Eric and me 13 years ago!

Hey there, amazing young moms! We all know that motherhood is a journey filled with incredible highs and, well, challenging lows. From the sleepless nights to the endless responsibilities, we’re constantly juggling more than we ever thought possible. And sometimes, even with the best intentions, we find ourselves in situations where we think we’ve let our kids down.

I recently found myself in one of those situations. You know, the kind that leaves a pit in your stomach and an ache in your heart. I’m talking about the times when we feel like we could have done better – like when I almost missed an important paperwork deadline for my son. The guilt and self-loathing hit me hard, and no amount of showering, walking, or positive self-talk seemed to make a dent in that heavy feeling.

Can you relate? I bet you can. We all have our moments of self-doubt and anxiety, especially when it comes to our little ones. But today, I want to share with you a little secret that helped me turn the tide and move past those feelings of inadequacy – doTERRA Adaptiv essential oil blend.

First of all, let me tell you that you are not alone in this. We all make mistakes and second-guess ourselves. That’s just part of being a loving, caring mom. It’s natural to want the best for our kids, and sometimes that desire can lead to moments of overwhelming stress.

So, what did I do to shift my mood and find my center again? I turned to the power of essential oils. Specifically, doTERRA Adaptiv. It’s like a little bottle of calm and clarity rolled into one. With just a few drops in my hands, I rubbed them together and took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly – repeating this process nine times. It was almost like a mini-meditation, and I used that time to pray for a shift in my perspective.

And you know what? It worked. The aroma of doTERRA Adaptiv essential oil seemed to melt away the self-doubt and anxiety, leaving behind a sense of peace and clarity. It’s like giving yourself permission to hit the reset button on your emotions.

As moms, we often put our children’s needs before our own, and that’s a beautiful thing. But it’s also important to take care of ourselves, to find those little moments of self-care that can help us navigate the challenges that come our way. Essential oils, like doTERRA Adaptiv, offer a simple and effective way to engage our olfactory system and support positive mood shifts. It’s science – certain scents can trigger emotions and memories, helping us rewire our thought patterns and find a sense of balance.

So, to all you incredible young moms out there, know that you’re not alone in your moments of self-doubt. We’ve all been there, and we’ll be there again – it’s all part of the journey. But remember, you have the power to turn things around, to lift yourself up, and to find your way back to that place of confidence and love. And if a little bottle of doTERRA Adaptiv can be your secret weapon in those moments, then embrace it wholeheartedly. You’ve got this, mama!

Want to try Adaptiv yourself?

Want to know how I got my husband to clean the bathrooms all the time?

Every time I cleaned the bathrooms, I ended up with flu-like symptoms.  Seriously. 

Like most people, we used bleach, and other popular cleaning products that included bleach, as well as ingredients that would stamp down mildew, and all the other yucky bathroom stuff. 

Not only did I end up with flu-like symptoms, I also normally ended up with a sinus infection.  My body rebelled against the name brand cleaning products, and all the harsh chemicals found in them.

So how did I get him to clean the bathrooms? 

It was simple.  He is a kind man and could tell I was suffering and offered to clean them for our family.  I am grateful he was open to taking over for me.

Everything changed when I learned I could use natural products, and even make my own to do a great job of cleaning without the harmful chemicals, and the horrible reaction I had to them. 

Not only did the natural products do a good job, they also smelled great too.  They left the house smelling great and me feeling good.  I was happy to take back, or share the responsibility, when we found products my body aligned well with. 

Did you know:

• More than 90% of poisonings happen at home
• Medicines, household cleaners and pesticides top the list
• Household cleaners were the third largest category of substances associated with calls to poison control centers, with over 218,000 calls in 2005
• Children age 5 and under make up more than half (51%) of all poison exposures
• Nearly 83% of poison exposures are unintentional

When we know better, we can do better!

I believe that switching to nontoxic cleaning recipes has also helped the microbiome of our home, and supported the health of my family.

