Have you ever attended an event and ended up sitting next a person who can't stop coughing, sneezing, or sniffling?  You can feel a cloud of doom hover over you because you know you are most likely getting front row seats to being exposed to some kind of nasty virus or illness.

If we look at food as medicine, the first step when exposed to illness, should be to make sure we are hydrated and eating healthy from that point on.  Eating a variety of foods that boost immune function should be at the top of the list, with a glass of water.

Toxins cannot leave the body if the body is dehydrated.  Everything becomes sluggish within.  Hydrate with some water, electrolyte water, fresh squeezed organic fruit juice, fruit juice popsicles, or coconut water.  You can also get creative and sneak these hydrating options in foods and smoothies, such as coconut water or unflavored electrolyte water.

Eat a variety of foods and herbs that boost immunity.  Be sure to add in foods that are high in Vitamin C.  Some healthy immune boosting options include garlic, onions, black pepper, turmeric, ginger, citrus fruits, vegetables, herbal infused bone broth, strawberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, bell peppers, kiwi, and whatever may be in season and available near you.

A few extra ways to boost immunity include getting enough sleep, using aromatherapy products, using natural therapies for stress reduction, drinking herbal teas that boost the immune system, stretching, exercising, walking and moving.

When we stretch and move, the lymphatic system can drain and flow to assist in removing unwanted toxins and germs within.  This is what we want, a clean, healthy system so that if germs to get in, our bodies can filter them out.

Exercising our bodies exercises our lungs and heart.  When we breathe during exercise, our lungs are cleaning out any extra germs that may be trying to house way deep down there.  Exercising the lungs strengthens them.  Exercising also increases circulation, which means more oxygen is getting to our muscles.  

Using aromatherapy for illness can include diffusing essential oils, adding essential oils diluted in a carrier oil in the bath (bath safe e.o.'s only), applying essential oil blends to the affected areas such as chest and back or stomach, spraying hydrosols or adding to bath, etc.

When choosing essential oils to use for illness, it is best to use a combination of essential oils that have antiviral and antibacterial properties.  Note the age, health profile, proper dilution ratio, and precautions prior to use aromatically or topically.  

Some common antiviral essential oils are eucalyptus, tea tree, and lavender.  Some common antibacterial essential oils are lemon, lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, and lime.  Note that lavender and tea tree are listed in both categories.  There are many more but here are some that you may hear more often. 

There are many precautions, especially for children, pregnant women, nursing mom's, and those with certain health profiles with essential oils in general, but especially eucalyptus.  It is important to note the species you are using, by looking for precautions, using the botanical name.   

Always check precautions prior to using essential oils... always.  Or feel free to reach out!  Be cautious with eucalyptus and use it as directed in correct dilution.  It is not to be used with babies and young children.  Although it is such a beneficial essential oil, it has been noted to cause breathing problems in babies and children and can possibly induce asthma attacks for those who suffer with asthma.

As always, be sure you are using a "true" essential oil that is from a trusted company.  If you have fragrance oils, these will not give you a therapeutic effect to boost immunity.

It takes extra time and thought to prevent illness.   It takes a grocery list, weekly snack list, and a meal plan.  It takes writing time slots daily on your calendar for self care, but I promise, it is all worth it in the end.  Preventing illness saves valuable time, money, and energy.

We do not have time to get sick.  Stay healthy, well, and vibrant!  And if you are ready to learn more, remember this -Education that promotes healthy habits, lasts a lifetime!  Just reach out!  Jamie

I bet you have already heard "I don't want to go to school today" and school has just begun!  You are not alone!  I have heard it too and I know thousands of others in this world are hearing it every morning with us.

So how to we navigate this issue and turn a negative into a positive?

How can we keep our kiddos feeling positive about going to school?

I think as Mom's (parents, teachers, caregivers) we are so incredibly busy trying to keep our work and school life balanced that it is easy to forget the easiest littlest tasks that we can do for our kids or with our kids, that can change not only their outlook for the day, but our own outlook as well.  After all, how many times have you told your kiddos some positive advice and then quietly told yourself you should take your own advice!?  I know I have done this many many times!  But please don't tell my children!  :)

Here are five tips to try before school to motivate those cutie kiddos to WANT to go to school, to WANT to learn, and to be excited to experience something new.

1.  Healthy Eats - This is so important and so often just passed right up.  Feed those learning machines a healthy, warm breakfast so their bodies can absorb the nutrients and hydration it needs to get through the day.  This is their energy!  When they feel good, they have positive energy. 

