My Bedtime Routine

Essential oils have become part of my bedtime routine, just like washing my face and brushing my teeth. It is so easy to get into the habit of using oils every night before bed, and the benefits are amazing! Everyone's routine is a bit different, but here is mine lately:

In The Diffuser
I put 5 or 6 drops of Lavender oil in my diffuser at the beginning of my routine. By the time I've finished getting in my PJ's and cleaning myself up, the bedroom "smells like bedtime" as my fiancé likes to say.

On My Feet
Because it "tis the season for lots-o-sneezin'", I apply a drop of the Protective Blend to the bottom of one foot for immune support, and Lavender or the Restful Blend on the bottom of the other foot for a restful nights sleep.

On My Chest
The Respiratory Blend has Melaleuca in it, which is bad for smaller dogs. I used to diffuse this with the Lavender, but since we acquired a pup (who sleeps in the bedroom with us) I now just apply this directly onto my chest, when I need to clear my airways in order to help me sleep.

On My Face
I cleanse my face with the Topical Blend foaming face wash, then apply the Topical Blend oil to my blemishes. I also apply the anti-aging moisturizer that leaves my skin so smooth and hydrated, and smells soothing and relaxing.

In My Body
I have just added the Restful Complex softgels into my nightly routine as well, and have been pleased with the results so far!

Well, that is it for my essential oil bedtime routine! If you have any questions, comment below or email me directly!

xoxo,
Natalie

Stress and Anxiety

I get asked a lot about anxiety management when people come to me with questions about essential oils. Personally, I have had Panic Disorder for 10 years now, and this is the reason I first got into essential oils. Aromatherapy has been incredibly beneficial to me, especially in this aspect of my life, and I hope it will be for you too! Because this is such a popular topic, this post may get a little lengthy, but keep reading if you struggle with anxiety or everyday stress.

**Please Note: Essential oils are NOT meant to replace prescribed medications. If you struggle with severe or chronic anxiety, see a psychiatrist. I use my oils in tandem with my medications for extra support, and it works really well for me. I can't imagine life without both.

Here are some of my personal favorite oils to use for stress and anxiety:

Grounding Blend
I rub a drop of this on the bottom on my foot every morning. I also keep a roller bottle diluted with Fractionated Coconut Oil with me at all times, and will apply to my wrists when I am feeling extra anxious before a meeting, presentation, or exam.

Restful Blend
This blend is heavy on Lavender and Vanilla, and the sweet aroma is instantly calming. This one also aids with sleep, so I only use this during the day if I'm really starting to panic. I will put a drop in my palms, and rub on the back of my neck and inhale for a calming effect. This blend is already diluted, so it is great for babies and children as well.

Wild Orange
I use this citrus oil when I need a pick-me-up. It isn't as calming as the previous two, but rather uplifting. It provides you with the motivation to keep moving forward and conquer what is overwhelming you. Any citrus oil is going to be energizing, but Wild Orange is less intense than some, so I find it best for when you need energy, but are feeling overwhelmed.

Ylang Ylang
I used to hate this oil! It smells like a funeral home to me (like Lilly flowers), so I was not at all drawn to it, however I have recently changed my mind. A couple weeks ago I was having a panic attack and decided to try this oil for anxiety. I rubbed it on my chest so I could get the aromatic benefits without having to hold my hands to my face, and it calmed me down within minutes. I've heard of other people who call this their favorite oil, so it is definitely worth a shot if you have anxiety issues!

Reassuring Blend
I roll this one on my wrists and breathe in when I start feeling overwhelmed or anxious and I find it very calming. The presence of Frankincense is strong, making it earthy and warm, leaving you calm. Absolutely loving this blend!

Honorable Mention: Tension Blend
This one isn't really one I use for anxiety, but I use it daily for my tension headaches that I get from my anxiety and stress. It has a strong aroma, and the mints cool the spots where you apply it. I apply it directly to my temples, forehead, behind my ears, and back of neck and let the cooling effect melt away the tension. It is truly magical is you suffer from tension headaches!


I use the book Modern Essentials sold by AromaTools to recieve my information on oils and how to use them. I thought I would go ahead and mention all of the oils that they most suggest for Anxiety below.

• Lavender
• Wild Orange
• Lemon
• Reassuring Blend
• Focus Blend
• Restful Blend
• Encouraging Blend
• Massage Blend
• Joyful Blend
• Grounding Blend
• Respiratory Blend

I hope this gives you a good idea of what oils are available to you for moderating your stress levels using essential oils and aromatherapy. Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have, or if you would like to learn more about essential oils!

xoxo.

Natalie

My Back to School Essentials

As I return back to school tomorrow (ugh!) I thought it may be appropriate to share which oils I carry with me in my backpack, and use the most for school related issues. Here are my favorites and why.

Protective Blend
No matter what age group you or your kid is in, there are a lot of germs and illnesses on school campuses. This blend helps strengthen your immune system and fight those pesky germs. I apply a drop to the bottom of my foot in the morning and at night, and occasionally on my hands as a sort of hand sanitizer.

Grounding Blend
This blend is great for those of us with test anxiety, performance anxiety, or just all-the-time-anxiety. I put a drop on the bottom of my foot in the morning and apply to my wrists throughout the day for the benefits of its calming aroma.

Joyful Blend
This cheery citrus blend is great when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. I use this on my wrists or palms of my hands to inhale when I need a quick pick-me-up. It's also great if you are like me and can't have caffeine!

Focus Blend
This roll-on blend is specially designed to keep you focused when you are studying or in class. I will roll this on my hands and apply to the back of my neck and temples when I really need to cram for a test or knock out a 15 page paper at the last minute.

Honorable Mention: Tension Blend
This roller bottle is the saving grace for those tension headaches that come from hours of studying topics like Calculus and Accounting (Math! Ugh!). I rub this blend on my temples, forehead, and back of neck to feel its wonderful cooling sensation.

Focus on: Lavender

Lavender is an all time favorite among oilers, and for good reason! It is one of the most versatile oils, and it smells amazing, making it a great oil with which to start your oil journey!

How to use Lavender

• For sleep: using Lavender aromatically or topically can help facilitate a restful sleep. You can use a few drops in a diffuser, apply a drop in your palms and breathe in, or apply a drop to the bottoms of your feet.
• For skin: apply to minor skin irritations such a scratches, burns, dry skin, and scrapes to help heal. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil (FCO) to cover larger areas (helpful with a sunburn!). 
• For anxiety and tension: rubbing on palms and the back of the neck can help you relax and reduce stress levels.
• For household odors: create your own DIY natural odor neutralizer by combining Lavender and water in a glass spray bottle, and spray on soft smelly surfaces. This is also great for pillows and mattresses for restful sleep.
• A relaxing bath: add a few drops to your nighttime bath for a soothing experience that is also great for your skin.

There are many other uses for Lavender, but these are some of the most popular ones. How do you use Lavender in your life? Comment below!