Here is a list of disinfection essential oils (I use only doTERRA essential oils because I trust them):

• Abode
• On Guard
• Lemon
• Purify
• Melaleuca
• Lime
• Cinnamon
• Thyme
• Peppermint

Here is a list of deodorizing essential oils (I use only doTERRA essential oils because I trust them):

• Abode
• Purify
• Peppermint
• Clary Sage
• Melaleuca
• Lavender
• Geranium
• Eucalyptus

Here are some of my favorite cleaning recipes:

Disinfecting Spray

¼ cup white vinegar

2 cups water

30 drops disinfecting essential oil

1 teaspoon borax

Shake and spray on counters, cutting boards, microwave, refrigerator, garbage cans

Window cleaner

1/8 cup vinegar

1 cup water

10-15 drops of lemon essential oil

Mix ingredients in a spray bottle.  Shake and apply.  Wipe clean.

Dishwasher Booster

Place a few drops of a disinfecting essential oil to your soap base

Not only cleans your dishes, but also the inside of your dishwasher

Floor Cleaner

 Add a ¼ cup of vinegar to a bucket of water. Then add 5 drops of melaleuca or lemon.

Wood Furniture Polish

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup vinegar

10 drops essential oil (try wild orange or lemon)

Mix and apply. Wipe clean

Deodorizing Spray

Place 5-8 drops of deodorizing essential oil in 1 oz. spray bottle and fill with water

Try 5 drops grapefruit + 1 drop peppermint

Toilet bowl cleaner

½ cup baking soda

10 drops melaleuca essential oils

¼  cup vinegar

As it reacts, scrub the toilet.

This combination is intended for one use at a time.

TIP: for serious stains or rust, empty water of bowl and scrub with a wet pumice stone. When wet the stone will not scratch porcelain.

Soft scrub for bath, tile, and toilet

¾ rounded cup baking soda

¼ cup castile soap

1 Tbsp. water

1 Tbsp. vinegar

5-10 drops lemon essential oil

In a bowl, combine the baking soda and castile soap. Add the water and stir. Finally, add the vinegar. Consistency should be a soft paste.

Make in small batches and store in an airtight container. Enough for two to four applications.

Hard Water Deposit Scrub

1 cup epsom salt

1/2 cup baking soda

1/4 cup castile soap (or dish soap)

10 drops lemon essential oil

Add all ingredients to the jar in order and stir together until well incorporated.

To use, apply to dry shower walls, bathtubs, fixtures, or faucets with a warm wet cloth. Scrub for a few minutes in a circular motion. Let sit for a few minutes before rubbing again. Rinse off with warm water.

So, mamas – here is why I do what I do.

I want to share what I’ve learned over the years in taking care of my kids so you can take care of your kids without guilt, shame, compromise, or confusion. I want you to be able to mom, without learning things the hard way. I want you to follow me so I can redeem all the things I learned the hard way. AND I want to know how things work out for you.

When my daughter was younger, we battled many viral and bacterial threats.  I’ve been open about feeling helpless and feeling like I knew nothing. 

For our daughter, most respiratory issues ended up in her lungs.  In her first year, before we found the naturopath, she was diagnosed with RSV and I remember sitting in the western medicine doctor’s office with a nebulizer to help her to breathe.  It was scary, I didn’t really understand what was happening, and wondered if I was also going to need to do this at home. 

Our naturopath gave us a completely different recipe to use when our daughter ended up with respiratory issues in her chest.  You might shake your head a little when you read this, and I definitely did when the naturopathic doctor made this suggestion.

She had me slice a whole onion and sauté it in a frying pan with a little filtered water until it was caramelized.  Then I was told to add vinegar to it, enough to fill the bottom of the frying pan around the onions. Then I put a lid on it until it cooled to lukewarm.  The next step was to add enough flour to the mixture, so it was no longer soupy.  Then I spread it over half of a cotton kitchen towel, and folded it closed.  Our daughter got to lay on her tummy and watch a kids show on tv while I placed the towel containing the mixture directly on the skin of her back over the area of her lungs.

Sounds crazy, doesn’t it?  Our house smelled like one of the Jewish delis I visited when I still lived in New Jersey, and it still does whenever I mix this poultice up.

