The 4th of July is a time for celebration, fireworks, and fun with family and friends. However, the hustle and bustle of the festivities can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you stay relaxed, energized, and ready to enjoy every moment.
An outdoor space without outdoor pests is a goal for every summer party. If that's a goal you're aiming for, then try any of these tips:
Looking for a natural way to enhance your outdoor experience and keep those pesky insects at bay? Look no further! Citronella essential oil is your perfect outdoor companion. The citronella name is synonymous with insect repellent. Grab a battery powered diffuser and diffuse my favorite Bug Away blend.
***Cut drops in half if diffusing in an indoor space.
This DIY floating candle bowl will transform your everyday backyard party into an enchanting, fragrance-filled bug free event. Make a collection of these bowls and arrange them around the patio, then sit back and enjoy the glow and warm summer scent of Citronella and Lemon.
Supplies
• Glass bowl or container
• Decorations of your choice. You can use anything! (Lemon peels, orange peels, cinnamon sticks, lavender, rosemary, flower petals, river rocks, etc.)
• 20 drops Citronella essential oil
• 10 drops Lemongrass essential oil
• 1 tablespoon witch hazel
• Water to top off glass bowl or container
• 1 unscented floating candle
Instructions
1. Gather decorations and arrange in bowl. We recommend cutting them into two-inch pieces so they don’t bunch at the top of the bowl or cause it to overturn.
2. Add witch hazel, Citronella oil, and Lemongrass essential oil to the bowl.
3. Fill in the remaining bowl space with water.
4. After placing your bowl outside, top it off with the floating candle and light it to create a cozy, aromatic ambiance you and your guests can enjoy throughout the evening.
Young Living's insect repellent is a 100% Plant-Based Formula that is formulated with pure essential oils and natural ingredients, ensuring a gentle solution for your skin while keeping bugs at bay. It is designed with the whole family in mind, is free from DEET and other harmful chemicals which should provide peace of mind for parents and caretakers.
Unlike many synthetic repellents, this blend offers a fresh, invigorating scent that you'll love. Enjoy the benefits of essential oils like Citronella, Tea Tree, and Lemongrass without any overpowering odors. The best part is that just a small amount repellent provides hours of protection. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply enjoying a backyard barbecue, you can trust it will keep insects away. Read more about YL's Insect Repellent HERE
Feeling the heat? Whether you're escaping the summer sun or unwinding from a workout, try this cooling spray for the ultimate chill.
Supplies:
Glass Spray Bottle
1 TBSP Witch Hazel
30 drops Peppermint
Distilled Water
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a 4oz glass spray bottle. Gently shake before using. Spritz body as needed for a cooling effect.
If DIY isn't your thing, grab a pre-made cooling spray HERE
Summer nights are perfect for enjoying spectacular fireworks displays! Whether you’re in your backyard or at a big public event, we know you’ll want to make the most of it. As fun as it can be for most of us, sometimes children and pets are frightened. Try these firework prep tips to create a calming atmosphere and an enjoyable night for all.
- Fill up that diffuser well before dark. Choose a calming oil that your children and pets already love. Then diffuse, diffuse, diffuse.
- Just before dark, apply a small amount behind the ears (for little ones) and give your pets a nice rub on the ears and belly after rubbing a drop or two in the palms of your hands.
- Headed to watch the fireworks? Make a roller of calming essential oils and apply before and during the night.
When you stay hydrated, your body functions at its best, from supporting your skin health to aiding in digestion and maintaining energy levels throughout the day. When we are outdoors in the heat we need more hydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water and try this natural electrolyte drink to stay ahead of the game.
Ingredients:
1/4 tsp Baking Soda
2 Tbsp Sugar in the Raw or Agave (pick a sweetener you feel good about)
1 Qt Water
1 dropper Young Living mineral essence
Splash of Organic Orange Juice (no sugar added) or 2 drops a vitality essential oil of your choice for flavor!
.
Instructions:
Combine the above ingredients and drink as necessary to restore vital minerals and hydration. Vitality Essential Oils can be added instead of juice for flavor or it can be served plain!
4th of July fun often involves the beach, picnics, or backyard BBQ's which all come with lots of sun. Be sure you are prepared for all your sun filled activities using these tips:
If you're old enough to read this blog I don't need to tell you how important it is to wear sunscreen, but you may not know that all sunscreen is not equal. The market is full of sunscreen containing more than questionable ingredients. Grab reef-safe mineral sunscreen and get on with your outdoor activities with the confidence that you are being protected by the safest ingredients available.
