July Promo: Cool Off with Hot Savings!

It doesn’t get much cooler than the July Promo! With a 400 PV tier, there’s even more chance to earn summer favorites this month. Like an empowering Valor Roll-On and ultra-soothing lavender-infused Seedlings Wipes and LavaDerm Cooling Mist. And if you’re an Essential Rewards member, you can (and should) top it all off with sweet and tangy Grapefruit lip balm for a sunny smile all season long.

Now you can create the perfect refreshment to beat the summer heat! Try lemonade with a dash of invigorating Lemon Vitality plus Lavender Vitality for a sophisticated twist. Serve it up in your own sustainable mason jar.

400 PV

Retail value: $162.94

10 ml Valor® Roll-On

5 ml Lemon Vitality™

5 ml Lavender Vitality™

Mason Jar Mug with Stainless Steel Straw

Young Living Seedlings® Wipes

15 ml Peppermint

Bonus Essential Rewards:

LavaDerm™ Cooling Mist

Grapefruit Lip Balm

300 PV

Retail value: $97.48

5 ml Lemon Vitality

5 ml Lavender Vitality

Mason jar mug with stainless steel straw featuring Young Living branding

Young Living Seedlings Wipes

15 ml Peppermint

Bonus Essential Rewards:

LavaDerm Cooling Mist

Grapefruit Lip Balm

250 PV

Retail value: $64.47

Young Living Seedlings Wipes

15 ml Peppermint

Bonus Essential Rewards:

LavaDerm Cooling Mist

Grapefruit Lip Balm

190 PV

Retail value: $52.96

15 ml Peppermint

Bonus Essential Rewards:

LavaDerm Cooling Mist

Grapefruit Lip Balm

100 PV

Retail value: $5.59

Bonus Essential Rewards: Grapefruit Lip Balm

Raindrop Technique: How-To

A few weeks ago, we gave you the low-down on the benefits on the Raindrop Technique. Check it out! Today, we’re going to take a deep dive into the hows of this wonderful oils + massage experience. We’ll give an overview of the 5 steps, plus tips for Raindrop self-care and how to get started.

Pro-Tip: If you would like to charge for the Raindrop, then check the laws in your state. Some states require that you have a license to touch and massage. To become certified in Raindrop, check out: www.raindroptraining.com

Step 1: Prepare

Before you start, remember that everyone responds differently to Raindrop. Some are energized, fatigued, experience emotional release or typically, become very peaceful and relaxed. Share your experience below!

Things to Keep at Hand:

If you or the recipient get oils in your eyes or if you have sensitive skin – please dilute. Here are our favorite carrier oils to keep handy for this process:

• Coconut oil

• Young Living V-6 oil

Things to Do Before You Start:

1. Drink plenty of water! Raindrop encourages detoxification of the body. Water helps flush toxins.

2. Watch and Learn! For every step, we will also link to short video via YouTube. Some of these steps are best explained through watching AND reading the explanation.

Step 1: Preparation https://youtu.be/ycdDMYleYu8

Step 2: Balance Body Energy

Apply Valor or Valor II Essential Oil to the participant’s shoulders and feet.

Step 2 Video: https://youtu.be/ATR5h9WOJe0

Step 3: Roll & Release

Apply Oregano, Thyme, Basil, Cypress, Wintergreen, Marjoram and Peppermint – in this order with the Roll & Release technique.

Step 3 Video: https://youtu.be/EbCHuo_1eyY

Step 4: Spinal Application & Chart

We made a chart to help you out with step 4. Follow it to find out how much to use of each oil and the designated massage techniques. Check out the video below and, if you need more, take a look at the slides from our Facebook event (like us here).

Step 4 Video:  https://youtu.be/RobLutXJRXk

Step 5: Completion and Occipital Pull

Almost there! Check out the graphic on how to bring the Raindrop massage to a relaxing end.

Step 5 Video: https://youtu.be/1VYej_pueu0

Raindrop On Your Own

Ready to try the Raindrop Technique, but don’t have anyone to do it for you? That’s ok! Here are a couple ways you can receive the benefits of Raindrop with your own application.

Get Started: The Raindrop Oils Collection

The most economical way to get started with the Raindrop Oils is to purchase the collection.

The Raindrop Technique collection includes:

Seven Single Oils (5-ml bottles)

• Thyme

• Basil

• Peppermint

• Oregano

• Wintergreen

• Cypress

• Marjoram

• Two Oil Blends (5-ml bottles)

• Valor®

• Aroma Siez™

Also Contains

• 8-oz. Ortho Ease® Massage Oil

• 8-oz. V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex

  Wholesale: $138.75 Retail: $182.57

Questions? Reports on the Technique? Comment below and we’ll get back to you!

Why Raindrop?

We just hosted a Facebook class on the Raindrop technique.

Side Note: Yes, you can attend in your PJs. If that sounds like your kind of class, good news: we host an online class every month! Stay in the know here and here.

If you missed the class, or would love to keep learning, this post is for you. Here’s the spoiler: Raindrop = essential oils + massage.  

The Basics: What is the Raindrop Technique?

Before we go into the why of Raindrop, here’s a quick rundown of the what.

The Raindrop technique was developed by Young Living founder Gary Young back in the 1980s. As he developed this technique, he drew from his experience with Native American wellness traditions. The end result was a revolutionary means of supporting the body and mind.

The technique involves applying therapeutic grade essential oils to the spine, neck and feet. The application process is typically about an hour, but the benefits may last up to a week or more.

The Benefits: Why Raindrop?