The naturopath explained that our lungs are closer to our back than our front, and the poultice penetrates through the skin into the lungs and helps break up congestion.  I was surprised and grateful that it worked.

Here’s How To Make And Use An Onion Poultice For Chest Congestion:

Ingredients:

• 1 large-sized onion
• 2 or more tablespoons of filtered water
• 2 or more tablespoons of vinegar
• 2 or more tablespoons of flour
• 1 clean cotton cloth towel or muslin

Instructions:

• Peel and slice the onion.
• Heat the skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and enough filtered water to keep the onion from sticking to the heated pan and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Once the onion is sautéed, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
• Next add the vinegar to the pan with the sautéed onion. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Add the flour to the onion and vinegar mixture. Stir well until you have a thick paste-like consistency. Adjust the amount of flour as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Work quickly so it doesn’t cool too much – it should be warm but not hot.
• Take a clean cotton cloth towel or muslin and spread the poultice mixture onto half of it, leaving some space around the edges.
• Fold the cloth over the mixture. Ensure that the poultice is not too thick, as it needs to conform to the body.
• Have the person lay somewhere comfortably on their stomach.  Place the poultice directly on the skin of the person’s back, covering over the lungs.  You can add another towel on top, and even a blanket to keep the person warmer and to help the remedy work into the body.
• Leave the poultice on for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the warmth and vapors from the sautéed onion to be absorbed into your respiratory system.
• After the recommended time, remove the poultice.  You can rinse off any residue left on your skin with warm water.  You may try to scrape the poultice back into the frying pan to reconstitute with more vinegar and use again later. 

The experience I just shared was before we discovered essential oils.  Our family uses many home remedies, essential oils included.

Additional things that I’ve learned that can help with chest congestion:

• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam can help loosen mucus and relieve chest congestion. Boil water, transfer it to a bowl, and lean over the bowl with a towel draped over your head. Breathe in the steam for 5-10 minutes.
• Warm fluids: Drink plenty of warm fluids like herbal tea, warm water with lemon and honey, or broths. Warm liquids can help thin mucus and soothe the throat.
• Honey and warm water: Mix a tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm water and drink it. Honey has antibacterial properties and can help soothe a cough and sore throat associated with chest congestion.
• Saltwater gargle: Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle with it for 30 seconds. This can help reduce throat irritation and promote mucus drainage.
• doTERRA Breathe or Eucalyptus oil: Add a few drops of these essential oils to your diffuser. Eucalyptus oil alone, and the blend of oils in doTERRA Breathe have decongestant properties and can help open up the airways. You can also mix a few drops of either in a carrier oil and apply topically to the chest, back, and bottom of the feet.
• Ginger: Drink ginger tea or chew on a small piece of fresh ginger. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve chest congestion.
• Elevate your head: Use an extra pillow or elevate the head of your bed to keep your head and chest in a slightly elevated position. This can help improve breathing and reduce congestion.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to thin mucus and prevent dehydration.
• Rest and humidity: Get plenty of rest to support your body’s healing process. Also, consider using a humidifier or taking a hot shower to add moisture to the air, which can help soothe congestion.

We started to use a naturopath in 2003 and she taught me many things I could do to strengthen her constitution, rebuild her gut biome, and generally cool her body down.  The naturopath taught us to use tinctures, teas, things we had in our kitchen already, and to change up the food we ate to help make a difference – and it did.

Whenever we were facing a threat, our daughter picked up at daycare, I immediately made an appointment to see the naturopath.  She helped us to learn on the onset of symptoms to use homeopathics, those little white sugar pellets, to help remind the body how to deal with the threat. 

I’m grateful for we learned from the naturopath and she inspired me to build a library of books and remedies to help care for my family.  So, mamas – that’s why I do what I do. I want to share what I’ve learned over the years in taking care of my kids so you can take care of your kids without guilt, shame, compromise, or confusion. I want you to be able to mom, without learning things the hard way. I want you to follow me so I can redeem all the things I learned the hard way. AND I want to know how things work out for you.

Remember, these home remedies are not a substitute for medical advice, when needed. If your symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a healthcare professional.