Just to add a little more food for thought... if kids eat sugary foods for breakfast, they are more apt to have a sugar slide late morning in which their blood sugars will drop too fast and they will not feel great at all.  So not only will they not have the nutrients they need to get their energy levels up, they will have even less energy and motivation when their blood sugars aren't balanced.  

2.  Give them something to look forward to that day - This can be at school or after.  Let them see sunshine and know that there are going to be some positive and fun parts of the day to look forward too!  For us, this is often seeing friends at school, getting to see teachers they really like, getting to do experiments, after school ice cream parties, going fishing, riding dirt bikes and four wheelers, movie and popcorn night, etc.  Whatever it may be, it can be so incredibly simple, just let them know it is part of the day so they can look forward to it and be excited about it.  Remind them to do their best work because they have something to look forward to.

3.  Confidence - Send those babies off with some reminders of how amazing they are.  Let them wear they favorite jam and remind them to keep smiling because their wonderful smiles make others smiles and that starts a trail of happiness. 

Send them off with a compliment.  Compliments make people happy any time of the day!

4.  Positive Affirmations - Tell your kiddo something in the morning that is positive.  Google and Alexa are great helpers with this!  Also send a note in their lunches that spreads positivity.  Tell them to share it with their friends.  You can also leave sticky notes around the house, by tooth brushes, on the door, in clothes drawers, etc.  If your kiddo isn't up for listening to you say it, they can still read it.

5.  Coping Tools - We are people, we are human, we have emotions.  As my good friend told me today, "If we didn't feel, we wouldn't be living."  We just need the tools to overcome feelings when they get too big. 

Always remind your kiddos, when the time is right or on a day they need it, that they have the tools to overcome big feelings.  Remind them their favorite ways to cope with certain emotions, like anxiety, nervousness, and fear, and also remind them the tools and how to use them.  This may be self talk "I am Brave.  I can do this.  I got this!."  This may be taking a break to deep breathe and refocus.  Whatever tool you have tried or provided, that you know helps your child, give them reminders that they can use them.

-->  I have to throw this one extra tool in.  This is a love or can do without.  You get to decide.  

Bonus Tip - Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Use -  Raise your hand if you are all for it and have felt the benefits!  Diffusing e.o.'s in the morning that are well known to boost one's mood is a very effective way to get the ball rolling in the mornings in the right direction.

We often use citrus essential oils to promote a happy and positive mood.  Citrus essential oils can also increase energy levels, or one can say maybe the energy level is increased because the mood is increased.  Either way you look at it, it has worked for many! 

Wearing aromatherapy jewelry is also a fantastic option for taking the e.o's on the go.  It is the aroma we smell that sends signals within our brains to tell the body what the next move will be.  If the aroma of the diffused e.o. helps bring upon a better mood at home, it will be great to add to a lava stone on a bracelet or to a pad in an aromatherapy necklace.  

Nasal inhalers are also a great tool to carry with and easy to use.  Nasal inhalers are a preferred option since the aroma is kept within the inhaler, not affecting anyone nearby. 

Kids, teens, even us adults, can take a break, deep breathe with the nasal inhaler, refocus, and carry on. 

Coffee cheers!  You got this!  Jamie

Whether they are little or big, going back to school can bring upon big emotions for parents and children.  Thankfully, there are a few ways we can prep our mind and body to keep those big emotions at bay.

Using aromatherapy is a wonderful way to get your day started on the right foot and your night ended in a relaxed more sleep.

The use of hydrosols or essential oils topically or aromatically can assist to decrease anxiety and worry and help one feel grounded and focused to take on the day.

Hydrosols are best for children as they are not as concentrated as essential oils.  Essential oils are loved by many and wonderful as long as they are age appropriate and used safely per one's health profile.  One must always check precautions and with your health care provider before using aromatherapy or natural products, especially with children.

Hydrosols or essential oils of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis), frankincense (Boswellia carteri) can be all you need.  Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) is also a wonderful essential oil to add to the diffuser.  Simply add one or a combination of your choice to a diffuser in the morning before school while you and the kiddos are getting ready, or spray a few spritz of hydrosol around the room, or even use it topically in your skin care routine as a toner or moisturizing spritz.

Allow your self and your children plenty of time to be awake and get ready in the morning's so there isn't an added rush while trying to keep a calm and worry free atmosphere.