What benefits? There are plenty of emotional and physical benefits and here are just a few…

• Invigorates the Mind

• Supports Healthy Body Energy and Emotions

• Aids the Body’s Response to Natural Irritation or Injury

• Promotes Healthy Circulation

• Helps with Structural Alignment

• Supports Stress Level

• Supports Immune Function

• Promotes Healthy Respiratory System

• Promotes Overall Body Wellness

The Beginning: What Oils are in the Raindrop?

The Raindrop Technique includes seven single oils and two oil blends. Check out all the benefits of these individual oils! So many “whys” here.

Thyme

Thyme is a key ingredient in Ortho Ease massage oil and is great for use after exercise. It is also believed to bring a sense of purpose when used aromatically, and is great for supporting your immune system.

Basil

Basil essential oil has a fresh, herbaceous aroma that can be calming, refreshing and bring clarity of thought. It can also help support the respiratory system. Ancient Greeks thought very highly of basil and considered it the “king of plants” and actually used it to anoint kings.

Peppermint

This oil can be diffused to create a stimulating, focused atmosphere for daily tasks. You can also apply it topically to create a cool, tingling sensation on the skin, which can be very soothing after hard physical activity.

Oregano

As an herb, oregano shines in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine; but as an essential oil, it has a wealth of benefits and uses outside the kitchen. Oregano essential oil’s warm, herbaceous scent is excellent at purifying the air when diffused with oils such as Peppermint. It also pairs especially well  with V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex when used in massage for supporting the immune system.

Wintergreen

Wintergreen’s refreshing minty aroma is stimulating and invigorating. It’s a great addition to lotions that are applied after activity to support bone and muscle health. It is a key ingredient in our Cool Azul Pain Relief Cream.

Cypress

Cypress has a fresh, herbaceous aroma that can promote a sense of security and grounding. It is also known for supporting healthy circulation in the body.

Marjoram

Marjoram is a key oil used in the Raindrop Technique and can be used in massage after exercise. It can also be very calming and relaxing. It was known as the “herb of happiness” to the Romans and “joy of the mountains” to the Greeks.

Valor®  

Valor essential oil blend is one of our most popular products and was a favorite of Founder and Chairman of the Board D. Gary Young. A truly unique blend of Black Spruce, Blue Tansy, Camphor Wood, Geranium, and Frankincense, Valor has a woodsy, grounding aroma that is great for massages and other topical and aromatic uses. Use it to greet each morning with a positive attitude or to refocus at the end of a challenging day.

Aroma Siez™

A key Young Living blend, Aroma Siez™ combines the soothing and relaxing properties of Basil, Marjoram, Lavender, Peppermint and Cypress. A great blend for supporting healthy bones and muscles.

Is your interest peaked? Stay tuned! We’ll share the how’s of Raindrop soon.

October Promo: (Free) Fall Comforts

This month’s promo is all about preparing for the busy season ahead. It features memory making scents, an immune-supporting supplement and Vitality oils that are holiday musts (hello, Cinnamon Bark Vitality). And, BONUS, you can earn even more this month with a 400 PV level. Is it too early to say that Christmas has come early? We sure hope not. Because we just did. Enjoy the promo deets and comment your oily fall must-haves below!

This month, there’s a bonus 400PV level featuring the Seed to Seal Story Collection.

400PV

Retail Value: $386.52

• Seed to Seal Story Collection, including exclusive 10-ml Lavender, Peppermint and Tea Tree essential oils

• Multigreens

• 5-ml Palo Santo

• 15-ml Thyme

• 5-ml AromaEase

Bonus Essential Rewards Exclusive:

• 5-ml Cinnamon Bark Vitality™

• 5-ml Oregano Vitality™

300PV

Retail Value: $241.78

• Multigreens

• 5-ml Palo Santo

• 15-ml Thyme

• 5-ml AromaEase

Bonus Essential Rewards Exclusive:

• 5-ml Cinnamon Bark Vitality™

• 5-ml Oregano Vitality™

250PV

Retail Value: $141.12

• 15-ml Thyme

• 5-ml AromaEase

Bonus Essential Rewards Exclusive:

• 5-ml Cinnamon Bark Vitality™

• 5-ml Oregano Vitality™

190PV

Retail Value: $94.40

• 5-ml AromaEase

Bonus Essential Rewards Exclusive:

• 5-ml Cinnamon Bark Vitality™

• 5-ml Oregano Vitality™

100PV

Retail Value: $15.79

Bonus Essential Rewards Exclusive: 5-ml Oregano Vitality™

Back to School Made Easy

This week we hosted a Facebook class on naturally good ways to kick off the school year. We know everyone can't tune in on Facebook, so we thought we'd make the info available on our blog, too.

BIG NEWS: We'll now be sharing all of our class videos on our YouTube channel! Subscribe so you won't miss a single oily tip! 

Back to School Tips

Ningxia Red & Ningxia Nitro

Suzanne shares her Ningxia Red tips for busy school mornings. Spoiler: Chill packets for grab-and-go convenience! For an afternoon pick-me-up, keep NingXia Nitro close by! 

NingXia Red helps support:

• Immune system
• Cognitive function
• Energy

MightyVites and MightyZymes

Lindsey shares why you should put a multivitamin and natural enzyme on your back to school list! Bonus: these kid-specific formulas taste great. 

Lemon and Peppermint Essential Oils

Lemon and Peppermint both help you and your family retain information and maintain focus. The perfect power couple for back to school! 

Thieves Hand Purifier and Thieves Spray

Powered by Thieves, Thieves Hand Purifier helps keep hands clean on the go! This hard-working essential keeps purifying and moisturizing long after you squeeze it on. We love Thieves Spray for nearly any hard surface. 

Jaynelle's Pro Tip: These make great gifts for teachers! 

Panaway and Copaiba Essential Oil

Janie shares about Panaway, a great uplifting blend for muscles after active days! Add Copaiba to enhance this supportive oil. 

