Self Adjacent Healing

The Age Of Aquarius

The Age Of Aquarius

"When the moon is in the Seventh HouseAnd Jupiter aligns with MarsThen peace will guide the planetsAnd love will steer the starsThis is the dawning of the age of AquariusThe age of AquariusAquariusAquarius" Okay, so I might have never fully listened to this song until like just now. This is phenomenal! They were onto something, weren't they...?Even the name, The 5th Dimension, wow. Okay so I'm sure you have heard that we are entering the "Age of Aquarius", but what does that mean, how does that change anything? We are going to start exploring right, now. Aquarius as a Sign I'll just throw out that I'm an Aquarius, and proud of it. The Aquarius is found in the 11th house. The 11th house is all about friendships and groups, idealism and hope, and of course, the relationship to the collective. Hope and collective are keywords here. Aquarius is an air sign, it represents the thinkers, communicators, and doers.They analyze, synthesize, and ask questions. They breeze through life, never stopping to catch their breath. They have a “live and let live” mentality, and their intelligence helps them make decisions easily. Ruled by the planet Uranus, Aquarius symbolizes change, disruption, the unconventional, and the unexpected. Uranus rules innovation, technology, and science. Timeline of the Ages So this is where these get a little blurred, as far as the timeline. According to occult sciences and ancient astrology, each age lasts from 2,000-2,160 years. The thing is we aren't exactly sure of the start dates, so we can't say exactly what point we are in, but we do know we are in the transition. One can see the shift in the Earth and the collective as humanity, all the spiritual awakenings that are happening? This is no coincidence, this is the time on the planet to start aligning with this new era! I'm getting slightly ahead of myself. While the earth is rotating in our solar system, there is a slight change in the orientation of the earth’s rotational axis, called the Precession of the Equinoxes. One complete cycle of precession lasts slightly less than 26,000 years, meaning the spinning Earth goes through a little circular wobble about once every 25,000+ years. One cycle of Precession gets broken down into 12 parts associated with 12 astrological ages, or zodiac signs.  The 12 zodiac signs each occupy 30 degrees of celestial longitude, and can all be seen along the ecliptic. So this is very basically how we slowly move through the ages. This is not made-up astrology or woo-woo stuff. Every time the earth tilts just that little bit, about every 2000-2100 years, a new sign will line up in the spring equinox, and that will indicate the age we are in. Fun fact, it's going backward or counting down... Some believe it was 1998, some 2012 was when we entered into the Age of Aquarius, some believe it was 2021 when all those planets lined up, and others think we have not yet crossed the actual line. There is no doubt, however, that we are in a transition, and we have been for some time, probably about a century, if you think about all the technological innovations. The Age of Pieces While we are more than ready to get the hell out of dodge, the Age of Pieces wasn't all bad, in fact, it was all necessary and just goes to show the beautiful cycle of things. This is the age where humanity became more entranced by matters of the soul and transcending the human experience, creating religions, and creating separation through the division of beliefs. The Age of Pieces brought love, forgiveness, empathy, devotion, and the belief in some force greater than oneself. There is always a dark side, and the Pieces brought separation, seclusion, addiction, self-destruction, losing a grip on reality, and religious fanaticism. Pieces took hold with polarity. Good and evil, light and dark, heaven and hell. Leaving the Age of Pieces is going to be a fight, especially with the religious structures that have gained hold throughout this last 2,000 years. I've discovered four major points that are illuminating the shift into this new age. The Age of Pieces was the age of: "I Believe"AcceptanceIllusion and SecretsSeparation The Age of Aquarius Since we ended the last paragraph with 4 things that are ending with the shift into the Age of Aquarius, let's start off by introducing the 4 things that are coming into alignment. "I Know"QuestioningInformationIntegration We are done just believing. We still have faith, but we have done the work and have access to the information that shows us that WE KNOW. We are shattering the limiting beliefs that have held us prisoner for too long. No longer are we willing to accept the propaganda, the actual MISinformation as fact. This is the age where we question everything. What we know about ourselves, life, existence, and what reality actually means. Because this is the age of information and technology, we are able to uncover the secrets and lies from the Piscean era. Yes, I know it sounds like I'm just bashing it, and I kind of am, so let's move on. Due to technological advancements and our ability to communicate with one another at the click of a button, information can no longer be hidden. We are connecting with awakened souls all across the globe, rather than being small numbers in our local community. This brings us to integration. The understanding that we are NOT separate, we are all a part of this Divine plan, weaved together in the tapestry of the Universe and love. We are leaving behind the idea of polarity, and embracing the truth of duality. Healy and the New Paradigm I believe Healy absolutely embodies the Age of Aquarius and this new paradigm of health and wealth. To start, it is a fascinating piece of technology, unlike anything else we have seen, especially with the quantum sensor. This technology, this science, is not new, however this way of harnessing it, of making it available to everyone, certainly is. To be able to scan your bioenergetic field, while in the same room, or across vast distances, and then send the healing frequencies, is nothing short of a damn miracle. The collective of people within the community of this device worldwide is astounding and powerful. These are people who truly want to usher the world into this new age with grace, strength, and light. We are doing the work of healing ancestral wounds to clear the path for our children, raising the vibration through self-healing and the sharing of information. The direct communities that I am a part of are beautifully named The Coherence Collective and The Frequency Mamas. We'd love to have you with us. Let's talk about taking back our power. Sovereignty. Sticking it to the man, and no longer relying on broken systems!Healy is literally a healer in your back pocket, a life coach in your purse, and a key to unlocking your highest potential, beyond your current wildest dreams. Our bodies naturally want to heal themselves and are pretty damn good at it given the right environment. Of course, that is the trouble, the environment we have been brought up in is pretty toxic, and we have not been educated on how our energetic bodies really hold the key to our physical health. Wealth. You ready to talk about money? Why are we so scared to talk about money? In this society it's like to you have it or you don't and only the ones that do can talk about it. Well, no more. Aquarius is here to break through the limiting beliefs and the limited mindset around wealth. Money is energy, like everything else and we just have to align ourselves to resonate at that frequency. It is not good or bad. It is time to receive Divine compensation for the work that we do. To be abundant in all areas so that we can bless the world from our highest potential. To be able to share with the world our passions and actually make humans healthy and strong, to make the world a better place. To be compensated for standing in your light and sharing your gifts. This is a totally different world my friends and it's time to recognize ourselves as bigger than ourselves and part of the beautiful collective. Welcome to the Age of Aquarius my loves. Love and vibes, ... Read more

Frankincense Essential Oil For Body, Mind, & Soul

Frankincense Essential Oil For Body, Mind, & Soul

This post contains affiliate links, if you purchase something you love, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you. Stay beautiful. Essential Oils are so much more than tantalizing fragrances and have deeper impacts than the commonly associated uses. In these posts, we will dive into the benefits on the physical body, the support on our mental and emotional states, as well as the profound connection they have with our energetic bodies. When referring to the energetics of oils, I am using information that has been graciously shared by a beautiful soul-sister, Patricia West. She is a medicine woman, massage therapist, breathwork coach, and works heavily with the energetics of essential oils. She has been such a gem in my life and I am so grateful the Universe brought us together, even if our friendship has just been via the interweb, so far. If you would like to give her a follow on the Instagram, she can be found @patriciawestrmt she produces beautiful content and is just an inspirational force. Where Does Frankincense Come From? Frankincense actually is a resin from trees in the Boswellia family. Particularly from four species of Boswellia trees, Boswellia carterii, Boswellia sacra, Boswellia papyrifera, and Boswellia frereana.Boswellia trees are native to Oman and Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and Somalia in northeastern Africa. Due to the fact that collecting this oil is from a live tree, it is important that your purchase oils from companies that ethically source. Due to overharvesting while not replanting, fire damage and cattle destroying trees, this incredibly powerful oil is at risk of becoming scarce to rare. doTERRA goes above and beyond the standard of replenishment, by actually working with local governments in certain countries in Africa to to help encourage the implementation of laws, regulations, export licenses, and enhanced monitoring in order to help protect Boswellia trees. You can read more about their efforts here: The Future of Frankinscense. Frankincense can also be burned just as a resin, either alone or blended with others to create incense. Rose Mountain Herbs sells the resin if you are interested. Frankincense Throughout History When people think of frankincense they usually think of it with myrrh, and that it was one of the oils presented to little baby Jesus. Which is fair, that's a pretty largely known story. There are actually 52 references in the Bible to this treasure. The Babylonians and Assyrians would burn the tree resin in religious ceremonies and for contemplative meditation. The ancient Egyptians used it in perfumes and salves for soothing skin. It was also found to be used in embalming. Oil from the resin has long been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese health practices. Body and Mind Uses There is a lot of information on the internet regarding the physical benefits of this holy oil, however, I want this to be comprehensive, so I am going to list five physical benefits here. This oil can be used for those with asthma, coughing spasms, and anxiety. Due to its antiaging properties, it is great to use on stretch marks and scars. Please be sure to mix with a carrier oil and not apply directly on the skin. One study revealed how frankincense works as an effective antidepressant and stress reliever. According to some studies, frankincense can have a positive effect on brain development, and possibly on the formation of dendrites and axons and improving their communication. So that's pretty impressive. If you search Frankincense Essential Oil on the PubMed website, the amount of studies on this oil are astounding. I'll include a link here as well: PubMedStudies. Energetics Everything is energy, and energy can be measured in frequency. It's funny that even I forget this sometimes, as we are just not used to thinking in this way. Bach Flower Remedies work the way that they do because they store the vibrational essence of the plant or material within the tincture. The same goes for essential oils. Since the tree is wounded when gathering the resin, it is implicated to note that this oil can benefit us most when we are wounded. Frankincense provides protection, purification, and spiritual awareness.It can be used to enhance intuition and clairvoyance and is ideal to use before meditation. This is because it helps us to connect with the Divine. It shows us the light and really works deeply with our higher self to ensure that we know we are going to be okay. This oil, like a beam of light, helps us to let go of low vibrations, release negativity and unearth lies, so we can recall spiritual understanding, gifts, wisdom, and knowledge that our soul bought into the world. Maybe take a second to read how incredibly powerful and beautiful that is again.Frankincense helps to break down the walls of the heart. It supports a healthy attachment with one's father and assists in feeling the love of the Divine.This oil can transcend dimensions, and take you along for the ride. This is an incredible oil for transitions, which I will address at the closing of this article. How To Use The Oil Frankincense is an incredibly diverse oil, and can be used in almost every which way!You can put it in your diffuser for whole-home benefits, creating an environment of positive vibrations. I like to put a few drops in a tea candle that I'm burning when I am working or meditating. Of course, using it on the skin provides all those skin benefits, just be sure to dilute it in a carrier oil of your choice.It is also a very special practice to annoint yourself with the oil, connecting to your intention and with prayer. There are those that will ingest it for various reasons, one being cellular health and function. Dilute one drop in four fluid ounces of liquid or take one to two drops in a veggie cap.Also make sure you are getting the oil from a reputable source, aka don't mess around with off brands here! I use and only reccomend doTERRA because of the quality, care, and impact this company has. These oils created the standard, and are the most pure and cared for I have coma across. Click HERE to be directed to the doTERRA website, and receive a free membership for a year so that you get Wholesale member prices! This is an incredible resource to have when working with Essential oils. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals 2nd Edition Final Thoughts, Personal Story It's probably only been this last year or so that I've included Frankincense in my oil toolkit, and it truly has been a gift and a blessing. I'll use it for meditation, and lately, it's been my go-to for that extra lift, to release some of the weight I am working through. I recently had to put down my dog Moose, a 12-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever I found in the woods ten years ago. He's been my rock, my adventure buddy, and my heart and soul through some of the most intense years of my life. Due to health issues, I knew it was time and chose to have in-home euthanasia, which I am so grateful for to avoid the trauma of going to the vet clinic, for him and myself. I had a comfortable spot in my living room, and he got some cheeseburgers and treats while the vet was getting everything ready. As we were laying on the floor together I had my Frankincense oil and I took a few drops and placed them on his head, and also on mine while telling him how much I loved him, how grateful I was for him, how much I'll miss him, and that the pain will be over, and he can go in peace with dignity. Frankincense oil, because it offers a connection with the Divine, and shines a light on our soul, is powerful to use in times of transition. This can be the transition of birth, the transition through difficult times, or like I used, the transition to the other side. I'd love to hear how you use Frankincense and if you have any powerful stories!Leave a comment! Love and vibes, ... Read more

