health

Some days your house isn’t *dirty*… it just smells like real life.

 

Dinner lingered. Gym shoes happened. The dogs came in from outside (after rolling around in the horse yard). Or maybe the air just feels a little stale. When you want a fresher-feeling home but do not have time for a deep clean, a quick “air reset” is the simplest win.

 

This routine is light, fast, and surprisingly effective. It pairs movement (fresh air, fans, and airflow patterns) with essential oils (used the right way) so odors do not just get covered up—they get nudged out.

 

Think of it as: Start small and grow. Ten minutes. Big payoff.

 

 

A lot of home odors stick around because the air is not moving. When air is stagnant, smells settle into soft surfaces and linger in pockets—near the trash can, by the litter box, in the entryway, and especially around kitchens.

 

A 10-minute reset works because it does two things at once:

 

- It replaces stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air.

- It helps shift “odor molecules” out of the space by creating a pathway for them to leave.

-I like to call it “burping the house”.

 

Then, essential oils can add a clean, fresh finishing layer—without reaching for heavy synthetic fragrance.

 

Minute 0–1: Pick your “exit” and your “entry”

Open two windows or doors on opposite sides of your home if you can.

 

- One is your entry (fresh air comes in).

- One is your exit (stale air goes out).

 

If you live in an apartment or only have one window that opens, that is still okay. We will work with what you have.

 

Real life wellness tip: If outdoor air quality is poor (smoke, dust, high pollen, bad pollution day), keep windows closed and skip to the fan + filter version below.

 

Now add a little “push.”

 

- Turn on your range hood for 5–10 minutes (especially after cooking).

- Turn on a bathroom fan if any humidity or musty smell is hanging around.

- If you have a standing fan, point it toward your “exit” window to help pull odors out.

 

This is the moment where your house starts to feel different fast—because the air is actually changing.

 

 

Once the air is moving, you can diffuse essential oils as a finishing touch.

 

A few guidelines to keep it low-tox and pleasant:

- Use a small amount. More does not mean fresher.

- Diffuse in a well-ventilated area and give the air a path to circulate.

- Aim for 10–20 minutes total diffusion time, not all day.

 

If you have a diffuser, start with 3–5 drops. If your space is small, try 2–3 drops.

 

Pick one based on what your house smells like today:

 

1) Cooking reset (especially garlic or fried foods)

- Lemon + rosemary  

Clean and bright, with a “kitchen just opened the windows” vibe.

 

2) Pet + entryway reset

- Lavender + cedarwood   

Soft, calm, and grounding without being sweet.

 

3) Musty / stale air reset (basement, laundry area, guest room)

- Eucalyptus + lemon  

Crisp and airy. Feels like a deep breath.

 

4) “Company is coming” reset

- Orange + frankincense   

Warm, fresh, and welcoming. Not sharp.

 

5) Bedroom wind-down reset

- Lavender + copaiba (or lavender alone)  

Light and soothing, especially after a long day.

 

If you prefer single oils, you cannot go wrong with lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, or orange—they are simple, familiar, and easy to live with.

 

This is the part that makes the reset *stick*.

 

You are not cleaning the whole house. You are just removing the source of the strongest smell so it stops re-contaminating the air you just refreshed.

 

Choose one or two:

- Take out the kitchen trash (even if it is not full).

- Toss old food scraps and do a quick rinse of the sink drain catcher.

- Drop laundry into a basket and start a load later (no folding today).

- Put pet bedding by the washer or shake it outside.

- Wipe one sticky spot on the counter with an unscented, simple cleaner.

 

That’s it. Tiny actions. Big difference.

 

 

Sometimes weather, pollen, or smoke makes open windows a no-go. You can still reset the air.

 

Here’s the quick version:

1. Turn on your HVAC fan setting (if you have it) for 10–15 minutes.

2. Run a HEPA air purifier in the main area if you have one.

3. Diffuse 2–3 drops of a fresh oil blend for 10 minutes.

4. Do the quick odor hotspot sweep (trash + sink is usually enough).

 

This version is gentle and still gives you that “fresh start” feeling.