Make a healthy breakfast and give yourselves time to think and talk about the day.

Make a plan for pick up so your child knows exactly what the school day looks like, pick up or drop off, and what might be happening after school.

Believe or not, children are just like us.  They like to know what the plan is.  They do better with a schedule.

Just to note, you can also create roller ball blends (kid safe per age and health profile) that can be applied on the wrists before school.  Apply the blend on your wrists too!  Remember, those emotions can sneak up on both of you.  

You can also create a nasal inhaler along for the ride and if those big emotions sneak up, you can take a few minutes to hug and deep breathe while inhaling from your calming and grounding inhaler blend.

One more fun idea?  Aromatherapy jewelry is super fun!  You can even get matching bracelets or necklaces.  Apply the essential oils to the pad provided that goes into the jewel or add to a lava stone on the piece.  It is nice when you both can be reminded of each other throughout the day and have a calming aroma close to you that reminds you of home.

If you aren't much into aromatherapy, that's okay.  I mean really, who doesn't love a massage?! 

Schedule yourself a massage!  Don't even think about.  When you are there, always think to yourself "inhale the good, exhale the bad".  This will help to relax those tense muscles.  It is way easier to relax when we aren't super tense and our shoulders are down where they are supposed to be.  Substitute with a relaxing lavender and epsom salt bath two or three times a week for fifteen minutes, followed by a glass of water to rehydrate.

How about getting some channels opened up so your energy can flow and vibe?  Ever tried reflexology?  Reflexology is a therapy where pressure is applied to the feet, hands, or ears.  The pressure points correspond with certain organs and areas of the body.  Reflexology is good for all sorts of emotions and physical ailments.  Scheduled a few times a year or prior to change, it can really be helpful to bring upon balance.

Well, maybe you are thinking you are just not into ANY of that... and I certainly should not mention acupuncture because you might say that is out too?

Okay, don't worry!  I got you too!

Back to the BASICS that we all should do every single day but tend to get busy -

• Decrease the caffeine, especially after lunch time.
• Increase your water intake - aka hydrate.  The body is so negatively affected when it is dehydrated. 
• Stretch at least two times daily for ten minutes (add some calming nature sounds if you will).
• Deep Breathe for a few minutes or meditate after stretching.
• Limit or cut our the alcohol because it does not help balance emotions.
• Limit processed foods and fast foods.
• Add fruits and veggies to every snack and meal.
• Work on your weekly schedule ahead of time and stay on task.
• Don't strive for perfect, just better today than yesterday.
• Take time to notice something you love about yourself and your kiddos.  Confidence can change your day.
• Walk or exercise.  Even if it is only for fifteen minutes.  Walk off those worries and allow your mind to find clarity.
• Go to bed on time.  Stay on a sleep schedule for you and your kiddos as much as possible.

All of these things are small steps to a bigger step towards mental and physical wellness.

Questions are welcomed!  Wishing you all a smooth back to school return!  Jamie

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Are you starting ask yourself how on earth you can get yourself and your sweet kiddos back in a school routine? Of course you are! Aren't we all! This is the time of year when we start to feel the end of summer crunch, as if the weeks are all of a sudden becoming SO much shorter! Time is flying by and even the nights are getting shorter again. The count down of the last days off of school have begun! Getting back into routine can be rough, but it doesn't have to be. With a little bit of preparation, the transition can be much smoother.

Besides the regular prep for going back to school, like shopping for the long list of supplies, shoes, and such, parents and children alike can greatly benefit from some good ole natural wellness prep too!  Natural wellness is creating balance within the mind, body, and spiritual side... with nature's help.  Try this exercise below to prepare your family for the transition.

Grab a piece of paper, jot down your worries, and answer questions like in the examples below, to find your back to school wellness plan.

Problem "I worry most about ________ when my kids go back to school."

Solution The solution will be how you can help to decrease some of your worry. This could by picking a day to school shop, a day to organize, and at least three ways you can naturally decrease your worry, fears, or anxiety. 

What three wellness techniques work for you to relieve a worried mind (aromatherapy use, using a roller ball blend throughout the day, getting a massage, going for a walk, taking a relaxing bath, spending time with family, having a cup of herbal tea, etc)?

1. ________, 2.________, 3.________  

* Add all of these organization hours and self care minutes to your calendar this month and during the first two weeks of school.

Problem "My child worries most about ________ starting a new year at school."

