain on an item of clothing while at a party? Add one capful of the Thieves Household Cleaner to a rollerball with water and rub directly on the clothing to pre-soak. Remember, clothing sits on your skin (largest organ), it’s important to assess what comes into contact with your body on a daily basis. A sample of this product is in your kit!

Looking for some new holiday diffuser blends? Check out Pinterest – there are a TON of great recipes already out there – no need to feel overwhelmed.

I could add a lot of items to this list, but alas, I must return from my lunch break. Have any additional suggestions or a specific question? Reach out to me – I’d love to help you one on one! And if you haven’t already jumping into this oily lifestyle, what’s holding you back?

My 23 Favorite Young Living Products

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Because my birthday was on the 23rd and I’m personally having a birthday promotion for any new members from now until the end of the month, I figured I’d share some of my favorite Young Living products. 23 to be exact. I have more but this post is going to be long enough, ha!

Edit: if you’d like a sample of one of the products listed below, just let me know! I’d love to get that mailed out to you! 

In no particular order:

  1. ImmuPower : this is a new to me oil and being completely honest, it smells like your house the day after you made tacos for dinner (there’s cumin in it) BUT this is an immune system powerhouse… it even says so in the name. I have the beau rub in 1-3 drops on my spine before bed and always wake up feeling my healthiest.
  2. Thieves Laundry Soap : this is the only laundry soap we use in our house. No dyes, no fake fragrances, no formaldehyde… yes, that’s typically found in other brands. I went through Mortuary school, formaldehyde is not something you want to come in contact with on a daily basis. Smells great and is good for 64 loads!
  3. Peppermint EO (regular and Vitality) : I use this daily to help support my digestive system by adding a drop to my water or chocolate shake. I also rub it directly over my lower stomach before heading out for a run. It’s also wonderful rubbed on your temples after a long day at work.
  4. Lavender EO : We use this oil every single night as a part of our bedtime routine. Helps promote rest and relaxation; we diffuse it and also rub it on the bottom of our feet (vita flex points can be found in a reference book / online).
  5. Dewdrop Diffuser : I have had and currently use a number of Young Living’s diffusers. Current inventory count: five. Hands down the dewdrop is my favorite because it is quiet and fills an open space nicely. And I like the shape. Yes, you can buy diffusers for slightly less online or at other random stores that don’t specialize in this category, but they’ll probably die within a year, especially if you use it daily. Been there, done that. My oldest diffuser right now is probably 4-5 years old and isn’t showing signs of slowing down.
  6. NingXia Red : This whole body supplement is something I drink at least 2oz of each morning. Do your research, the wolfberry has a number of benefits. I drink it chilled with a drop of Black Pepper Vitality EO and Lime Vitality EO.
  7. Sulfurzyme : This supplement combines wolfberry with MSM, a naturally occurring organic form of dietary sulfur needed by our bodies every day to support the immune system, the liver, circulation and proper intestinal function and works to scavenge free radicals. If you’re an athlete, I highly recommend this product to help promote recovery. I take 2 capsules on days that I workout.
  8. Life 9 : This is a new to me supplement but so far, so great! It has 9 beneficial bacteria strains (probiotics) that help promote healthy digestion, supports gut health, and helps maintain normal intestinal function for overall support of a healthy immune system. I take this supplement when I’m not brewing my own kombucha, and this month I’ve taken the month off = 1 capsule before bed. Have you every heard the saying “healthy gut, clear face?” I attribute my clear skin to having a healthy, happy gut. (The capsule is vegan friendly too!)
  9. Satin Facial Scrub Mint : I love love love this product! A little goes a long way, so I’ve had my current tube for about a year, if not longer. Smells great, feels great and isn’t too rough on my skin. I leave it in the shower and use it once a week. A great gift!
  10. Wolfberry Eye Cream : is a natural, water-based moisturizer and is used under your eyes to soothe and minimize the appearance of fine lines. The tiniest bit goes a long way, if you ever want a sample, I’d love to share!
  11. Thieves Dentarome Ultra Toothpaste : I have to admit, it took me a long time to get use to Young Living’s toothpastes because they don’t foam like traditional toothpastes. But that’s because they are lacking sodium lauryl sulfate, which is good because this surfactant is linked to skin irritation and painful canker sores. No thank you! It’s much easier to use if you’ve jumped on the electric toothbrush bandwagon.