Young Living's Mineral Sunscreen is gentle on skin. Free from harsh chemicals, it is perfect for sensitive skin and everyday use. It contains Broad-Spectrum Protection which provides SPF 50 to safeguard your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Its nourishing ingredients include natural moisturizers and essential oils like Helichrysum and Carrot Seed, which hydrate and soothe the skin. Read more about the sunscreen HERE
Sometimes we forget to reapply and sometimes we forget our sunscreen completely resulting in sore, burning skin. If you find yourself red after a day in the sun, try nourishing your skin with an after sun spray that also smells fabulous.
Calm and Soothe: This specially formulated spray incorporates essential oils like Lavender and Tea Tree, known for their soothing properties. Feel the gentle, calming sensation as it touches your skin.
Hydration and Moisture: Packed with natural moisturizers like aloe vera, this spray helps to rehydrate and nourish your skin, giving it a fresh, revitalized look.
Pure and Natural: As a Young Living product, our After-Sun Spray is crafted with the utmost purity, ensuring no harsh chemicals or additives. Only the best for you and your family!
Cooling Relief: Instantly feel the cooling effect that helps alleviate the discomfort of sunburn and leave your skin feeling crisp and refreshed.
Read more about this amazing product HERE
Don't have the after sun spray on hand? In a pinch, make your own:
Supplies:
Glass Spray Bottle
1/2 Cup Witch Hazel
2 TBSP Aloe Vera
10 drops Peppermint
10 drops Lavender
10 drops Frankincense
Distilled Water
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a 4oz glass spray bottle. Shake well and apply generously to skin that needs soothing. Re-apply as needed.
Happy 4th of July to you and yours! On this day full of celebration I want to wish you a happy Independence Day. Stay safe, enjoy your time with friends and loved ones, and don’t forget those who made this day possible! If you have your own survival tips to share, I'd love to hear them!
Looking for more 4th of July diffuser blends? Try some of my favorites HERE
Feeling anxious or stressed? You're not alone, friend.
When those tough feelings strike, you need clear options and a plan of action. Following these steps will leave you feeling like you can breathe easier because you are firmly planted on the ground, no longer tossed around by every passing thought or feeling. Safe. Grounded. Peaceful.
You can do one of these, or do them all. There are no wrong answers here. Whatever you do will benefit your mind and body so much!
Cortisol is often called "the death" hormone. It's the hormone that grows like wildfire when we are stressed. Cortistop stops it in its tracks so that our bodies can manage stress more easily.
Read more about Cortistop HERE
Valor helps with processing BIG feelings, releasing physical tension, and soothing the nervous system. Apply to the wrists, neck, or back. Diffuse it too!!!
Read more about Valor HERE
There are so many incredible ways to use essential oils, and adding them to our bath routine is just one of them! Epsom salt baths can be an incredible way to help your body through acute needs including relaxing and relieving stress.
Do you feel like your feelings are shifting every time the wind blows? Like you're not rooted safely? Tree oils will help you to feel safe, grounded, calm, and still.
More about tree oils HERE
Almost a perfect blend of two favorites, Stress Away and Valor. This vanilla-creamsicle blend is happy, calming, and instills feelings of courage to better face the day ahead.
More about KidPower HERE
It's okay to need some help getting a restful sleep when your brain is still on full power mode at bedtime. SleepEssence capsules with melatonin can help you catch some solid zzz's.
More about SleepEssence HERE
B vitamins help with healthy energy levels, and can also boost your mood. This is my favorite supplement. I call it "energy in a bottle."
More about Super B HERE
You can grab my favorites or anything you'd like using the links below. If you are a new customer, use my personal coupon code SHAREYL for 10% off any order over 50pv. After you place your order, be on the lookout for a special welcome gift from me!
Order my favorites HERE
(Super B, Northern Lights Black Spruce, Valor, SleepEssence)
Create your own bundle HERE
I don't know about you but my skin changes with every season, winter being the worst. It's no wonder our skin suffers in the colder months. Cold air holds less moisture and we don't help matters indoors - the heaters we turn on dry out the inside air as well. When the air around us becomes dry we suffer from itchy, red, flaky skin; cracked cuticles, and even flared eczema. The mildest cases of dry skin are most likely preventable and the in the worst cases adding some extra care in your routine may give you relief from your symptoms. Check out my best tips and products for dry skin relief:
- Wearing gloves will help protect your hands from getting chapped and cracked which can be painful. Should you find yourself needing relief from winter cuticles, consider good quality hand lotions like Lavender Hand and Body Lotion. For extreme cases I have used AnimalScents Ointment. Yes, it WAS formulated for animals but it works so well on our skin too! Don't be afraid to try it.