Solution The solution will be whatever works for your child to alleviate worry and anxiety. This could also be choosing days for down time and relaxation, quality time together, organizing and allowing time for questions in regards to back to school feelings, etc.

What three wellness techniques work to help promote calm for your child when they are nervous, anxious, or worried (diffusing essential oils, getting to bed on time for plenty of sleep, journaling, drawing, reflexology, relaxing baths, etc.)

1. ________, 2. ________, 3. ________

Problem "My routine needs to change in the mornings from ________ to ________."

Solution What changes can be made or what do you need to do starting the week or two before school starts to get you back into routine?

1. ________, 2. ________, 3. ________

Add these to your calendar with the adjusted times to get you back on track. "I love a morning rush out the door before school" said NO parent EVER! :)

Problem "My child's routine needs to change in the mornings from ________ to ________."

Solution What changes can be made starting the week or two before school starts to get your child closer to back into routine? You can make one adjustment two weeks prior to school, and then add another the week prior for a slow and less noticeable change of pace.

1. ________, 2. ________, 3. ________

Problem "My child's bed time routine needs to change from ________ to ________."

Solution Starting as soon as possible, depending on how much later than usual your child has been staying up, slowly decrease your child's bedtime closer to back to school bed time. 

For example, for the next four days have your child go to bed ten minutes earlier, then adjust that to twenty minutes earlier for a few days, then adjust bedtime to thirty minutes earlier for a few days, etc.  Do this until the bed time is closer to what a school bed time would be.  The slow increments allow your child to sleep better when school starts so they aren't laying in bed unable to fall asleep SO early before the first days of school.

Problem --> Back to school can usually increase the chance for a round of colds, stomach viruses, and things like head lice that aren't FUN nor cool.

Solution -->  Write down answers to the questions below to continue the exercise -->

What can you do to raise your child's immunity before school starts (like offer extra fruits and veggies, make sure they are hydrated, getting enough good rest, reminding them to wash their hands, stretch and move often, etc)?

1. ________, 2. ________, 3. ________

What can you do to increase your child's resistance to the stomach flu (perhaps you like to add a round of pre and probiotics, fermented foods, healthy foods and less fast food or fatty foods, water versus soda, etc.)

1. ________, 2. ________, 3. ________

What can you do to try to avoid things like head lice, after school overwhelmed moods, etc. (create roller ball blends for before or after school, make sprays known to keep head lice farther away, use hydrosols on hair for nourishment and prevention, clean pillow cases and sheets more often, soak brushes in a tea tree soak on a regular basis, spray back packs and shoes every day after school, etc.)

1. ________, 2. ________, 3. ________

Now I know not every one of these examples may be your EXACT back to school dilemma, BUT, you can easily do this exercise with all of your personal back to school concerns and answers. 

Just write your worries on a piece of paper with your solutions. 

Add time for everything, even the self wellness acts, on your calendar (don't forget to add extra time if you need to prepare or create blends, time to travel to things like a massage, etc). 

Now highlight what you can be doing on a daily basis (versus the things you are only doing here and there - like a massage or reflexology appointment), and tape your highlighted exercise wherever your are most of your day as a reminder (you can even make a copy and tape one at work and one at home) for when your list gets too big and you forget what you could be doing.

Worry free back to school wishes! :) Jamie
​

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Note by the author ~  I found this old blog I wrote and shared years ago while I was enrolled in the Master's of Aromatherapy Program.  I loved reading it again and thought you would enjoy it too!  Be sure to check out my updated notes after the blog! ~ Jamie

I am often asked at what moment I first realized there was a difference in different brands of essential oils.  There was a time when I started using lavender essential oil to try to help with a restful nights sleep.  For years however, I couldn’t bring myself to use it because I truly did not care for the smell of lavender.  This was when I still used air fresheners, body sprays, and household cleaning products and sprays that contained tons of chemicals.  If you are into aromatherapy and have converted some of your products to a safer alternative, then I think you can relate to the how I did not like the smell of lavender.  My sense of smell was used to much different fragrances.

When my first blessing was born and wasn’t sleeping well at night, the use of lavender came to mind.  I added a few drops of lavender to a spray bottle with some water and would spray the room in the evening.  I still didn’t care for the smell, but it was actually seeming to help.  My first “WOW” in the aromatherapy world that seemed to have proven itself to me.  I continued to use my lavender spray (which was not very concentrated or strong at all to be baby safe, and for my own self not adoring the lavender scent) and my sweet little baby seemed to sleep for a few more hours at a time.