When I was a new mom and brought my daughter home from the hospital, I knew nothing. If you follow me, you’ve heard me say this before and it’s the absolute truth.

I was a nursing mom and it worked out for me and I’m thankful. I know it doesn’t work for everyone nor does everyone want to nurse. Mamas, do you.

Each time I nursed my daughter she pooped. And I’m not talking little poop I’m talking BIG poop. 75% of the time the poop went up her back and I had to change her clothes. This meant I was changing her clothes like five times a day. Seriously.

One day in her first two weeks of life, I remember she was particularly cranky and she hadn’t pooped all day. By midafternoon, I was a bit concerned. She was grumpy and she hadn’t pooped when my normal experience (of 10 days) was her pooping eight times a day.

I called the doctor’s office in a bit of a panic and talked to one of the nurses. I explained the situation. What happened next was a bit unsettling.

The nurse I was speaking to, using a bit of a stern voice, told me it was completely normal for babies not to poop and sometimes babies would go a whole week without pooping.

I listened to her. I felt ashamed that I even called, AND there was this part of me that thought yeah but “We’re talking about my baby and I know my baby better than anyone. This isn’t normal.”

I really was calling the doctor’s office to see if there were things that I could do. I was hoping that they could point me in a direction where I could take action and help my daughter.

Now I know countless tools to turn to if I were in the same situation.  At that point though I still knew nothing.

I called my friend Toni who was a nurse from Germany, and regularly turned to home remedies that have been passed from generation to generation in her country and in her family. She told me to put backstrap molasses and some of my breastmilk in a bottle and to feed it to my daughter.

I remember hearing her words and I remember asking her, “Are you sure it’s OK to do that? Are you sure I’m not going to break her?”

Finally in desperation, and still feeling scared about it, I did as she suggested. My baby gobbled it up, without hesitation I might add. And within an hour, you guessed it she pooped, AND pooped big.

She’s 22 now I definitely did not break her,  AND, I sure wish this remedy was common knowledge and not something I had to search for.

So, mamas – that’s why I do what I do. I want to share what I’ve learned over the years in taking care of my kids so you can take care of your kids without guilt, shame, compromise, or confusion. I want you to be able to mom, without learning things the hard way. I want you to follow me so I can redeem all the things I learned the hard way. AND I want to know how things work out for you.

Additional things that I’ve learned that can help if poop is too fast or too slow or things like this:

• You can do a baby massage and rotate over the tummy and a clockwise pattern.
• You can also do some lower body exercise. With your baby laying on her back, grab her little feet and push her little knees up and pull them down and pretend that you’re making her legs run. This is going to actually be fun and you might laugh a little bit.
• We use doTERRA DigestZen, when things are too fast are too slow. For babies, I would definitely dilute it in a carrier oil and apply it to the bottom of the feet and also in a circular clockwise motion over the tummy.
• Brew fennel tea and feed this to baby in between feedings.
• A warm bath can help relax the muscles and may promote bowel movements in infants.

Mamas, I’ll never forget an experience I had when my husband was playing Recreational Soccer.  There were lots of families sitting on blankets and in the bleachers.  I heard a cry and looked over to see a boy, maybe 4-5 years old, crying and holding his finger up to his dad.  Dad looked perplexed.  I walked over and asked if he’d been stung by a bee, to which dad nodded yes.  I had a small vial of doTERRA lavender essential oil, which helped my family.  I asked if I could apply some and again, dad nodded yes.  I couldn’t see a stinger and I applied a small amount of lavender to his finger.  The crying stopped. I asked dad if I could give the bottle to his son, explaining I would also have let my own little boy have it, and…. You guessed it, he nodded yes.  A little while later I looked over and there was a circle of children, and the little boy was showing everyone his finger and passing the vial around for the other kids to smell.  This memory still makes me smile. 

Bee stings can be painful and, for some individuals, result in allergic reactions. While prevention is the best approach, knowing how to manage a bee sting is essential. doTERRA Lavender essential oil, renowned for its calming aroma, has also been attributed with potential antihistamine properties. In this blog, let’s explore how to effectively manage a bee sting and examine the role of doTERRA lavender essential oil in alleviating discomfort and potential allergic reactions.

