#1 WHAT are Essential Oils? It starts with a seed! #swapped4yl

A SEED – The Starting Point - WHAT are Essential Oils?

Essential Oils start with a seed. When a friend offered an outdoor spray made from Young Living Essential Oils my eyes were opened to a chemical free lifestyle that I did not know existed. I thought we were taking care of our wellness and honoring God by caring for our bodies, but now I know about chemicals and I know better. I've spent hours reading and researching and experimenting - here's what I've learned, essentially growing from Seed - to Sprout - to Bloom - to Sharing oils. 

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

 Essential Oils are the natural organic oils of the plant (pulled from roots, petals, rind, leaf, or bark). – some call oils the ‘lifeblood’ of the plant or the 'essence' of the plant- thus the name essential oils. 

Since Biblical times, oils have been used to support every system in the body including muscular system, skeletal system, circulatory system, endocrine and hormones, respiratory system and immune system. An oil in a diffuser can promote restful sleep and support respiratory function. An oil massaged on the abdomen can support digestion. Oils on the chest and feet can improve respiratory function.  Oils can be added to beauty products, household cleaners, and air fresheners to replace synthetic chemicals and fragrances. Oils can add natural flavoring in food and drinks.

I primarily use essential oils instead of store bought chemical toxins in our home. I use Thieves cleaner (a plant based cleaner) throughout our home. I diffuse an oil blend named "Raven" when our noses get stuffy from Kentucky weather changes.  I rub lavender oil and cedar wood oial on our feet at night to support sleep. I roll peppermint and lemon oil on my wrists and behind my ears when I need a boost of energy to make it through the day. 

Essential oils work by penetrating cell membranes to travel quickly in the body (something man-made medicine can't achieve). Oils are introduced into our bodies the same way as other products:

*Topically- the English primarily add to a bath, rub or massage on the skin which is our largest organ and readily absorbs what we put on it (which is why the Nicoderm and other medication patches work). Oils applied topically reach the bloodstream in 26 seconds.    

*Ingest – the French cook with oils and apply to foods/drinks (some oils are ingestible- check the label first! Young Living marks ingestible oils with a white label - like a chef's apron!)

*Inhale – the Germans diffuse oils into the air. This is a very easy way to enjoy the smell and benefits of oils (diffused in the air, sprayed like perfume or sniffed straight from the bottle). If you order a starter kit, they give you a free diffuser!!!  I have a diffuser in every room of our house and one in my office. I also have a necklace with a locket that contains a felt pad that diffuses oils throughout the day. And I have a bracelet of lava beads that also diffuse oils. Inhaled oils reach the heart, liver, and thyroid in three seconds.

There are over 300 oils, and Young Living is one of the oldest oil producers and offers the widest variety of oils, but an average family only needs 10-20 oils to build a great kit. 

So WHERE do you purchase oils?

As oils are becoming increasingly popular, they are becoming available at local drug stores, big box stores, and online retailers. As you compare products, you’ll begin to find the ones at the stores aren’t just a ‘generic’ version – but in some cases a watered down version. There’s no rating system for Essential Oils in the United States. The closest we get is an FDA requirement that in order to label a bottle of essential “pure” or “therapeutic grade”, the contents of the bottle must contain at least five percent essential oils. 

    ONLY 5%! Which means 95% can be filler. 

You can think of oils ranked as follows:

-Grade A = Therapeutic Grade oil, made from organically grown plants and distilled at low temperatures. Young Living ensures no pesticides or herbicides are used during the growing process. They have also refined the distilling process to ensure the oils don't come into contact with plastics (that would leach chemicals into the oils) or solvents. Distilling at the right temperature for the right amount of time give a quality product with the highest level of therapeutic value. Young Living leads the way in this line of research and has set the bar for other oil companies. 

-Grade B = Natural Grade Oils are food grade but may contain synthetics, pesticides, fertilizers, chemical extenders or carrier oils (like almond, olive or other vegetable oil).

-Grade C = Perfume Grade Oils are perfume grade, often containing other chemicals or solvents left over from the harvesting/distilling process and may be diluted 80-95% with alcohol.

-Grade D = Synthetic Grade is also called ‘floral water’ and is aromatic like an oil but usually a byproduct of a higher grade distillation (the water that is leftover after the oil is pulled out) and is sold to companies that fill bottles with 5% of this water and fill the rest with carrier products and synthetic products, but often labeled as ‘pure’.                      
         A fraction of the oil = fraction of the price! 

Another way some companies cut corners is using pesticides (to have more crop to distill), using a chemical solvent to extract oil (so there’s more oil pulled out of the plant) and then diluting with a carrier oil (to stretch the oil they distilled). If you are using oils to support healthy functions, then using a low-grade oil would be as helpful as eating a salad that is 5% greens and 95% croutons. The value is in the oil, not the filler.

WHY Young Living?

Young Living has a “Seed to Seal” guarantee which means they control the process from farmland to the sealed bottle. Founder, Gary Young, said he never makes an oil for profit- but for a purpose. Young Living’s oils are Grade A. They control the seeds used, soil/farms chosen, plants are hand-weeded, oils are used to repel bugs (not chemical/pesticides), harvested at their peak and put through vigorous testing. Learn more about the process at seedtoseal.com.  

