What is Hygee anyway?
Hoagie? Hi-G? UGH…..if you’re feeling like you have no idea how to even pronounce this no worries, I had no clue what this was until I learned from a friend, but let me tell you this is a concept that could get me into HomeGoods to buy all the comfy simplistic decor for my home. Pronounced HOO-gah, hygee is an idea created back in the 18th century by the Danish that not only is a way of being but describes decor that is free of clutter and full of serenity.
Since the main characteristics behind hygge are revolving around coziness this lifestyle can often involve much more than decor.
How do you create a hygge environment?
Use Aromatherapy: Scented candles are cute but can be a potential fire hazard with kids or if you fall asleep and since many are filled with synthetic fragrances and ingredients they can be damaging to the respiratory system. Switch them out for diffusers and quality essential oils-not only will the smell last much longer but you will also enjoy the health benefits as well, creating the ultimate calming vibe.
Create a spa-like bathroom: I’m the kind of girl that loves a good bath and creating a hygge bathroom was a priority on my list (hello…..anyone else love a good bubble bath?) Consider adding cute neutral colored decor and simplistic storage to declutter the space. If it’s within your budget change the light switch to a dimmer and grab yourself some battery operated candles it instantly turned my bathroom into a spa like feel-you may just find the bathroom becomes your new hide out spot!
Create a cozy space with pillows and blankets: You clearly don’t have to tell me twice to cuddle up in a warm blankie with my fav sweats on! This paired with a good book or some chill music and tea and I’m in cozy hygge heaven.
Can you chill with it?
Well…..hell yeah! I’m all about self care and less stress in my life and if you're like me this concept is a great way to practice true self care. Need more deets on this concept check out this book and get ready to embrace the hygge life. It will be just what the doctor should’ve ordered!
Like these stress less tips then enjoy grabbing some more ideas here.
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Who knew this salt would be something that I suggest as a must have staple in every home! Let’s chitty chat about some of the many amazing health benefits of epsom salt and ways you can use it to help destress.
What Is It? Known as magnesium sulfate this “salt” is formed from a pure mineral compound containing magnesium and sulfate both which help stimulate detoxification in the body. With so many of us lacking in proper levels of this vital mineral I tell families to never be without this in their home!
Uses
Bath Soak: probably one of my FAV ways to use epsom salts taking a relaxing soak is a great way to help facilitate detox.
Recipe idea: Take a cup of Epsom Salt add a few drops of essential oils (Lavender and Stress Away are my favs) for relaxation add it to warm water and soak for 40minutes. (20 to pull toxins out and 20 for the absorption of the minerals to occur) **bonus tip: add a cup of epsom salt to raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to help draw out toxins, help with joint pain, and aid with various skin conditions like eczema.
Muscle/Joint Relief: After a hard workout or even just too much sitting our body can feel tight and uncomfortable. I love adding muscle relieving oils in a cup of epsom salts and adding to warm water to soak in for muscle relief.
Salt Scrub: I find that epsom salt scrubs are just as fun as exploring sugar scrubs but with added benefits of providing magnesium. Known to stimulate blood flow and keep the skin smooth you can get so many benefits from this simply DIY recipe.
Recipe idea: Mix ½ c of Epsom salt, ¼c almond oil (or olive oil) and 3-4 drops of your favorite essential oil and use as an exfoliation scrub. **Did ya know certain oils help support the lymphatic system and remove excessive fluid however if it is a citrus oil it can cause photosensitivity so just be aware as you should be ok since you’re washing it off
Sometimes I look at the mats at the gym and ask myself “when was the last time that mat was cleaned?” The mix of hot yoga studios and repeated sweat on your mat isn’t the best combo to keep things clean and fresh. I’m more than happy that I choose to bring my mat to the gym but after thinking about all the germs it does make me wonder what exactly is inside the gym sprays and how healthy is it.
It's important to keep your mat clean so you can enjoy every practice. Just be mindful to avoid toxic cleaners that will cause damage to your respiratory system and switch those out for natural options that have ingredient properties that are great for addressing microbes and bacteria.
This easy recipe has a blend of plants that are not only known to be great for neutralizing odors and disinfecting the air, but also have amazing properties to address virus, fungus, and microbial agents.
Materials Needed
2 oz glass spray bottle (I love these)
5 drops of Purification Essential Oil
5 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil
Add all drops into the glass spray bottle, add water and place spray top on. Prior to use, shake well then spray a few inches away from the surface. You can let it sit or wipe it off and let it air dry.
