by Leslie Moldenauer | | Uncategorized
Am I happy? Do I follow my bliss? What is my path in life? These are just a few of the many questions that we ask ourselves on a daily basis. Some of us look into the future for our happiness….once I land my perfect job I will be happy. When I move to ____ I will be happy. When I retire I will be happy. When I pay off my debt, then I will truly be happy.
Why not be happy right now?
Happiness is not something that we “find” in the outside world. Happiness is found within ourselves. That may sound strange to you, or something you have heard hundreds of times, but sit and really think about that. Happiness should be found from within. If you think someone else is going to do it for you, you are wasting your precious time. The more you focus on things that are abundant in your life, the more you place focus on things you are grateful for, the more of it you will find. This I promise you.
Stop saying yes!
One of the main sources of unhappiness is the constant over-scheduling of our lives. How many times have you thought to yourself…if only I had more time for me! Why don’t you? Do you over schedule yourself? Say yes when you really want to say no? Spend most of your time doing things for other people? I still fall back into this habit having two boys under 10, but more often than not, I make sure to carve time out just for me, and happiness begins to creep in.
Wouldn’t it be great to say, “I am sorry, but I can’t fit that into my schedule.”
Make a list
One of my first mentor’s Dr. Deb Kern taught me to do things that make me happy. Sounds simple right? For many people it isn’t. Most mom’s are martyr’s and the first thing that may come to mind are things like spending more time with your kids, or doing things for them, seeing them smile, etc. These are NOT the kind of things I am talking about. The things that make you happy have to have NOTHING to do with another person. This is ALL about YOU.
Grab a piece of paper and a pencil. Make sure you are alone so you can have some real time to think. I want you to write a list of pleasures. Don’t leave anything out. What do you like to do? What makes you happy? What are your talents? What is something that you used to love to do only you feel you have no time for it anymore…write that down! Pleasures should include your deepest desires. Ones that may make you blush if someone else read your list. Do not leave anything out. The list may be hard to write at first, but don’t give up!
Now sit back and read what you wrote. How many things on your pleasures list do you do everyday? None? One? Many?
My list
I found when I first made my list that I barely touched any of those things in a weeks time, or even a month! It was truly a shocking realization for me. I stared at my list and thought, where did I go wrong? When did I stop doing these things? I make sure to revisit the list often to check in with myself and make sure that I am staying on track. I know exactly where my list is at all times, because the more I do these things the more I find that I love and have to add to my list! I make sure to do at least 3 of these things every day.
I will give you a few examples of how I make that work.
*I love to write and can sit for hours at a time..but I am always sure to take breaks for a few pleasures. I get up from my desk at least once an hour and dance. Unbridled, do not care who sees me dancing. I have a favorites play list on YouTube and I move my body to songs that stir up real feelings within me. Songs that can easily make me laugh or bring me to happy tears, songs that help to me to truly find release. I sing…loudly. When I sit back down I feel amazing!
*I take aromatic baths a few times a week. I lock the door so my boys can’t come in and ask me for the million things that kids do the moment mom steps in the bathroom.
*I sit in the sun of a window (since it is winter), or on my deck in the summer and do my yoga and meditation practice. (Vitamin D is great for you too!)
My list is over 50 pleasures strong. Your first list may only have a dozen things, and that is ok. I guarantee your list will grow the more you practice.
Develop a mindset that is focused on finding and following your bliss. This means allowing time and energy to explore different things. Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone. At least a little bit. What humbles you? bringing you to your knees? What do you stand gaping, open-mouthed in awe of? Who do you love impossibly and with every inch of possibility? …is it Art? Painting? Singing? Dancing? Writing? Gardening? Cooking? What would you do even if you weren’t getting paid for it? Think about it….then do it. You can’t “find your bliss” by doing the day to day routing with no changes..no excitement. No excuses, do not say I will start tomorrow or I do not have time. Make the time!
Yes you can!
The first step is to be willing to make a change. When you are constantly worried or “stressed out”, this is not only the energy you are living in, but the energy you attract. You make bad decisions from a stressed state, “I can’t”, “I won’t”, or worse, say yes when you really can’t afford to.
Once you begin to focus on your pleasures list you will find that you can make decisions using your heart and your body, not your brain or your ego. Your heart wants the best for you; your ego operates from an entirely different place.
Get in touch with your heart
You will see once you begin thinking more about yourself, and doing things that make you happy, that you become centered and more peaceful. When working from this quieter place, you can make better decisions for your greater good. You will begin to say yes because you really want to, and no when you need to.
“Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.”-Joseph Campbell
It is time!
Most of all if you are unhappy in a situation change it. I realize some things can’t happen overnight, but they can be done. I have had the pleasure of hearing stories of people selling everything they own….down to towels and sheets and moving across country, children in tow to start a new life. People quitting their job because it was not their life calling to start a whole new venture, no promises, no guarantees and been happier than ever before. Going back to school in their 40’s to start a whole new career. Leaving their husband of years without a career of their own, but needed to stand on their own two feet. I have heard story upon story of brave souls who made the change, who took that first scary step into the abyss…..to be happier than ever. You can do it too.
“Nothing is more important than reconnecting with your bliss. Nothing is as rich. Nothing is more real.” –Deepak Chopra
It is never too late to turn things around. ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
by Leslie Moldenauer | | Herbs
Guest blog by: Elizabeth Russell M. Ed, HHP, NPM, HRM of Lizbeth Botanicals
Staying healthy in the winter can often seem like a challenge. We are under a constant barrage of cold and flu viruses, temperature extremes, and even poor holiday eating habits, which can lower our resistance and lead to uncomfortable symptoms.
Remember, it is recommended that you consult with your primary healthcare professional, rather than self-diagnosing, because sometimes we need that medical expertise. From there, however, you can choose to use herbs to help maintain your winter health.
A few well-known popular herbs for winter health include echinacea Echinacea officinalis and elderberry Sambucus nigra for boosting the immune system, peppermint Mentha piperita and spearmint Mentha spicata are great for stomach upsets, and nettles Urtica dioica for allergies.
However, there are many other useful herbs, some of them easily obtainable from your own backyard or nearby field. Here is a quick view of some often “unsung herbal heroes”:
Juniper berry Juniperus communis
Juniper berry Juniperus communis is a small, bluish berry that grows on the evergreen juniper bush. The berries can be harvested and are generally dried before use. This bush is often used in landscaping, so be careful when harvesting to make sure no pesticides have been used.
These berries can be dried and used as a pepper substitute or roasted and used as a coffee substitute. Adding a few berries to wintertime dishes gives a lovely seasonal flavor. In case the flavor seems familiar, Juniper is often used as a base for gin or other liquors.
Juniper berries contain useful substances such as vitamin C, tannic acid, volatile oil and resin. Juniper berry may be helpful for inflammatory conditions, and reducing infection (both bacterial and viral). This small, yet tasty, berry is considered antiseptic, anti-viral, diuretic, and stomachic, which makes it helpful with infection, fluid retention and stomach issues. A positive aspect of juniper’s diuretic action is that it does not decrease the electrolyte levels in the body, even while increasing fluid output.
Cautions state to avoid using for too long, or with blood pressure, blood sugar or kidney issues, as it can make problems worse. It should not be used with seizure disorders. As an emmenagogue, it works on female reproductive organs, so use during pregnancy and nursing is not recommended, in amounts greater than what is found in food.
Sumac Rhus typhina
Sumac Rhus typhina, also known as Staghorn sumac, is one of the best wild antioxidants. It is considered by Native Americans to be a sacred and healing tree. The seeds, bark, and roots can all be eaten, although it’s the seeds that are most beneficial during the winter with their high vitamin C content.
The bark and roots are astringent, diuretic, tonic and refrigerant, making it good for getting rid of excess fluid, toning the body systems, and combating fever. This wonderful plant promotes healing, both internally and externally. Gathered in the spring, young shoots can be eaten or dried. Roots and fruit (berries) are gathered in the fall and can be dried. The berries can also be used fresh, to make a lemonade-type beverage, hot “tea” or even a jelly that is high in vitamin C.
Like juniper berry, sumac is also an emmenagogue herb, so use during pregnancy and nursing should be avoided. In addition, sumac can have an effect on blood sugar levels, so caution is indicated with consuming large quantities.
White pine Pinus strobus
White pine Pinus strobus, is another wild plant that is known for its high levels of vitamin C, and has a great many benefits, among which are its demulcent, expectorant and antiseptic actions. These make it very helpful with respiratory complaints such as coughs and bronchitis, as it will help soothe membranes, release phlegm and kill infection. A steam inhalation is one of the best methods used with the upper respiratory tract.
The antiseptic action of the sap (or a pine salve) is helpful with many skin issues, including cuts, scrapes, and burns. As a tea, pine can be beneficial for problems with the kidneys and bladder, due to its diuretic action.