Prevention:

Education: Teaching our kids to wear shoes outside and to “look and don’t touch” the bees can help prevent bee stings.

Clothing: When spending time outdoors in areas prone to bee activity, wear light-colored clothing, as dark colors may attract bees.

Fragrance: Bees are attracted to floral scents, so avoid using perfumes, scented lotions, or strongly scented hair products when you anticipate being in areas with bees.

Sugary Scents: Bees are attracted to sweet scents, including sugary drinks and food. Keep food and drinks covered when eating outdoors to prevent attracting bees.

Immediate First Aid:

When stung by a bee, immediate action can minimize pain and prevent further complications:

Remove the stinger: Using a scraping motion with a fingernail or credit card, carefully scrape off the bee’s stinger without squeezing it, as squeezing can release more venom.

Clean the area: Gently cleanse the affected area with mild soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.

Reducing Pain and Swelling:

doTERRA Lavender essential oil, with its soothing properties, has helped our family by alleviating pain and reducing swelling:

Cold compress: Apply a cold compress, such as an ice pack wrapped in a cloth, to the sting site for 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce pain and swelling.

doTERRA Lavender essential oil: Known for its calming scent, doTERRA lavender essential oil may also possess antihistamine properties. Dilute a few drops of lavender oil in a carrier oil (such as coconut or almond oil) and apply it gently to the sting site. The cooling sensation and potential antihistamine effects of lavender oil may provide relief.

Managing Allergic Reactions:

In some cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to bee stings. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or dizziness occur, it may be indicative of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. In such cases, immediate medical attention is crucial.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

While doTERRA lavender essential oil may aid in symptom management, it is vital to know when medical attention is necessary:

Severe allergic reactions: If experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or a rapid heartbeat, call emergency services immediately.

Multiple stings: If stung multiple times or if you are unsure of your reaction to a bee sting, consult a healthcare professional to assess the situation and provide appropriate care.

Allergic individuals: Individuals with a known allergy to bees or a history of severe reactions should seek medical attention promptly after a bee sting.

Managing a bee sting effectively involves prompt action, proper first aid, and being aware of potential allergic reactions. While doTERRA lavender essential oil is well-regarded for its calming properties and potential antihistamine effects, AND it has helped our family and friends, it should be used as a complementary measure and not as a substitute for medical attention when needed. In case of severe allergic reactions, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance. By understanding how to manage a bee sting and employing appropriate techniques, individuals can alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

In this blog post you’ll learn more about Lyme disease, various natural preventative methods you can add to your routine, and what to do if you have a tick attached to you.

Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of some ticks, commonly found in wooded or grassy areas where they feed on the blood of animals, such as mice, deer, and birds.

The time of year when Lyme disease is a particular concern varies depending on the region. In the United States, it is most prevalent in the Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest regions. Ticks are most active during the warm months, typically from spring to early fall, but they can remain active in milder climates or during the winter if the temperatures are not freezing. Therefore, it is important to be cautious and take preventive measures throughout the year, especially during periods when ticks are active.

Protecting your family from Lyme disease requires taking certain precautions when they spend time outdoors in tick-infested areas. Here are some measures you can take to minimize their risk of tick bites and Lyme disease:

DRESS YOUR FAMILY APPROPRIATELY: Dress in light-colored clothing with long sleeves and long pants tucked into socks or shoes. This helps prevent ticks from easily accessing their skin. Tucking pants into socks or shoes creates a barrier, making it more challenging for ticks to crawl up their legs.

ADD THESE NATURAL REMEDIES TO YOUR ROUTINE:

1. Try doTERRA Essential Oils

You KNOW I will tell you this AND so does Farmers Almanac. 

“Not only smell great, but they are also known to be natural tick repellents. Ticks hate the smell of lemon, orange, cinnamon, lavender, peppermint, and rose geranium so they’ll avoid latching on to anything that smells of those items. Any of these or a combination can be used in DIY sprays or added to almond oil and rubbed on exposed skin.”