Build Your Brain With Puzzles & Games

Build Your Brain With Puzzles & Games

This post contains affiliate links, if you purchase a fun game or anything from this, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you! Puzzles! Okay so I have a love-hate relationship with puzzles because sometimes jigsaw and mindbender puzzles can be so challenging, and my patience is an aspect of myself I am working on. I have, however, always been a fan of crosswords and word puzzle games. You should see the stacks of newspapers I've had over the years, just for those pages. There is something so satisfying about thinking abstractly and making the connections to fill in the boxes! Even if you have to google or phone a friend for some of them, you get to learn new things! Why am I talking about puzzles and games on a blog that is about self-healing? I think it should be fairly obvious, but let me explain. We need to build and strengthen the connections in our brains that are responsible for critical thinking and problem-solving!! As a society, we spend a ridiculous amount of time on technology, have all the conveniences at our fingertips, and only have to push a button to ask a question and get an answer. I believe it is a detriment to society that is only starting to really make its appearance since it has been around long enough now that we can see some long-term effects and the effects of those who have grown up like this. History Of Puzzles Puzzles have been around since the dawn of time, honestly, no joke. Humans have always been fascinated and drawn to puzzles, riddles, and solving problems. This is an aspect of what makes us human, we devour challenges and the opportunity to think outside the box. Let's start with Greek Mythology, the story of the Sphinx.The Sphinx was a female monster with the body of a lion, the head and breast of a woman, an eagle's wings, and, according to some, a serpent's tail. She was found in the city of Thebes, she had been sent there by the gods due to some ancient crime that the city(or its King) had committed. The Sphinx would devour anyone who could not solve her riddle. She ate a lot of folks, people. Eventually, Oidipous (Oedipus) took up the challenge, and when he solved the Sphinx's riddle, she cast herself off the mountainside in despair. If you haven't heard of this riddle, I will include the answer at the bottom of the post, but think about it for a moment. What creature walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three in the evening? The first discovered written riddles are close to 4,000 years old. The oldest puzzle known comes from Greece and appeared in the 3rd century B.C. The game consists of a square divided into 14 parts and the purpose is to generate different figures in these parts. I'm assuming this was not easy to do.In Iran "puzzle locks" were made before the 17th century A.D.Then we have the first jigsaw puzzle was created by a map engraver called John Spilsbury, in 1762.  So there is a brisk walk through the ages. Types of Puzzles When doing puzzles, you really can't go wrong. They are a personal preference, but it is always good to go out of your comfort zone and try something new. If you are a whiz at crosswords, then your brain is going to be comfortable, and while this is still a brain-boosting process, trying a picture or number puzzle will create new synapses in that beautiful brain of yours. Word Puzzles Personally, word puzzles are my jam. I go on crossword kicks, but then a couple years ago found these word scramble puzzles that just get me fired up! Word puzzles pack the extra punch because you are not only solving a puzzle but building your vocabulary as well. Doing these puzzles regularly will help your brain to think outside the box(but write within it, hehe), think of words contextually, develop pattern recognition, and learn new facts that come in handy on trivia night! Word puzzles include crosswords, riddles, word finders, and word scrambles.It's said that Aaron Rogers of the Green Bay Packers does at least one crossword per day. Number Puzzles I have yet to do a Sudoko. Okay, maybe I tried once but found it frustrating so I went back to my crossword. I will be starting to incorporate these into my puzzle rotation. Numbers and mathematics are really some of the original puzzles.That's exactly what an equation is, a puzzle to solve. These types of puzzles are great for everyday life and keep the brain sharp. You may not think you use math a lot, but start working with these puzzles and you will see how often simple math, spotting patterns, and the need to recall numbers really come into play. Picture/Tactile Puzzles #&*$! THE PUZZLES! This is what 17-year-old me said to my best friend at 11PM on a school night when I realized I was supposed to do a project for school and I needed a puzzle. I cannot recall what the project was, but off we went to Walmart to get a puzzle for my project. This memory is always what comes to mind when I think of jigsaw puzzles. Jigsaw puzzles are the most popular tabletop game. 1.8 billion puzzles are sold each year, that's so many! I wonder how many get completed. It takes on average about 9 hours to complete a 1,000-piece puzzle and during that time your brain is firing on all cylinders, even the agitated ones. Rubix cubes are one of the best-selling toys in history. Don't get me started on ridiculous fidget spinners. Folks of all ages use this puzzle consistently to work on their motor skills, concentration, and logical thinking skills. The Tangram is a deceptively simple set of seven geometric shapes made up of five triangles (two small triangles, one medium triangle, and two large triangles), a square, and a parallelogram. I have only played around with these once or twice, but there are so many different combinations one can make with these seven pieces, and it's not as easy as it looks. It is extremely popular in China as there is where is believed it originated from. They can be used to develop problem-solving and logical thinking skills, perceptual reasoning (nonverbal thinking skills), visual-spatial awareness, creativity, and many mathematical concepts such as congruency, symmetry, area, perimeter, and geometry! There are so many other types of tactile puzzles, locks, 3D puzzles, etc. Puzzle Master has a wide array of puzzles if you want to check some out! 7 Benefits of Puzzles According to a University of Exeter study, older adults who regularly did word and number puzzles had increased mental acuity. A 2011 experiment with members of the Bronx Aging Study found that a regular regimen of crosswords might delay the onset of cognitive decline.  What a simple and entertaining way to support and enhance your brain health!Instead of mindlessly scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, why not pick up a puzzle? You will still get the dopamine hit! As well as all these other benefits! Doing puzzles with friends and family also creates bonding, fosters teamwork, and can open up conversations that you just wouldn't have when watching TV or doing separate hobbies. Healing is not always about solving a problem, or "fixing something". Healing is a journey, it is creating habits that add value instead of depreciating our bodies, it is enjoying ourselves! Not all aspects of healing are painful, and we don't want to say in the mindset "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Let's start enhancing and supporting ourselves before we are broken! Love and vibes, Riddle Answer: Man.  In the morning of life (childhood), the infant crawls on all fours.  In the afternoon of life (adulthood), the human being walks upright on two legs.  In the evening of life (elderhood), the senior citizen walks with help from a cane.  ... Read more

