Recently I shared this graphic on social media:
I got a lot of responses to two of these items...
Any guesses which two??
If you picked sunglasses and air pods, you are right.
While sunglasses may look cool, you may be surprised at what they can be doing to your body...
Every cell in your body communicates with every other cell through light. The natural spectrum of light that hits our eyes has so many incredible frequencies that modern science has not discovered them all yet.
Simply put, “sunglasses are cellular suicide”. (Richard Wilson)
Sunglasses remove the UV rays, altering the natural spectrum of light entering your eyes, which can create disease.
These frequencies and spectrum of light feed your pineal and pituitary glands, letting your brain know it is sunny out so your skin can prepare for direct sunlight and making vitamin D. Wearing sunglasses blocks your pineal gland, tricking your brain into thinking it is cloudy out, so your skin is not prepared for sun exposure. This is one of the main reasons people get skin cancer...not because of the sun but because of the glasses...
Although the pineal gland isn’t fully understood yet, it is understood that you don’t want to mess with it...
Other downsides of sunglasses include eye fatigue. Not only do your eyes need sunlight but forcing them to look through “tinted” glasses, they must work harder, putting them under stress.
Your body may not produce as much Vitamin D. Why does that matter? Vitamin D is important for your bones, muscle function and your immune system health.
Not getting that natural light in your eyes may also impact your hormonal health. Sunshine in the morning, without glasses, activates your pituitary gland telling it to release hormones that get your thyroid gland producing its hormones; stimulates your endocrine system; creates those happy hormones dopamine and serotonin; as well as supports metabolic, neurotransmitter and cardiovascular health.
And then there is melatonin - a powerful antioxidant and anti-cancer hormone that supports blood sugar, cravings, addictions and even stress. It has been called the “king of the hormones”. Having trouble sleeping?? Lack of sun exposure on your eyes can lead to a disruption in your circadian rhythm, that natural sleep/wake cycle, again tied to melatonin.
It has also been reported that sunglasses may promote mental health disorders and depression. According to Ayurveda’s law, “like increases like”, so the literal darkness of sunglasses may increase emotional darkness. Whereas sunlight, on your body and hitting your bare eyes, creates natural opioids, beta endorphins, that boost your emotional and mental state.
This is not to say, however, that if you need to wear sunglasses, or are in a very bright environment like snow, not to wear them! There are some medical conditions that cause hyper-sensitivity to bright light, resulting in headaches, fatigue, inflammation, etc. Don’t strain your eyes, but you can strengthen them by allowing them to take in the full spectrum of natural light over time. Wearing a cool hat is always an option. ;)
It is suggested to get outside at least 50 minutes a day, whether it is sunny or not, letting that daylight into your eyes and onto your body, especially early in the morning.
Don't forget about Illumineyes and Ningxia Red Be sure to check out the 14 Day Ningxia Resetif you are ready to take your wellness to a whole new level with a community of others along on the same journey.
What else surprised you on this list?
Did you know that diffusing is one of the easiest health habits you can start?? Immune, sleep, respiratory, emotional support along with cleaning the air in your home…not to mention the incredible smell combinations you can create!!
There are three major ways to use essential oils - topically (on your skin), ingesting, or aromatically (diffusing, or inhaling right from the bottle.) Diffusing is super effective for emotions, mental or respiratory support, rest and relaxation.
All you need to start diffusing essential oils is a diffuser, a little bit of water, and some Young Living essential oils!
Each diffuser will have a fill line on the inside, so just add water to the fill line, add your oils of choice, replace the lid and turn on the diffuser. Instant transformation! You can place a diffuser virtually anywhere - your home, office, even your car!
Feeling a little stressed with early morning traffic? Try Peppermint +Stress Away in an usb diffuser (https://amzn.to/3wo3Bxo) that sits right in your vehicle cup holder.
Need some help calming your thoughts at bedtime? Lavender, Cedarwood & Vetiver are your friends. (Put your diffuser right by your bed!).
Feeling a little stuffy? Diffuse Raven, Lemon and Frankincense (get extra oomph for diffusing while you shower - oils + steam!).