Want to try essential oils as a repellent for ticks and other pests?  Make it easy for yourself and try TerraShield – doTERRA’s repellent blend pre-made with Citronella, Lemongrass, Thyme, Cedarwood, Geranium, and Peppermint essential oils in a base of Sesame Seed Oil. 

One of the great things about essential oils, is you can use them for a variety of health concerns.  As an example, doTERRA peppermint may repel ticks, AND it is also great for freshening your breath, resolving head discomfort, helping you have more energy, cooling in the hot weather, helpful for car sickness, and is a wonderful flavor to add to various recipes.  I am happy to help you learn how to leverage your essential oils for various reasons. 

To make it easy for you, I built a shopping cart for you including all the essential oils mentioned in the Blog Post.  With this link you can save 25% off retail, and you can add or remove items in the cart to only get what you want.

KEEP READING ↓

2. Try Cedar Oil Spray

Cedar oil is a non-toxic, natural tick and insect repellent. It can be sprayed directly on clothing and skin. It is safe for use on humans and pets. Not only does cedar oil repel ticks and other irritating insects, but it kills them. Cedar oil spray can be purchased online and at most pet stores and big-box retailers.

Or make your own! Just combine 4 ounces of purified or distilled water to a small spray bottle along with 20 drops of doTERRA Cedarwood essential oil. Shake before using and spray on skin, pant cuffs, and shoes.  

3. Homemade Tick and Insect Repellent

Try this simple recipe. Just mix and apply to exposed skin before heading outdoors:

9 drops doTERRA citronella essential oil

6 drops doTERRA Tea Tree essential oil

6 drops doTERRA Peppermint essential oils

1 tablespoon almond oil or jojoba oil

4. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is known as an effective tick repellent. Just combine 4 ounces of purified or distilled water to a small spray bottle along with 20 drops of doTERRA eucalyptus essential oil. Shake before using and spray on skin, pant cuffs, and shoes.  

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar to the rescue once again! This wonderful natural remedy also helps to repel ticks. The following solution can be sprayed on clothing and exposed skin, even lawn furniture. Combine the following in a spray bottle:

2 cups of water

4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons of organic neem oil

6. Neem Oil

Need oil is used as a natural remedy to repel ticks. To use, add several drops to the palm of your hand and rub on exposed skin. It can also be diluted and mixed with almond or other light carrier oil.   

7. Eat Garlic!

We all know that garlic has excellent health benefits, and now we can add one more to the list. Regular consumption of garlic or garlic capsules reduces the risk of tick bites. The garlic causes the body to excrete a scent that ticks don’t like very much.

KEEP READING ↓

PERFORM TICK CHECKS: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your family members’ bodies for ticks. Pay close attention to their scalp, behind the ears, underarms, groin area, and other hidden areas where ticks may attach. Promptly remove any ticks you find. Visit the Center for Disease Control’s website for more information on removing ticks safely and next steps.

MODIFY OUTDOOR AREAS: Make your yard less attractive to ticks by keeping lawns well-maintained, clearing leaf litter, and creating a barrier between wooded areas and play areas. Consider using wood chips or gravel to create a buffer zone.

EDUCATE YOUR FAMILY ABOUT TICKS: Teach them to recognize ticks and the importance of avoiding them. Instruct them to stay on trails, avoid tall grasses and shrubs, and refrain from playing in leaf piles or areas known to harbor ticks.

SHOWER AFTER OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: Encourage your child to take a shower or bathe within two hours of coming indoors. This can help remove any unattached ticks and reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases.

CREATE AWARENESS AMONG CAREGIVERS: If your child attends a camp or daycare program, communicate with the staff about tick prevention measures and ensure they follow proper tick checks and safety protocols.

CHECK PETS FOR TICKS: Pets can carry ticks indoors, increasing the risk of exposure. Regularly inspect your pets for ticks, use tick prevention products recommended by a veterinarian, and keep them out of areas where ticks are prevalent.

What may early symptoms of Lyme Disease feel like?