ASEA Hydrating Cream- Ingredient Breakdown

ASEA Hydrating Cream- Ingredient Breakdown

Here we are at long last! The fourth and final product in the ASEA AdvancedRenu Skincare line!If you haven't checked out my other posts on the previous products, they are here:Foaming Cleanser, Balancing Toner, and Glow Serum. It really has been interesting to look at all these ingredients, considering reading labels and ingredient safety has become a priority for me and my family. To have an understanding of what each one is (especially the ones with the scary names) and why there are used is absolutely empowering! Here we go. Powered By Redox Skincare So let's just do a quick recap on why these products are AMAZING and what Powered by Redox, means: ASEA’s Powered by Redox formulas leverage the same redox principles our proprietary cell signaling technology is built on. However, instead of creating new redox molecules we specifically select pre-existing ingredients thatsupport your skin’s natural redox homeostasis—leaving you with hydrated, nourished, ageless, better-than-ever skin. Helping our bodies to function better on a cellular level, and look like a million bucks doing it, is part of the fun here. RENU Advanced® Hydrating Cream Get skin that looks positively ageless with Powered by Redox ingredients meant to hydrate and nurture from deep within your skin’s outermost layer. Double down on your skin’s health with deep hydration that helps improve your overall appearance and results in firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Start to see benefits today andbeauty that pays off even bigger tomorrow.• Improves the visible signs of wrinkles and sagging skin.• Supports and balances the natural skin microbiome to promotesurface skin cell turnover for youthful-looking skin.• Helps to reduce the feeling of skin sensitivity and enhances theappearance of healthy skin.• Helps reduce the appearance of your dark spots for radiant skin. Ingredients List Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Annona Cherimola Fruit Extract, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Jojoba Esters, Niacinamide, Glyceryl Stearate, Potassium Olivoyl Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Dimethicone, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Unsaponifiables,Squalane, Hydroxyacetophenone, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Lens Esculenta (Lentil) Fruit Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium PCA, Alteromonas Ferment Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Oleate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl AcrylateCrosspolymer, Linoleic Acid, Phospholipids, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Lactate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Dextran. Aqua/Water/Eau can't beat some water. Glycerin is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, but I will note that this product is free from any animal-based ingredients, so this glycerin is from a vegetable source. Glycerin is a humectant, a type of moisturizing agent that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin from deeper levels of your skin and the air.It may also help provide protection against various skin irritants, in addition to helping speed up the wound-healing process. It replenishes and restores skin so that the natural moisture barrier is strengthened and revitalized.This is pretty basic, and unlike propylene glycol, is safe. Cetearyl Alcohol is a white, waxy mixture of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, both fatty alcohols. They’re found in animals and plants, like coconut and palm oil. They can also be made in a laboratory. It helps to create smoother creams, thicker lotions, and more stable foam products. Annona Cherimola Fruit Extract or "custard apple" is a green, cone-shaped tropical fruit with scaly skin and creamy, sweet flesh. This ingredient aids skin cells in fighting oxidative stress. It is a calming adaptogenic extract that helps establish healthy skin homeostasis, reducing inflammation, redness, and sensitivity. Lactococcus Ferment Lysate is a fairly new probiotic ingredient that is obtained from the Gram-positive bacteria, Lactococcus lactis. It has been shown to positively influence both the speed and quality of epidermal growth which results in better barrier function and overall skin quality. Pentylene Glycol is a synthetic, low molecular weight solvent and skin-conditioning agent. A multi-functional, silky smooth feeling helper ingredient that is used as an emulsion stabilizer, solvent, and a broad spectrum antimicrobial.This ingredient is lab-derived, however, it is actually naturally occurring in some plants, such as sugar beets and corn cobs. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a compound that combines fatty acids from natural oils, such as coconut oil, with glycerin. This ingredient has natural origins, but goes through a hefty processing and refining process. It is used as a solvent, dispersing agent, emollient for skin softening, and contains antioxidants. Ethylhexyl Olivate is the natural ester of skin-conditioning fatty acids derived from olive oil. It can have an occlusive effect on the skin, but that does not mean the skin is suffocating; rather, the occlusive nature helps keep vital hydrating substances in the skin from escaping, such as can occur in a dry environment. Jojoba Esters are made from jojoba oil and/or hydrogenated jojoba oil via interesterification(which is a process that rearranges the fatty acids of a fat product).  They provide superior stability, provide non-greasy emolliency, and are readily absorbed into the skin.  Niacinamide is a form of vitimin B3. It helps build cells in the skin while also protecting them from environmental stresses, such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins. This ingredient is also shown to reduce dark spots, reduce pore size, and leave the skin glowing. Skincare at a cellular level! Glyceryl Stearate is a super common, waxy, white, solid stuff that helps water and oil to mix together, gives the body to creams and leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. It is bio-degradable and is considered a "green" ingredient Potassium Olivoyl Hydrolyzed Oat Protein is a potassium salt of the condensation product of coconut acid chloride and Hydrolyzed Oat Protein.  Due to the hydrolyzed protein fraction and the beta-glucan content, it might act as functional ingredient, leading to skin benefits as moisturization, emollient, soothing and protective effects. Dimethicone is a silicon-based polymer used as a lubricant and conditioning agent. This is used in small amounts in order to not have a potential for skin irritant. Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Unsaponifiables is olive oil! Not only in the kitchen, it is a valuable raw material, which has an antioxidative effect and is very kind to the skin. Squalane is a lipid produced naturally by your own skin cells. This lipid has been stabilized using a hydrogenation process, which keeps it from spoiling, and makes it more skin-friendly! Hydroxyacetophenone is a synthetic antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient. This ingredient also boosts the preservatives used within the product, so there can be less used, resulting in less skin irritation! Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract is literally watermelon extract. Melons are a rich source of antioxidants, including lycopene. Lens Esculenta (Lentil) Fruit Extract is again, just what it sounds like. I love the diverse plant/fruit extracts here. Lentil extract is known to be a source of amino acids that could prove to be beneficial for skin and contains vitamin B5. Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil is amazing! Coconut oil for everything, hah. This ingredient helps to create a smooth texture and provides beneficial fatty acids for our skin. Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols are plant-based alcohols found in soya, which has a beneficial effect on dry skin. As they form a layer on the skin in such a manner that does not let moisture evaporate and thus preserves inherent moisture. Glycine soja is another name for Soy. Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract is what it sounds like. Let's keep this short and sweet. Apples are great for the skin, this extract provides anti-aging and skin-smoothing benefits. It is high in antioxidants to protect your skin from free radicals and help it maintain youthful elasticity for longer. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a powerful Vitamin C that protects against free radicals and UV exposure. Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Leaf Extract is more plant medicine! It softens and soothes the skin, overall helping with skin conditioning. Jojoba oil is used as a replacement for whale oil and its derivatives. Sodium Hyaluronate is an ingredient that’s extracted from Hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a substance that naturally occurs in your body, including your skin and joint fluid. This ingredient has a low molecular weight, allowing it to pass into the lower layers of skin and improve the skin's hydration at a deeper level. Sodium PCA is a derivative of naturally occurring amino acid proline; it is used as a conditioning agent. Alteromonas Ferment Extract Alteromonas is found in deep areas of seawater. It has water-binding properties for the skin and is reportedly a good soothing ingredient. There is preliminary information indicating that this ingredient also contributes to repairing the skin’s surface! Look at ASEA using sea plants, hah. Crithmum Maritimum Extract is an extract of the plant, Crithmum maritimum, otherwise known as Sea Fennel. It energizes and rejuvenates your skin while other benefits include unclogging pores, boosting collagen, reducing fine lines, and speeding up cell turnover, this ingredient enables your skin to regain its youth. Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2 is an amino-acid peptide that supports skin elasticityand firmness, and improves the appearance of wrinkles and skin-sagging. Phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative in cosmetic products and also as a stabilizer in perfumes and soaps. The amount of this ingredient within the product is well within the safe range, under 0.5%. This ingredient can be known to cause skin irritation and is not suggested to be ingested, however for these effects to occur, the dosage would have to be much higher. This ingredient limits the potential growth of any bacteria in the product. Butylene Glycol is a small organic alcohol used as a solvent and conditioning agent. This ingredient keeps the other ingredients in cosmetics spread out and in their desired state for use. While it’s a type of alcohol, it doesn’t typically irritate or dry out skin, and is actually used for those with dry skin. Glyceryl Oleate is composed of glycerin and oleic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. This ingredient is another softening emollient and it can increase skin hydration, relieve dryness, and refresh the skin's surface. Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic ingredient used to enhance the texture and perceived feel of many types of skincare and hair care products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has deemed it safe as it is currently used in cosmetics; in fact, even in concentrations as high as 30%, it was not found to be an irritant. However, there are not any companies that use such a high percentage. Linoleic Acid or Vitamin F, provides moisture and “plumpness” without weighing down the skin; it fortifies and protects the skin's barrier, thereby helping to fend off UV rays and air pollutants such as smoke, both of which cause free radical activity that can result in wrinkles and signs of aging. Phospholipids are major membrane lipids that consist of lipid bilayers. This basic cellular structure acts as a barrier to protect the cell against various environmental insults and more importantly, enables multiple cellular processes to occur in subcellular compartments. Xanthan Gum is a good 'ol thickener and stabilizer. Ethylhexylglycerin is a glyceryl ether used as a weak preservative and skin conditioning agent. Not a huge fan of this ingredient. I'm going to send an email. Sodium Lactate is a sodium salt of racemic or inactive lactic acid with alkalinizing and electrolyte-replenishing properties. Helps to keep the product fresh and helps control the acidity levels. Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is a vegetable-based chelating agent, which is biodegradable material mainly used for washing or cleaning. This ingredient helps to temporarily reduce the surface tension of water and also boosts the effectiveness of preservatives. Dextran s a polysaccharide (sugar) that has water-binding properties for the skin, meaning it’s an excellent ingredient for maintaining hydration. Fun fact  Louis Pasteur first discovered dextran in the 1860s as a byproduct of wine fermentation. Survey Says I really like this moisturizer. The packaging is really neat so you just like squeeze/pump it upside down for a perfect pea size amount. Which really is all you need! Little goes a long way here. It's not too heavy and feels really nice. Here's what the study says: Final Conclusions All in all, I am happy with this skincare line and routine. It's been different trying to remember to use it consistently, but I'm happy with how it feels and looks. The cleanser is my absolute favorite, I definitely use that daily, and I would have to say the serum would be the one I use the least. They all work together brilliantly and if you are looking to try a new skincare routine that is not all chemicals and fragrances and icky stuff, I 100% think you should give it a shot. This company puts a lot into its products to make sure they are actually benefiting you, at a level that is more than surface level, even more than skin deep. Cellular. Love and vibes, ... Read more