A few months later I had run out of lavender.  The bottle I was using was from a company referred to myself by a Nurse Practitioner I had once worked with.  Bless her heart, she is the reason I am as far into the Aromatherapy world as I am!  I must make note and take a moment to say that I will always be thankful to her for everything she has taught me and for always believing in me.  With that said, she gave me a book and ordered me some essential oils.  I remembered her saying to always use the book as a resource and only order from this company or a company that is well known for their "true" products.

I had gone and bought a brand of lavender that I had seen sold in many stores.  It also seemed like the company had been around for a very long time, so this brand must be good…. right?  Wrong, the fragrance was very strong and even after major dilution this brand was not working to help ease my little one to a better nights sleep, nor did it even smell good.
At this point I went down to the store again and gave my experience to the worker who then had suggested I try another brand that was well known and had a better reputation than the previous brand.  I bought that brand and tried it with nothing but the same results as the first.

It was at this time that I brought out my book and computer and started to research the companies further and then also researched the original company referred by the NP.  I cannot express enough to any of you reading this blog and using aromatherapy products how important it is for you to understand what you are using, how it works, and the safe ways to use the product as well as the true and solid company background.

​I had always knew I wanted to take a course in Aromatherapy.  I had known this for at least 10 years before I actually took any courses, but it was this experience above that led me to where I am today.  The world of aromatherapy, nature’s natural properties and what they can do and provide is so abundant and profound that I found myself taking one course just to expand my nursing knowledge for patients that presented to the office and used aromatherapy products.  I wanted to know why people were using these interesting products and if any, what side effects could be alleviated or exasperated.  My one course led me to the whole Master’s Program and Teachers Training, with more courses to be taken and much research to be done.

Note by the author ~ See these great take away tips:

• Always be grateful and your days will be sunnier.
• Note that there are several different types of lavender.  Always check the botanical names.
• Use my rule of three and instead of checking one resource, always check three.
• Essential oils and water do not mix.  The e.o.'s float on the top which can break down the plastic spray bottle tubing.  It is best if you add your essential oils to glycerin first when making a spray, and then add distilled water.  Shake well before spraying.
• Always check precautions of all products before using them near those sweet babies and kiddos!

Since I wrote this blog, I have also completed multiple herbal and natural health related courses, helped motivate and teach many Mom's, Dad's, teacher's and caregivers to better care for themselves, their families, and the kiddos they care for.  

I am grateful for you and for the power of nature that prevents illness, boosts immunity, and heals. ~ Jamie

When we are overwhelmed, our kids become overwhelmed… and vice versa. 

So how can we help calm our nerves and find clarity when we are feeling overwhelmed?

•  Start with a few sprays in the room of a calming hydrosol.  Lavender and Chamomile are great options!

•  Now take a few deep breaths focusing on relaxing your shoulders as you exhale.

•  Look around and verify with yourself that you are in a grounded and safe space.

•  Look around and note what your children are doing, that they are healthy and well, and are safe.

•  Take a few minutes to deep breathe again, focusing on relaxing those shoulders.  Stretch in a few directions to increase circulation to the muscles that were just overly tensed.

•  Now make a NEW list for the day.  A list that is more doable.

-  Start with writing down what absolutely needs to get done right now.

-  Next write down what needs to get done before the end of the day.

-  Now make a separate list of the things you would also like to accomplish today.  Maybe this is getting the dishes, laundry, or vacuuming done?

-  Make some time frames that are doable, noting nap time or any of your child’s activities, for the things you absolutely have to do today.

*  Always add an extra 30 minutes in case you get interrupted, or if it takes you longer than expected.

*  Also be sure to add time with the kiddos that is just that - time with the kiddos… all of your focused attention before you start your next task.

- If you finish the task before the time frame is up, work on something on your list of things that you would “like” to accomplish.

Now brew a cup of organic herbal lemon balm, lavender, or chamomile tea and carry on with your day! 

You’ve got this! 

Relaxing & Well Wishes!  Jamie

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It's crazy how much there is to learn about essential oils.  I would say about seventy five percent of people I speak with have said at one time or another "I have essential oils but they just sit there because I don't know what to do with them", or "I bought a kit a while back but it just sits there because I don't know which ones to use, how, and when."