Not only is this DIY cleaner easy and effective but it smells great too!
I’ve had my share of experiences working as a PT in busy orthopedic outpatient clinics and with more and more women lifting weights and engaging in more physically demanding jobs and activities back pain was one of the most common ailments seen.
Both chronic and acute cases of back pain can be debilitating and could benefit from consideration of various natural remedies. Here are just some that you should consider trying out!
Acupuncture: I was always skeptical about this option (maybe because I hate needles) but I have to say I have had great experiences with acupuncture. Considered to be a good adjunct treatment option¹, it has been said that pain results from blocked energy along meridians which are unblocked when needles are placed along the pathways. Be ready to possibly go to 1-2 sessions a week for a few weeks to see best results.
Physical Therapy: I may be a bit biased in this situation however finding a physical therapist that can combine their knowledge along with various techniques such as tai chi, pilates, or yoga can be a great way to find relief without the meds. Feel free to reach out to me if you need suggestions.
CBD: Thought to help aid in inflammatory reduction, reduce anxiety associated with pain, and help overall relaxation, CBD is one method I have suggested quite a bit in the last year or so. ¹²³ Since your body has an entire endocannabinoid system, using quality CBD can help with pain by binding to the receptors already in your body creating an overall relaxed sensation without side effects often seen with THC based products. My favorite CBD products have added terpenes from essential oils to enhance the overall effects on your body.
Traveling is my jam and before quarantine life I was on a plane regularly every month. By now, I’ve become a master at using packing cubes, traveling with a carry on, and figuring out how to bring the essentials so I stay in tip top health.
It hasn’t been an easy transition. In fact when I started my natural journey I was so afraid to be without the meds for motion sickness, headaches, and stomach aches that I brought double the items. Well, let’s just say I’ve now been on enough boats, planes, trains, and cars galore and successfully traveled over 20hrs on a plane with all natural items for health and been 100% fine!
With airports and planes being super dirty places I get a bit skeeved out with the recirculated air and make sure to carry all the things to keep me healthy. Here’s a sneak peak into some of my favorite natural essential travel remedies that may help you out on your next trip.
Probiotics: This is my #1 supplement I cannot be without because let’s face it, whose trying to go on a trip and have digestive issues? (not me). Having proper digestive support is especially helpful when traveling to new places and trying new or different foods. Not to mention staying regular in the bathroom while traveling is important! My go to probiotic has a slow release capsule and has over 17 billion cultures to support healthy gut bacteria.
Antioxidant Supplements: Yep, I'm that girl bringing my meals with me to the airport because I cannot stand airport food and I get worried about digestive issues while traveling. One of the perks of travel is eating all the things but with that comes a whole lot of potential health problems. Nowadays I make sure to flood my body daily with high level antioxidant fruits and vegetables in a simple drink packet which makes it simple when on the go! Not only do antioxidants help support healthy blood sugar levels but they keep cravings down while filling you up - perfect when dealing with travel stress.
Vitamin D3: Another supplement I recently started to travel with is my Vitamin D3. I’m all about those beach vacations but honestly I just don’t get enough natural vitamin D. This supplement is GMO and organic and the yummy citrus flavor makes it an easy essential to keep in my travel bag.
CBD: With all the stress that goes into travel staying calm is a necessity. CBD is one of the most effective ways to naturally support your body to remain calm and focused without the ‘high’ from THC. I’m totally obsessed but had to find the best quality oils and therefore you must do your research! It's something I now always carry on trips (trust me you'll want it after you fall asleep using an airplane pillow!)Thieves: If you don’t know how much I already love all things essential oil related you will now. Plant based products are a huge part of my natural lifestyle and travel with me on every trip. Truth be told I get weirded out thinking of how many people touched all the things on the plane, so prior to all trips I make sure to load up on ALL my immune supporting products. Plants such as cinnamon, rosemary, clove, and eucalyptus are all known to help keep your immune system strong and fight off all the yuk (you know, the things you don't have time for when traveling) So what types of products are we talkin' about? Well....the essentials of course: sanitizer, wipes, travel spray, mouthwash, and toothpaste!
This may all seem like a lot of stuff but trust me it all fits into a nice little travel bag along with a few more key items. It’s important to remember that whether you travel solo or with the fam it should be fun and not stressful.
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