 

If you feel like you are constantly chasing smells, a couple simple swaps can make your air resets more effective:

 

- Switch to unscented laundry detergent (synthetic fragrance can cling to fabrics and create that “mixed smells” feeling).

- Use a lidded trash can and empty wet food waste more often.

- Let towels dry fully (hang them up spread out, not wadded).

- Keep a small bowl of baking soda in the fridge or near a problem area.

- Vent while you cook (range hood on early, not after the smell is already in the house).

 

Start small and grow. You do not need to overhaul everything in a weekend.

 

 

Essential oils are powerful. A few basics:

- Diffuse for short periods, especially around kids or pets.

- Keep oils out of reach and never put them directly on pet fur.

- If someone in your home is sensitive to scents, go lighter—less is better.

 

Fresh should feel good, not overwhelming.

 

If you want the simplest version to remember, here it is:

 

1. Open two windows/doors (or one, if that’s what you have).  

2. Turn on fans/vents to create a pathway out.  

3. Diffuse 3–5 drops of a fresh blend for a light finish.  

4. Remove one odor source (trash, sink, laundry, pet bedding).  

 

Done.

 

Real life wellness in ten minutes.

 

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Want weekly low-tox tips that actually fit real life?

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Mental wellness isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It affects how you think, how you feel, how you show up for your family, and how you handle the unexpected. When stress is high for too long, even small tasks can feel heavy. You might notice you’re more reactive. More tired. More forgetful. Less patient. And even if life looks “fine” on the outside, your body can still be running in overdrive on the inside.

 

The good news is that you don’t have to overhaul your whole routine to feel better. Real life wellness is built in small moments. It’s created in tiny choices that help your nervous system come back to center again and again—especially on the busy days.

 

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Stress is part of being human. A deadline, a sick kid, a hard conversation, a packed schedule—your body is designed to respond to pressure. But stress becomes a problem when it never shuts off.

When your nervous system is constantly activated, it can impact:

 

- Sleep quality (even if you’re in bed, your brain may not “power down”)  

- Mood and patience (more irritability, anxiety, or feeling emotionally flat)  

- Focus and memory (you walk into a room and forget why you’re there)  

- Digestion and appetite (tight stomach, cravings, “stress snacking”)  

- Energy levels (tired but wired, afternoon crashes)  

- Immune resilience (getting run down more often)

 

And here’s something that matters: stress management isn’t only about avoiding stress. It’s about building daily recovery—little moments where your body gets the message, “You’re safe now.”

 

That’s what calm practices do. They don’t erase life’s challenges. They help you meet them with more steadiness.

 

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Sometimes people assume stress always feels like panic. Often it’s quieter than that.

 

Chronic stress can look like:

 

- You wake up already thinking about everything you need to do.  

- You feel behind before the day even starts.  

- You keep pushing through, but you’re more easily overwhelmed.  

- You have a short fuse with the people you love most.  

- You scroll at night because your brain won’t turn off.  

- You feel like you can’t fully relax, even in your downtime.

 

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not failing. Your body is communicating with you.

 

The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is to create more micro-moments of regulation throughout the day.

 

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A lot of stress related advice asks you to add one more big thing: a full meditation practice, a long workout, a morning routine that takes an hour.

 

That can be helpful, but it can also feel unrealistic.

 

Instead, focus on small wins that fit into your current life. Think of calm as something you practice in minutes, not only on the weekends. Even 30–90 seconds of intentional breathing, sensory grounding, or gentle movement can help your nervous system shift. The more often you create these small resets, the less your stress builds into a constant roar.

 

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1) Start your morning with a “soft landing”

If you start your day by immediately checking your phone, your brain often starts in reaction mode.

 

Simple swap: Before your feet hit the floor, take three slow breaths.  

Inhale through your nose.   

Exhale longer than you inhale.  

Let your shoulders drop.

 

Then ask yourself one gentle question:  

“What would make today feel a little easier?”

 

It might be something small. Drink water. Wear comfy clothes. Put dinner in the slow cooker. Text a friend back later instead of now.

 

That’s still stress management.

 

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2) Use transitions to reset your nervous system

Your day has built-in transition points. Use them.

