If you haven't read Part 1 find it here.
We all know that smells can bring back memories. But did you know that smells can also trigger trauma? And, on the flip side, that smells can also help process and release trauma? It's true! The power of smells is something that shouldn't be underestimated. Thankfully, there are techniques and products that can help release past trauma so you move on.
How Smells Can Trigger Trauma
Smells are one of the most powerful triggers for memories and emotions. That's because the sense of smell is closely linked to the limbic system, which is the part of the brain responsible for processing emotion and memory. When we smell something, it can trigger a long-forgotten memory or feeling almost instantly. This is why certain smells can be so comforting—they remind us of happy times in our lives. But it also works in reverse. If we associate a particular smell with a traumatic event, that smell can trigger those same feelings of trauma. This can be debilitating for some and make it hard to live a normal life.
How Smells Can Heal Trauma
Just as smells can trigger trauma, they can also help process it. When we use essential oils to intentionally create a certain atmosphere, we can help our brains process and release those negative emotions associated with trauma. This is why the Young Living Feelings Kit is so powerful. This kit comes with six different essential oils: Release, Forgiveness, Valor, Inner Child, Present Time, and Harmony. These oils can help create a sense of calm and peace, which is essential for releasing trauma.
They are specifically chosen to help release past trauma and help you move on. They can be used individually or together depending on what you need in the moment. A diffuser will disperse the oil into the air so that you can breathe it in and reap the benefits. And you can also apply topically on certain areas of the body to enhance the process of releasing trauma.
If you're struggling with trauma, you are not alone. Many people suffer, often in silence. Don't underestimate the power of smells. Essential oils can be a helpful tool in your journey to healing. The Young Living Feelings Kit is a great place to start if you're not sure where to begin. This unique method can bring help that is not available any other way.
Need assistance with releasing emotions?
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It can be tough to find gifts for homeschooled kids that are both fun and educational. But never fear! I've got you covered with this list of 20 great gift ideas. From learning games to creative art supplies, there's something here for every child or teen. Plus, they're all affordable and easy to find, so you won't have to spend a lot of time or money searching for the perfect present. So whether you're shopping for a child or teen, be sure to check out this list!
1. Learning Games
There are tons of great learning games out there that make education fun! Check out classics like Scrabble or Monopoly, or try something new like Qwirkle or The Settlers of Catan (These are some of our favorites). There are also lots of great card games and board games that can help with math, science, history, and more. Whatever your child's interests are, there's sure to be a learning game that's perfect for them.
2. Art Supplies
Creative kids will love receiving art supplies as a gift! Stock up on crayons, markers, paints, clay, and whatever else your child needs to express their creativity. If you're not sure what they need, a gift card to an art supply store is always a good option. Or you could put together a craft kit with everything they need to make a specific project. Either way, they're sure to appreciate your thoughtfulness!
3. Science Kits
Science lovers will be thrilled to receive a science kit as a gift! There are kits for all kinds of different experiments, so you can choose one that's perfect for your child's interests and abilities. There are kits for Earth Science, Chemistry, STEM, Geology, Ecosystems, and more! Plus, it's a great way to get them interested in science and teach them about the scientific method. It might even inspire them to pursue a career in science when they grow up!
4. Books
Books make the perfect gift for any occasion! Whether your child loves stories about princesses or dinosaurs, there's sure to be a book out there that they'll love. You could even put together a themed book set, like classic literature or folktales from around the world. And don't forget about non-fiction books! They can be just as engaging and informative as fiction books, and your child is sure to learn something new from them. Holiday books are great, too! These are some favorites for my kids.
5. Puzzles and Brainteasers
Puzzles and brainteasers are great gifts for kids who love solving problems. They'll have hours of fun trying to put together a difficult puzzle or crack the code on a brainteaser. And you can rest assured knowing that they're also getting some valuable mental exercise in the process! So if you're looking for a gift that's both fun and educational, puzzles and brainteasers are always a safe bet.
6. Educational Toys
Another great option for gifts are educational toys. These are usually designed for specific age groups and focus on things like colors, shapes, numbers, letters, etc. They're perfect for younger children who are just starting to learn these concepts.
7. Educational Subscriptions
There are so many unique subscriptions that encourage learning in a variety of ways. I love those that help them learn new skills or be creative. These are two we enjoy all year: Think Outside, Annie’s Kit Clubs. And if your kids like to cook - I'm The Chef, Too!
8. A personalized book
Give your child the gift of a story this Christmas with a personalized book. There are many great companies that offer this service, and you can find a book for any age group. This is a gift that will be cherished for years to come.
9. A subscription to a kids' magazine
This is a great gift for the young reader in your life. Not only will they enjoy getting their own mail, but they'll also love having something new to read each month. We like Learn Our History and Tuttle Twins.