Want a festive atmosphere without the toxins in wall plugs and candles? Fire up that diffuser with a seasonal scent! Cinnamon bark, Clove and Orange are great in the fall/winter, and we love Lavender, Lemon and Lime in the spring/summer!
Quick tip! If you don't have a diffuser or have access to a wall plug/USB outlet, grab a tissue or some cotton balls and drop a few drops of oil onto them. Place them in an air vent or under a seat in a vehicle or anywhere you can to create a passive diffuser!
Are you wondering how breathing in some Lavender can change your mood??
Breathing the oils sends messages to your brain through your cranial nerves. The olfactory (sense of smell) cranial nerve ends in the brain right next to the organs of the limbic system - the system that controls mood, emotions and memory. So inhaling oils triggers that area of your brain, helping you rest, reset, and recharge. And diffusing is a great way to get the benefit of these oils for more than one individual! Play with combinations to find the ones you love and that are the most beneficial to you!
DIFFUSING FAQS
How long can I diffuse at a time?
I could have diffusers going in our home pretty much 24/7. In our large, open areas I don't keep track of how long I diffuse. At bedtime I use the intermittent setting on the diffusers so they run all night long! If you are diffusing in a room where doors are closed (ie kids bedrooms), simply add less oils and use the intermittent setting. Don't overthink it!
How many drops do I use?
That will depend on your diffuser! Larger ones that cover more area will require more drops. Here are the current diffusers available from Young Living:
Duet diffuser uses no water, simply add the oil bottles of choice!
Aria diffuser: 15-25 drops essential oil, covers about 430 sq. feet
Desert Mist diffuser: 8-12 drops essential oil, covers about 320 sq. feet
DewDrop and Rainstone diffusers: 5–8 drops of essential oil, covers approximately 320 sq. ft.
Sprout the Puppy diffuser: 8-20 drops essential oil
Find info on each of the Young Living diffusers RIGHT HERE
Do I need to clean my diffuser?
It is recommended that you clean your diffuser for best results.
For the Aria, simply wipe it down after every use with a clean, dry cloth + wash the glass bowl either by hand or in the dishwasher as needed.
For other diffusers, it is recommended that you clean the ultrasonic plate and lid after each use.
If oil begins to build up on the ultrasonic plate, gently wipe it off using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, and if oil begins to build up on the lid, gently wipe it off using mild soap and water only.
DIFFUSER SETTINGS
Did you know you can turn the lights on and off and change the colors on the diffusers? Or that the kids' diffusers can also double as a sound machine? Depending on the diffuser simply press the button on the left to cycle through the light options.
Most diffusers also have 1-2 intermittent modes, which can be changed by pressing the button on the right to cycle through the options! This is one of our favorite ways to have oils diffusing while we sleep.
Check out the manual that comes with your diffuser or the product link above for specific info on each one!
What's your favorite diffuser blend??
That time of year is fast approaching...you know the one...fast paced, cooler temps, more "under the weather" days and nights, stress and overwhelm sneak in...
How about a little free support on the emotional and wellness side?? Simply place your monthly order for typical products you use every day in your home, and you will find these goodies in your box when it arrives at your door! My absolute favorite way to shop! No crowds, no lines, no chemicals. ;)
With over 700 species of eucalyptus, as well as chemotypes, common names and different parts of the plant being marketed, it is easy to be confused and most companies are labeling their oil all under the genus of Eucalyptus. That is not only confusing, but it is misleading!
Let’s talk a little chemistry…I hated it in high school. but am absolutely fascinated by it now…
What is a Chemotype? A chemotype (CT) is a designation that tells you that the species has different chemical constituents. This usually happens because the plant is grown in a different area with a distinct climate that changes the chemistry.
It’s important to know what you are getting because different species (and chemotypes) may have different purposes. So the uses of eucalyptus will be different and some species may not be suitable for all uses!
