Welcome to the latest edition of Igniting Your Dynamic Self with Wendy Bjork. As an international bestselling author, inspirational speaker and guide to others, as well as founder of heartsofwellness.com, it is my mission to help others make forward progress towards living their best lives!
It’s amazing how our kids make us step outside of our comfort zones. If my son hadn’t missed several weeks of school when he was in 3rd grade, I may not have delved into the world of plant essential oils, which are a very ancient medicine that has been pushed aside.
When the principal called me into his office to remind me of school policy which required a doctor’s note for absences, it made me mad. I am the mom, I know when my kid is getting sick, and if I want to keep him home to prevent the rest of his class from getting sick, shouldn’t this be a high five instead of a punishment?
I had been following a slightly holistic path with my boys, but once I realized the ancient benefits of essential oils, I went in deeper. Yes, Western medicine is miraculous in saving lives, but what if we could be more proactive?
Part of the problem is there is so much conflicting information out there and so many rabbit holes to become trapped in.
There are over 500 mentions of essential oils in the Bible. We have all heard of frankincense, myrrh, and cypress. In addition, lavender, cedarwood, cassia, hyssop, lemon and so many more.
One drop is all we might need to benefit our body. Or a few drops in a diffuser. Which is not a new idea either, ancient versions of diffusers have been found dating back 5,000 years. If it worked for people that lived 5,000 years ago, it’s worth trying in my house too. Not only for my kids but for my own health issues.
The Benefits of Essential Oils
Essential oils are powerful, fragrant extracts from certain plants that have been used for thousands of years for their healing and therapeutic properties. They are found in lotions, household cleaners, massage treatments and more. Proponents claim that they can do everything from reduce anxiety and depression to soothe a headache and help with insomnia. Some even claim they can ward off illness and boost immunity. While more research is needed to support many of these claims, there is some scientific evidence that essential oils have antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antidepressant effects.
Essential oils are made by distilling, pressing plant flowers, leaves, barks, roots and seeds to create volatile oils that contain the natural compounds that give plants their scents. They are highly concentrated and can be absorbed through the skin when mixed with a carrier oil. The recommended dilution is typically around 5 percent. Ingesting them is not recommended because they can be toxic when taken internally.
When used topically, essential oils can help relieve pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia and other chronic health conditions. They are also said to boost the immune system and reduce bad odors. They may also serve as a natural mosquito repellent when mixed with citronella.
Studies have shown that applying certain essential oils may be beneficial for migraine and headache sufferers. They are believed to be effective at reducing the frequency of these painful headaches by treating the cause, such as stress, inflammation or circulation problems. Peppermint, lavender and tangerine are some of the most common choices. They can be applied directly to the forehead or temples, or they can be diffused to calm the nerves and promote relaxation. Essential oils can help improve mood, reduce stress and fatigue and boost concentration.
Some studies have found that applying ginger or lemon oil to the feet can relieve nausea. In one study, researchers found that putting a combination of marjoram, ginger, black pepper and lavender on the neck significantly reduced neck pain in participants. This is thought to be because these oils work as natural inflammatory and pain relievers, focusing on the source of the pain rather than masking it with other chemicals.
These are just a few examples, my favorite go-to is always lavender.. Not just for headaches, but for minor burns and I always keep a bottle in my kitchen. And for relaxing.
The most important item to note is only use pure plant essential oils, if they are coming from Amazon or big box stores, they certainly aren’t created or cared for in a fashion to benefit you. Most lower priced essential oils are made with a very small percentage of plant product, which is the same for all of the common household products now proudly claiming they contain essential oils.
There are many excellent sources, do your homework to avoid products containing harmful chemicals. We are on a journey to wellness and the goal is long life by lowering the chemical burden on ourselves.
If there is other support I can provide in living your best life, you may download your copy of 30-Day Blueprint Towards Living Your Best Life or send a message to media@heartsofwellness.com. Discovering and living by your personalized playbook are important steps we can create together!
If you feel a self-paced approach to a more holistic life with Wendy’s support would be helpful in reaching your goals, you can head over to the Hearts of Wellness Membership Collective and begin your journey back to simplicity, freedom and wholeness!
As a pioneer in advocacy and mentorship, Wendy is leading a global revolution of women walking in purpose and peace as she illumines their path ahead with the light of HOPE: Harmony, Options, Peace & Empowerment.
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