- Wear lip balm to protect your lips. Be cautious of ingredients such as parabens, petroleum, mineral oil, and artificial pigments. Instead, use a lip balm with moisturizing and healing ingredients such as coconut, almond, rosehip or jojoba oil, beeswax, and that any added flavoring is a natural ingredient like essential oils. Although I prefer Grapefruit Lip Balm, I keep a Lavender Lip Balm handy in the winter in case I get cracks in my lips.
Using the wrong soap - particularly liquid soaps and sanitizers high in alcohol can dry your hands out. Be sure you are using a soap specifically formulated to protect your hands and if you need to use hand sanitizers, that they are made with the proper ingredients. My choice all winter long is Thieves Foaming Hand Soap and Hand Sanitizer. The hand sanitizer is made with denatured alcohol from peppermint and is infused with aloe vera making it nourishing to the skin.
Can't find a hand soap you love?, see below and try making your own foaming hand soaps.
While most exfoliation methods are discouraged in the winter months, dry brushing is the exception. Dry brushing exfoliates old skin cells and primes your skin for newer, healthier ones. It can also help to increase circulation and stimulate lymphatic drainage. Newer skin cells = healthier skin. Dry brushing should be done before you shower. Be sure you are properly moisturizing afterwards to prevent drier skin. My go-to is Cel-lite Magic Massage oil. It smells glorious and has the perfect ingredients to pamper and hydrate your skin.
Believe it or not, taking hot showers can dry out and irritate your skin. Consider the routine of dry brushing, showering with mild instead of scalding water, followed by a good moisturizer that contains natural ingredients that nourish the skin. Cel-lite Magic Massage Oil and Genesis Hand and Body Lotion are my favorites.
You can't control the weather but you can control your indoor environment. Consider running humidifiers or diffusers to add moisture to your home. If you are desperate and don't have a humidifier available, boil a pot of water on your stove throughout the day. There are so many humidifier and diffuser options available. If you are considering getting a humidifier that has a tray for essential oils or a diffuser, be sure it has an ultra-sonic plate for proper dispersion of the oils and is made of medical grade plastic. Meet my favorite diffusers here.
Avoiding alcohol, drinking plenty of water, and incorporating healthy fats into our diet all contribute to healthier skin. If you are having trouble getting plain water down, try adding Vitality drops for added flavor and energy/electrolytes.
Keeping a good skincare routine is helpful in every season but during the winter months you may want to consider changing your routine a bit.
- Cut back on exfoliating your face. Usually 1-2 times a week is recommended but during the drier months I only exfoliate about once every ten days. It makes a big difference.
- Use a gentle cleanser. Some cleansers have harsh ingredients that dry out your skin. ART Gentle Cleanser is the cleanser I use all year around.
- Moisturize with the appropriate products. Avoid products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, salicylic acid, and added fragrances regardless of the season but especially in the winter months. Be sure to use extra nourishing products like ART Intensive Moisturizer, ART Renewal Serum, and Essential Beauty Dry Serum that contain natural ingredients with no synthetic fragrances.
If you've never looked into the amount of harmful ingredients that are allowed in our products, I highly encourage the dive down that rabbit hole. It's amazing that so many carcinogens and ingredients that do the opposite of what are advertised is simply the norm. On your skin means in your bloodstream so check your skin care products (face, hair, body, lip, and makeup) and avoid using any that contain these known toxins:
- Formaldehyde
- Parabens
- Triclosan
- Petroleum
- Fragrance
- Oxybenzone
- Mineral Oil
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Laureth Sultfate
- and MANY more - DO YOUR RESEARCH!
If you don't have skin care products you trust, start with your skin care line of choice from Young Living. They offer a line for oily, normal to dry, and aging skin. Read here to determine which line is best for you.
Finally, if you prefer DIY, try some of these skin nourishing recipes:
Experience the transformative power of our Young Living skincare products and unlock the natural radiance of your skin. Whether you are looking for daily essentials or targeted treatments, our botanical-infused solutions will help you achieve your desired skin goals. Say goodbye to synthetic ingredients and hello to a more natural and vibrant you!