Know the signs and symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the early signs and symptoms of Lyme disease, such as a bull’s-eye rash, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches. If you suspect your child may have been exposed to ticks and is displaying symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

By implementing these preventive measures and promoting tick awareness, you can help protect children from Lyme disease and minimize their risk of tick bites.

What if you have a Tick that’s attached to the Skin? Here’s What Should You Do:

Not all ticks carry Lyme disease but it still can be unsettling. Visit the Center for Disease Control’s website for more information on removing ticks safely and next steps.

Portrait: Florence Nightingale by; copied by Henry Hering; Elliott & Fry half-plate glass copy negative, 1950s (late 1856-1857) © National Portrait Gallery, London

Happy Birthday Florence Nightingale (May 12)!!

Did you know that Florence Nightingale had a deep appreciation for natural remedies and their potential in healing?

Florence Nightingale, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing, was a visionary and trailblazer in the field of healthcare. Her pioneering efforts during the Crimean War transformed the profession and established the foundations for modern nursing practices. However, Nightingale’s contributions to healthcare extend beyond her groundbreaking work in hospitals and nursing education. Surprisingly, Nightingale also had a deep appreciation for natural remedies and their potential in healing.

During her lifetime in the 19th century, Florence Nightingale witnessed a healthcare system that heavily relied on natural remedies. It was an era when modern pharmaceuticals were still in their infancy, and traditional herbal medicines and other natural remedies were commonly used to treat various ailments. Nightingale recognized the value of these remedies and sought to integrate them into her nursing practice.

One of Nightingale’s significant contributions to natural remedies was her emphasis on the healing power of the environment. She believed that a clean, well-ventilated, and aesthetically pleasing environment could have a profound impact on patients’ well-being and recovery. Nightingale advocated for proper sanitation practices and the importance of fresh air and natural light in hospital settings. Her efforts led to improvements in the design and construction of healthcare facilities, which aimed to create healing environments conducive to recovery.

In addition to her focus on the physical environment, Nightingale recognized the therapeutic potential of herbal remedies. She studied various natural remedies and their effects on patients, carefully documenting their usage and outcomes. Nightingale believed that certain plants and herbs possessed medicinal properties that could alleviate symptoms and support the healing process.

Nightingale’s interest in natural remedies extended beyond nursing practice. She was also an advocate for preventative medicine, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle and natural remedies in maintaining overall well-being. She promoted the consumption of fresh, nutritious food and clean water, and she encouraged physical activity and regular exercise to prevent disease.

While Nightingale was a strong proponent of natural remedies, it is important to note that she did not dismiss the advancements of modern medicine. Instead, she sought to bridge the gap between traditional remedies and scientific medicine, recognizing that both approaches had their merits. Nightingale firmly believed in the integration of natural remedies with evidence-based practices, creating a holistic approach to healthcare.

Today, Nightingale’s philosophy of combining modern medicine with natural remedies continues to resonate. Many healthcare professionals recognize the importance of providing a healing environment for patients, incorporating elements such as natural light, fresh air, and soothing aesthetics into hospitals and clinics. Moreover, the use of herbal remedies and alternative therapies, alongside conventional medicine, has gained popularity as patients seek holistic and personalized approaches to their healthcare.

Florence Nightingale’s appreciation for natural remedies serves as a reminder that healthcare is not limited to the boundaries of conventional medicine. The integration of natural remedies into modern healthcare practices allows us to harness the power of nature in promoting healing and well-being. By embracing Nightingale’s holistic approach, we can bridge the gap between modern medicine and natural remedies, providing patients with comprehensive and effective care.

Most of you know I dedicate a great deal of time to learning about and teaching about how to use home remedies. Check out my Blog for more educational information, follow me on Instagram or Facebook, or sign up for my next virtual class.

Today is Cinco de Mayo, a holiday that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It is primarily celebrated in Mexico and the United States, particularly in areas with significant Mexican-American populations.  

I don’t know about your family, and any chance we get to do TACOS – we’re taking advantage of it.

So why am I talking about Cinco de Mayo in my Healer Guide blog?