 

Try a calm reset:

 

- After you drop the kids off  

- Before you start work   

- After a meeting  

- Before you walk back into your house  

- Before you begin cooking   

- Before you respond to something stressful

 

Simple swap: Put one hand on your chest and take five slow breaths in the car, in the bathroom, or standing at the counter.

 

This is not dramatic. It’s effective.

 

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3) Create a “calm cue” in your environment

Your surroundings can either keep your body tense or help it relax.

 

Look for one place you can make a little calmer:

 

- Your bedside table  

- The kitchen counter   

- The entryway  

- Your desk

 

Simple swaps that help:

- Clear one small surface.   

- Add a soft light (lamp instead of overhead).  

- Open a window for two minutes.  

- Play a calm playlist while you clean up.

 

These tiny changes help your brain associate that space with exhale energy.

 

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 4) Try a 2-minute body release

Stress often lives in your jaw, shoulders, hands, and belly. You can release it quickly without needing equipment or privacy.

 

2-minute release:

1. Roll your shoulders slowly back 10 times.  

2. Unclench your jaw and let your tongue rest.  

3. Shake out your hands for 20 seconds.  

4. Take three deep breaths while you relax your belly.

 

You’ll feel the shift.

 

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 5) Regulate with gentle movement (not punishment)

Movement is one of the most natural ways to process stress hormones.

 

This doesn’t have to be a workout.

 

- Walk outside for five minutes after lunch.  

- Stretch while your coffee brews.  

- Do squats during a commercial break.  

- Take the stairs once a day.  

- Dance for one song while you tidy.

 

Your body doesn’t care if it’s “fitness.” It cares that energy is moving.

 

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6) Make meals and snacks calmer with one supportive habit

Stress and blood sugar dips can feed each other. When you’re underfed or running on caffeine, your nervous system has less buffer.

 

- Add protein at breakfast.   

- Drink a glass of water before you drink coffee.  

- Pair carbs with protein or fat (apple + nut butter, crackers + cheese).  

- Sit down for the first three bites of your meal.

 

That last one is surprisingly powerful. Those first bites tell your body whether it’s safe.

 

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7) Use a “thought reset” when your mind spirals

Your thoughts are not always facts, but they can still create stress responses in your body.

 

 

- “I’m feeling stressed, and that makes sense.”  

- “What is one thing I can do in the next 10 minutes?”  

- Notice what you are thinking about. Are you looking for the good, or are you focusing on the bad? Shift your thoughts towards the better.

-Notice your breathing. Are you holding your breath? Let it go.

 

This takes you out of overwhelm and back into agency.

 

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8) End the day with a nervous system “closing routine”

You don’t need an elaborate nighttime routine. You need a consistent signal that tells your body: “We’re done for today.”

 

- Dim the lights 30–60 minutes before bed.  

- Put your phone on a charger outside your bedroom if possible.  

- Write down three loose ends for tomorrow so your brain stops rehearsing them.  

- Take a warm shower and breathe slowly while the water runs.  

- Do a 60-second stretch beside your bed.

-Diffuse lavender to help you relax.

 

Pick one or two of these and repeat them often.

 

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Some people think they’re “just not good at relaxing.” Most of the time, it’s not your personality. It’s your nervous system doing its job after too much pressure for too long.

 

You can retrain it with repetition.

 

Not by adding more stress about “doing it right.”  

But by building small moments of calm into the life you already have.

 

Start small and grow.

 

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If you want simple, practical ideas, I send weekly low-tox tips that support real life wellness without overwhelm.

 

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As the vibrant colors of autumn bring a chill to the air, many of us find ourselves feeling sluggish during the day. This is a common experience as our bodies adjust to the shorter days and longer nights, but understanding and easing into this seasonal shift can help us maintain energy levels and improve our rest.

 

 

With autumn, comes a natural reduction in daylight hours. This change affects our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that governs our sleep-wake cycle. Less daylight can lead to increased production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep, making us feel drowsy and lethargic during the day.