Twelve Universal Laws

Twelve Universal Laws

I've always been a rebel, one to break the rules, skirt the line, and sometimes end up in jail. Rules and laws are restrictive, and I'm a free bird dammit! That being said, one can't break the Laws of the Universe. These laws aren't designed to keep us in a box, instead, they are designed to set us free, to allow us to reach our highest potential! They are also referred to as the Universal Principals. These have been woven into the fabric of everything since, well, time isn't real so let's just say they have always been everywhere. Ancient civilizations have lived their lives by these intrinsic and invisible principles, including the Egyptians.They were not all discovered all at once, and the ancient hermetic principles are some of the oldest records we have of the original seven. I am going to give a simple overview of these laws, along with my interpretation, and possibly examples, we will see how this goes. Honestly, this is the first time I'm diving into some of these, so this will be fun!Keep in mind that while all references have the same 12 Laws, you will find them in different orders, personal preference maybe? So this is the order I'm going with. #1: The Law of Divine Oneness Everything is connected. Every thought, every action, everything on our planet and in this huge freaking universe and beyond is connected. It is all from the Divine Source and we are never not a part of this beautiful and intricate web of love and light. #2: The Law of Energy or Vibration Everything is in constant motion, nothing ever rests. At an atomic and molecular level, everything is vibrating, from the chair you are sitting on, to the thoughts in your head. This is important to know when it comes to the way the Universe works, from our bodies to the thing we want to manifest into our life. I cover frequency related to health in my post What Is Frequency Medicine?, and this law of vibration is fundamental for our upcoming law as well. #3: The Law of Attraction Hear this one? I think 98% of the people on the planet have heard of the Law of Attraction. However, that does not mean it is understood or actually utilized! Like attracts like, right? What you focus on, you can manifest into your reality. This is true, but one can repeat, "I want a million dollars, I want a million dollars, I want a million dollars" until they are blue in the face, and still won't have a million dollars. To attract things on a Universal level you have to work will all of these Laws, and learn to harness the Law of Vibration. To understand that you need to be on the same vibrational level as the thing you desire. To say you want the million dollars because you are afraid of not paying rent, and that fear is driving your request, I'm sorry to say that isn't going to work. The Law of Attraction is truly an embodied experience, and it's a shame to see so many people taking it at face value, and getting frustrated when it doesn't work. It is working, they are attracting their vibrational match, it's just not what they think. You also can't ask for a million dollars and then turn down a job opportunity, this leads us to our next Law. #4: The Law of (Inspired) Action So you ask the Universe for a million dollars, now what? Now you take some time to be quiet, to listen to your inner guidance. What steps are you being called to take? It doesn't have to be a defined plan, but it can be if that's your type. What is has to be is an inspired call to action, not something you do grudgingly because you "have" to. Learning to tune into your inner guidance is going to move more mountains than a fleet of bulldozers. When your gut says to try that new coffee spot, you should, you might run into an old friend who gets excited about what your doing, inspires you, and reignites a flame! The smallest circumstances can open the most heavy of doors. "Your desires are brought to you via thought, and you receive them by deciding to take action." -Jen Sincero #5: The Law of Correspondence As above, so below. As within, so without. You could relate this to personal instant karma almost. If your life is crazy and stressful, your internal state is going to reflect that. If you are calm and grounded, your outer world is going to mirror that back. This is particularly important with the subject of money. If you have a lack mindset and are always worried about money, then that unexpected charge is going to happen, that parking ticket, that damn subscription you told yourself you would cancel! Realizing our limiting beliefs take effort, and honestly, and isn't a butterflies and rainbows experience. It's a process of uncovering the lies we have told ourselves so we can start to reflect our abundant, calm, confident inner self into our outside world. #6: The Law of Cause and Effect This is another one we all have a basic understanding of. Every action will have a reaction, and we tend to learn this in a physical application, but of course, it applies to all things. If you push someone, they could certainly push back. Cause and effect. You push someone, they don't push back. What happens with that energy? Well, my friend, it will circle all the way around the Universe to come back and push you. Or it could push on you internally, physically, and/or emotionally. This is Karma. What goes around comes around. Reap what you sow. Paying ATTENTION to your INTENTION is one of the most important and life-changing things you can do to shift your reality. #7: The Law of Compensation Yes, my friends, there is even a Universal Law around compensation! It goes back to what you sow, you shall reap. The value of what you are putting out into the world will be reflected back upon you. The key word here is value, and the intention behind what it is you are selling, giving, etc. Also, realize compensation is not strictly cash, it can come as opportunity, time, manifested material things, and the like. In our society and mindset, we tend to give people what we think they deserve...we do this subconsciously most of the time, our inner judge(ego) is limiting what we give and therefore what we receive. Be generous, go above and beyond, with no assumptions, and no expectations, and you will be rewarded. #8: The Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Energy Remember # 2? Everything is moving all the time, always?! Okay, so the word Transmutation is a great word. It's the process of changing, transforming, low vibrational energy, into higher vibrational energy. Energy never dies, but it can be channeled into something else, it can change forms. This is where our power lies. Energy flows where attention flows. We all have bullshit that goes on and we all participate in negative self-talk. It's the ability to become aware and catch yourself and understand that you can shift your personal energy. I've started doing this with small things. My brain goes to think "I hate laundry" and I'm like NO! I appreciate having an abundance of clothes. This even applies to songs I find myself singing that have a negative talk, I reverse it. These small shifts and catches will help you to catch the bigger things, bring awareness to the stressful moments, and ultimately be transmuting the negative energy you unconsciously surround yourself with on a daily basis. #9: The Law of Relativity I love this one. The Principle of Relativity is so powerful in putting things in perspective. This is a good one to consider when you are transmuting the energy to help shift from that low vibrational state. Nothing is good or bad. Everything is neutral. It is our response, emotional reaction, judgment, personal beliefs, and experiences that make something "good" or "bad". I've been fired from a few jobs in my day due to poor decision-making (drinking). I once worked at a brewery that I loved, made good money, and the people were awesome. Circumstances changed in my life and I started drinking a lot more, and I lost that job due to being late one too many times. Dammit. However, because of this, I knew something needed to change in my life and I started looking for jobs that were not in the bar industry and would maybe help me change directions. I ended up working and living, on a lavender farm in Northern AZ. I ended up losing that job because of different poor decisions, but it was incredible, and it did change the trajectory of my current circumstance. Life isn't good or bad, life is life, and you make it what you want. #10: The Law of Polarity This is the Yin/Yang Principle. Polarity is opposites and balance. While nothing is "good" or "bad" there are absolutely opposite sides of spectrum, as well as all shades in between. You can't have hot without cold, but not everything is hot OR cold, and every point along that spectrum has a corresponding point on the other side. This also applies to our emotions and experiences. In the example above, while I was sad and frustrated I lost my job, I understood that every experience is there to serve me, it is not happening TO me. There is a mantra to go along with this Divine Law from spiritual author Shannon Kaiser and it perfectly relates here. "All contrast brings more clarity". We need to see all the shades, and experience as much of the spectrum as possible, to really embody this full human experience. #11: The Law of Rhythm We have gotten so out of wack in accordance with our natural cycles and rhythms. I mean who can blame us when we have light and heat at the flip of a switch? We can go to stores and buy food all year long. Stress, toxins, technology, and the go-go-go masculine energy have disconnected us from being in tune with our natural rhythms, and it has manifested in an unhealthy society. Nature works in cycles, it has a rhythm and things always change. The sun rising and setting is a cycle, the lunar cycle each month, the seasons, they all come and go and within each part, our bodies also have rhythms that are synced (or want to be) in accordance with mother earth. I wrote an article, Holistic Health for Fall, which speaks about the changes in the autumn season and how you can support yourself through the seasonal transition. Going with the flow of these cycles will make massive improvements to your health, create less resistance in your manifestations, and ultimately bring in a higher vibrational quality of life. #12: The Law of Gender Unpopular opinion, Universal Law. Everything is MALE or FEMALE, well masculine and feminine. You can't be both, at the same time. Well maybe, yes because it's a balancing act. Yin/Yang. We are born the gender that we are. That is in fact due to the sexual organs we are born with. Remove, add, identify, whatever you do, this fact exists. However, regardless of which gender you are born, we all have both masculine and feminine energy. This aligns with the Law of Polarity, we have within us all sides of the energetic spectrum, and this is required for us to achieve balance. According to Welismo.com, "Energetically speaking, masculine energy is creative, practical, and visionary, but out of balance can take the form of control, anger, and conflict. Feminine energy, on the other hand, is intelligent, nurturing, and intuitive when balanced with masculine energy. Out of balance, it is vulnerable and weakened in its personal power." Laying Down The Law "Live your life as though your every act were to become a Universal Law."-Immanuel Kent I hope you've learned something about the way the infinite and loving Universe operates. I know sometimes it may seem like the world is against you, and if you feel that way all the time or on certain days, you need to take these into consideration. One of the most difficult parts of personal growth, self-healing, spiritual awakening, or whatever you call this journey to remembering that we are on, is the aspect of self-responsibility. We are the creators of our reality. Nothing is the fault of anyone else.Once you can take responsibility for everything in your life, you can truly start to experiment with the power you have. Using these Principles is the key to living an abundant life, vibrating at a higher level, and manifesting that which is aligned with your divine potential. You're so capable and special, and I appreciate you. Love and vibes, ... Read more

What is Frequency Medicine?

What is Frequency Medicine?