I was there once too!  During my first pregnancy I boxed up all my essential oils and tucked them away.  I was only experienced with using a few of them.  The ones I had been using prior, I only used them because I was told how to and what to use them for.  Once I was handed my first "What to Expect When Expecting Book", I just knew that spare time when I wasn't working full time was going to be used for resting, reading, and preparing for birth and what was to come after.

I boxed those essential oils because I knew there were precautions with pregnancy and babies and I wasn't confident in using them safely and I definitely didn't want to bring upon any harm to my sweet baby in utero or out.  

A few months after our daughter was born I ended up grabbing for those essential oils when her Dad got into some poison ivy.  I remembered right away how helpful lavender and tea tree were to dry out, heal, and calm the itch of the rash.  I then became so excited to start going through them again and reading the book I was given to learn more about safe use. 

I made a lavender spray to spray around the crib at nap time and bed time.  It's crazy to look back and think that I only used that one spray because I didn't have time to learn safe use during pregnancy and with babies.  My next two pregnancies were so much different as I used natural wellness products and remedies SO much more often. 

I am so glad that I took the plunge to learn more because I needed the support of aromatherapy and other natural products to balance my mood, promote better sleep, nourish my skin and all my little's skin, and so much more! 

While there are an incredible amount of essential oils and herbs that are NOT to be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and with babies, the ones that are safe to use when used in the proper dilutions, amount, and used correctly, are beyond beneficial!

I had a learning curve with though!  When I ran out of lavender and had to go to a local store for some, let me make this short and sweet.... two trips, two different brands of lavender, and the result was ZERO, nothing.  There was a sweet baby who wasn't sleeping better, no relaxing aroma, no feeling of calm, and if anything, both aroma's gave a feeling of nausea because they weren't like the true, earthy lavender I knew.  One was very strong, not earthy, just a strong, almost cologne like, lavender aroma, and the other smelt like a terrible perfume.  I was certain if I felt that way about the aroma, that my baby felt that way times ten!

This is when I learned how extremely important it is to know what makes a good brand.  How to distinguish true essential oils from fragranced essential oils.  It would be really helpful if there wasn't so much confusion with the wording on the labels and bottles.  

A medicinal essential oil is a "true" essential oil.  It is only the very concentrated oil that comes directly from the plant.  There are no other ingredients on the label.  The word fragrance is certainly not in the list of ingredients.  The label provides the botanical name so you can identify which plant the essential oil came from and search for the correct precautions based on the botanical name. 

A good company will let you know exactly where the plant comes from and if they are a smaller company, you may even get a better list of key information that makes up the essential oil, like the quality of the air and soil, and the altitude the plant is grown, with a more specific intention that that essential oil will be recommended for.  

Long story short, there is much more to learn about choosing a brand that carries "true" essential oils and how to identify this yourself at home when you are trying that essential oil.

There is so much benefit that can come from using natural wellness, aromatherapy, and other natural remedies for Mom's, babies, and children of all ages, however, safety must be learned in order to prevent harm, adverse reactions, and so forth.

I am sure some of you are saying "But Jamie, what CAN I safely use then with my babies or little's?"  

I teach this in my programs!  The fantastic part... my program outline is set but the age for safe use, precautions, blending, dilutions, and products is set to the age your kiddos are at.  Even if you are an expecting Momma or have children who are three, six, twelve, and eighteen!

Let me end with a bit more insight for the soon to be Mom's or Mom's new to natural wellness... 

~ Nutrition is HUGE.  Heal from the inside and you will notice healing on the outside.  Nutrition also provides us with immunity and energy to function optimally.

~ Keeping it simple with natural products is best during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and with babies.  Babies actually do NOT need essential oil use at all.  Essential oils are very concentrated and most are way too concentrated for babies!  Babies are also very sensitive which includes their sense of smell, airway and breathing, and their gentle skin.  Safety is so important to prevent adverse reactions.

~ If you experience nausea, headache, or a skin reaction after using essential oils, that is an adverse reaction and your body telling you that essential oil or amount used is not for you.

~ Never heard of a hydrosol?  Lavender hydrosol is safer, more gentle, and has (in my opinion) a more lovely, softer, lavender aroma.  It can be sprayed as needed in any room to promote a sense of calm or used topically on the skin to promote healing and skin nourishment.  I LOVE teaching about hydrosols, especially for little's.

~ Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) has been noted in many sources to be a great option to diffuse with babies and children.  Always check precautions from the botanical name prior to use and in reference with your child's age and health status, and consult with your health care provider prior to use, especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and with babies. 