 

Additionally, the drop in daylight can impact serotonin levels, leading to feelings of sluggishness and lower energy. Cooler weather can also make your body conserve energy, leaving you feeling sleepy and less motivated to move around.

 

 

Start your morning with exposure to natural light. Even a short walk outdoors can help regulate your circadian rhythm. If the weather isn’t cooperative, consider using a light therapy box.

 

Ensure your bedroom promotes good sleep. This means cool temperatures, minimal noise, and complete darkness. Consider adding layers to your bedding to stay warm without overheating.

 

Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Consistency reinforces your sleep-wake schedule and improves sleep quality.

 

Reduce screen time and avoid bright lights at least an hour before bed. Instead, engage in calming activities like reading, deep breathing exercises, or meditation to signal your body that it’s time to wind down.

 

 5. Optimize Nutrition

Pay attention to your diet by including foods that naturally boost serotonin, such as those rich in tryptophan (think turkey or nuts). Avoid caffeine close to bedtime, as it can disrupt sleep cycles.

 

 

Incorporate regular physical activity into your day. Exercise can boost your serotonin levels and provide a natural, long-lasting energy lift.

 

Dehydration is a hidden cause of fatigue, so keep your water intake up throughout the day to sustain energy levels.

 

Short, frequent breaks during work can prevent burnout and maintain focus. Stand up, stretch, and reset every hour.

 

4. Prioritize Sunlight

Whenever possible, spend time outside during daylight hours. This can improve mood and energy by enhancing your body's natural rhythms.

 

 

Adjusting to the rhythms of Autumn is all about welcoming the changes with small, impactful actions. By embracing the natural shifts in daylight and temperature, and making intentional lifestyle choices, you can restore your sleep rhythms, enjoy deeper rest, and energize your days with ease.

 

As you embark on this seasonal transition, remember: Start small and grow. Let Autumn be your invitation to fine-tune your daily habits and experience real-life wellness all season long.

 

Iron is a crucial mineral for maintaining energy, supporting the immune system, and promoting overall health. If you're looking for natural ways to help raise and maintain healthy iron levels, Young Living's essential oils and supplements offer fantastic options that are much better than the stuff at your local grocery store!

LOW IRON AT A GLANCE

Common symptoms of low iron include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and difficulty concentrating.

Iron-rich foods, supplements, and proper nutrient absorption can go a long way to raising iron levels.

Pairing iron with vitamin C improves absorption and supports gut health for optimal results.

THE POWER OF NINGXIA RED

NingXia Red is a nutrient-packed drink that plays a key role in so many areas of health, including supporting iron levels.

NingXia Red supports energy, immune function, and overall vitality.

NingXia Red is clinically proven to lower the effects of stress and improve sleep.

NingXia Red also includes citrus essential oils, which support health and immunity.

NingXia Red is rich in wolfberries (goji berries), which contain iron and vitamin C—a combination that provides the body with iron and also enhances iron absorption. Additionally, the robust antioxidant content of NingXia Red supports healthy blood cells and reduces oxidative stress.

LOW IRON AND MINERAL BALANCE

Balancing minerals is essential for maintaining healthy iron levels because several key minerals play supportive roles in iron absorption, storage, and utilization. In fact, many individuals who have low iron on a blood test focus on mineral balance and whole-food supplements to get iron levels back where they need to be.

Improves Iron Absorption: Minerals like zinc and copper are crucial for the enzymes that help absorb iron in the intestines. A deficiency in these minerals can lead to inefficient iron uptake.

Enhances Iron Metabolism: Magnesium and selenium help with overall nutrient metabolism, including the processes that involve iron utilization in the body.

Supports Hemoglobin Production: Copper plays a direct role in forming hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen and requires iron.

Promotes Cellular Health: A balanced mineral profile ensures that cells responsible for producing blood and maintaining oxygen transport functions operate optimally.

Prevents Imbalances: Excess or deficiencies in one mineral can interfere with others. For example, too much calcium can inhibit iron absorption, while a lack of magnesium can affect energy production and overall metabolism, indirectly impacting iron.

MINERAL ESSENCE

Mineral Essence is a liquid ionic mineral supplement packed with essential minerals that help create a balanced environment for optimal nutrient absorption.