What the hell is frequency medicine anyhow? If you've spent any time poking around my blog you will find I talk A LOT about frequency medicine and of course the revolutionary device, Healy. Maybe you've read the posts and kind of gotten an idea of what this is, but also have no idea what it is. I feel the same way sometimes, to be honest. Not that it is really a difficult concept to grasp. We have just not been taught to think this way. For generations, we have been taught to see the world in a three dimension view, with solid matter, the extent of the five senses, and within the confines of the all-mighty "science". However, the study and application of frequency medicine have been around since before the beginning of our idea of time on Earth. I'm talking about Atlantis as a civilization but that's a topic for another day. In this post, I am going to describe in my own words, with references, quotes, and science-y information, what frequency medicine is, and by the end, I hope to leave you with a base-level understanding that inspires you to keep exploring, to ask more questions, and to follow your intuition into this miraculous and magical realm of freaking everything. Definitions I like to start out with definitions of things just so we start out with a solid baseline. These are the keywords that are going to come up throughout this post. Frequency- the rate at which a vibration occurs that constitutes a wave, either in a material (as in sound waves), or in an electromagnetic field (as in radio waves and light), usually measured per second. Hertz-The number of hertz (Hz) equals the number of cycles per second. The term is used most frequently in connection with alternating electric currents, electromagnetic waves (light, radar, etc.), and sound. It is part of the International System of Units (SI), which is based on the metric system. Resonance-A phenomenon in which an external force or a vibrating system forces another system around it to vibrate with greater amplitude at a specified frequency of operation. Bioenergetic Field-a complex organizing energy field engaged in the generation, maintenance, and regulation of biological homeodynamics. Basically, this is the life force and flow of energy within and around our physical bodies. In My Own Words Science has concluded that the Universe is made of energy, not matter. Matter is made up of atoms (protons, neutrons, electrons), and is still 99.99% empty space.For atoms to make up matter, they need to group together, vibrating at the same resonance, to create a specific something, let's say a liver cell, or a hair follicle, or an oak tree and a carrot. The slower the atoms move, the more dense the object is. Think about the chair you are sitting on, it is literally vibrating, and atoms and molecules are just shaking around, but you wouldn't know it. The lower the frequency, the slower the movement, making the object denser. The earth's frequency is at 7.83 HZ, humans resonate at 9 to 16 HZ while 43000000000000-79000000000000 Hz is the frequency of light!I am going to completely make up the numbers here, but for a point, let's say that liver cells vibrate at a frequency of 12.3 HZ and hair follicles vibrate at a frequency of 15.8 HZ. 3.5 HZ may not seem like a huge difference, but it is a difference enough to create and hold two completely different functions. The only difference between one object and another is its frequency. As humans we have our own specific frequency, like our fingerprint, that is unique to us, it is our own musical note in the symphony of the Universe. How cool is that. Frequency is the language of Universal energy, it is the way it is able to express itself. It's not just Matter that has frequency either; words, thoughts, and emotions all have specific frequencies that reverberate throughout the universe. Have you done the experiment with either a plant or a jar of rice? Play Mozart and whisper sweet nothings to one and it flourishes, play heavy metal and spew hate to the other, and it will die or rot. This can be replicated over and over again because music, words, and intention all have hold frequencies, that when directed at a living organism, can have extreme effects. The Law of Vibration There are 12 Laws of the Universe, which I will cover more in another post, but for now, we will focus on the second law, which states: Everything in this world, whether tangible or intangible, is made up of energy that is vibrating at a specific frequency. Everything is in constant motion, it never rests. Okay, So Now What? Alright, so we are all on the same page that everything is energy and has its specific frequency. So why do we need this frequency medicine? Well because due to our thoughts, emotions, environment, toxins, stress, etc, the frequencies within our body can become distorted. Look at the rice example, the rice is still rice, it's just either rotting or thriving. Let's go back to our made-up liver cell example of 12.3 HZ, which is going to be the optimal frequency for the highest function. As with everything there are shades of gray, when it starts to vibrate at a non resonate frequency, it is going to be lower, slightly off, but not off enough to turn it into a carrot. It could turn into a cancerous cell...they have a lower icky frequency but are energy just the same. In short, everything is energy, so why not address issues at an energetic level? Familiar Frequency Medicine Radiation therapy, X-ray machines, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and PET and CT scans, and ultrasound have all become commonplace and all fundamentally harness the power of different types of waves and their specific frequencies that occur in nature. The science behind these technologies is complex, however, we understand them to be effective and don't really question them, right? Dentists use frequency probes to identify if the nerve of a tooth is dead or alive; chiropractors use frequency to detect the proper alignment of the spinal vertebrae.In fact, the frequency devices designed by Royale Rife, the Rife Machine, and the Timewaver Machine, designed by Marcus Schmieke. are used in hospitals in Europe as a normal part of patient care. "Future Medicine will be the Medicine of Frequencies" As I had been saying frequency medicine is not this new and novel woo-woo idea. Genius's realized this stuff, the minds of Einstein, Nikola Tesla, and Dr.Albert Abrams, Dr. Ruth Drown, Royal Rife, and Dr. Hulda Clark were absolute pioneers in this field of study. I'm going to include a few excerpts from an incredible paper on this topic, Frequency: The Medicine of the Future By Synthia Andrews. If you are looking for a more well-versed than I dive into this, you should absolutely check it out. "It [frequency healing] has identified the signature frequencies of various viruses, bacteria, and diseases along with the signature frequency of healthy organs and tissue. Even thoughts and emotions have been identified. Disease is seen as misinformation; the body has moved away from health because of an error of information. Restoration is achieved through the use of a device that supplies an electric current imprinted with the desired frequency to the body. In theory, the result is restoration of the body’s information system and a return to normal metabolic function." "Optimal health can be supported by providing desired frequency at the desired amplitude. For example, if someone suffers a cold, rather than bombard the body with a frequency to disrupt the virus, a frequency would be supplied that supports the immune system. When the body resonates with this, it creates ideal conditions for health. The use of frequency for healing is the cutting edge of alternative health modalities." Disease is seen as misinformation; the body has moved away from health because of an error of information.The use of frequency for healing is the cutting edge of alternative health modalities. Frequency Medicine Devices When I first share with people about frequency medicine, the first thing I generally ask is if they are familiar with sound baths. Sound baths are these incredible gatherings where you lay and breathe and meditate and let the healing vibrations of the crystal singing bowls, gongs, harps, and other instruments penetrate your being and restore what they can. This is vibrational therapy. People have profound experiences during these sessions and some just feel relaxed and at peace. What's nice about sound baths is that people can hear the frequencies, since they aren't tangible that you can touch or see, but this is a great foundation because people understand the frequency of the music.This is the ultimate gift of frequency medicine, is that it's not BOOM you're better, in some cases, you can have that experience, but really it is working at our core level, our energetic level, the shifts, and releases that happen there will ripple up through every other level of our being. One day, you'll just realize you aren't as heavy, that pain is gone, opportunities have opened up, and you are on a different timeline in your life. The possibilities are truly endless and there are no negative attributes. Frequency Medicine is a non-invasive, drug-free, pain-free, and surgery-free therapy that utilizes vibrational frequencies of the human biofield to bring harmonization and healing to the individual. I have written previous articles about how Healy uses Individualized Microcurrent Frequencies and taps into the Torus Energy Field with the coil attachment. Both of these are helpful to further explore how the frequencies are delivered to your bioenergetic field. Devices such as the Rife and Timewaver machines work largely on the physical body, and you can find practitioners around the globe to work with. These machines are incredibly powerful, and effective. The same man who created Timewaver, Marcus Schmieke, created the Healy with the mission that everyone has access to this technology, and that we can become our own healers. Healy has the ability to scan your bioenergetic field, to let you know what your body needs harmonization in, at that particular moment. You are also free and encouraged to use your intuition on what frequencies to deliver. Let's say we are running a Liver program. This incredible device isn't just sending one frequency, it is sending a package of frequencies specifically chosen to assist the liver. Where do these frequencies come from? Research, science, and a lot of time from a lot of dedicated individuals. If you are looking for more specific information, I suggest reading the books The Resonance Effect by Carolyn McMakin and Vibrational Medicine by Richar Gerber or you can reach out to me and I can send over information! Conclusion I feel like I could keep going on and trying to explain this, but honestly, it could make it more confusing. The premise is simple: We are energetic beings, and frequency medicine interacts with us on an energetic level, using specific vibrational resonances to achieve the desired result of harmonization in our bio(energy) field. This is where science meets spirituality, this is where real healing occurs. Please visit my Frequency Healing with Healy Page to learn more about this life-changing device, and reach out if you would like more information. I'm just one insanely passionate person but am in a community with a large collective of people that offer support, education, invaluable resources, and unbelievable insight. Welcome to the new paradigm, it's freaking awesome here. Love and vibes, ... Read more