P.S.  I also teach this and emphasize on safety as if your sweet littles were my own.

Remember to take time out for yourself, time out for your littles without twenty other things on your mind, and take in all those sweet moments. 

~ Healthy Wishes, Jamie

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Spring is finally here and the sun is shining bright as we wait for summer to approach with even warmer temperatures.  Yard work is a must every weekend this month to prepare for flowering and gardening, and doing absolutely anything in the warm sun will make for the perfect day.

During the spring we find ourselves reaching for the citrus oils to uplift our mood for indoor spring cleaning.  We open the windows to smell the fresh breeze and waft the energies of the lemon and lime essential oil drops diffusing in the air.  Clarity, energy, and an uplifted mood are just a few of the amazing benefits of diffusing citrus oils.  However, some of you may like to add citrus drops to your favorite lotions or carrier oils for dull or oily skin, slow digestion, or even just for the love of the smell or uplifted mood the citrus scent can bring.  The topical application of certain citrus essential oils can actually turn into a painful skin reaction as in a sunburn with redness and blisters if the skin is exposed to UV light after application, leaving you indoors, uncomfortable, with hopes of healing skin to get back out doors.  Although citrus oils can have wonderful benefits for our skin, they can also have a very damaging effect in the sunshine.

For example, Lemon (Citrus limon) is a very commonly used essential oil in the spring.  Those opening up their cabins from winter may be reaching for lemon essential oil to really boost a better scent of fresher air, while also applying lemon essential oil to the the skin to uplift spirits, benefit skin ailments, spring colds… whatever the reason for topical application, one must know that cold pressed lemon (Citrus limon) essential oil is phototoxic.

Natural chemicals called furanocoumarins (FC’s), found in certain essential oils can react when exposed to ultraviolet light.  This causes a delayed phototoxic skin reaction peaking around 36-72 hours after UVA exposure.  Extensive sun burn-like redness and blistering of the exposed skin can occur.  Not all FC’s are phototoxic and others that are phototoxic have different degrees of phototoxicity.  For one who is extremely interested in the chemical make up of essential oils and the percentage one can safely topically apply without risking a damaging phototoxic effect, it is highly recommended to research the essential oils you are going to use prior in the Essential Oil Safety Book by Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young.

Another good bit of information to note is that citrus oils that are “cold pressed” are phototoxic while “steam distilled” citrus oils are not phototoxic.  There are also essential oils besides citrus oils that are phototoxic.  Photoxicity should also not be confused with sensitization, another reaction that can happen with overuse of the same essential oils and chemical constituents or with repeated undiluted use of essential oils.

Here is a list of a few common phototoxic essential oils:  (Please note this is only a very small list of phototoxic essential oils, there are additional essential oils that cause phototoxicity as well as essential oils listed with a “potential” to be phototoxic)

* Lemon (Citrus limon)
* Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium)
* Lime (Citrus aurantifolia)
* Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
* Bergamont (Citrus bergamia)
* Angelica root (Angelica archangelic L.)

If a phototoxic essential oil has been applied to the skin, it is best to keep that area of the skin out of the sun or covered to prevent a phototoxic reaction for 12-18 hours after application, especially with children. 

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REFERENCES:
https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/lemon-oil.asp
https://www.aromaweb.com/articles/phototoxicity-essential-oils.asp
https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/bitter-orange-oil.asp
Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young, Second Edition; Copyright 2014 Pages 85 & 194
The Aromatherapy Beauty Guide by Danielle Sade; Copyright 2017 Pages 27 & 28

Is there anyone who doesn't get excited to wander through the garden in spring to see if any plants are welcoming you?  

The more I plant my own food, the more I learn about resources, nourishment, saving money, and having an endless supply of certain produce and herbs.

I have definitely had a shift in mind set when it comes to gardening and planting pots and baskets around the house.  I invite you to read on and see if I can help create inspiration within yourself to think the same.

First, instead of buying that flower basket that vibrantly speaks to me, I ask myself if it has any use besides its beauty.  If not, I prefer to search for a beautiful flower that holds medicinal or nutritional value and spend my money wiser.  A flower that is just as vibrant, such as organic Calendula, that can be harvested and infused into oils, bone broth, or tea for internal and external healing.