HOW to purchase Young Living Essential Oils and Oil products:

Young Living has compiled a starter kit of the most commonly used oils and samples of their popular products, and offer this bundle at a discounted rate to get you started. Below is a picture of the bundle I started with, and it includes a diffuser of your choice, 12 oils, a sample of Thieves Household Cleaner, small bottles to mix your own blends, 2 NingXia Red antioxidant drink samples and lots of informational booklets/magazine/info cards. This is how I got started. 

To become a Young Living member you must have a current member to Enroll/Sponsor you. Oils come with a learning curve, so your sponsor is there to share their experience and offer ideas to effectively use the oils. I would love to be your sponsor! Enter my sponsor number # 10089755 

         Purchase your starter kit and get oiling!

Visit GraceFull Day on Twitter our Facebook Page to see how I use the oils. 
                                          #Swapped4YL 
                         Wishing you a Grace Full Day Oiling!!

Bedtime Essential Oil Roller Bottle #swapped4yl

DIY  Bedtime Sleep Support with Essential Oils

We all struggle with getting a good night sleep from time to time. This is an

easy recipe to add to your bedtime routine. This is a basic recipe we use,

 but there are plenty of ways to mix it up and make it work for you. 

I like to add frankincense to my roller. My kiddo loves orange in hers. 

I recently tried adding a couple drops of vetiver - a great addition!
Other great additions are Valor (helps with snoring) or Peace & Calming. 

Try rolling on kiddo's feet before bed.
I prefer to roll on the back of my neck and spine. Experiment to see what works best.

Wishing you sweet dreams! Angels on your pillow!   

Get oils from Youngliving.com and tell them I referred you by using #10089755 in the Enroller and Sponsor box.  As a 'Thank You' for using my number, I'll send you all the oily recipes I use in our home and a little guide book.  Find more of my recipes by searching #swapped4yl

Trash Parabens Challenge! #trashittuesday #Swapped4YL #wellness2018

This weeks challenge = remove -PARABENS from your home!

It doesn't matter if you are watching what you put IN your body - if you aren't also watching what you put ON your body.  #truth

1. Look at the first 3 products you used this morning
(maybe face wash, shampoo, lotion, body wash, makeup, hair products, etc.) and look through the ingredient list for word(s) ending in 'paraben'

 Don't be shocked- the US doesn't regulate these chemicals, so it is up to you to check what is being used in your home.  Did you know -the European Union has banned around 1,300 chemicals while FDA has banned only 11! 

2. Read an article about Parabens effects on your fertility, thyroid, endocrine system, female health, your children's health, your pets health, and overall wellness. Here's an easy to read article: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/should-people-be-concerned-about-parabens-in-beauty-products/#  

The article explains "[...] cumulative exposure to the chemicals from several different products could be overloading our bodies and contributing to a wide range of health problems. 'Of greatest concern is that parabens are known to disrupt hormone function, an effect that is linked to increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive toxicity,' reports the non-profit Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (CSC). 'Parabens mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells.' Research has shown that the perceived influx of estrogen beyond normal levels can in some cases trigger reactions such as increasing breast cell division and the growth of tumors.  [...] CSC reports that parabens have also been linked to reproductive, immunological, neurological and skin irritation problems.
Health advocates are pressuring the FDA to ban parabens in products sold in the U.S.—like the European Union did in 2012—but concerned consumers must take matters into their own hands for now by reading product labels and avoiding products with parabens."  #themoreyouknow




Now the good news- you don't have to get a chemistry degree to protect your wellness. I started by using the EWG "Healthy Living" app to scan products at the store and find safer ones. Now I choose to make alot of my own products so I can add the benefits of essential oils (Google #Swapped4YL to find my DIY videos). But not everyone is crafty and enjoys DIY; so Young Living also makes safe, chemical free, products and delivers them to your door!

What makes Young Living products better than those marked 'Paraben free' at the big box stores? ALL Young Living products contain essential oils! You are getting added support and benefits -with SAFE fragrances!

   
Read more about 'What are essential oils?', 'Why I use essential oils ' and How to start your oily journey by clicking other articles on the right of the page.

Wishing you a GraceFull Day- free of parabens! 
Visit youngliving.com to see their oils and oil infused products.
When you set up a username and password to purchase,  tell them we sent you with Enroller & Sponsor #10089755  and we'll send you a free recipe book of DIY to try with your oils!

Make It Monday: Hand Soap with Essential Oils #Swapped4YL

Happy Monday!
Time to make something new that will support wellness all week through! 

 DIY Hand Soap!! 
Makes a great housewarming gift or baby shower gift! 
Teachers love it! 
It's nursing home approved!
And kiddos need this after school each day!   

TIP:  I love to use this recipe in a foaming container because it
comes out a little fast, and the little hands at my house
seem to go through it faster if it is in a regular pump bottle. 

   Let us know what oils are your favorites with this recipe!! 

Essential Oil Basic Tips to begin oiling #Swapped4YL

PREPARE to begin Oiling!

Your premium starter kit is ordered!!!  Congratulations!!! …now what? Time to think about how you plan to USE the oils. Prepare to use your kit!!!

1^st - A few quick Oily tips you need to know before cracking the lid on that first bottle:

     *Every Young Living bottle has a great label to explain ingredients, recommended uses, and cautions
     *Some bottles have white labels and are "Vitality" oils, meaning they are labeled for internal/food/beverage use. The actual oil inside the Vitality bottle is the exact same oil as the colored labeled bottles marketed for external use. The FDA doesn't allow a label to say the product can be used internally AND externally, so YL makes two different labels (note that some oils aren't for internal use).  