So, how do you know what you are getting? Always purchase and use oils by the common name and genus species. And of course make sure they are pure! Remember 98% of oils out there are food and fragrance grade…not pure oils. Nan suggests we choose chemistry over confusion, dependability over deception, and quality over quantity or price, and reminds us to read your labels and don’t be “taken by a snake oil salesman”. Remember 100% USP on your label means adulterated.
Back to Eucalyptus globulus – commonly known as Eucalyptus. It is found in RC, Ortho Sport and OrthoEase. Commonly known to support your respiratory system and soothe those muscles after a workout, it may also promote emotional wellbeing by helping you become more aware when and how your proverbial buttons are being pushed…
Use diluted - 50:50 dilution then, apply several drops (2-4) on location, or diffuse
Animals may smell it directly from the bottle or place a drop or two in your palm, then smell. Or place a drop in your palm and pet head to toe.
STRESS AWAY
Leave all the stresses of life behind, unless you are like me… You know my love/hate relationship with this one, right?? Hated it for many years…still have days I don’t like it…but I use it anyway… on those days I am drawn to it. Made the mistake of putting it behind my ears before we left for Boston to fly to NC for an incredible couple of days with my girls…just the smell stressed me out on top of the other stress…LOL More work to do…
Others love it for anger, calming, nervousness, argumentativeness, relaxation, restlessness, emotional and mental stress.
Six oils – copaiba (great for irritation), lavender, cedarwood, ocotea, lime and vanilla absolute. My friend, the individual abilities of these oils are incredible. It is worth taking a few minutes and looking into them!
Nan says it will help people and animals let go of learned and genetic patterns to mental, emotional, spiritual and physical stress, bringing awareness to what your sources of stress are and what needs to be changed. Remember, you can’t change what you are not aware of and awareness is 75% of the healing.
Use neat, apply to neck, wrists, temples or anywhere else you are led. I prefer bottoms of my feet where I can’t smell it…
IMMUPRO
One of my absolute must haves… Immupro supports your body’s natural sleep rhythm with all the benefits of Melatonin, Wolfberries and Reishi Mushrooms along with chelated zinc, copper and selenium. Science shows chelated minerals are more easily absorbed by your body and we all know how important it is to support your immune system, especially with the coming of winter or when you are stressed.
Easy peasy to use, just chew 1 tablet before going to bed. If stressed, grab 2-4 tablets or 1 tablet as needed.
ACCEPTANCE
One of my all time favorites…love that the name of a blend tells us what it can do for us…Containing 19 different oils, Blue Tansy, Geranium, Frankincense, Neroli, Ylang Ylang, Bergamot, Coriander, Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood, German Chamomile, Blue Cypress, Tangerine, Spearmint, Lemon, Davana, Kaffir Lime, Ocotea, Jasmine absolute and Rose Otto oil, this is an excellent blend for so many things in the emotional category..
Calming and balancing, it may help with feelings of abandonment, argumentativeness, shame, betrayal, bitterness, blame, defeated, denial, despair, forgiveness, forgetfulness, frustration, hate, rejection, obsessiveness, overwhelmed, self pity, restlessness, sadness, and transitions.
Nan reminds us that accepting situations, whether physical or emotional, is something you face daily. Remember, when you resist or try to control situations, things usually become worse or blow up in your face!
Acceptance gently helps you to accept challenges so you can move forward instead of facing them with resistance, anger or resentment.
It asks you to be more open and attract new things into your life, whether that is people, relationships or even animals. If you tend to procrastinate or are in denial, Nan says this blend will help.
What are you most excited about receiving this month?? Don't have your free account yet? No worries! You can easily create your own free account and join our FB community. Simply use this link and choose "sign in". Click "create account: and enter your info and email. You should see my name as enroller and sponsor. Then you can explore and learn at your own pace, order if you please, and I am here to help along the way. Don't forget to use the code SHAREYL for 10% off your first time order of 50pv (point value) or more!
Holiday products are live! Have you snagged your favorites yet??
STAYING FOCUSED...
Whether you're helping your little ones with homework, helping older kids stay focused in class, or needing some help yourself, these are some of our favorite oils for staying focused and alert!