Packed with minerals like magnesium, zinc, and selenium that play a role in iron metabolism and absorption. 

Has a balanced mineral profile that ensures your body can utilize the iron you consume effectively.

Contains ionic minerals that are easy to absorb

Supports overall wellness, including energy production, bone health, and immune function

To use, simply add 5 droppersful to water or juice and drink daily. Its spicy, tangy flavor pairs well with citrus juices.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR IRON SUPPORT

While essential oils don't often directly increase iron levels, they can complement your wellness routine by supporting related systems.

Lemon: Add a drop to water to support gentle detoxification and enhance vitamin C intake.

Peppermint: Promotes healthy digestion, ensuring your body absorbs nutrients effectively.

Copaiba: Helps soothe inflammation, creating an optimal environment for nutrient absorption.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING HEALTHY IRON LEVELS

Pair iron with vitamin C: Combining iron-rich foods and NingXia Red with vitamin C improves absorption. Add Super C Chewable to your daily lineup when you take your NingXia!

Prioritize gut health: A healthy gut microbiome is key to efficient nutrient absorption. Probiotics like Life 9 can help.

Stay consistent: Regular use of supplements like NingXia Red and Mineral Essence ensures your body receives consistent support. 

One more tip to help maintain healthy iron levels - cook using cast iron pans!

Note: while we are here with suggestions for help and support, we are not here to diagnose or treat and suggest finding a medical provider you love and trust.

Ohhh stomach issues. We have all been there, and we all know that this area is one where we need tools that work well and work quickly! Thankfully we have a whole toolbox of natural options when it comes to all things stomach! 

QUICK TIPS FOR ALL THINGS STOMACH

* Stock your wellness cabinet before hand so you're prepared when the issues arise - DiGize, TummyGize, AlkaLime and Peppermint

* Think proactively! Add Life 9 or MightyPro to your daily routine for a healthy gut.

* Consider DiGize Vitality in a capsule and/or AlkaLime when traveling, eating rich foods or foods that you normally don't consume. 

* Add enzymes to your daily routine with Essentialzymes -4. Enzymes are a huge boost to health as they help us digest our food and extract nutrients. (Try the chewable MightyZymes for kids or those needing a chewable form!)

* To keep things healthy and moving, add ICP Daily to your daily wellness routine.

A lot of stomach health relies on effective daily habits like a good probiotic (Life 9 or MightyPro), eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, providing your body with good nutrients, and moving your body daily. 

SUPPLEMENTS FOR HEALTHY STOMACHS

High quality digestive supplements can go a long way when it comes to having healthy stomachs. Probiotics are the foundation of digestive health, and we can build from there. Healthy daily bowel movements are a good indicator of digestive health. If things aren't moving, they get backed up and cause a whole host of problems. There are a lot of great digestive supplements to target specific needs (see below!), but here are the foundational ones:

Life 9 or MightyPro

A high quality probiotic is a cornerstone of health! Life 9 is a diverse, high potency capsule that should really be on everyone's daily routine. For the little ones, we love the MightyPro packets -a pre and probiotic in one that tastes great with no added sugar! (I like them, too!)

Essentialzymes-4 or MightyZymes

Enzymes are crucial to our health and digestion, and in an ideal world our foods would be rich in natural enzymes. Unfortunately the average diet and even the soil quality of our produce lead us to be sorely depleted in enzymes at an early age. Enzymes are involved in every cell in the body, and are especially important in digestion! 

ICP Daily

Taking daily steps to build, support, detoxify and balance gut bacteria and intestinal lining is crucial, and one of our favorite, simple ways to do this is with ICP Daily! ICP Daily is a daily prebiotic and fiber drink that is both delicious and easy on the stomach. ICP Daily supports gut health, aids in the body's natural detoxification process, and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome - all things that are crucial to overall health! This gentle daily formula contains 6 grams of plant-based prebiotics, 5 grams of soluble fiber, and a belly-supporting blend of essential oils - Fennel, Anise, Tarragon, Ginger, Lemongrass, and Rosemary.