     *NEVER apply essential oils in eyes, ears, nose or private areas. 
     *Some bottles have a different lid (childproof). These bottles contain an oil that would be a known irritant to children's skin. So to help ensure children don't use or ingest, a safety lid is used

     *If you spill too much essential oil on your skin, or an oil feels too tingly (like wintergreen and peppermint might), or you just want to remove the oil - ADD CARRIER OIL-- Not water!  Water and oil repel, so the water will only push the oil deeper into your skin. Instead, apply a carrier oil (olive, coconut, almond, etc) to the area which will dilute it, then wipe off with a cloth. Repeat as necessary. 
     *Pets respond differently to oils so use in an open area or where pets can escape to a different room if needed. Young Living has oil blends/products designed for pets! And there's lots of info online about safe use around pets and animals.
     *Kiddo's are also more sensitive to oils. There's a product line called Seedlings for infants and Kidsents for children. Most of the common oils can be used with kiddos, just dilute more and research first.  

     *Some Essential Oils (especially citrus) can pull chemicals out of plastics, so its recommended to use glass bottles to store your mixtures (since the point of oils is to avoid synthetic chemicals). 

     *Citrus oils can cause skin to be UV sensitivity, so check the label before going into the sunlight. (Meaning if you put a little lemon on your finger then swipe it across your neck before a run outdoors, you may find that spot turned red when the rest of your neck wasn't as affected) 

     *Since oil and water don't mix - an 'emulsifier' is needed to help them mix in most recipes. Commonly used emulsifiers are witch hazel (for cosmetic mixtures), vodka or witch hazel (for room sprays), honey (for tea/drinks), and Epsom salt (for baths). This is not an inclusive list, and most recipes will advise what to use.  

Whew- Deep breath! That may have seemed like a lot, but you'll get the hang of it. It's easier than that list made it sound! haha!
Young Living provides a full FAQ Guide (that I email to my new members) to help answer any starter questions. When you have questions, don't hesitate to contact your enroller/sponsor, that's their role.

2nd- Think about your WHY,  and gather the recipes/supplies to make oily concoctions
  Did you purchase oils to support a specific health/wellness issue? To replace cleaning chemical products? To swap for cosmetic/beauty products? For cooking? As air freshener? You will likely eventually use oils for all these reasons, but choose a few closest to your WHY first, gather some recipes, and gather what you need to make the recipe happen when your oil arrives.

For example – I knew my first plan was to diffuse lavender in our bedroom, but next, I wanted to make a 'summer outdoor spray' but did not have a glass spray bottle or witch hazel to complete the recipe. I wanted to make a roller bottle of peppermint, lemon and carrier oil to re-energize on car rides home, but I didn't have a roller bottle. So I had the oils, but I was missing parts to the recipes.  

There are definite ways to use the oils without purchasing anything extra since your starter kit comes with a diffuser. Pinterest is full of creative ways to use your oils! I found a wooden clothespin and added drops of peppermint and lemon then clipped to the car vent as a mini diffuser.


But to really play with your oils, I would suggest getting a carrier oil, rubbing on some lavender and lemon, then browsing this blog, Pinterest and YouTube to compile recipes. I screenshot some recipes then write them on an index card and put them in a photo album. 

Here are some common "extra" items you may want to pick up at the grocery (or click to order from my Amazon affiliate links):

*Gallon of Distilled Water (for diffuser and sprays)

*Bottle of carrier Oil 
*Witchhazel 
*Castile Soap
*Glass soap dispenser 

*Glass spray bottle(s) 

*Glass roller bottle(s)  
*Assortment of  mini spray bottles and rollers (pictured here)
*DIY Chapstick tubes
*DIY Deodorant sticks
*Wool dryer balls

If you haven't ordered your starter kit, follow the info below, or read my full article on "How to Purchase Young Living Oils and Products"

Ready to start your oily journey? 

To become a Young Living member you must have a current member to Enroll/Sponsor you. Oils come with a learning curve, so your sponsor is there to share their experience and offer ideas to effectively use the oils.

I would love to be your Young Living sponsor/enroller!

Enter my sponsor number # 10089755 or
just use this link to Purchase your starter kit and get oiling!

Also - Here's a link to a quick guide you can print and share the steps to Becoming a Member!

Share your oily journey with me! #Swapped4YL
Follow our Facebook page
Visit my Pinterest boards for oily recipes and
YouTube videos of recipes! 

3. HOW to purchase Young Living Essential Oils #Swapped4YL

Today I wanted to answer some questions about enrollment and explain the process.

*How do I purchase from YoungLiving or set up a login on the website?

At the top right of your computer screen (or the bottom of your mobile screen), there is a "Become a member" link. This will take you to a page where you choose to be a retail or wholesale member (more on these options below). Then it will take you to a page to choose a starter kit. There are various starter kits with different overall costs, so choose what makes sense for your family's WHY. Maybe it is an oil starter with the 11 oils and diffuser, or the Thieves cleaning kit, Antioxidant drink/supplement kit, or the Savy Minerals Make up kit. Here’s an easy to follow click-by-click video from Young Living that shows exactly how to sign-up on the website: https://vimeo.com/147354370

*What are the Pros and Cons? 

*What is a wholesale account?