- Vetiver
- Cedarwood
- Brain Power
- KidScent GeneYus
- Inspiration
- Envision
Why these? A study on essential oils and focus by Dr. Terry Friedmann found a 32% improvement in mental focus in children inhaling Vetiver, with similar results in the group inhaling Cedarwood Cedarwood.
They realized that this is because of a specific constituent (a component of the oils). Vetiver and Cedarwood are extremely high in sesquiterpenes - molecules that deliver oxygen molecules to cells, just like hemoglobin does to the blood! More oxygen to the brain = better focus. These oils also help our brain waves calm from an overactive state to a focused one.
- Cedarwood 98% sesquiterpenes
- Vetiver 97% sesquiterpenes
- Spikenard 93% sesquiterpenes
- Sandalwood 90% sesquiterpenes
- CLEANING...AT HOME AND AT SCHOOL...
Thieves Household Cleaner is our absolute favorite for green, plant-based cleaning. You know we use this in our homes, but did you know that a lot of teachers will use it in their classrooms as well?! So many people have gifted it along with a glass spray bottle to their kids' teachers to use daily in their classrooms. Spice it up with one of these recipes!
A good night of sleep always makes you feel amazing, but did you know that sleep has even more effects than just having energy? It is a huge part of Your ability to focus, your immune system, and your ability to retain information! Sleep is crucial...Great oil choices are Peace & Calming, Cedarwood, Valor, Lavender, SleepyIze, Seedlings Calm, Tranquil. Immupro or Sleep Essence are my go to supplements. Have you tried Unwind or KidScents MightyPro? More and more research shows that a healthy gut is crucial for all things...including sleep!
Spray this onto sheets, blankets, pjs and stuffed animals before bed.
- Glass spray bottle
- 30 drops Peace & Calming
- 15 drops Lavender
- Splash of witch hazel
- Water
AFTER SCHOOL OR WEEKEND FUN!!
Pumpkin Pie Play Dough Fun for the kids with the option of being free of harmful dyes and ingredients and leaves the house and hands smelling AMAZING plus it has immune boosting properties! Super easy to make together, then let them play the crisp, fall day away!!
- 2 cups cornstarch
- 1 cup Kidscents Lotion
- 4 drops Cardamom
- 2 drops Orange
- 1 drop Cinnamon bark
- 1 drop Clove
- Mix all the ingredients together and let their imaginations run wild!
DIY Clay Leaf Tray This DIY tray is a fun craft for the little ones to make and gift! Before the clay hardens, you can drop essential oils onto it. Choose stronger scents like Cinnamon Bark, Clove, Thieves or Peppermint to ensure more scent.
- Air dry clay
- Craft paper
- Rolling pin
- Craft paint (we like the metallic colors!)
- Paint brushes
- Modge Podge gloss or other sealer
- Various leaves from your yard
First, explore around your yard and gather your leaves! Cut out a piece of air dry clay, then roll it out about 1/2 inch thick, making sure your leaf will fit fully onto the clay. Then, press your leaf (vein side down) onto the clay. Make sure all parts of the leaf press in so that you get all the pretty nuances of the leaf!
Remove the leaf from the clay, and cut around the outline with a knife (have adults do this part), then remove the excess air dry clay from around your imprint. Go around the perimeter of the leaf and gently press the sides up and in to create a small edge If adding oils, do so now.
Allow the clay to air dry and harden. We set ours on a baking rack so that both sides were exposed to air. After 24 hours they had hardened and were ready to paint!
Paint! Once the paint is dry, cover with a coat of Modge Podge gloss, then let that dry for 24 hours. After the coating is dry, have your children sign the back and write the year.
I'd love to see pics of your playdough fun and leaf creations! Post them in Intentional Wellness on Facebook!
Supper is finally finished, homework or chores are done, sports practices are over, the kids are settled for the night. . . you sit down on the couch, let out a big sigh, and you . . .
Let your mind wander back to everything you didn’t get accomplished today…
Continue to stress over that argument or phone call that didn’t go your way…
Already find yourself being anxious about everything you have to do tomorrow…
Sound familiar??