Thieves and Raven Essential Oil Blends

Check out these two great oils from your starter kit with Cynthia! If you like to breathe, Raven provides great respiratory support:) Plus, Thieves Vitality supports your immune system. You can take it internally: try it in oatmeal, water or baking. 

Young Living Thieves Cough Drops and Acne Cream

We are over the moon about these over the counter Young Living products! Thieves Cough Drops are great for easy immune support. Middle school and high school moms: check out this acne cream! And even if you don't have acne, this one also works wonders for black heads and blemishes. 

MightyPro & Life 9

Support your gut health year round with MightyPro and Life 9. Check out Rachel's tips on how to add these supportive products to your nighttime routine. 

Are you ready for back to school? Do you have any natural tips to share? We'd love to hear from you! 

Breathe Deep with Raven

Suzanne Rodolfich has taken over the blog this week. She loves to share about oils, and today, she's sharing about Raven: one of the newest additions to the Premium Starter Kit. 

I am so excited that Raven is now included in the Premium Starter Kit! What I love about Raven is that it includes one of my favorite single oils, Ravintsara, but it also has four other oils—lemon, peppermint, wintergreen, and eucalyptus radiata—that make it a very powerful blend.

A year-round fave, Raven is especially helpful in winter and spring. Breathe easy with this addition to the Premium Starter Kit. 

So, how do we use it?

• This is a year round oil for us, but it is definitely in heavy rotation during the winter as part of our winter wellness routine and in the spring as we deal with all the pollen in the air.
• We alternate it with RC—we’ll rub RC on our feet and Raven on our chest or vice versa.
• It’s very soothing when rubbed on joints or achy muscles.
• When mixed with solid coconut oil, it makes a fabulous chest rub.
• And we love it in the diffuser at night with Lavender. The Raven helps us breathe deeply and the Lavender helps us rest well.

Essential Oil DIY Recipes: Dry Shampoo

How is your ditching and switching going? To support your quest to banish parabens, dyes and fragrances from your personal care routine, we are kicking off a new series: Essential Oil DIY.

We’ve rounded up several recipes that you can whip up with common household ingredients and your favorite essential oils. Tune in each week to make Ditch and Switch even easier.

Today, we are inspired by the Young Living blog and we’re sharing their Dry Shampoo recipe with a few tips of our own.

Essential Oil-Infused DIY Dry Shampoo

Keep your locks luscious by only shampooing once or twice a week … yes, really. If your hair starts to get greasy between shampoos, then it’s dry shampoo to the rescue! It will absorb oil and leave your hair smelling great!

We love this recipe because it’s fast, easy and full of things you already have around your house.

Getting Started: Supplies & Ingredients

Supplies

Quick - Gather a few supplies around your house and let’s get started!

• Glass Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Spoons and Cups
• Mixing Spoon
• Storage Container (like a salt shaker or baby powder bottle)
• Old Blush Brush

Ingredients

• ¼ cup non-GMO cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 2 drops Cedarwood essential oil
• 2 drops Rosemary essential oil
• 1 drop Tea Tree essential oil

Delicious Detail: If you have dark hair, add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder. Consider adding scents that go well with chocolate like a drop or two of Peppermint essential oil, yum!

Play with Personalization: Here are a few more oils that are great for hair and scalp support: Lavender, Patchouli, Clary Sage. Swap out an oil above for one of these for a new way to love your locks.  

How It’s Done

See? Quick and easy!

Use Today!

1. Sprinkle on roots of hair, start with your natural part and continue to re-part your hair for full coverage.
2. Blend shampoo into hair with your makeup brush and massage into scalp for a deep clean.
3. Leave for 2–3 minutes to absorb hair’s natural oils.
4. Brush through your hair.

There’s More

Tune in next week for another quick and easy DIY recipe! If you’re interested in growing your scalp-supporting oil collection, consider joining the Essential Rewards program. You can order new oils each month, while earning free stuff and points toward even more oils. It’s pretty amazing and we encourage all fellow oil-lovers to give it a try!

Oil of the Week: Peppermint

Last (but not least), we’ll talk particulars of Peppermint in our final Oil of the Week installment. 

Pass the Peppermint!

Peppermint is in the same family as Lavender. As a relative of the Swiss Army knife of Essential Oils, it’s not surprising that Peppermint is also a versatile, everyday oil. Most people have smelled or tasted Peppermint, but this mighty mint can do a lot more than spice up brownies (but really, these brownies are delicious).

Put some pep in your step by adding a drop of Peppermint to a glass of water or tea. We also love Peppermint for digestive support and post-workout massage. Tip: Only put Essential Oils in glass or stainless steel containers.

You can reach for Peppermint throughout your day! Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Digestive Support

Just like DiGize or Lemon, Peppermint helps support many facets of healthy intestinal function.

• Travel: If plane travel gets you down, try inhaling Peppermint to calm down after takeoff.
• Pregnancy: Oily mamas-to-be, give yourself a treat in those early days by inhaling or diffusing Peppermint.  
• Appetite: Take a bite out of overeating by inhaling Peppermint to satiate cravings before you cave.

All in Your Head

• Head Support: Refresh head or sinuses by inhaling and/or applying Peppermint directly to your temples and back of neck.

Pro Tip: Peppermint is a hot oil, so test out your tolerance with a carrier oil before you try it neat.

• Concentration: Try diffusing Peppermint and Lemon when tackling homework or projects that take focus.

De-Stress & Cool Down

• Post Workout Massage: Treat tired muscles to a soothing Peppermint massage. Just dilute a few drops in your favorite carrier oil and apply as needed.
• Cool Down: You can also use Peppermint as a way to cool down on a hot summer day. Try it on the back of your neck for a refreshing treat.