HANDLING BUMPS IN THE ROAD

DiGize

The DiGize essential oil blend is formulated specifically to provide a calming, soothing digestive experience. Well known digestive-supporting oils like Tarragon and Ginger help soothe and settle while Juniper and Patchouli calm. DiGize is our go-to when we need to get things moving! Dilute and apply to the belly with a gentle massage.

* Dilute and rub over the abdomen for helping things get moving, if you're not feeling great after eating or during travel or anytime you need things to be soothed.

* Pair with Lemon and Peppermint in a 10mL roller - 20 drops of each - and roll around the belly button as needed.

* Add 1-2 drops of DiGize Vitality and a bit of olive oil to an empty vegetable capsule and take as needed for digestive discomfort. You can do this before or after eating/needs arise. 

* Add 1 drop of DiGize Vitality to a large glass of water (you can add Lemon or Peppermint as well if you don't' love the taste) - this is a great way to get the effects quickly!

“One of the ways I used to feel the most powerless when taking care of our health prior to oils was with any type of stomach discomfort. Then we found DiGize. Now every member of my family knows to grab that red bottle at the first signs of rumblings.” - customer testimony

TummyGize

TummyGize is a pre-diluted, kid-specific version of DiGize! This blend is perfect for your little ones age 2 and older, and they can grab it themselves and apply to the belly as needed. We love to keep one in our wellness kit and one at home where the kids can always find it when they need it!

* Roll over the belly before big events or school days

* Some moms of younger children have chosen to use TummyGize either as is or further diluted for common infant digestive needs. Use to your own comfort level!

Peppermint

If you take a walk down the digestive aisle at a store, you'll find that almost all the products are mint-flavored. There is a good reason for that! The mint family, peppermint especially, has long been known for its ability to soothe digestive needs. This is definitely one oil you want in your wellness arsenal! Peppermint is great for travel needs, for nerves that bring digestive discomfort, for first trimester struggles or anytime you need the crisp, soothing scent of Peppermint. 

* Dilute and apply Peppermint topically on its own or in the roller blend listed above

* Inhale Peppermint directly from the bottle (great to do if traveling is a trigger for you!)

* Drop or roll Peppermint on the back of the neck to help soothe queasiness and bring alertness/center yourself when feeling bad

* Take an epsom salt bath with 1 cup of epsom salt + 5 drops Peppermint

* Add 1 drop Peppermint Vitality to a very large glass of water to soothe

AlkaLime

So many modern foods are loaded with (often hidden!) sugars and stimulants, impeding the body's ability to foster a healthy pH balance. AlkaLime works to combat this with its array of high-alkaline salts and other yeast-fighting elements such as citric acid and lemon and lime essential oils! AlkaLime also helps soothe digestion and occasional upset stomach. This is also a wonderful supplement for those who have dietary sensitivities and experience exposure to a food that is pro-inflammatory for their body! 

WHEN THE DREADED ‘YOU KNOW WHAT' HITS

When the stomach bug is going around we want to do all we can to avoid it and all we can to support ourselves if the worst happens! We focus on bolstering immunity as much as we can, then if we go down, we reach for all our digestive tools. Here are a few things we reach for during these times:

* Thieves Essential Oil Blend - topically, diffused, ingested as Thieves Vitality - get this oil in, on and around you for immune support

* Oregano, ImmuPower - great immune support oils to diffuse or apply

* Inner Defense - these capsules helps reinforce your immune defenses

* Peppermint, DiGize, Lemon - for all the digestive things we mentioned above when you go down. Peppermint diffused or inhaled is great for feeling queasy!!

* NingXia Red with AminoWise and/or Lavender Lemonade Vitality drops for nutrients and rehydrating after you can keep things down.

OTHER DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS

* Allerzyme, Essentialzymes, DetoxZyme - enzyme supplements with targeted support

* Comfortone - fiber and gentle cleansing agents for daily use, great for colon support

* Digest & Cleanse - essential oils for cleansing and digestive health

* Cleansing Trio (ICP, Comfortone, Essentialzyme) - great for doing an intestinal cleanse and eliminating waste by specifically supporting normal liver function.