  12. Thieves Fresh Essence Mouthwash : No disgusting dyes (ever wonder why a traditional mouthwash is neon blue or green?), no artificial flavors and no alcohol = no painful burn after you’re done using it! I use this at least once a day and it’s great to gargle with if you’re feeling a tickle in the back of your throat because it is loaded with a bunch of essential oils.
  13. Half way thru! If you’re still reading, you’re a trooper! Lavender Hand & Body Lotion : I love the smell of this lotion and I love the way my skin feels after using it. Like many of Young Living’s products, a little goes a long way. This is the only lotion I keep in the house (yes, it was hard breaking my Body Shop addiction) but it’s the only lotion that doesn’t give me a headache these days – and that’s because there aren’t any fake fragrances in it.
  14. Seedlings Baby Wipes : Yup, I don’t have a kid and I still buy these! Oh, the smell is heavenly and they aren’t harsh on your skin. I use these to remove makeup and I’ll also pack a couple when hiking. They are perfect after a long day in the woods (if you’re camping out and not showering).
  15. Thieves and Lavender Foaming Hand Soap : I have both and love both. The Thieves is great, especially this time of the year with a lot of funk floating around. I keep the Thieves downstairs in the kitchen, and the Lavender upstairs in the bathroom. Pro tip: you can reuse the containers and make your own soap easy peasy when empty.
  16. Savvy Minerals Blush in color ‘I Do Believe You’re Blushin” : I recently went to a Savvy Minerals get-together and tried the entire line, this is my favorite product. The color is great and so pretty on – really, if you’re in a hurry and can only pick two items to wear, I’d choose the blush and mascara. It’s light, long lasting, you don’t have to worry about toxic ingredients and it’s vegan. Next month you can buy a starter kit with the makeup, I highly recommend giving it a try!
  17. White Angelica : This is a blend that I’ve worn for many years. It can create a positive atmosphere and inspire feelings of security and optimism – no matter what life throws at you. If I know I’m going to be facing challeneges, I lather this baby on my shoulders and march out the door – watch out world!
  18. Peace and Calming : I’ve been using this oil the longest, as this oil is the one that I use to use with the kiddos during their bedtime routine. It’s a smell that takes me back and I love diffusing it – I’m hoarding a good amount of it ha ha. Seriously, if you know someone who’s having a baby, this little bottle is the perfect gift.
  19. Valor : This oil is second in line for using the longest and it’s one of Young Living’s top selling products. It’s finally back in stock after many years of waiting and you can only buy two a month. Seriously, we all LOVE (and hoard) valor. It personally gives me the feeling of strength, so if I know I’ll need it before a race or challenging day, I lather it on the back of my neck. I also dilute this oil in the Sensation Massage oil and use it as my daily perfume on my wrists.
  20. Copaiba Essential Oil : I find this oil intensifies other oils. After a long hike or run, I love to apply this oil directly to my legs or feet (or whatever is tired) with Peppermint or PanAway for an added cooling sensation. You can also ingest the Copaiba Vitality oil, and I do this by adding it to my daily NingXia on the days I workout.
  21. Dragon Time Essential Oil Blend : This is a blend that has a sweet, herbaceous aroma and can help promote feelings of stability and calm during cycles of moodiness. See what I did there? Know what I’m talking about? I love this oil blend and think that every woman should have it in her wellness routine.
  22. Into the Future Essential Oil Blend : I LOVE this blend! When you’re evaluating and setting goals for the future, lather this blend on! I wore it during my time of transition – while looking for a new job late last year – this smell keeps me positive and focused. I’m all about positive affirmations, add this to your daily pep-talk.
  23. Last but not least, any of the citrus essential oils, both regular and Vitality : Citrus oils really lift my spirit. They remind me personally of warmer, sunnier days, and I love to add them to my diffuser and to my water. Lime, Grapefruit, Lemon, Tangerine, Orange and Bergamot – they can be mixed and matched, oh, the possibilities are endless. Two reminders: if you’re adding oils to your water, make sure what you’re drinking out of is NOT made of plastic. The oils will eat or breakdown the plastic and you don’t want to ingest that. Also, citrus oils should not be worn in direct sunlight = they’ll increase your chance or burns and sun spots. I like to wear them above my heart.