By signing up for a wholesale account you are getting 24% off Young Living products. This is definitely the cheapest way to purchase Young Living. By being a wholesale member, you are classified as a “distributor” for Young Living. This does NOT mean you are obligated to sell – ever (seriously!! I had a wholesale account for a year before I decided to sponsor/enroll others). It DOES mean that you are agreeing to a non-compete clause; basically, you can’t sell oils or work for another wellness company while you are a distributor or for six months after terminating your agreement.

*What if I’m not sure yet, but I want to buy a couple things to test first?

If you want to just try one or two oils or products, you can sign up for a retail customer account on the website. This means paying full price, but you are free from the distributor contract.

*Why a starter kit instead of just a few oils?
 I originally planned to just sign up for a retail account and purchase the five oils that I wanted to try; however, I started adding up the costs and realized that didn’t make good financial sense. The costs of those five oils at retail would be almost the same amount as the starter kit, but I was only getting 5 oils instead of 11, and the kit has a diffuser (which was a must for me!). So this helped me choose the wholesale account.

*How much do I have to purchase? Is there a monthly/yearly minimum?

Another reason why I love Young Living- there’s NO minimum purchase and no monthly purchase requirement! To stay active as a wholesale member, just place at least one order of 50 PM (PV = Point Value, which is about $50) per YEAR. If you happen to miss the minimum yearly order, you can call customer care and reactivate your account by placing a 100PV order. The first year after getting my starter kit I purchased sporadically as I was financially able to swap chemicals out of my home and replace with Young Living products and oils. I recently realized that since I’m now placing an order every month, I’m crazy for not joining Essential Rewards Program (more below about these rewards).

*I'm sure what's holding you back from your starter kit is exactly what I wrestled with - the cost

First – I would never tell you to spend money that you don’t have. We have a family budget, and like I said before, sometimes oils were in our budget and some months they weren’t. I still make a “wish list” of oils I want and share that with my hubby and family for Birthday and Christmas gift inspiration. My main goal was to swap out chemicals from our home (read my post on why I ditched chemicals). As we ran out of an old cleaning product, I would write the product on a separate list (not my grocery list) with the amount that I would normally pay for that product next to it. I was amazed at how quickly that list reached $160, the cost of the Premium Starter Kit. So this justified that I was going to spend this money on cleaning supplies anyway -but instead of chemicals, the starter kit was able to replace all the cleaning products on my list.

Second – You can share your oily journey with friends, coworkers, family, community and social media. When others use you as an enroller/sponsor, you get a check ($50)for referring them (in Kentucky we call that a ‘bird-dog fee’). A great video to explain this compensation process is: https://youtu.be/T9Mw-e5w9DE So snap pictures to share how you use the oils or host a party to let others try the oils so they can learn more about the wellness products offered by Young Living, and you can get more money for your oily purchases. 

*Tell me more about the Essential Rewards program

This is an optional program that gives enrollees free oils, reduced shipping, and other promotions as a Thank You for purchasing monthly (which is how I’m able to build an oil stockpile on a budget!). Some products, like vitamins, come in about a 30 day supply so you can place these items on monthly auto purchase through Essential Rewards. But the order is also fully customizable so you can change the products you order each month, change the amount you spend, and even change the date that the order is placed. You can also cancel this program at any time. Again - you are not required to purchase particular products, but of course the more you spend the more promotional items you earn. After being on the rewards program for 3 months you'll find an extra oil as a "thank you" in your order. They give free oils at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. This is like doing your grocery list – but delivered to your door!  For more about Essential Rewards visit the Young Living Essential Rewards FAQ Page

Ready to start your oily journey? 

To become a Young Living member you must have a current member to Enroll/Sponsor you. Oils come with a learning curve, so your sponsor is there to share their experience and offer ideas to effectively use the oils.

I would love to be your Young Living sponsor/enroller!

Enter my sponsor number # 10089755 or
 just use the link below to sign up.

Use this link to Purchase your starter kit and get oiling!

Share your oily journey with me! #Swapped4YL
Or PM me on our Facebook page
Visit my Pinterest boards for oily recipes and YouTube videos of recipes!

2. WHY Essential Oils? Well, here's my story- #Swapped4YL

WHY I ditched chemicals and choose Essential Oils from Young Living

After reading my last post about "WHAT are Essential Oils", I want you to know WHY I choose Young Living.

The WHY is what makes a seed grow to a sprout!

My WHY came in several layers – here are the highlights:

*Because I don’t like to see toddlers with skin irritation and rashes! In 2013 we were blessed with a spirited little girl and this was the first time I thought about the chemicals in our home. We washed her clothes in Dreft and bathed her in Johnson & Johnson – I was uneducated about chemicals at that time and thought I was protecting her by buying name brand bottles with a picture of a cute baby on the front – but this was ultimately a failure (more about this later!)  Fast forward to summer with a two-year-old. She’s a mermaid at heart so I stocked up on sunscreen to protect her baby skin in and out of the water. Then this --

She developed a rash that covered her arms, chest, and legs. (A fine prickly rash that turns red with any scratching and in the heat) This meant a trip to our pediatrician who told me this rash was more prevalent each year, with several cases of this same rash already this summer. She said, “I bet you use Coppertone Water Babies sunscreen”. I was shocked – “yes…” (but how did she know that?!?!). She went on to explain that sunscreen companies have been increasing the amount of a known allergen ingredient called “Oxybenzone”. The chemicals cause such irritation and rashes. I was a little skeptical of her quick diagnoses, but the rash was localized on the places we applied sunscreen all weekend. Hum… On the ride home I kept thinking, “this doesn’t make any sense, I’m buying the name brand, and higher cost, sunscreen – how can this be?”  A few quick Google searches later and I was astonished. Apparently, the product I was rubbing into my child’s skin was hazardous – I had NO idea. But I was determined to learn more.