Rose Quartz: History, Associations, and Uses

Rose Quartz: History, Associations, and Uses

This post contains affiliate links, if you are drawn to any items I will make a small commission at no cost to you! I feel the love and it is reciprocated. "The rose speaks of love silently, a language known only to the heart" -Author Unknown. This beautiful statement is a gateway to the incredible energy within the Rose Quartz crystal. The rose is associated with love and romance, and our crystal today vibrates with the same frequency of self-love and feminine power. I bought my first tower earlier this year, and it has been such a source of joy, compassion, and reassurance. Something about the weight of it, how it feels in my hand. If ya'll don't have a tower, a highly recommend purchasing one of your favorite crystals. If everyone could intentionally hold a bit of rose quartz in their pocket, the world would soon be shifted out of the state it is in, and into a realm of abundance, pure love, self-confidence and responsibility, and overall harmony. History and Geography Rose Quartz is found in Madagascar, Brazil, India, the United States, and many other places. It is said that the Rose Quartz that comes out of Madagascar is to be the highest vibrational stone and the deepest in color. Rose quartz has been around as early as 7000 BC  in the area once known as Mesopotamia (today’s Iraq). Ancient Roman, Egyptian, and Greek civilizations had their own love affairs with this incredible stone, using it for talismans for protection and the Egyptians believed it helped with anti-aging! I had the opportunity to visit Greece with my son this summer, and every time I learn something more about the ancient Greeks I fall more in love and have a deeper appreciation for my visit. In regards to the rose quartz crystal, there are two stories within Greek mythology that demonstrate how powerful and important this stone was. I'm going to include these from monicavinader.com. ADONIS AND APHRODITE In a classic myth about love and reconciliation, Adonis, god of plants and rebirth, found himself entangled in a love story with Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, who could not bear to be apart from her mortal lover. Her obsession with Adonis enraged her past lover, Ares, god of war, so much so that he sought every opportunity to exact revenge on Adonis for stealing her devotion away from him. In the form of a wild boar in the forest, Ares set out to mortally wound his rival. His actions and Adonis' resulting screams caught the desperate attention of Aphrodite, who, in rushing down from heaven to save him, cut herself on a briar bush. Aphrodite held a dying Adonis in her arms and their blood combined to form anemones in the ground and Rose Quartz gemstones after it stained the white quartz pink. The fusion of their blood led Zeus to show his compassion as he brought Adonis back to Aphrodite for six months a year, leading the Love Stone, Rose Quartz, to become the central symbol of reconciliation and undying love. EROS (CUPID IN ROMAN MYTHOLOGY) Rose Quartz was also part of Eros' story as the god of desire, love and attraction, who is perhaps the most instantly recognisable character in all mythology - he was known as Cupid to the Romans. The myth goes that he brought the pink gemstone down from the heavens (Olympus) to spread love and romance around the mortal world, for it was the Love Stone itself. The romantic qualities of the beautiful pink hue to the stone were thought so powerful that they would inspire love in humankind. Composition and Colors Rose quartz can range from a very light, almost clear, to a dark pink that looks almost purple, which is really spectacular but not to be confused with amethyst. Most rose quartz that you will find will be a variety of blush shades of pink. It is most commonly found in masses, druses, granular structures, grains, veins, and rarely as divine crystal structures. This hue of passion is created by trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, in the material. Associations Rose Quartz is especially powerful in relation to the heart chakra, and also lends its vibrational qualities to the throat chakra. I find this stone to actually help with all the chakras, as it provides a sense of calm, high vibrational love, and balance in whichever chakra you need it for. Venus is the ruling planet for this crystal, as well as for the sign of the Taurus. Since Venus is the planet most aligned with themes of beauty, love, hedonism, and comforts of the heart- it perfectly encapsulates the meaning of the stone. It is also a birthstone for the Libra's who are all about balance, and as stated above, balance is right up rose quartz alley. Healing Properties Oooh let's get into the good stuff! I've never really been much of a pink person, such a tomboy in my younger years, and definitely spent more in my masculine throughout my twenties. Now in my thirties, I am finding my flow, embracing my softer side, and appreciating the gorgeous shades of pink. This is truly a stone that has enhanced my life since getting my first tower. When I'm feeling low, in meditation, in ritual baths, all of it, best believe my rose quartz is in my hand or by my side. Physical Healing Diving into the physical healing aspects of these crystals is so fascinating to me, because we tend to hear mostly about the emotional and metaphysical properties when it comes to the incredible assistance of these gems. The healing powers of crystals come from their specific frequencies, the vibrational magic that they hold within. Rose quartz can be a powerful cellular enhancer, aiding to clear fluid from the cells and promoting the release of impurities and toxins. It has been used for the treatment of vertigo, and disorders of the kidney and adrenal glands, and used to heal burns, especially ones that have may start to blister. The Egyptians used it for its anti-aging properties, and that's also why it is a popular stone you will find on those face rollers. It is said to reduce wrinkles, clear the skin, and provide the wearer with a soft and smooth complexion. When placed on the thymus gland, it provides a calming effect on the lungs and the bronchial tracts, helping to decrease coughs and enhance breathing. Because this crystal has such powerful calming properties, one can wear it or place it near themselves when they are rocking or nursing their child, to help reinforce that motherly bond and soothe upset related to colic or nursing!My son loves to grab this stone and walk around the house with it. It's so cute. Emotional Support Love in all its forms! Self-love, relational love, sexual love, world love, all-encompassing and permeating love. As I'd mentioned before this is my go-to when I'm feeling down on myself, paired with either selenite or smoky quartz. Rose quartz works directly with the heart, softening and opening, healing and revitalizing. Wounds from past loves can find peace and limiting beliefs and false senses of unworthiness are stopped in their tracks. To hold this stone with intention is to allow the light of your divine feminine to shine through the cracks. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety, releasing tension from our bodies. Reflection and healing, it will then bring in excitement! The possibilities of a full and passionate life are at your fingertips, self-confidence and self-compassion are lighting the way with a glorious pink hue. Metaphysical Connections The key word here is connections, as rose quartz fosters authentic connections with ourselves and our higher selves. The divine feminine, the goddess within. Meditating with rose quartz can be particularly powerful for times when you are looking to connect with the cosmic field, as it sets a tone with universal love, making it easier to tap into. This crystal will work directly with your heart, to bring you into alignment with your highest potential. Conclusion Get one of these. As soon as you can if you don't have one. Hah.Really though, as a crystal lover, this is going to be one of your most beautiful and versatile crystals to pull out anytime. Another beautiful piece of the stone's allure is that since it opens the heart, it will create more awareness around the beauty of music, art, and the books you read! You can find it in any shape and size, and the jewelry is particularly powerful. The heart chakra mala by Moxie Mala above is so gorgeous. Throwinstones has some perfectly priced raw pink quartz earrings, beautiful pendants, and many other pieces to welcome into your collection. I didn't much touch on the relationship aspect of this stone, because well it's the stone of love and relationship so that's in there, and because I'm not in a relationship and just focusing on self-love. Hah :) Oh! This will be my last crystal Tuesday for a month. I am going to start featuring essential oils this Tuesday as well! So it will be one crystal and one essential oil per month. Hope you enjoy it! Love and vibes, ... Read more

Camping In November

Camping In November

I'm not entirely sure why I am writing this post, but since it's my blog I can write what I want.  There were other topics I had in mind but didn't really feel right and then as I was tossing and turning until 3AM it came to me that this might be something.  Something personal. Something along the lines of letting go, sadness, courage, and healing. All those autumn things I have been talking about. This weekend I am going camping, for the first time in two years.  I am going with my brother and my son, and we are all super excited. My son is going to LOVE it, as he loves all things outdoors.  The trees will still have their incredibly brilliant fall colors, the weather is supposed to be a high of 70 degrees, and the spot we've found is near a lake with some gorgeous hiking trails!I'm even going to do a cold plunge!  The 4th of July July 4th, 2020 was the date of my last camping weekend.  It was in Flagstaff Arizona. Bear with me here as I'm not sure how all this is going to come out. I was camping with Rick.  Rick was my soul mate, my twin flame, my Texas ginger.  We were also fire and gasoline, we broke each other's hearts more than once, and we couldn't stay away. We met on July 4th, 2015.  We had slightly crossed paths before that at the bar where I worked, but it was that night that fate had it we would interact, and holy moly, talk about fireworks.   For the next five years, except for 2019, we would spend the 4th of July together, even if we weren't together in a relationship. We weren't together in 2020, I had come back to Arizona after spending the covid months going from Colorado to Wisconsin and made my way back to Arizona after finding out I was pregnant. Camping was our thing, I can't say how many miles in the high and low deserts of Arizona we backpacked, how many campfire meals we enjoyed, how many times we almost ran out of water, how many times we stared at the stars in absolute bliss.  He bought me my Kelty Coyote backpack for our first Christmas and really taught me how to backpack, and how to see the vast and incredible beauty of the desert.  He had a degree in Biology, and he knew the plants and the birds, the fish and animals, and how to survive a few days with damn near nothing.   He was one of the most intelligent people I've ever met and loved to share and point out all the beautiful things.  I can't tell you how many books I have on Arizona wildlife, birds, more birds, and plants I have from being inspired by him.  We camped on beaches, we camped in the cold, we camped in the rain, and we camped any time we could get away.  We had our first Campsgiving that 2015 in southern Arizona, it was our first weekend getaway together.  It was so beautiful, and if I remember correctly we definitely saw some UFO-type light phenomenon.  We hiked around for miles with my dog and were exhausted by the time we got back to make dinner.  Moose didn't even get up to eat for a few hours, haha. We climbed Mount Whitney in California, the tallest peak in the 48 states!  That was such an incredible and challenging experience.  Have you ever been above the treeline?  Had marmots come up to your camp?  Walked 99 switchbacks while carrying everything you had?  We had camped one night, then spent one night at the base to acclimate to the altitude, then one night up the mountain, before spending two more nights by the same incredible lake that we stayed at the first night.  I can't even describe how beautiful and grungy we felt. July 18th 2020 July 18th, 2020 Rick took his life. Time and Fate If I had not been pregnant with my son, I don't think I would have made it through. I believe with 100% of my being that a fragment of Rick's soul resides within my son.  While I will never understand it, there has been peace found through my spiritual journey.  This man made me who I am today, through the best and the worst of it, through the pain and the ecstasy.  In the story of Time and Fate, Time will always be there, for Fate to come around again.   "Come To The Woods, For Here Is Rest" Quote by John Muir.854 days.  It is time to get back outside.  Honestly, I've been scared, knowing how nature will bring out the raw.   I will embody the courage to set up my tent, light a fire, to breathe in the air of the woods.  I will relish in the joy of watching my son explore and hike, pick up sticks, and say "fi-yur" probably 100 times. I will feel the emotion, I will once again cry and probably ask again why. I'm going to feel him, we're going to chat, and I know that he will know just how to answer back.  Through a sudden slight breeze, by the jump of a fish, the singing of a bird, by the magic of a shooting star.   This was the last photo I took of him. November 5th 2022 I think I needed to write this post to help prepare myself for the reality of the emotions that are at play here.  Becoming aware of these feelings will serve me, feeling everything will help me to heal.  I've always been one to shove feelings away, maybe feel them intensely for a while(in this case it was a long while, I was extremely depressed through most of my pregnancy), but then put the cork on it, even though there is always that pressure. I need to let that pressure out.  However, it comes.  We set up camp last night and have had a glorious morning. Atlas already did a half cold plunge, haha. Can I tell you what I feel? It's not overwhelming sadness, it's not a painful recollection of memories. It's love. It's a permeating sense of home and freedom.  Rick instilled in me a deeper love and appreciation for the outdoors, and being back out in nature like this...I can't quite put the words on it. I'm going to be present now.  Thanks for reading. Have a beautiful weekend. November 6th (edit) I am now home from camping and I wanted to add some reflections as a follow-up to this post. I saw two snakes, tiny little frogs, a hawk, geese, and playful squirrels, and also heard a fish jump. The snakes were very surprising, a long black one halfway down towards the water and then a pretty little green one on the trail. The falling leaves were absolutely gorgeous and they would at times just rain down, it was incredible. The moon was almost full and had a pleasant glow through the trees.I did do my cold plunge! Two minutes in the lake, which really wasn't as cold as I was expecting, but I mean yeah still cold. Breathed through it and just enjoyed that sensation, getting out I felt so refreshed, renewed, and lighter. There was sadness, there was release, there was hope, and a restored vitality in this camping trip. Where I thought there would be more pain, there was more reflection on gratitude, and appreciation for the moment here and now. I honestly give my Healy device a lot of credit for helping me work through and let go of some of the energy I've been holding onto. There will always be a scar from Rick's death, he will never be forgotten, and I will miss him until the day we meet again. Now, however, there is such a deeper appreciation for the gift of time that we had, the impact our time had on who I am, the memories of pure love and excitement, and the knowing that I can still connect with him, his presence is never far away. Love and vibes, ... Read more