DIY Natural Solution

Clear your cobwebs and then mix up this DIY Spray to help keep your home pest free. Combine the following ingredients in an empty 16-oz glass spray bottle.

• 5-7 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 1 Squirt of eco-friendly dish soap
• 1 TB of white vinegar (optional)  
• Warm water  

Then spray on window frames, doorways and the dark corners where unwanted creatures often hang out. Bonus: This spray is kid and pet friendly and smells great!

Coming Soon

We’re in the process of planning new posts and series, so if you have ideas about what you’d like to learn about next, let us know. Comment here or email us at treeoflifeyl@gmail.com.

Smell That? It's a Young Living Diffuser Sale

Young Living is running an amazing diffuser sale this week, and we wanted all of our faithful readers to be in the know. Buy a home diffuser between August 24 & August 28 and get three oils – Peppermint, Tangerine & Thieves – free. Why, yes, that is amazing savings you smell. 

Buy a Home Diffuser by August 28, 2016 and get Peppermint, Tangerine and Thieves with your purchase. 

As always, if you have any questions, contact us! We would be happy to help you on your oily journey. 

Love is in the Air: Our Top Young Living Picks

The Tree of Life team is head-over-heels for Young Living Essential Oils and products. We are devoted to daily wellness and the only thing we love more than our favorite oil is sharing our real-life tips with you. Thanks for visiting! We hope you enjoy the list, and, as always, if you have any questions, please contact us! We'd love that, too. 

What's Not to Love? The Tree of Life Team's Top Young Living Picks  

Lavender: Beloved Multitasker 

Relaxing, soothing, tasty: Lavender earns our love with flawless multitasking. 

"I never knew that one bottle of oil could do so much! It speeds skin recovery, supports a great night sleep, creates a relaxing environment and also tastes good in my tea. Lavender oil from Young Living is the oil I would choose if I could only choose one. I wouldn't want to be stranded without it." -- Jennifer Lopes

The one oil I never thought I'd love is LAVENDER❣
I've always preferred a woodsy/earthy scent. I came to love Lavender gradually after learning about the many therapeutic benefits and how they targeted most of my specific concerns. It's helped me with my skin, seasonal respiratory wellness and relaxation when my mind is going off in several directions. 
I use it to make room & linen sprays, bath salts, as deodorant, on the dog, on dryer balls & it's in my body butter. -- Shari Williamson

Joy: Worthy of Jumping for  

Joy makes life sweeter! 

Joy! I truly don't know how I made it so long without it. It is my go-to when life becomes a struggle, when I get a poor night's rest, when I have to do things I would rather not, when I get behind, I could go on and on. It makes life sweeter (literally).  Bonus, I can get some for free this month with the February promo!  -- Michelle McKool YL SILVER #1456692

Frankincense: Impossible to Live Without 

Frankincense: The Oil of our Life! 

I LOVE FRANKINCENSE! This is the "oil of life" that I do not think I could live without! This oil has brought the most comfort, relief and healing balance. I use this oil head to toe everyday: Adding a drop or two to my face cream morning and night (always taking time to inhale the goodness), and also several drops to my body lotion after showers. I apply it with hempseed oil to my abdomen and lungs several times/day, with other oils before Far Infrared Sauna, and throughout the day if I need extra relief for any number of things. I take and inhale, and thank God for this oil and it's amazing properties and how it has blessed my life! -- Christina Vossler

NingXia Red: Dreamy Antioxidant 

NingXia Red: There's no wrong way to spend time with this super food. 

This beautiful bottle of liquid antioxidant goodness transformed the way my family defines the term healthy! Some days it is an ounce or two in the morning to jumpstart the day. Other days it could be six to eight ounces throughout the day to nourish those unhealthy cells. On a hot summer afternoon, it could be a pouch of frozen nutrition as we float in the pool. There is no wrong way to enjoy NingXia Red! As I drink it, I picture my blood cells having a party as they absorb this incredible super food! -- CYNTHIA LENGEFELD, YL SILVER #1339187

Power Meal: Swoon-Worthy Protein 

Power Meal + Healthy Smoothie = match made in heaven! 

I love to 'drink' my breakfast and I've been doing it for 22 years now. Smoothies made with fruit, greens, flax ,and chia is ALWAYS made SO much better with Power Meal as my dairy-free protein! -- JOYCE SWANSON, YL SILVER #303178 

Thieves: One Word, Amazing  

If you don't have time for sick people, make time for Thieves. 

This oil is a must-have. It smells amazing. I have it running in my diffuser all the time. The kids get it on the bottom of their feet everyday. I love it on my toothbrush or use it as a mouth wash. It's benefits are amazing. We stay healthy, which is good because I don't have time for sick people. -- DENA JONES (PERFECT ALIGNMENT CHIROPRACTIC), YL SILVER #1410697

Valor & PanAway: Muscle-Supporting Power Couple 

Don't love muscle fatigue? Check out Valor & PanAway. 

Valor and PanAway have been my most important oils to help support muscle fatigue and minor pain. Don't know what I would do without them. -- Holly Barker 

Inner Defense: Hello Beautiful...Immune Support

Winter has met its match with Young Living's Inner Defense. 

Inner Defense is a staple in my house this time of year! I love how it promotes a healthy respiratory system and supports our immune systems. -- Michelle Thielemann Krischke 

Peppermint: Always Cool 

Cool addition to daily life! 