* Because I can not trust a product to be safe just because a store sells it!

 Next, I downloaded the Healthy Living App by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Think Dirty App. I love these apps because they allow you to scan the barcode of products in your home and see an overall score of the safety of the product. The apps also lists out the individual ingredients and rates each ingredient. So, I scanned our sunscreen bottle and found this:

This sunscreen, marketed for babies and children, contains chemicals I wouldn't want on my own skin! That led to me scanning lotions, shampoos, bubble bath, hand soaps, body wash, laundry detergent, shower cleaner, dishwasher detergent, all-purpose spray cleaner, face wash, hand sanitizer, air freshener, candles and eventually every product in our cabinets, on the sink, and in the shower. I began to realize that a label of ‘gentle’ or ‘natural’ or even ‘dermatologist tested’ means NOTHING about the safety of the product or ingredients. I sat feeling tricked and frustrated by these high priced household products- but I emerged feeling determined to find better and safer options for our family.

* Because if other countries have banned the chemicals, then I’m banning them from our home! 

I began reading more articles and studies shared by the EWG (their website and Facebook Page keep me informed) and the more I learned, the angrier I became. Other countries have banned over 1,000 chemicals from everyday products - the US has only banned 11 -yes eleven!!!! AND the US allows companies to 'hide' chemicals in our products because they consider "fragrance" to be a proprietary blend that doesn't have to be disclosed. Remember that Johnson & Johnson soap that I was using on our child? That exact bottle of soap was banned in other countries because of the harsh ingredients! AND the companies know this and in order to distribute their product overseas they make a safer version – but continued producing the cheaper and hazardous version to sell here in the USA. WHAT?!?  [now recently some companies began changing the formulas for the USA. Read about Johnson & Johnson making changes here]

Want to know more about products and ingredients that are banned overseas but sold in the US?  Here's an article from SafeCosmetics.org and another from Beauty Counter   And - if that's not frustrating enough - you'll hate to know that sometimes looking at a label isn’t enough. For an eye opener about candles www.worldwatch.org where they report an independent lab studied 14 common air fresheners including “sprays, gels and plug-in air fresheners” and found big problems. “Independent lab testing confirmed the presence of phthalates or hormone-disrupting chemicals that may pose a particular health risk to babies and young children, in 12 of the 14 products- including those marked as ‘all natural’.” Furthermore, “none of the products had these chemicals listed on their labels.”  Ugh!! So without a hesitation, I’ll swap those air fresheners for my oils to freshen and purify the air.  

*Because there’s a better way

While at a friend’s house for a cookout, the bugs began showing up around dusk as they do in Kentucky. As the children ran in the grass playing, I began dreading the complaints of itchy spots that would happen tomorrow. I didn’t bring any spray with me, but even if I did, I wasn’t sure if was better to expose them to bug bites or chemicals. Then a friend called her children over and pulled out a brown glass spray bottle and began spraying their legs. She caught me staring and said – “Oh, if it’s okay I’ll spray the other kiddos too”. I must have looked confused because she quickly began explaining that her spray is a mixture of water, witch hazel, and essential oils. She began telling me about oils, some of the benefits, some of the products she makes with oils, and then about Young Living’s Seed to Seal promise. The smell was nice, and the best part was the lack of itching the next day! Hum…These oils definitely warranted more research.    

* Because chemicals don’t just affect our child, but me too

I was just starting to immerse and sort out all the information about household chemicals and essential oils when we began trying to expand our family. After over six months and no positive pregnancy test, I met with my doctor and tests showed there were cysts on my ovaries. Hum…ovarian cysts were something I knew very little about, and I never experienced in the past. So my research began! I learned that these household chemicals not only cause skin irritation but disrupt the endocrine system. Then I began a lot of research on the endocrine system and found that endocrine disorders include diabetes, thyroid issues, reproductive issues, sleep disorders, mood disorders, weight issues, and a host of other hormone-related problems. Further research led me to read “The Ultimate PCOS Detox Guide for Enhanced Fertility” (it was a great Amazon Kindle deal). The book states “Learn how to reduce PCOS symptoms and Increase Fertility by Detoxing your Diet and Environment”.

This book names and explains all kinds of common chemicals that should be avoided. Honestly – when I read this I was totally overwhelmed. The names of the chemicals seemed to be 10 syllable, unpronounceable words, and there were pages of them. How can I possibly remember these names and recognize them in an ingredient list with all the other unpronounceable chemicals in my products? I remembered my EWG and Think Dirty app and began scanning the couple products I use every day and compared the list of ingredients to the list in the book. I was relieved to find the EWG app was already locating these risky ingredients and marking them as such – so I didn’t have any additional memorization work to do! And because of the explanations in the book, I better understood the possible effects these chemicals were having on my body -but I still wasn't ready to part with my favorite bleach cleaner and clinical strength deodorant.       

Before my follow-up appointment to check the cysts again, I finally got that positive pregnancy test. I continued life as normal, but unfortunately ten weeks later I miscarried. This was my FINAL wake-up call! My WHY was apparent! I HAD to take control and make some changes to support my family’s wellness. 