It is worth noting that Mexico has a rich history of traditional medicine and herbal remedies. Mexican traditional medicine, known as “curanderismo,” (koo. – rahn. – deh. – rees. – moh) incorporates various natural remedies, herbs, and traditional healing practices. These remedies have been passed down through generations and are still used by some people today.

Curanderismo originated in Mexico and is also found in other Latin American countries. It is a holistic approach to health and well-being that combines elements of indigenous beliefs, folk wisdom, and religion. The practitioners of curanderismo are known as curanderos or curanderas, and they serve as healers, spiritual guides, and community leaders.

Key Elements of Curanderismo:

Herbal Remedies: The use of medicinal plants and herbs is a fundamental aspect of curanderismo. Curanderas (curandera (Spanish for “female healer”)) have knowledge of various plants and their properties, and they use them to treat different ailments and promote overall health. Remedies may be administered as teas, poultices, or topical applications.

Spiritual Healing: Curanderas believe in the interconnection between the physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of a person. They often incorporate spiritual rituals, prayers, and blessings into their healing practices. They may perform cleansings, energy work, or rituals to remove negative energies or restore balance and harmony.

Rituals and Ceremonies: Curanderismo involves the use of rituals and ceremonies to address specific needs or intentions. These may include ceremonies for protection, blessing of homes, love spells, or rituals for fertility and childbirth. The rituals often combine elements of indigenous traditions and religion.

Divination and Energy Work: Curanderas may use various methods of divination, such as interpreting dreams, or using tools like pendulums or egg cleansings to gain insights into a person’s health or life challenges. They may also perform energy work, such as laying on of hands or using therapeutic touch.

Curandera-Client Relationship: The relationship between the curandero and the client is crucial in curanderismo. The curandera serves as a guide, advisor, and healer, often providing emotional support and counseling alongside the physical healing. Trust, respect, and confidentiality are emphasized in this relationship.

So as you and your friends and family enjoy various Mexican cuisine today, I invite you to also consider where natural remedies, herbs, traditional healing practices, and rituals may also have a place in your life.

You can take care of you and your family without guilt, shame, or compromise. Visit my Blog for education about natural healing options or Events to save your spot in my upcoming classes. 

Sweet!

Did you know using local honey for seasonal allergies is a popular natural remedy? The idea behind using honey is that it contains small amounts of pollen, which can help desensitize your immune system to the allergens in the environment. Here are some important points to consider:

Local Raw Honey: It is generally recommended to use local, raw honey for treating seasonal allergies. Local honey is collected from bees that have gathered pollen from the same plants that trigger your allergies. By consuming small amounts of this honey, you may expose your immune system to these allergens in a controlled manner.

Pollen Exposure: The key concept is that by regularly consuming local honey, you can gradually build up a tolerance to the specific pollen causing your allergies. However, it’s important to note that the amount of pollen in honey is usually quite small, and it may not provide significant relief for everyone.

Timing and Consistency: If you decide to try using honey for allergies, it’s recommended to start consuming it a few months before the allergy season begins. Taking a teaspoon of local raw honey daily is often suggested. Consistency is important, as the gradual exposure to pollen over time may have a better chance of desensitizing your immune system.

For ALL my natural tips to manage Seasonal Allergies join me for my next virtual class to become empowered this season and every season so that you can enjoy being outside with minimal symptoms.

A friend recently turned me on to Hibiscus Tea.  The color is absolutely gorgeous and would look at home in a wine goblet…. AND I drink it in my favorite mug anyway

I find it to be calming in the evening as an alternative to grown-up beverages, and just the ritual of making it has become a favorite in the evening. OH! And it is yummy iced and I like it hot or cold with just a little raw honey.

Hibiscus tea has a surprising number of benefits according to the Cleveland Clinic:

The fruity flavor of hibiscus is tangy and sweet, making it perfect for tea. Registered dietitian Beth Czerwony, RD, LD, shares several ways hibiscus can contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

1. Protects with antioxidants

2. Fights inflammation

3. Lowers blood pressure

4. Lowers cholesterol

5. Promotes weight loss

6. Fights bacteria

7. Supports liver health