If you are already a customer, simply sign into your account to grab the products you want. If you're new here, I'd love to connect with you as you discover what products may be helpful for you and your home. Simply use the link below to purchase along with my coupon code SHAREYL for 10% off and your products will be delivered to your door followed by educational materials from me that will help you use your products safely and effectively. I can't wait to connect with you.
Jessica Cieri
Are you looking to stay healthy and well during the holiday season? You've come to the right place! I believe that taking care of your well-being is essential, especially during this busy time of the year. Here are some tips to help you stay well this holiday season:
Drinking enough water each day is crucial for many reasons: to regulate body temperature, keep joints lubricated, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and keep our organs functioning properly. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood. It's easy to forget to drink enough water when you're busy with holiday festivities. Remember to stay hydrated as it will aid in digestion, help maintain energy levels, and support your overall health. Keep your electrolytes up by adding Vitality Electrolyte Drops to your water.
I would never tell you to skip the holiday treats but there is a difference in treating yourself and eating every treat you see. The effects of added sugar intake - higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, and fatty liver disease are all linked to an increased risk of heart disease. A great way to support your body when you are eating sugar in excess is adding antioxidants to your diet. Add foods such as asparagus, broccoli, blueberries, sweet potatoes, avocados, nuts, tuna, and poultry or a supplement like NingXia Red that is packed with super food and antioxidant ingredients.
Our immune systems can become more vulnerable during the holiday season. It's important to eat a healthy diet, which includes fruits and vegetables but did you know you can also support your body by using essential oils known for their immune-enhancing properties? Thieves, is a powerful blend of essential oils specially designed to support overall wellness.
Don't forget your supplements! A good supplement regimen helps keep your body in tip top shape. Be sure you are using a good overall supplement such as Master Formula, a high quality pro-biotic such as Life-9, and have extra support on hand in case you need it. My favorite support supplements are Inner Defense and Super C Chewables.
Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system and leave you feeling exhausted. Prioritize quality sleep by creating a relaxing bedtime routine and using essential oils like Lavender, Cedarwood, or Peace & Calming to promote a restful night's sleep.
- Don't overschedule yourself.
- Turn off all screens an hour before bedtime.
- Avoid sugar and caffeine late afternoon through bedtime.
- Start your diffuser 30 minutes before bed.
The holiday season is often a time that should be surrounded by hope, joy, excitement, and new beginnings. However, it can also be a time of stress for many. The holiday's can seem overwhelming, so it's crucial to manage your stress levels. Incorporate stress-relief practices into your daily routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or using essential oils like Stress Away or Valor to promote relaxation and peace.
Overindulging in holiday treats can sometimes leave your digestive system feeling sluggish. Incorporate supportive habits such as drinking herbal teas, taking digestive enzymes such as Essentialzymes-4, and using essential oils like Peppermint or DiGize to promote healthy digestion.
If your body is busy filtering our excess amounts of alcohol all season long, it is not fighting "threats" under the radar. Limiting the amount of work your body has to do will give it time to focus on what it should be doing - which is protecting you from viruses. If you do indulge, be sure to support your body as it is detoxing the alcohol. Supplements such as NingXia Red, MultiGreens, and essential oils such as JuvaFlex support the detoxification process.
Don't forget about the kids.
The kids are grabbing the treats and getting run down just like we are, so be sure you are supporting them with healthy habits this holiday season.
MightyVites - daily vitamin
MightyZymes - digestive enzymes
MightyPro - pre and probiotic
KidScents Unwind - sleep
Essential Oil Favorites (come in bottles for diffusing or pre-made rollers for applying to the skin)
SleepyIze - good night's rest
TummyGize - belly troubles
SniffleEase - sneezes and sniffles
KidPower - overwhelm and exhausted emotions
All the KidScents products are formulated for kids 2-12. Don't be afraid to grab any KidScents essential oils or supplements for your kiddos. Grab any of the kid products above (or browse other options) HERE
Remember, wellness is a journey, and every small step counts. By incorporating these practices you can stay well and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest. If you are not already a customer, I would love to help you as you make positive changes in your life. I am here for questions and have many resources available to you as you learn the best way to support your body through a more natural and holistic approach to your health. Place your order using the referral link below and get an EXTRA10% off with coupon code SHAREYL. Then email or connect with me on social media and request your new customer gift.
Read more HERE about how to get 24% off (in addition to your coupon code above)
Get 34% off today BUY NOW
Jessica Cieri
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to gather your loved ones for a heartfelt and joyous Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you're a seasoned host or a first-timer, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable feast. From setting the ambiance to infusing flavors into your dishes, we have you covered every step of the way! Read on for fabulous tips, diffuser blends, decorative ideas, and oil infused recipes.
