Bergamot

Today I researched Bergamot!

I admit, I'm an addict to Pinterest...when time allows. So, due to lack of time to sit down and post (since I'm also on break at work) I decided to post some of my favorite pins about Bergamot.

Enjoy!!

-Jenn

A New Year

January 2nd. A beautiful to start goals - and achieve them.

One of my goals is to increase my yoga practice and my knowledge on essential oils (EO). Please join me as I share what I learn about these oils: how to use them, their healing properties, and kiss prescription medication goodbye!!

Today I picked Basil.

Basil was never my favorite smell growing up - it's very intense. I admit, I hate pesto...with a passion. But, it was a favorite herb of mine to plant. Basil grows tall, full, and has the prettiest little white and pink flowers. It's hard to kill and lasts for quite a long time. 

Here are a few of the healing properties I've found on Basil essential oil:

- Migraine Relief

- Anxiety Relief

- Amenhorrhea Relief

- Helps with Infertility

- Heals cuts/scrapes

- Antiviral/antibacterial (yay!)

- Aids in Digestion

- Relieves Cold/Bronchitis symptoms

And that's just to name a few!! Here is where I found most of these properties, as well as the methods of application I'm about to list below.

http://www.lahealthyliving.com/essential-oils/25-uses-for-basil-essential-oil/

Methods of Application:

For Adrenal Fatigue (a new but very real thing) 

      -Mix 1 drop of basil essential oil with 3 drops of coconut oil

      -Apply to bottom of feet.

**I always put socks on after applying any EO to help keep the oil on my feet - and not rubbing off on my carpet.**

For Earaches:

      -Mix one drop of Basil EO with 3 drops of any carrier oil 

      (A carrier oil is any oil you can mix the EO with to lessen the intense effects of the EO as some oils should not come into direct contact with the skin. The strong ones such as basil, clove and cinnamon can cause a burning sensation if they come into contact with direct skin, or sensitive skin. That can cause a burning sensation. So, if a carrier oil is recommended....I would use it!!!)

      -Rub behind, over and around the ear. Do not use in the ear.

For Migraines: 

      -Diffuse Aromatically 

                    or

      -Massage one drop into each temple, base of neck, or any other areas of pain.

           (use 3 drops of a carrier oil for sensitive skin or if preferred).

Please visit the link provided for more healing benefits of Basil!

I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did :)

Happy New Year a day late,

Jenn 

Step One to A Healthier you

One of the first steps to a healthier you is adjusting what you eat - and how much you eat.

Let's begin with crushing a common belief that people hold when trying to "diet" or eat healthier. The belief that to be healthy you have to throw out all your junk food and go straight to eating all healthy all the time is what kills people's motivations and makes dieting so hard.

What I have discovered that works best for me is using an "80/20" method: 80% of what goes into my mouth will be healthy, whole foods, while I have a 20% leeway (for cookies with lunch, or lunchmeat in my sandwich instead of roast beef, or even a bowl of ice cream after dinner!!) When a person who isn't used to eating lots of veggies, fruits, or whole grains tries to go from Fruit Loops for breakfast every morning straight to scrambled eggs and wasa crackers, they fail. EVERY SINGLE TIME.

We are creatures of habit - and we like our snacks! Our ho-ho's, ding dongs, cookies, and popsicles. But to "diet" or eat cleaner, you don't have to give that up!! Yes you do need to follow the portion size, and yes you should NOT eat a ho-ho more than once a day, but that can be included in your 20%.

When applying the 80/20 method, use variety for both your meals and your snacks. If you're going to eat a small steak with stir-fry veggies, you can have a decent sized slice of cake for dessert. Or a soda with your meal, and no dessert. But make the variation work for you - don't have just a cupcake for a snack, but rather half a cupcake and a handful of broccoli. You know?

It doesn't have to be as hard as we make it - and in all reality, life would be miserable without chocolate!

So make the best choices you can when it comes to eating clean and being healthier, but you don't have to be miserable. "Slow and steady wins the race"...a slow transition from a junk food lifestyle to a clean eating lifestyle is the best way to maximize results and become a healthier - and muuuccchhhh happier - you.

Enjoy !
-Jenn

Hello :)

Hello Dear Readers :)

My first post! I recently posted to the "Simply Jenn" blog....well, not recently. I haven't touched it in over a year. However, watching Julie & Julia the other day with my closest friend I was inspired to start again. It's amazing how a new blog can change one's perspective and pique interests.

My latest journey has begun: eating, living, and being healthier and active. I ask you to join me on this journey, walking with me as I begin the road to a healthier me.

Walk me with me dear readers, let the journey begin.

Adieu,
   Jenn