Food options for white pine include making a tea from the fresh needles and a type of “gum” from the sap. The seeds can be used as a flavoring for cooked foods, and young shoots can be used to make a type of candy.
Staying healthy in the winter months doesn’t have to be boring or taste bad. And it doesn’t have to be limited to teas, syrups and lozenges, either! Being able to diversify the herbs we use helps keep us healthier by not overusing the same ones. Being able to harvest from your own backyard is also a bonus.
Stay healthy and herb wisely!
Elizabeth Russell, M. Ed, HHP, NPM, HRM is an Intuitive Wellness Coach, Herbalist, Reiki Master, Meditation Instructor, and Artist. She graduated with Honors from the American College of Healthcare Sciences with certifications in Holistic Health Practice, Natural products Manufacturing, and Herbal Retail Management. She is founder and owner of Lizbeth’s Botanicals an all-natural bodycare product line.
You can find her on Etsy, Instagram and Facebook at Lizbeth’s Botanicals.
www.lizbethsbotanicals.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/LizbethsBotanicals
www.instagram.com/lizbethsbotanicals
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
Reference List
A modern herbal | Juniper berries. (n.d.). Retrieved 24 November 2015, from https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/j/junipe11.html
A modern herbal | pine, white. (n.d.). Retrieved 24 November 2015, from https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/pinewh36.html
Jackson, D., & Bergeron, K. (2000). Wild Sumach herbal and edible use. Retrieved 24 November 2015, from http://altnature.com/gallery/sumach.htm
Juniper benefits & information. (n.d.). Retrieved 24 November 2015, from http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-juniper.html
Juniper berries: Benefits: Detoxification benefits. (n.d.). Retrieved 24 November 2015, from http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail30.php
Pinus strobus white pine, eastern white pine PFAF plant database. (n.d.). Retrieved 24 November 2015, from http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pinus+strobus
Vertolli, M. (2015). Staghorn sumac. Retrieved 24 November 2015, from http://www.vitalitymagazine.com/article/staghorn-sumac/#sthash.zyE5mZxP.dpuf
Weed, S. (2007). Pine keeps you fine – Susun weed herbal medicine articles on women’s health: Menopause, fertility, breast cancer / breast health, and much more.. Retrieved 24 November 2015, from http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Pine-Keeps-You-Fine.htm
Resources (weblinks):
http://altnature.com/gallery/sumach.htm
http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail30.php
https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/j/junipe11.html
https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/pinewh36.html
http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-juniper.html
http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pinus+strobus
http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Pine-Keeps-You-Fine.htm
http://www.vitalitymagazine.com/article/staghorn-sumac/#sthash.zyE5mZxP.dpuf
Photo Credits
Juniper berry photo credit:http://www.flickr.com/photos/53197974@N05/11333256495
Sumac photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/66762373@N04/22597699277
White Pine Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/50697352@N00/8012971212
by Leslie Moldenauer | | Body, Essential Oils
Do you have dry skin? Do you like massages? Do you use essential oils? Then you should familiarize yourself with the many carrier oils at your disposal. Carrier oils are fixed oils. They are pressed from the fatty portions of a plant (seeds, nuts, kernels) and unlike essential oils can go rancid over time. They nourish the skin as they have many nutrients and fatty acids, and they are essential to use when using essential oils for topical application.
Some carrier oils are odorless, light and penetrate the skin quickly while others can be overwhelming in an aromatherapy blend and leave an oily residue on the skin.
It is important to know the shelf life of your carrier oil and remember to always store in a dark cool spot.
Part II
Most everyone has a favorite carrier oil. Which one to use will depend on what you are trying to accomplish. I could not possibly pick just one, or even three favorites. I have at least 50% of these carrier oils at my disposal, and the more you use them the easier it will be to instinctively know which one to grab when making a product.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact me. I am happy to help!
If you are interested in purchasing a carrier oil to try, Mountain Rose Herbs has a large variety of carrier oils, as well as essential oils, herbs and more. (Carrier oils are under ingredients) Click here to be redirected.
**Please note this is a affiliate link. I have chosen only Mountain Rose Herbs to be an affiliate as I stand behind their phenomenal products. For those unfamiliar…rest assured you will not pay any more for your product by using this link.
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
Additional Resources/Recommendations
The Aromatherapy Beauty Guide by: Danielle Sade
Power of the Seed by: Susan Parker
Liquid Sunshine by: Jan Kusmirek