What if your downtime went something like this . . . you sit down on the couch, let out a big sigh, and you . . .
Celebrate everything that you crossed off your to-do list…
Feel at peace with the way you handled every situation you faced because you were able to stay calm and relaxed…
Find yourself looking forward to tomorrow with anticipation of all the blessings coming your way…
Sound too good to be true?
It doesn’t have to be!
Your body needs sleep to physically function, make decisions, focus on tasks, manage those emotions, and to handle all that each day can throw at you! Think about that toddler who has missed their nap. They are grumpy, overwhelmed by small things, and anything that isn't just right. Your adult brains feel the same way when you don’t get enough sleep…how’s that for a visual? 😉
I don’t know about you, but too much stress usually means too little sleep, which then leaves me more tired, more cranky, and more stressed. So how do we stop the cycle?
So much of getting a good night's rest is in establishing a routine, even for adults! Walking through the same steps each evening helps you create a habit as well as cues your brain that it's time to rest.
* Keep the lights low and warm after dinner. Think more ambient lighting and candles and avoid those overhead lights if possible.
*Turn off your phone.
*Sip on some hot tea - add even more benefit with a drop of Lemon Vitality.
*Take a bath - add a cup of Epsom salt with 10 drops of Lavender or other sleep oil, then use Relaxation Massage Oil or Lavender Hand & Body Lotion all over. You can also add a drop or two of your favorite oil to the massage oil or lotion for an extra boost!
*Light stretches - nothing over the top, just some light stretches or Yoga poses to help release tension. Put some Frankincense and PanAway on your feet.
*Grab your oils and apply them to the bottom of your big toes (the nerve endings that connect to the brain end here!), your wrists, neck, and chest. You can use the same oils we talked about or try my favorites - Tranquil, RutaVala, Dream Catcher, or Roman Chamomile. I am sure you have heard of or maybe even tried Chamomile tea, right? What effect did it have on you? If it made you feel calm and relaxed, imagine that times 100?!! It has the power to calm the crankiest babies, relax the most restless adults, minimize the biggest feelings of fear and worry, stabilize the most out of whack emotions, and foster the ability to release your most negative emotions. This one is worth stocking up on!
You can even make your own roll-ons by simply adding a total of 40-60 drops of any of the oils listed above to a 10ml roller bottle, then top it off with your favorite carrier oil. Easy peasy!
* Run a fan, or sound machine to help drown out any noise.
* Keep your room cool (but not overly cold). Your body sleeps better when it has a cooler temperature.
* Make your bed a comfy, cozy space. Think soft textures that are inviting and feel good against your skin.
*Try Seedlings Linen Spray or a DIY pillow spray with your favorite sleep oils! Gently spray pillows, sheets, blankets.
Sleep Essence combines Lavender, Vetiver, Valerian and Tangerine oils with melatonin, our natural sleep hormone. It’s also a great tool when go below that wellness line.
ImmuPro is a blend of Ningxia wolfberry, reishi, maitake, and agaricus blazei mushroom powders along with melatonin to boost immunity and help you rest when you need it most.
Once you oil up, if you are still having a hard time relaxing and your thoughts are still racing, here are a couple of other things you can try:
Journaling - Getting your thoughts on paper helps to get them out of your head. Keep a journal on your nightstand and put the brakes on those racing thoughts by jotting them down.
Gratitude - Instead of laying there thinking of all the things that could go wrong, force yourself to focus on all the things that have gone right. Need some help? Apply your Gratitude to your wrists and breathe deep.
Get Up - I know, this sounds counterintuitive, right? Why would you ‘get up’ if you are trying to get to sleep? If you are tossing and turning and getting more and more restless, getting up and finding a simple task to do, applying an oil, or even grabbing an adult coloring book can be just the thing to calm your mind enough to be ready for sleep.
What's your favorite trick to help you settle down and fall asleep? I'm always collecting ideas and solutions! Simply hit reply and share it with me! I'd love to hear from you!