ASEA Glow Serum- Ingredient Breakdown

ASEA Glow Serum- Ingredient Breakdown

Welcome to segment three of the ASEA skincare line ingredient breakdown! This week we will go over the Glow Serum, and I finally have been using all the products for a few days at this point!It's been totally new for me to actually use a skincare line every day, and I'm starting to enjoy the ritual and habit of it. I have been using it before bed, to do its magic overnight after removing the makeup (maybe) and dirt(definitely) from the day. Powered By Redox Skincare So let's just do a quick recap on why these products are AMAZING and what Powered by Redox, means: ASEA’s Powered by Redox formulas leverage the same redox principles our proprietary cell signaling technology is built on. However, instead of creating new redox molecules we specifically select pre-existing ingredients thatsupport your skin’s natural redox homeostasis—leaving you with hydrated, nourished, ageless, better-than-ever skin. For more information on Redox Molecules, check out my post Molecules, Redox Molecules, which will help if you aren't familiar with the term or the powerhouse molecules within our bodies. This is important because this is not just another set of products with who knows what, sold with advertising gimmicks by celebrities who don't even use the product. These products have been designed with the most impactful, safe, and skin-affirming ingredients, so you can feel good about what you are putting on the largest organ of your body! RENU Advanced® Glow Serum Straight from the product description: Luminous and radiant skin is all about finding balance, and our RENUAdvanced Glow Serum is here to help. By supporting your skin’s natural protective barriers, it’s able to adapt to challenges and everyday stressors without skipping a beat. Be ready to put your best face forward, no matter what comes your way.• Supports skin protective barrier from daily environmental assaultsfor radiant skin.• Helps to even out visible photoaged skin tones.• Helps to re-energize and calm your skin for a radiant appearance.• Get immediate hydration and long-lasting results Ingredients:Aqua/Water/Eau, Niacinamide, Annona Cherimola Fruit Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria)Flower Extract, Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-2, Phenoxyethanol, Propanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Betaine, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose Stearoxy Ether, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract, Inula Helenium Extract. Aqua/Water/Eau is a pretty safe first ingredient. Niacinamide is a form of vitimin B3. It helps build cells in the skin while also protecting them from environmental stresses, such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins. This ingredient is also shown to reduce dark spots, reduce pore size, and leave the skin glowing. Skincare at a cellular level! Annona Cherimola Fruit Extract or "custard apple" is a green, cone-shaped tropical fruit with scaly skin and creamy, sweet flesh. This ingredient aids skin cells in fighting oxidative stress. It is a calming adaptogenic extract that helps establish healthy skin homeostasis, reducing inflammation, redness, and sensitivity. Pentylene Glycol is a synthetic, low molecular weight solvent and skin-conditioning agent. A multi-functional, silky smooth feeling helper ingredient that is used as an emulsion stabilizer, solvent, and a broad spectrum antimicrobial.This ingredient is lab-derived, however, it is actually naturally occurring in some plants, such as sugar beets and corn cobs. Glycerin is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, but I will note that this product is free from any animal-based ingredients, so this glycerin is from a vegetable source. Glycerin is a humectant, a type of moisturizing agent that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin from deeper levels of your skin and the air.It may also help provide protection against various skin irritants, in addition to helping speed up the wound-healing process. It replenishes and restores skin so that the natural moisture barrier is strengthened and revitalized. Butylene Glycol is a small organic alcohol used as solvent and conditioning agent. This ingredient keeps the other ingredients in cosmetics spread out and in their desired state for use. While it’s a type of alcohol, it doesn’t typically irritate or dry out skin, and is actually used for those with dry skin. Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate is used to stabilize the formulation to ensure its shelf life and also the efficacy of the product. It is able to suspend ingredients in the formulation and also thicken the product. I really couldn't find too much on what it was however it is approved as safe by SafeSkinProducts.com. Sodium Hyaluronate is an ingredient that’s extracted from Hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a substance that naturally occurs in your body, including your skin and joint fluid. This ingredient has a low molecular weight, allowing it to pass into the lower layers of skin and improve the skin's hydration at a deeper level. Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate is also called Super Hyaluronic Acid, is derived by synthesizing the natural moisturizing factor in Hyaluronic Acid. It has a fresh and not-sticky feeling that can provide wonderful moisturization, repair the skin barrier, improve skin elasticity, and leave skin smooth. This ingredient has been proven to improve skin elasticity after four weeks of use. Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract is extracted from chamomile! We love chamomile. It is used for it's anti-inflammatory and skin soothing effects, this is powered by redox skincare! Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-2 helps to even out skin tones that are visibly photoaged. Not a whole lot to be found here. Phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative in cosmetic products and also as a stabilizer in perfumes and soaps. The amount of this ingredient within the product is well within the safe range, under 0.5%. This ingredient can be known to cause skin irritation and is not suggested to be ingested, however for these effects to occur, the dosage would have to be much higher. This ingredient limits the potential growth of any bacteria in the product. Propanediol is known as the do-gooder overachiever in the skincare world. This ingredient is a safe replacement for the toxic propylene glycol. Derived from corn sugar instead of petrochemicals, it works as a solvent, humectant, and emollient. This ingredient is great for those with sensitive skin, especially those with acne. Caprylyl Glycol as described by New York City dermatologist Dr. Hadley King explains: “Caprylyl glycol is an alcohol derived from caprylic acid —a fatty acid found in the milk of some mammals, as well as palm and coconut oils.” It is a humectant, so it is designed to hydrate the skin, even as a type of alcohol, it is not the type that dries out your skin, really it does the opposite. Hexylene Glycol is a solvent that produces smooth spreadability and pleasing skin care textures, also helping to thin out products that may be heavier in viscosity. It is commonly used with the preservative Phenoxyethanol, as it helps to increase the efficacy of the product so that both of less can be used. Ethylhexylglycerin is a glyceryl ether used as a weak preservative and skin conditioning agent. Not a huge fan of this ingredient. I'm going to send an email. Betaine is an extract from sugar beets via liquid chromatographic separation from sugar beet molasses, then refined and crystallized for use. Betaine is naturally occurring within the body as well, acting as a powerhouse for moisturization, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and that light breezy soothed feeling. It has antistatic properties, can act as a humectant, and controls viscosity. Given that betaine naturally occurs in the body, it is a non-irritating, safe ingredient to help improve the condition of the skin! Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is used in amounts up to 1% to boost the effectiveness of other preservatives, allowing for the use of lower amounts than is typical without compromising effectiveness. Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose Stearoxy Ether- is a viscosity-controlling agent. Pretty much all I can find there. Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract also known as snow mushroom, is a plant extract that is a rich source of polysaccharides and has shown an ability to help hydrate skin by binding moisture to its surface. A great natural anti-aging ingredient. Legend has it, imperial Concubine Yang Kuei-fei - the most beautiful woman in Chinese history - used it for her facial care. (Shown on right) Inula Helenium Extract is also known as elecampane or elfwort (looks like a dandelion, but isn't), has been applied in herbal medicine against respiratory and digestive disorders, and for wound healing for hundreds of years.  The potential of the botanical active is to protect skin against environmental pollutants including smoke contamination and, in turn, reduce TEWL, mitigating signs of aging—i.e., wrinkles and elasticity, and lightening skin tone. (Shown on left) Product Conclusion And here we have the statistics based on a four-week study!Not too bad of numbers! I am happy with this product. I enjoy the way it feels, and the way it makes my skin feel. I have only been using this product for a few days now. I am not super impressed with the ingredients on this one, as I just think some of them are a little excessive, and I wish to know the amounts used or the reasoning behind it. But I'm not a scientist or a dermatologist, and I trust in the company, and they are definitely doing good things and have incredible products. Don't think for a moment otherwise. Make sure to check out the previous posts, ASEA Foaming Cleanser, and ASEA Balancing Toner! Two weeks from today will be the final product review/ingredient breakdown! Love and vibes, ... Read more