* Because we are in charge of our own wellness

Throughout this process, I learned ALOT about the chemicals in my home, and I was appalled and angry. One startling statistic says only 5% of cancers are hereditary, while the rest are results of exposure to cell-damaging factors such as chemicals. I know I can't protect my family from EVERYTHING, but I am the grocery shopper, I paid our hard earned money and brought all these products into our home. I wanted to grab a trash bag and throw it ALL away (and I did immediately throw away a few items that I found particularly appalling). But I needed to start slowly swapping out chemicals and bringing in safer products. I decided that when a bottle was empty, I would NOT put it on the grocery list, but instead swap it for a Young Living product or something I make with clean products and essential oils.

This was the start of my oily journey! I logged onto YoungLiving.com and signed up for a wholesale membership and purchased a premium starter kit. I received eleven oils and a diffuser (with lots of extra samples and info cards included) that allowed me to begin making my own products and allowed me to swap several things right away (and the diffuser is better than any candle or melt!) I quickly bought Thieves cleaner and fell in love. Then Savvy Minerals makeup and more.

So now, when I hear a friend talk about her child’s sensitive skin, husbands sleep issues, or continued illness, I wonder ‘what if they knew what I know about chemicals – would their wellness improve?” Or when a friend describes her own struggle with thyroid issues and weight, reproductive issues, or the worst diagnoses of cancer,  I wonder ‘what if she knew what I know about chemicals – would her wellness improve?”   

*Now it’s time to inventory yourself and find your WHY. What areas need improvement in your life?
Are the products you are paying for, in your cabinets, honoring your WHY? (Get the app and start scanning!)

We can no longer believe that everything sold in our local store (or online store) is safe. We must flip over boxes of snacks, drinks, food products, cosmetics, baby products, cleaning supplies and medications to read ingredients. Young Living is aware of the risks and does not produce products based on old procedures or cost saving gimmicks. They are a total wellness company helping your family stay above the line of wellness. You can buy safer and organic products, but if they don't contain essential oils, then you aren't getting the benefits to your body systems. See below about how to signup for Young Living and begin swapping chemicals out of your home.  #Swapped4YL

     Young Living also produces cleaners, detergent, soap, tooth paste, sunscreen, deodorant, baby wipes, etc. in case you don’t desire the adventure of making it yourself. (See my other posts and videos to see the products I make for our home)

Don’t just take my word, for more WHY stories and outcomes, visit:

www.oil-testimonials.com     YLSearch.com      PubMed.gov

Ready to start your oily journey?  Here's how to purchase Young Living Essential Oils and Oil products:

Young Living has compiled several starter kits, all costing $160. There's a cleaning kit, makeup kit, antioxidant drink kit, and an oil kit. I started with the Premium Starter Kit which includes a diffuser, 11 oils, a sample of household cleaner, sample packaged oils, small bottles to mix your own blends or share the oils, 2 NingXia Red drink samples and lots of informational booklets/magazine/info cards. 
To become a Young Living member you must have a current member to Enroll/Sponsor you. Oils come with a learning curve, so your sponsor is there to share their experience and offer ideas to effectively use the oils.

I would love to be your sponsor! When you make your purchase, just enter my sponsor number # 10089755

Watch this video to show you step by step how to sign up and use this link to Purchase your starter kit and get oiling!  I'll shoot you a welcome email after you sign up and we'll get going!

Visit GraceFull Day on Twitter @Gracefu11_ or Facebook Page
Share your WHY story!   #Swapped4YL

1. WHAT are Essential Oils? #Swapped4YL

A SEED – The Starting Point - WHAT are Essential Oils?

Essential Oils start with a seed. Those who are learning about oils are referred to as 'seeds' as well. I remember when I first heard about essential oils (when I was in the seed stage) and I had no idea what oils are, where to buy them, why we needed them, or how to use them. But oh how things have changed!!! 

When a friend offered an outdoor spray made from Young Living Essential Oils my eyes were opened to a chemical free lifestyle that I did not know existed. I thought we were taking care of our wellness and honoring God by caring for our bodies, but now I know about chemicals and I know better. I've spent hours reading and researching and experimenting - here's what I've learned, essentially growing from Seed - to Sprout - to Bloom - to Sharing oils. 

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

 Essential Oils are the natural organic oils of plants (pulled from roots, petals, rind, leaf, or bark – some call oils the ‘lifeblood’ of the plant or the 'essence' of the plant (thus the name essential oils). 

Since Biblical times, oils have been used to support every system in the body including muscular system, skeletal system, circulatory system, endocrine and hormones, respiratory system and immune system. An oil in a diffuser can promote restful sleep and support respiratory function. An oil massaged on the abdomen can support digestion. Oils on the chest and feet can improve respiratory function. Oils can be added to beauty products, household cleaners, and air fresheners to replace synthetic chemicals and fragrances. Oils can add natural flavoring in food and drinks.

I primarily use oil to swap out chemical toxins in your home. This is why I'm hooked on oils!  (Check out my post on MY ‘WHY' and do your own research about the chemical effects on your family). I use Thieves cleaner throughout our home (a mixture of oils used in ancient times, but now modern hospitals are swapping their synthetic cleaners for this pure one). I diffuse RC oil blend when our noses get stuffy from Kentucky weather changes.  I rub lavender oil on our feet at night to support sleep. I roll peppermint and lemon oil on my wrists and behind my ears when I need a boost of energy to make it through the day. (Read more about how I use oils in other posts and YouTube video)

Essential oils work by penetrating cell membranes to travel quickly in the body (something man-made medicine can't achieve). Oils are introduced into our bodies the same way as other products:

*Topically- the English primarily add to a bath, rub or massage on the skin which is our largest organ and readily absorbs what we put on it (which is why the Nicoderm and other medication patches work). Oils applied topically reach the bloodstream in 26 seconds.    