I must say that for my family we go through a lot of peppermint. With a soon to be 3 yr old and my Husband, we need to stock 8 bottles! We love the cooling effect when we are working outside in theTexas heat and the great muscle and ligament support it provides before working out or after doing heavy lifting. Additionally, my daughter asks for peppermint vitality in her tea and her chocolate brownies! I use it daily, one drop in my coffee! -- Sunday Taylor 

Find Your Favorite

Want to find your perfect oil match? Contact Tree of Life today to start your lifelong relationship with these amazing oils and products. 

Thanksgiving How-To: Incorporating Essential Oils into your Holiday

Feeling a little overwhelmed about getting through these next few days? There's the house to clean, food to cook (including a giant turkey!), and family to see. So take a deep breath, apply some Stress Away or Peace & Calming (now that it's back in stock!) and read the following tips and tricks on how to incorporate your oils into your Thanksgiving festivities! You will be happier and healthier because of it!

Setting The Mood

Set the Thanksgiving mood with this festive trio: Cinnamon Bark, Orange & Clove. 

To get into the Holiday Spirit, get your diffuser(s) and add a few drops of Orange, Cinnamon Bark and Clove. It will lift your spirits, increase immune support and, of course, make your house smell wonderful!  

Make Your House Sparkle

It's easy to achieve that a fresh, holiday-ready sparkle with the power of Thieves Household Cleaner + Lemon. 

Spruce up your house with the oh-so-popular and versatile Thieves Cleaner. Just pick it up and spray everything down at once; floors, mirrors, counters, whatever you can think of! Add a few drops of Lemon to your spray bottle for an extra fresh scent and a little boost of cleaning power! And it may just help you focus on what to clean next!

Spice Up Some Treats

Spice up your favorite dishes the Young Living way! I love cooking with Cinnamon Bark, Lemon & Nutmeg essential oils. 

Essential oils make a great addition to many recipes. I've added Oregano to spaghetti sauce, Lemon to ice cream and Rosemary to chicken. For this holiday my recommendation would be to substitute your typical Thanksgiving spices such as Cinnamon, Clove, Nutmeg with your essential oils instead. Just remember essential oils are pretty potent so just try a drop or maybe 2 to start with.

Favorite Side Dish: Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

2-4 Sweet Potatoes

Olive Oil (to toss)

1 drop each of Cinnamon Bark, Nutmeg and Ginger

Pinch of salt and brown sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Set oven to 350.

2. Peel sweet potatoes and chop into cubes.

3. Toss in olive oil and essential oils.

4. Spread out on a cookie sheet.

5. Bake for about 45 minutes.  

So delicious! I could eat the whole pan! Really...I think I did one time. But they're so good for you, it's ok! The sweet potatoes provide nutritional value and Vitamin A, and the essential oils contribute immune support from the Cinnamon Bark, digestive support from the Ginger and a boost of energy from the Nutmeg!

Favorite Festive Drink: Cider

Another great treat that’s even better when infused with essential oils is a good cup of Cider! Young Living shared a great recipe around Halloween for Witch's Brew, but it would be even better for this holiday. It's infused with Lemon, Cinnamon Bark, Clove and Nutmeg. It has the same benefits as the Sweet Potato recipe (due to the similar oils used) except you have the added benefits of Lemon Essential Oil to help give you a more positive outlook and ability to focus on what else you need to do before the guests arrive!

Rapid Recovery

Spend time with your family...not the bathroom with the help of DiGize and Peppermint essential oils. 

After you have consumed all your Turkey, Gravy, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans, Salad and any other annual side dishes, you may need a little help to get through the rest of your evening and decrease your trips to the bathroom. After all, you will probably be sharing your typical 2-bathroom household with 10 times the amount of people as normal!

Apply some DiGize and you will be able to finish watching that football game with minimal interruptions, while your uncle misses out on the whole 3rd quarter. Complement the benefit of DiGize and tackle some of that post-Thanksgiving drowsiness by adding some Peppermint to your water or applying topically.

Festive ideas? Time to share!

From cleaning to side dishes, there are so many ways to incorporate Young Living Essential Oils into your holiday. We'd love to hear some of your ideas! Comment below with your favorite tips and tricks!

2015 Convention: New Products!

Session one of the Young Living 2015 Convention is underway. As always, exciting things are happening, especially the new product unveiling. This year did not disappoint! Here's a sneak peek for all of our faithful blog followers. The best news? You can start ordering new items on the 10th. 

New Snacks, Vitamins and more!

Master Formula: A new multivitamin for men and women. 

Ahhh, refreshing! Ningxia Zyng is a new sparkling beverage. As you would expect, nothing artificial here. 

Did you know that potato skin extract can help extend the duration of feeling full? Talk about a snack that packs a healthy punch. Bring on the Slique Bars. 

You get a full range of amino acids, 25 grams of protein AND delish flavors like Chocolate Deluxe and Vanilla space with Pure Protein. 

Cool Azul Sports Gel earns its name with a cool mix of Peppermint essential oil, methol and camphor. 

New Kidscents Diffusers 

My little one's life is now complete with this diffuser/night light combo. This adorable product will make addition to a toddler's room or a fun baby shower gift. 

See the Dino Land Diffuser in action, here!

And Finally...New Thieves Products!

WHAT? Thieves dish soap, laundry detergent and more!!!

I love Thieves essential oil blend for immune support. Here are a few new Thieves products. I. am. so. excited. 

• Thieves Fruit & Vegetable Soak & Spray: Perfect way to quickly and throughly cleanse all of your favorite produce. It will also come in a handy on-to-go version. 
• Thieves Dish Soap: Dishes will now get the Thieves treatment as well. Perfect for soaking pots, pans and dishes in the sink. 
• Thieves Laundry Soap: This highly concentrated formula will clean 64 medium loads from one 32-oz. bottle. Looks like your grocery store list just got a lot shorter. 

Stay tuned for even more 2015 Convention updates and reflections. 