7 Pungent Spices For Fall

7 Pungent Spices For Fall

This post contains affiliate links, when you purchase something from any of these incredible, hand-selected companies, I receive a small commission at no cost to you. Enjoy! Fall spices! Probably one of the most sensational seasons for spices, and I am not even going to talk about pumpkin spice! Haha. In honor of the autumn season, we will look at my seven of the top pungent spices for fall, how they benefit your health, fun facts, and personal anecdotes! Pungent: having a sharply strong taste or smell Pungent foods and spices are powerful movers. Their scents, temperatures, and flavors promote circulation and break up stagnation in the body.  If you haven't read my post Holistic Health For Fall, I recommend taking a look to learn more about the autumn season, and the element, organs, and emotions associated with it. Let's get cookin! Turmeric Ah, turmeric. The spice that will stain everything you have and has been all the rage the last few years it seems. For good reason, I mean it is an incredibly powerful healing and palate-pleasing spice. It originates from the Curcuma longa plant, a species of ginger native to Southeast Asia. Turmeric root powder contains roughly 3.14% curcumin, which is why the spice is yellow and has outstanding anti-inflammatory properties that it does. In relation to our fall season, the color is not only appealing but also how it interacts with our fall organs, the lungs, and the large intestine. Tumeric helps to balance the nasal passages and respiratory system and promotes healthy digestion. You can use turmeric in so many ways in cooking, and also in taking supplements. I use Rose Mountain Herbs for many of my spice and herbal products, and they have a delightful range of turmeric products from the spice, to capsules, to essential oil!Khroma Herbal Products has a liquid supplement, Organic Tumeric and Black Pepper, that is a must-have for fall health.VAHDAM Teas has an extensive line of delicious Turmeric lattes that are incredible to add to your fall drink rotation. Sorry pumpkin spice latte, you're out. OH! Important note! Turmeric is 2000% more effective and available to the body when paired with pepper! Which is our next pungent spice. Peppercorn Pepper! This is my favorite spice, sorry salt, I choose pepper. Yes, I know salt isn't a technical spice but you get what I'm getting at. Have you guys seen what an actual pepper plant looks like? Take a look, it's incredible. There is so much more variety than just the traditional ground black pepper, which truly pales in comparison both in flavor and aroma compared to whole or fresh peppercorn.  Famously called the ‘king of spices’, black pepper has been used in Ayurveda, Sidha, and Unani-the traditional Indian systems of medicine, for thousands of years for its various medicinal properties. Piperine, a natural alkaloid, is the component that gives the spice its pungent taste and smorgasbord of health benefits.Pepper plays an important part in healthy digestion, from the moment that it touches your tongue, signaling the digestive tract to prepare for the job at hand. It is a warming spice, and including it on dishes when you are feeling chilled, it signals the body to warm from a cellular level. Again, Rose Mountain Herbs is my go-to here, you have to check out their selection. Trying new varieties will really expand your favorite dishes, play with pepper! Cinnamon Cinnamon and I have had a funny relationship. When I was a kid, I LOVED cinnamon. Have you ever taken a flour tortilla, spread some butter inside, then sprinkle sugar and cinnamon in there, rolled it up, and popped it in the microwave for a few seconds? No?! Go ahead and try it, I'll wait. Delicious right! Yeah, a little too good. I didn't eat cinnamon again until my late twenties... With the passage of this much time, I am now rekindling my relationship with this delectable spice.  Ayurveda considers cinnamon to be a vehicle of warmth and balanced stimulation for sex drive, circulation, mood, and digestion. Cinnamon is considered a staple fall spice, and that is not just coincidental or by happenstance. Staying true to the Lungs and Large Intestine, Cinnamomum Verum, promote clear respiratory passages, and stimulates proper digestive function. The Art of Tea has some to-die-for fall loose-leaf tea blends with cinnamon, from Cinnamon Fig blend, White Winter Chai, and yes, even a Pumpkin Spice Chai. Now that the days are getting cooler, I will take a cup with some maple syrup and cinnamon down when I milk my cow. Milk her right into my cup. I'd say it beats cinnamon and sugar tortillas! Coriander Fun fact, coriander, and cilantro are the same herb. The stalks and leaves are referred to as cilantro, and the seeds are coriander. The names can vary depending on which part of the world you are in, and I'm even slightly confused by them. The main point is that coriander is an incredibly little pungent, warm, and full-tasting seed. You can use the leaves and stems of coriander as well, but the seeds are where the punch is packed. In history references to coriander can be found in Sanskrit writings, and the seeds were placed in Egyptian tombs. Coriander seeds have a pleasing lemony flavor and floral aroma, and pair extremely well with curries. I also put coriander seeds in my brine when making homemade pickles! Since the seeds have a warm quality, they may help to gently stimulate appetite, assimilate nutrients, and aid in the elimination of natural toxins. Letting go of that which no longer serves! Coriander may also benefit the urinary system and the lungs by helping to clear heat and mucous, respectively.Coriander pairs beautifully with chicken, curries, rice, soups, bread, and anything else you want to add a warm smooth kick! Mountain Rose Herbs is again my go-to for whole seeds, powder, and Coriander essential oil. You can purchase coriander at pretty much any store, just a reminder to buy organic and be conscious of where you spend your dollars. Sage Sage or Sarsaparilla Salvia, derives from the Latin salvere ("to save"), referring to the long-held belief in the herb's healing properties. I believe this is a highly undervalued plant. Personally, I am sensitive to the taste of sage, I enjoy it but it has to be very lightly used. The aroma, however, mmm, I can smell sage all day. Since this blog tends to talk about the spiritual sides to things, I want to note that garden sages (S. OFFICINALIS & S. APIANA) are not the same sage used for smudging. I came across a medieval saying doing research on this herb. "Why should a man die when sage grows in his garden?" This speaks volumes to the diverse effects that it has in regard to our health, from menstrual issues, migraines, excessive sweating, arthritic pains, and list goes on. Sage is one of the ingredients in my favorite ASEA drink powder, called Mind, as it sage enables us to stay more mentally alert, enhancing both memory and concentration. Staying true to our autumn theme, (really if you haven't checked out Holistic Health for Fall, you should), this sensational herb knows just how to support the lungs and large intestine. It will help to soothe a sore throat, and is a natural astringent, making it a must for those swollen lymph glands we tend to get when sick. In Chinese medicine, sage is known to "dispel wind damp cold" and helps to rid the "lung phlegm damp". Sage essential oil (applied externaly) is a champion at breaking up and thinning excess mucus so that you can return to normal breathing!Sage lends a hand to break up foods high in fat content so that they can move more readily through our digestive tract as well. Sage can be used fresh or dried in cooking, teas, tinctures, or through your olfactory senses. Khroma Herbal Products has an Organic Sage Liquid Supplement that is a beautiful way to get an extra dose of all sages phenomenal benefits. They have multiple blends that incorporate a few of the spices listed here, super phenomenal company and product, you should really take a look, for your Christmas list maybe?! Thyme Thyme is a kitchen cupboard staple and has been for hundreds of years. It has also been a medicine cabinet staple for hundreds of years. The smell of thyme always reminds me of chicken, but that's just me. Thymus Vulgaris is an herb native to southern Europe (think Mediterranean) but grows well almost anywhere in the world. Thyme has had an incredible role throughout history. The Egyptians used it to embalm their dead, and the Romans threw thyme on their floors to deter venomous creatures. The Benedictine monks added Thyme to their elixirs for its health-supportive benefits. In the Greek language, thymon means “fumigate,” thymos pertains to either “smoke” or “spirit” and thumus means “courage.” During the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans, it was used for medicinal to metaphysical to even to spiritual uses. This potent herb is rich in plant phenols, thymol, and carvacrol — active antimicrobial agents that, like sage, help to thin mucus and fight bacteria in the bronchial tract. Using thyme essential oil is powerful for joint pain relief and was used in wars to medicate bandages! The thymol stimulates contractions of smooth muscle tissue along the digestive tract, to keep food from sitting too long and becoming blocked. It is a powerful and pleasant herb for easing stomach cramps, indigestion, bloating, and gas.Thyme contains many essential vitamins and nutrients as well: Calcium, Iron, Manganese, Magnesium, Potassium, Selenium, Vitamin-A, Vitamin-K, Vitamin-E, and Vitamin-C. Whether you are using it on chicken, in potatoes, as tea, or in a soothing bath or massage, thyme is sure to keep you feeling your best. Peppermint Peppermint is one of my all-time favorite herbs! Peppermint tea, peppermint essential oil, peppermint candy, peppermint chocolate, peppermint scented things(natural of course). I have a mint plant in my garden and this summer my son would watch me just pick a leaf and chew on it, and so after a while, he started picking leaves to then come and put in my mouth. He's so freaking adorable. I grew up with peppermint tea and essential oil, my mom gave them to us for headaches, tummy aches, and fatigue. She would always put a drop on the back of her hand and lick it for a breath freshener. She still does that to this day, it's always in her purse. While you may think of peppermint as more of a winter spice, it has its place in the pungent category of autumn, it is just considered a cooling pungent. Peppermint is highly regarded as a digestive aid, helping to soothe upset stomach or nausea, I leaned heavily on this during my first trimester of pregnancy. Drinking peppermint tea hot will help to release toxins and boost the immune system. With its aromatic smell, delicious taste, and incredible properties, peppermint tea is a must for clearing all types of stagnation, from digestive, respiratory, and even emotional stagnation. The Art of Tea has a lovely variety of mint teas to suit your fancy, from Morrocan Mint, to Dark Chocolate Mint, to a Big Sur Mint Earl Grey Crème! With so many positive attributes, I never leave home without my peppermint. I got it from my mama. Spicy Conclusion These posts just keep getting longer and longer as I continue to write, and I love it!I sincerely hope you learned something here, and are inspired to try different ways to incorporate these seven pungent spices into your holistic autumn kitchen/medicine cabinet. Variety is the spice of life they say! I would love to hear some of your favorite recipes, teas, or uses for any of these spices! Or if you have one that you use! Love and vibes, ... Read more