*Ingest – the French cook with oils and apply to foods/drinks (some oils are ingestible- check the label first!)

*Inhale – the Germans diffuse oils into the air. This is a very easy way to enjoy the smell and benefits of oils (diffused in the air, sprayed like perfume or sniffed straight from the bottle). I have a locket necklace containing a felt pad that diffuses applied oils throughout the day. And I have a bracelet of lava beads that also diffuse the oils. Inhaled oils reach the heart, liver, and thyroid in three seconds.

There are over 300 oils, and Young Living is one of the oldest oil producers and offers the widest variety, but an average family only needs 10-20 oils to build a great kit. 

So WHERE do you purchase oils?

As oils are returning to popularity, they are becoming available at local drug stores, big box stores, and online retailers. But buyer beware! As you compare products, you’ll begin to find the ones at the stores aren’t just a ‘generic’ version – but in some cases a watered down version. There’s no rating system for Essential Oils in the United States. The closest we get is an FDA requirement that in order to label a bottle of essential “pure” or “therapeutic grade”, the contents of the bottle must contain at least five percent essential oils. 

    ONLY 5%! Which means 95% can be filler - and the label won't list the filler. 

Globally, oils are ranked as follows:

-Grade A = Therapeutic oil, made from organically grown plants and distilled at low temperatures.

-Grade B = Oils are food grade but may contain synthetics, pesticides, fertilizers, chemical extenders or carrier oils (like almond, olive or other vegetable oil).

-Grade C = Oils are perfume grade, often containing other chemicals or solvents left over from the harvesting/distilling process and may be diluted 80-95% with alcohol.

-Grade D = This is called ‘floral water’ and is aromatic like an oil but usually a byproduct of a higher grade distillation (the water that is leftover after the oil is pulled out) and is sold to companies that fill bottles with 5% of this water and fill the rest with carrier, and label it as ‘pure’.                                 A fraction of the oil = fraction of the price! 

Another way some companies cut corners is using pesticides (to have more crop to distill), using a chemical solvent to extract oil (so there’s more oil pulled out of the plant) and then diluting with a carrier oil (to stretch the oil they distilled). If you are using oils to support healthy functions, then using a low-grade oil would be as helpful as eating a salad that is 5% greens and 95% croutons. The value is in the oil, not the filler.

WHY Young Living?

Young Living has a “Seed to Seal” guarantee which means they control the process from farmland to the sealed bottle. Founder, Gary Young, said he never makes an oil for profit- but for a purpose. Young Living’s oils are Grade A. They control the seeds used, soil/farms chosen, plants are hand-weeded, oils are used to repel bugs (not chemical/pesticides), harvested at their peak and put through vigorous testing. Learn more about the process at seedtoseal.com.  

HOW to purchase Young Living Essential Oils and Oil products:

Young Living has compiled a starter kit of the most commonly used oils and samples of their popular products, and offer this bundle at a discounted rate to get started oiling. Below is a picture of the bundle I started with, and it includes: a diffuser, 11 oils, sample of Thieves Household Cleaner, sample packaged oils, small bottles to mix your own blends or share the oils, 2 NingXia Red (antioxidant) drink samples and lots of informational booklets/magazine/info cards. This is how I got started! The kit cost $160 (+shipping & tax). Check out the "How to purchase" article for more info.

*

To become a Young Living member you must have a current member to Enroll/Sponsor you. Oils come with a learning curve, so your sponsor is there to share their experience and offer ideas to effectively use the oils. I would love to be your sponsor!
Enter my sponsor number # 10089755 

Watch this video to show you step by step how to sign up and use this link to Purchase your starter kit and get oiling!

Visit GraceFull Day on Twitter our Facebook Page to see how I use the oils. 
                                          #Swapped4YL 
                         Wishing you a Grace Full Day Oiling!!

5. Oil Everyday & Bloom Wellness! #Swapped4YL

Essential Oils have arrived at your home!

Oil Everyday & BLOOM into Wellness!

First a quick confession! - When my oils arrived, I was ready to open every single one and fall in love. However, I actually only loved the smell of about half the bottles. Before you put the oils on a shelf - you need to know that most oils do not smell like the chemical perfumes or air fresheners that we have become accustomed. I now realize it was like I'd been eating Fruity Pebbles and then tried to eat an orange and expected the same flavor. Oils are natural, they don't smell just like chemical fragrances, and it takes a little time for your nose to adjust and appreciate. Just like an orange, which tastes sweet by nature, you will learn to love the organic scents over the chemical ones. So give your nose a chance to detox and acclimate. Like trying a new food or exercise, you will find it different at first, but then you will enjoy and eventually crave it - Especially when the benefits are undeniable! 