Young Living August Promotion: Big Announcement

Young Living is pleased to announce that for the first time since last year, and as a big thank you to our wonderful members, we will be offering at least one 15-ml essential oil as part of the monthly PV promotion for the rest of 2015!

Big Announcement: For the rest of 2015, you will have the chance to earn at least one 15-ml essential oil as part of the monthly PV promotion! First up: Peppermint.  

We’re starting off with 15-ml Peppermint, as well as 5-ml Basil. With your qualifying August order, you can also earn 20 bonus Essential Rewards points and the natural supportive benefits of Longevity™ Softgels!

Reach any of the following PV minimums and earn these great free products:

• 15-ml Peppermint: Famous for its recognizable fresh flavor, Peppermint essential oil promotes and enhances healthy intestinal function.
• 20 bonus Essential Rewards points: Earn an additional 20 Essential Rewards points that you can use toward your favorite Young Living products.
• Longevity Softgels: Longevity is a potent blend of essential oils such as Frankincense, Clove, Thyme, and Orange.
• Bonus Essential Rewards exclusive: 5-ml Basil: Basil essential oil has a fresh and herbaceous taste that makes it a flavorful substitute for dried basil herb. Only available in qualifying Essential Rewards orders of 190 PV or more.

Major Discount: Save Now on the Young Living Primium Starter Kit

Calling ALL existing Young Living Members and ALL those who've been on the fence about joining! NOW is the time! 

New and existing members: The best time to buy a Premium Starter Kit is NOW through August 14th!

From July 13 through August 14, we’re offering a major discount of 10 percent off Premium Starter Kits for existing members and a $10 discount for all new members! Better still, there is no limit for existing members—so order as many as you’d like! Please note that this offer does not include Aria or NingXia Red versions of the Premium Starter Kits.

10 oils + 1 bonus oil = The BEST way to start your Young Living journey.

Be sure to visit Virtual Office to take advantage of amazing offer! If you have any questions or are new to Young Living please contact me or one of our Tree of Life Contributors. 

Essential Oils and Travel: Preparing Your Own Oily Travel Kit

Over the past several years our family has spent time on mission trips out of the country, primarily in Haiti and most recently Ecuador and Uganda. These trips require quite a bit of planning, and, most importantly, quite a bit of oily preparation! 

My older daughter in Ecuador. 

In May, my older daughter spent time in Ecuador while my younger daughter and husband spent time in Africa. On our trips to Haiti we traveled as a family, sharing oils while away. The May trips were different! Each person needed his/her own “oily travel kit.” Since I prepared three of these kits, I thought I would share what my oily travel kit includes.

Travel-Worn Bottles = Healthy Bodies 

Beware! These are pictures of actual oil bottles that have traveled out of the country several times. They are NOT pictures of pretty little oil bottles! As much as I LOVE getting pretty, new oil bottles in the mail, I have conceded that ugly oil bottles are a byproduct of healthy bodies.

Keep in mind that these are merely the basic oils our family needs on trips. We also take additional oils used for specific purposes that are part of our daily oily routine such as Progessence Plus Serum, Shutran, Clary Sage, Endoflex, Sacred Frankincense, and others.

Plane Travel & Essential Oils

Carrying On Essential Oils

Although most of our essential oils are in our checked luggage, we make sure we have a few oils with us on the plane. Who knows when the checked luggage will really arrive?!?

Airline travel with oils is relatively simple. Your airline-authorized quart-size liquids bag can accommodate MANY 5mL or 15mL bottles of essential oil. We have never had any airline representative question our inclusion of essential oil in our liquids bag. Our liquids bag always includes peppermint, Thieves, and lavender essential oils as well as a bottle of Thieves spray and a few Thieves lozenges. 

Top Three Essential Oils for Every Plane Ride

Carry On Essential Oils: Peppermint, Lavender & Thieves.

1. Peppermint

Inhaling peppermint instantly calms my stomach when air turbulence unexpectedly strikes. 

2. Lavender

Lavender can aid in relaxation for those 17-hour international flights! 

3. Thieves

Once we have boarded the plane, we immediately reach for Thieves for immune support. Since we travel with flip flops or Crocs for easy security checks, it is important to slather those feet with Thieves and put socks on for the plane ride. Thieves spray comes in handy to spray in our throat or on our hands for extra protection. 

My Essential Oil Travel Kit

My travel-worn oily travel kit. 

Oils in our checked luggage (aka our Oily Travel Kits) include:

• Valor
• DiGize
• R.C. or Raven
• PanAway
• Immupower
• Oregano
• Purification
• Frankincense
• v-6
• Extra Thieves, lavender, peppermint and lozenges.
• We always travel with NingXia Red packets and NingXia Nitro, too.

This might seem like a lot, but we want to be prepared for anything! I make sure we have empty capsules to make our own immune-supporting concoctions of oregano, Immupower and frankincense. We all have those days when we are not feeling our best. 

Top Travel Tips:

• R.C. stands for respiratory/congestion which keeps our respiratory systems in tip-top shape.
• DiGize works well for all things digestion related that can (does) occur when traveling out of the country.

We are THAT Family: Healthy, Happy Travelers

We rely heavily on our oils. So much so, that we are known on every trip as THAT family! Usually as the week begins, we quietly go about using Purification to help repel insects, Thieves for immune support, lavender to promote good sleep, daily NingXia packets and Nitro, peppermint for head discomfort, etc. 

My husband and daughter in Uganda. 

Usually by the end of each trip, almost everyone else has noticed that our family is energetic, rested, and well. Predictably, they begin asking questions. That’s all it takes for me to share oily goodness and share the oil love with the rest of the team members! I have team members from all over the United States whom I met on international trips. It is always a blessing to bless others.