Phew! That’s a long post! With a photo of the essential oil rack my dad made me for my birthday – he’s the best! I have this hanging up in our kitchen with the vitality oils that we cook with, I add to my water and oils that I diffuse frequently in this area.

Edit: this is by far the most popular post (currently) I’ve ever published – why hello there new readers! It’s scary leaving behind products you’ve used and loved – I know because it’s taken me years to make healthier swaps for old products – but I’ve got a little push in the right (or should I say green?) direction for you: Sign up with your Premium Starter Kit and not only will you save $140+ AND earn 10% back AND get this month’s FREE oil, BUT I’ll also mail you my favorite go-to sleep support blend! It’s ah-mazing! Well, that sounds gimmicky, ha! But no gimmicks here my friends, just pure, plant based love – 25+ years strong! <3

 

Oils in our Home: Under the Kitchen Sink!

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When I think about cleaning supplies, I think about the cabinet under the kitchen sink. So many bottles of items, so many toxic chemicals typically child-locked to prevent any accidents from happening. When we moved into our house back in December, I made the decision to no longer purchase items containing fake fragrances, PERCs, triclosan, chlorine, etc. Do your research – many of these items have very severe consequences with prolonged use or misuse. Scary stuff!

Young Living to the rescue!

Today I’m going to share with you some of my go-to recipes and Young Living products for cleaning your home:

Tough Scrub: I use this in the shower, in the tub, and on our stove top
Ingredients include:
– 1 cup baking soda
– 5 to 10 drops of YL lemon essential oil
– 1 tbsp YL Thieves dish soap

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and add water until you create a paste. Scrub onto service, let sit for 10 minutes then wash away. Smells good and no gloves or masks needed!

Very similarly, fill a glass spray bottle with 1/2 cup YL Thieves dish soap, 1 cup of vinegar, and 5-10 drops of YL lemon essential oil. Spray surface (usually the shower for me) and sprinkle with baking soda. Let sit for five minutes, wipe down with a sponge and done!

Floor cleaner: I use this on our hard wood floors and tile in the bathroom
Ingredients include:
– 1 gallon warm water
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 10 drops citrus oil, I prefer the smell of YL orange essential oil

Add everything to a bucket and mop! And no, the vinegar smell is not overpowering.

Glass / Mirror cleaner: You guessed it, I use it on our windows and mirrors throughout the house. No streaks!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup 80 proof vodka
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 8 to 10 drops essential oil of choice, again, I prefer a YL citrus oil

Funnel into a glass jar, shake and ready to spray! I’ve tried it without the vodka, the vodka just makes things evaporate quicker.

Thieves Household Cleaner: a little goes a looooooong way! I like to share this graphic to give you a comparable price breakdown:

I dilute this and use it throughout the house: on our counter tops, wherever the cat pukes, cleaning the workout equipment, etc. I keep it in a glass spray bottle under the sink so that it’s mixed and ready to be used.

Thieves Dishwasher Powder: I don’t use this in the dishwasher… I use it in the oven and toilets, ha! For the oven, I spray on the Thieves cleaner and then sprinkle this on, sit for five minutes then wipe clean. For the toilets, I just sprinkle some in, let it sit for a few then scrub clean.

I’m all for simplicity and stocking items that can be repurposed for multiple uses. It’s even more convenient when you can order everything from one place, with discounted shipping and get money back for future purchases = free product! Reach out to me if you’d like to learn how to get started swapping out items under your kitchen sink! Post 5/23 for August