Set the mood with warm, inviting aromas by diffusing essential oils such as Cinnamon Bark, Orange, or Peppermint. These scents evoke feelings of comfort and joy.
Infuse your space with homemade room spray using essential oils and water. Opt for scents like Peppermint, Christmas Spirit, or Nutmeg to infuse the space with holiday cheer. Just a few spritzes in the dining area will enhance the sensory experience for everyone.
Spruce up your table decor by incorporating dried pine cones, orange slices, or cinnamon sticks as natural accents.
Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast to a whole new level? Infuse your recipes with incredible flavors and aromatic notes that will leave your guests craving more! Here's how you can plan and prep a menu that will wow everyone at your Thanksgiving dinner:
Elevate your main course: Transform your traditional Thanksgiving turkey or roasted chicken with the aromatic flavors of essential oils. Create a tantalizing herb rub using oils such as Rosemary, Sage, and Marjoram or make a turkey injection sauce. The aroma will fill your kitchen as the oils impart a unique depth of flavor to your protein.
Mouthwatering side dishes: Take your side dishes to the next level by incorporating food safe essential oils. Add citrus vitality oils to your cranberry sauce for a zesty twist, or infuse your potatoes with Rosemary and Black Pepper vitality essential oils for an herbaceous burst of flavor. These unexpected additions will add an element of surprise to your Thanksgiving spread!
Sensational desserts: No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without indulgent desserts. Enhance your traditional pumpkin pie with the warm and spicy notes of Cinnamon Bark. Your guests will be impressed by these delectable treats infused with Young Living essential oils.
Surprise your guests with a homemade treat infused with our dessert-inspired essential oils, like cinnamon bark or peppermint. Your creations will not only taste amazing but will also leave a lasting impression on your guests. Send your guests home with the scents of the holiday in a jar. Gift a jar of homemade stovetop potpourri that you guests can use to make their home smell amazing. OR give them a tasty treat like homemade hot cocoa to use on a chilly night.
Thanksgiving is a time to come together with loved ones and create special memories. Here are some engaging conversation starters and activities to make your Thanksgiving dinner even more enjoyable:
1. "What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition and why?"
2. "What three things are you most grateful for in your life this year?"
3. "Share a funny or heartwarming Thanksgiving memory from your childhood."
4. "If you could invite one historical figure or celebrity to Thanksgiving dinner, who would it be and why?"
5. "What is your favorite Thanksgiving dish, and have you ever tried making it yourself?"
Gratitude Jar: Place a beautifully decorated jar on the dinner table along with small pieces of paper and pens. Ask everyone to write down something they are grateful for this year and put it in the jar. Take turns reading and sharing these messages of appreciation during dinner.
Food Pairing Challenge: Have a mini competition where guests try to pair various Thanksgiving dishes with the most suitable Young Living essential oil flavor. Encourage everyone to get creative and come up with unique combinations!
Thanksgiving Trivia: Prepare a set of Thanksgiving-themed trivia questions and divide your guests into teams. See who can answer the most questions correctly, and offer a small prize for the winning team.
DIY Aromatherapy: Set up a station with a variety of Young Living essential oils and diffusers. Encourage your guests to create their own personalized holiday blend to take home. This activity not only brings a festive scent to your dinner but also allows everyone to experience the power of essential oils.
Thankful Art Project: Provide art supplies such as paper, markers, colored pencils, and paints. Ask your guests to create artwork that represents something they are grateful for. Display these masterpieces around the dinner table as a beautiful reminder of gratitude.
Remember, the most important thing is to cherish the time spent together and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving!
Don't have essential oils in your home yet? Discover the power of pure, natural essential oils with Young Living! Our carefully crafted essential oils are the perfect addition to your wellness routine. Whether you're a beginner or an essential oil enthusiast, we have a wide range of oils to choose from. Transform your space, uplift your mood, and enhance your overall well-being with our exquisite collection. Shop our extensive selection of Young Living essential oils today and unlock a world of natural wellness. Embrace the power of Mother Nature and discover the transformative benefits of essential oils. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you.
Grab my favorite vitality cooking collection HERE
Grab my favorite diffusing collection HERE
OR grab whatever your heart desires HERE
New customers can use my personal referral code SHAREYL for 10% off whenever you use one of the links above to purchase.