In May, my older daughter was known as the “alchemist” on her trip to Ecuador as she shared oils with her team members, and my younger daughter left most of her oils in Africa to bless the mission families who serve in Uganda.  

Time to Start Your Journey!

I am all about education and all about oils, so post a comment or question, and I’ll be happy to help!  When you are ready to start your oily journey, you can join the Tree of Life team by joining me at Oil Together Now, here. I’d love to share oily goodness with you, too!

Oily Travelers, What’s in Your Kit? Share in the Comments! 

Top 10 Essential Oils for Pregnancy

My little boy is 2 and embodies the phrase “Oil Baby.” You may not have heard this term before (I hadn’t before he came along), but it has definitely become common in my vocabulary. I was introduced to Young Living Essential Oils a couple years before he was even a "twinkle in our eye," as they say, and when I became pregnant I was very cautious of anything I used. I work in a Children’s Hospital (specifically the ICU areas) so I’m a little more paranoid than most, but I quickly discovered that there were several oils that made me feel better than I had ever before. So you could say, he was an Oil Baby even before he was born!  

My Oil Baby!

And now with #2 on the way, I’m enjoying this one (almost) as much! Let’s be honest, with a 2-year-old and a full-time job, sleep isn’t quite as attainable. So I may be a little sleep deprived…ok, maybe a lot, but other than that I feel great! But, like I told the OB, I just don’t tell other pregnant women for fear that they may assault me in the Waiting Room! 

But today, I’m sharing my top 10 Oils (and a few products) that I can't live without while pregnant! But quick disclaimer first: I am not a medical professional and I cannot confirm nor deny whether these are safe to use during pregnancy, always check with your primary doctor.

My Top 10 Favorite Essential Oils for Pregnancy

1. Thieves 

Thieves is great for immune support during pregnancy. 

I was working in the Emergency Room when I was pregnant the first time, and not just the ER, but the waiting rooms of the ER with all the sick kiddos. Let me just say throughout my entire pregnancy I did not get sick once! I put it on the bottoms of my feet every day before work. Oh and added bonus…it helps with stinky feet ;) 

2. Peppermint

Ward off congestion and exhaustion with a little Peppermint. 

This is good for those early days when you feel a little (or a lot) woozy. And it can help alleviate head pressure and congestion that comes along with pregnancy. Oh and when you feel a little sleepy but you don’t have the option of a nap because a 2-year-old is running around your house? Breathe a little of this to perk you up! 

3. Lemon

Say goodbye to the queezies with Lemon. 

I’ve heard many women comment on lemon oil helping with the queezies. I didn’t know about this the first time around, but I definitely used it this time! And personally I love the taste and smell much better than peppermint. Lemon is also a great one to have around to keep your spirits up and help you stay positive!

4. DiGize

DiGize is great for all stomach discomfort. 

Anyone who does not have this oil in their possession (pregnant or not) needs to get a bottle. DiGize has saved me so many times! This stuff supports normal digestion and promotes healthy intestinal function and gastrointestinal system comfort -- after every meal. It also helps with that burning sensation you can get when you've eaten a few too many slices of pizza...you know that fun feeling that usually takes hold in the latter part of pregnancy…not looking forward to that…

5. Peace & Calming

Take the edge off of pregnancy stress with Peace & Calming. 

I used this my entire pregnancy on a daily basis. I started off using it for deodorant because I didn't want to come in contact with all that aluminum and other yucky stuff. I loved the smell and I mixed it with coconut oil. I’m convinced this is why my baby was ridiculously calm and chill as an infant, but can’t say for sure. Regardless, it kept me at peace to better handle all the stressors of being pregnant—and just life in general!

6. Gentle Baby

Add this to your daily regime to reduce your stretch mark risk. 

Gentle Baby helps prevent stretch marks. Unfortunately, I was not diligent the first go-round with this daily regime, but I learned my lesson. I’ve been using it like crazy for Pregnancy #2! I actually just whipped up some body butter made with Raw Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and Gentle Baby, and I love it!  Smells great and it’s super smooth and creamy.

7. Lavender

Lavender is great for so much! Try it for congestion, skin support and more. 

Lavender is the “Swiss Army Knife” of oils; it has so many uses and it’s so gentle I always felt ok using it. It promotes healthy respiratory function, the body's natural response to skin irritation and so much more! When in doubt, I pull out that lavender!

8. ClaraDerm Spray

Keep this handy for "down there" issues. 

This is a wonderful blend of oils combined with a carrier oil all in a super convenient spray bottle. ClaraDerm spray is great for all those “down there” issues that no one wants to talk about. It’s also great for prepping and recovering from labor and all the unspeakable things that happen with that!

9. OmegaGize

Help your pregnancy brain with OmegaGize. 

These are great capsules to help your pregnancy brain. Many people recommend taking fish oil while pregnant to help you and the baby. OmegaGize is a great alternative. Many fish oils go rancid quickly, sometimes before you even buy them. The way these capsules are produced and packaged you don’t have to worry about that, and they’re infused with essential oils to help you absorb the nutrients even more efficiently.

10. True Source

True Source vitamins are derived from the true source!

I absolutely love these vitamins! I did hours of research the first pregnancy to make sure these vitamins measured up to the prenatal vitamin standards. I also discovered many other tidbits of info along the way such as many synthetic vitamins can be dangerous to have too much of, like Vitamin A. So the great thing about these is they’re not synthetic and come from the true source! You can tell when you look at them too, the colors naturally reflect what they're made from. The one minor drawback: the set of 3 capsules can be hard to stomach in the beginning, but they are well worth the struggle! I feel great, my hair and nails grow wonderfully, and, the best part, I don’t have the negative side effect that arises from most other prenatal vitamins…the constipation. But even if you did, you could use peppermint or DiGize noted above to support your digestive system!   