Second, I now feel the need to question what goes in my garden and if it will return again.  I have become quite fond of the idea of having perennials versus annuals to save money and have a free return of a nourishing foods and herbs.  Chives, strawberries, lemon balm, lavender, lovage, and mints are a few of those I have planted and anxiously wait to see them return.  I divide them when they are fully grown and place them in multiple places to increase growth and production... and to ensure I have plenty more if the critters sneak in.

I have also started to save the seeds of the annual flowers and vegetables to have a free seed supply for the following year.  

At the end of fall, I repot plants to bring indoors to continue to have a food or herb supply for as long as the plant will survive.  Some will last right through spring and get replanted.  Food is medicine, herbs are medicinal.  To have them indoors during the cold winter months is a wonderful feeling.  

Lastly, I look at what I can grow indoors during the winter months to continue to nourish my family or hold onto in case its medicinal use is needed.  Lemon Balm has always been wonderful to survive right through the winter.  Chives can be split up outdoors and a batch can be potted to bring in.  Other herbs and edible flowers can be brought inside.  New greens planted late summer can be brought in too.  Other herbs that cannot be brought indoors, can be harvested and dried or froze for later use.

Micro-greens are an amazing nutrient source, small... but pack a punch with nourishment, and do not take up much space.  Micro-greens are said to have up forty times the nutrients than the mature leaves!  Up to forty times!!!  

When you allow your children to take part in the gardening and growing, they are also more apt to want to indulge in their healthy veggies.  For the child who isn't a fan of greens and lettuce, letting them know they can add a few of the tiniest micro-greens to their sandwich for a super charge of nutrients can really get them fired up to add them.  Or, just tell them when they see a leaf of green, it means you love them!  It works!

I have also find that every tree or shrub I look at, I am asking if it has a healthful purpose and looking for alternatives that bear fruit or have parts with medicinal value.

Mother nature has a lot to provide to nourish our bodies and minds if we are open to thinking about it and learning more.

Teach your children as you learn so they too, can learn, do, and grow.

** Always check precautions of all herbs prior to use.  Never harvest any herbs or flowers unless you are 120 percent sure of your harvest.  Always teach your children about precautions and plant look a likes, some which can be fatal.  **

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Homework time again!? Parents and students alike can have so many emotions when it comes to getting studies done. Fortunately, we are blessed with options to help assist our bodies to settle down and our minds to tune in.  Let’s explore my favorite study time essential oils for the diffuser beneficial for kids and parents.

Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) 

Oh for the love of sweet orange!  This is my all time favorite essential oil to add to the diffuser while the kids are pulling out their homework from their book bags and getting ready to prepare their bodies and brains for thinking!  The sweet orange tree is smaller than the bitter orange tree and also has a sweeter pulp.  Hmmm, smaller fruit, sweet in the middle… totally equals little, sweet, smiling, snuggly, children right!?!

Sweet orange essential oil, in most cases, is cold pressed from the rind of the fruit.  It has a lovely and sweet orange aroma that is not too stimulating nor too calming, thus it can be diffused any time of day.  So whether you have a fifth grader needing to do homework at 6 pm or a high schooler doing homework at 10 pm after sports, this essential oil can be diffused during study time without worry of overstimulating the nervous system and losing out on a good night of rest.

Have more than just sweet orange essential oil?  Let’s make it a blend!  Two other essential oils that I like to add to the diffuser for study time are Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Lemon (Citrus limon).

I love to grab the lavender and add a few drops along with sweet orange when I notice the school and homework tension and anxiety building in the kids, or even when the kids are just super energetic and aren’t up for studies.  Lavender can be calming, for most, in lower amounts.  Thus, adding too much can actually stimulate the nervous system, so only add a few drops.  This is a beautiful smelling blend that can assist to bring upon a calmer energy, prior to getting started, without losing all motivation to get the studies done.

On the other hand, for days when the kids are overwhelmed with thoughts and need clarity to concentrate, I add Lemon to the mix.  Lemon is said to be energizing, uplifting, and helpful for producing clarity and thought.  Lemon is cold pressed, in most cases, right from the lemon rind.  Lemon should not be used after 6pm as it is a stimulating essential oil. 

​Can all three of these essential oils be added to the diffuser at once? Absolutely! You may also try Lavender and Lemon.  Have fun with all the different combinations and start to enjoy study time!

Ready to learn more!?  Click the link below!

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References:
The Directory of Essential Oils, Wanda Sellar, Copyright 1992 & 2001, Pg’s 100,101
https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/lavender-oil.asp
https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/lemon-oil.asp
https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/sweet-orange-oil.asp