Time to rip open your premium starter kit! And crack the lid on each oil! You will find that oils smell slightly different straight from the bottle than on your skin or in a diffuser (Google "essential oil top notes" to understand this). First, pull all the bottles from the container and smell each one from the bottle. If one oil stands out as your favorite today, set it to the side. Next take the dropper lid off the bottle of Stress Away and add the roller ball lid and roll it across your wrists, neck, and/or spine as you explore your starter kit box. (Here's how to remove the bottle lids:  https://youtu.be/Vs4Gig4WVuk)



Next, open your diffuser! Plug it in, fill with water, and add two drops of the oil you noted as your favorite today. (I recommend you find a YouTube video about your particular diffuser as there are lots of options and the lights can be controlled too, but each model varies slightly) 

Make a commitment to diffuse every day and get to know your oils! Start with the ones that smell best to you. Then begin diffusing for a purpose, to support the system that needs it most. Maybe RC for respiratory support, or Digize for tummy support. We use lavender at night to unwind and Purification is great to cover crazy pet or kitchen smells. After diffusing each oil individually, begin mixing the single oils to make your own blends. I love a drop of lemon and peppermint in the morning or right after work for a pick me up. My husband likes a drop of Thieves with a drop of lemon. There are endless combinations! 

Next, open the small amber colored sample bottles that came in your kit (yeah- they seem tiny, but you'll love em!).  This is the best way to get oils in multiple locations so they are ready to use. Pull out those recipes you want to try and make a few tiny trial bottles. This is where you feel a little strange - like your one unicorn hair away from being a potion mixer - its okay! You'll get more comfortable dropping oils soon!  Start by adding a few (3-6) drops of lavender to a bottle and fill the remainder with a carrier oil and place it next to your bed. At bedtime drop a few drops on your wrists, feet or pillow. Then put a couple drops each of peppermint, frankincense, and lavender into a bottle and fill with a carrier oil. I keep this mixture in my purse and add to my temples, neck and behind my ears when my head gets foggy or needs support. Also, mix a couple drops of lemon with a couple drops of peppermint or purification and fill with a carrier oil. This one is great for a pick-me-up to smell as I drive home and it really freshens the car too!

Time to start making changes – baby steps. Young Living will be for your household wellness what Dave Ramsey was for your bank account. Decide where to start and make a few changes each month.  There may be products that you feel particularly convicted of ridding from your home and thus decide to swap for something better right away. (For me- it was dryer sheets!)
So when a product runs out

1. before getting rid of the empty bottle, look at the ingredient list
2. scan it with the "Healthy Living" or "Think Dirty" App and see how it rates
3. decide if it is a product that you will let back into your home, or if it needs to be swapped for something better

Next, start a swap box. I put an empty Amazon box in my laundry room and wrote "Swapped" on the side. I began filling the box with products I didn't want to purchase again. First was bug spray. Then chemical filled deodorant. Then shower cleaner. Then spray fabric refresher. Then countertop cleaner. Then Vicks. Then Tums. Then car air fresheners. Then hand sanitizers. And the list continued as the box began to overflow. Some items were easier for me to part with than others...and eventually, my 'smell good' body lotion/sprays, plug-ins and finally fancy candles were tossed into the box too. There was a part of me that didn't want to truly trash anything because 'what-if I need it again' or 'what if the natural products just don't work the same', or 'what if I can't afford the natural ones'. So putting items in this box, instead of the trash, gave me a backup plan if I decided to abort the oily mission.  But guess how many items I pulled back out of the box...NONE!  Now, the box serves as a visual of the products I've swapped and thus a reminder of the steps we've made towards a chemical free home.

Here's a quick rundown of some of my swaps and DIYs:

*Trashed plastic shower curtains and purchased cloth shower curtains

*Trashed dryer sheets and now put essential oils on these wool dryer balls (affiliate link)

*"Monster bedtime spray" for the kiddo's rooms

*'Summer outdoor spray"
*"Fruit and Veggie wash"

* 'face moisturizer'

* 'Body Butter' lotion (used throughout my second pregnancy and still use because I love it!)

* Lavender roller for bedtime
*Add couple drops of lavender to mascara for lash boost
*Homemade hand soap
*Purchased Thieves household cleaner from youngliving.com, then made into several spray bottles to keep strategically around the house

*Made peppermint sugar hand scrubs for Christmas gifts (in cute mason jars!)

*Added a few drops of lavender and peppermint to a mason jar of Epsom salt for a bath soak

*Purchased a diffuser necklace & bracelet to keep me oily at work
*Put vinegar in a spray bottle and added a couple drops of lemon for a window cleaner the kids can use
*Put drop of Purification in vacuum filter before use to freshen the room

The list goes on and on as I continue to find new recipes by reading oily blogs, searching Pinterest boards, and listening to oily podcasts.

Use your oils every day! 

If you want a quick and easy read about using your starter kit and why to ditch chemicals- pick up the book "Fearless" on Amazon (or order a Premium Starter Kit and use my sponsor # and I'll send you this book for free!) It's a great guide to playing with your starter kit!

You can also find more info at Young Living University which covers all you'll want to know about oils!

CONGRATULATIONS on making baby steps towards a chemical free life of wellness for your family! 

If you haven't ordered your starter kit, follow the info below, or read my full article on "How to Purchase Young Living Oils and Products"    Ready to start your oily journey? 

To become a Young Living member you must have a current member to Enroll/Sponsor you. Oils come with a learning curve, so your sponsor is there to share their experience and offer ideas to effectively use the oils.

I would love to be your Young Living sponsor/enroller!

Enter my sponsor number # 10089755 or
just use this link to Purchase your starter kit and get oiling!

Find more by Google searching #Swapped4YL
Follow our Facebook page and join our oily group GracefullDay Essentials for oily info and Young Living product news.