Learn More

So as I was saying my little boy is an Oil Baby. I’ve used Young Living Essential Oils with him from the womb and now he asks for them! When he doesn’t feel good, he’ll go find the oil bottle and hand it to me. And I’m sure this next one will be the same way, except she’ll have Mom and big brother “oiling her up” to face the world. I wouldn’t have it any other way! 

If you would like to learn more about how my family incorporates essential oils into our everyday life, I would love to talk to you! Feel free to contact me at creationsbyrae@outlook.com or 408-250-0648.  Or if you're ready to just jump in, visit my website, youngliving.org/rachelzachary to sign up!  

Oily Mommas: What are your go-to pregnancy oils?

Top 10 Essential Oils to Survive a Deserted Island

Ok. Chances are you won’t be stranded on an island, but are you prepared to handle emergencies? FEMA recommends that we have basic supplies – food, water, first aid kit, flashlight, battery-powered radio, and medications – on hand necessary to survive for at least 72 hours. I suggest that we all also need an emergency oil kit. 

Emergency Kit Guidelines

Your well-stocked emergency kit is an essential piece of your family's preparedness for whatever comes your way.

In an emergency, we may not have time to have oils shipped to our doorstep from Young Living. Instead, they should be with you at all times. Here are a few guidelines:

• Create an on-the-go first aid kit for your car, purse or diaper bag.
• Keep a kit easily accessible in your home.
• Ensure your emergency oils bottles are full, you may need them to last several days.

Top 10 Emergency Kit Essential Oils

Be prepared with your emergency oil kit.

1. Lavender

Claim to Fame: Known as the "Swiss Army Knife" or "Mother" of essential oils, lavender can be applied to cuts, scrapes, cold sores, insect bites, rashes or acne to soothe and cleanse. It also encourages proper immune response to histamines.

Quick Tips: Diffuse, add to Epsom salt bath, or apply topically to promote relaxation and restful sleep.

2. Lemon

Quick Tips: Add lemon to an Epsom salt bath to accelerate detoxing. Use on surfaces to help clean and sanitize. Add to water to help cleanse impurities.

3. Peppermint

Claim to Fame: Peppermint helps relieve, relax and soothe tired, overworked muscles. It may help with headaches or pain.

Quick Tips: Use in an empty capsule with carrier oil to help support normal digestion. Apply to back of neck for cooling and refreshing relief.

4. Copaiba

Claim to Fame: Copaiba supports healthy joint and cartilage function.

Quick Tip: Use to amplify the intensity of other oils.

5. Helichrysum

Claim to Fame: Helichrysum supports circulatory health and has restorative properties.  

6. Frankincense

Claim to Fame: Frankincense may help promote emotional well-being and healthy lung function.

7. Oregano

Claim to Fame: One of the most powerful and versatile essential oils, oregano contains strong immune-enhancing support and antioxidant properties. It also helps support the respiratory system.

8. Clove

Claim to Fame: Clove contains high amounts of eugenol which may support the body’s natural defenses and natural response to stress. It may also support healthy oral care.

9. Lemongrass

Claim to Fame: One of the most versatile essential oils, lemongrass promotes the proper function of ligaments and tendons. It can help with proper lymph flow and may support the digestive system.

10. Thieves

Claim to Fame: Inspired by the legend of 15th century French thieves who formulated a special aromatic combination of essential oils to rob those who had died of the black plague, thieves may support a healthy immune system.

Other oils to consider adding to your emergency kit: Trauma Life, Aroma Life, DiGize, Melrose, RC, Purification, Wintergreen

First Aid Kit Quick Reference Guide

Print this list out and add it to your kit! Until you are familiar with using essential oils you will probably forget what to use, especially in stressful situations. Helpful Hint: Grab Stress Away first, calm down, and get help if needed.

• Cuts & Scrapes—Lavender, Purification, Melrose, Frankincense, Tea Tree
• Digestive Support—Peppermint, DiGize, Ginger
• Insect Bites & Stings—Lavender, Thieves, Purification, PanAway
• Splinter—Thieves, Lavender
• Sprains & Strains—Peppermint, PanAway, Wintergreen, Copaiba, Lemongrass
• Allergy Support—Lemon, Lavender, Peppermint, Purification
• Headache—Peppermint, PanAway, Stress Away
• Panic/Anxiety—Lavender, Stress Away, Frankincense
• Water Purification—Lemon
• Bleeding—Helichrysum, Cistus, PanAway
• Gum/Teeth Health—Clove, Thieves, Tea Tree
• Respiratory Support—R.C., Frankincense, Lemon, Raven, Eucalyptus
• Broken Bones—Wintergreen, PanAway

Pop Quiz: Preparedness Knowledge

Time's up! The answer is make your emergency oil kit today.

Time to put your preparedness knowledge to the test!

1. What oil would you put on a broken bone?
2. If someone had a severe cut, what oil could you use?
3. What oil would be good to support your immune system?
4. If you sprain your ankle, what oil would you use?
5. If you had tooth pain and could not get treatment immediately what oil could help?
6. If you had a cough, what oil could you try to soothe it?
7. What oil would be good for mood support?
8. If you hurt your back, what oil would be good to put on it?

Last question: what’s in your emergency kit? Let me know in the comments!

I love teaching people about essential oils! If you have questions or need help with the answers to the quiz, I’ll be happy to help. Contact me at 501-626-1954 or dena.jones14@gmail.com. And don’t forget to join the Tree of Life team by clicking HERE!

Have a great day!

Dena Jones, Young Living Silver Leader #1410697