10. Sensory swing
This swing is great for all kids, but especially if you have a child with special needs. These allow for a wide range of motion, provide sensory pressure, and help with body balance and awareness.
11. Balls
Soccer, Basketball, Football, whichever sport catches their eye. This gift will keep your kids happy and active and outside! Many balls have different sizes, so pay attention to the size your child needs.
12. A new bike
For the active child, nothing beats a new bike! If you're feeling generous, you could even add on some training wheels or a helmet to help them stay safe while they're out riding around. Every child needs a bike at some point in their lives. Encourage their outdoor activity with this special gift!
13. Essential Oils
Did you know that there are essential oils specifically designed with kids in mind? Help bring calmness, focus, and health with these amazing and kid-loved tools, and ease into bedtime with the owl diffuser that has nightlights and music!
14. A karaoke machine
Does your child love singing? If so, they'll love belting out their favorite tunes with their very own karaoke machine or a simple karaoke microphone! This is a great gift for family gatherings or parties with friends.
15. A pet
Pets are not only fun but also provide companionship and teach responsibility. If you're considering this option, be sure to do your research beforehand to find the best pet for your child and family situation. Look for local rescue centers - we have had our little rescue for 13 years and love him!
16. Memberships
A trip to the zoo, aquarium, national park, museum, or amusement park, or better yet, get the whole family a year’s membership! There's nothing like seeing animals up close and personal, learning about faraway places and history, or just having a blast together as a family! These make great day trips or weekend getaways, depending on how far away you live from these attractions. The America the Beautiful Pass is great - and if you have a 4th grader - they get a free Every Kid Outdoor Pass.
17. Experiences
Sometimes the best gifts aren't things at all but experiences instead! Tickets to see a movie, play, or concert, or even just a gift certificate for an afternoon at the spa—these are all things that kids will enjoy and remember long after the holidays are over. So think outside the box this year and give your child an experience they'll never forget! CertifiKid or Groupon are great places to find local experiences at great deals.
18. A special homemade gift
This could be crocheted or knitted, painted or colored, thrown on a potter’s wheel or even baked in an oven. Get creative with your own talents and make it unique and something they will treasure always.
19. A warm fuzzy blanket
Who doesn’t love cuddling up with a fuzzy blanket in the winter? There are so many options and designs that this can be personalized to fit your child’s interests.
20. Legos
Legos are hands down, the toy that my kids play with the most. They love to build and design, and there are so many options depending on their interests! These keep brains and hands occupied and creative.
There are tons of great gifts out there for kids! Whether you're looking for something fun or something educational (or both!), be sure to check out this list of 20 great gift ideas. From learning games to science kits to experiences with the whole family, there's something here for every child or teen on your list. These are great for homeschool and public school families alike. And best of all, they're all easy to find! So what are you waiting for? Start shopping today!
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We all know that nutrition is important. It's the foundation of our health and well-being. But the education provided about nutrition in public schools and by mainstream "experts" is not always accurate. Scientists and nutritionists have been trying to for many years to make changes to what is being taught because the science is very clear on certain things. But there are some industries that pay a lot of money to keep their foods or pseudo-foods on the market and much of it is touted as healthy or at least, not that bad.
So how are we to know what is good for us, and what is not?
For me, the first thing I look at is whether it is a whole food. The more something is processed and the farther away from nature it is, the worse it is for our bodies. If you have a choice between a whole food and a similar processed food, the whole food will always be the winner in a nutrition competition. This means packaged items - you know, the ones in boxes or bags with a ton of ingredients listed - are off the table as a good food choice.
The "funny" thing is that those packaged foods actually sap our energy, while many whole foods boost it. We all have choices - to eat healthy or not - but too often we don't realize how those choices will affect us in the long run. Eating processed foods might be convenient in the short-term, but in the long-term they take a toll on our health. That's why it's so important to make sure that we're getting enough nutrition from whole foods.
What are Whole Foods?
Whole foods are unprocessed and unrefined foods that are free from additives or other artificial substances. They are often organic and locally grown, which helps to ensure that they are of the highest quality. Whole foods include fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Eating a diet rich in whole foods has been shown to improve overall health and well-being.
Why Eat Whole Foods?
There are many reasons to eat whole foods. For one, they are more nutritious than processed foods. Processed foods often have their nutrient content stripped away during processing, leaving them lacking in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Whole foods retain all of their nutrients and fiber content, making them more nourishing for our bodies. Additionally, whole foods tend to be lower in calories than processed foods, making them ideal for weight loss or maintenance. And finally, whole foods are generally more satisfying than processed foods, meaning that you'll be less likely to overeat if your diet consists mostly of whole foods.
What will you choose?
If you're looking for a way to improve your overall health and well-being, eating more whole foods is a great place to start. Not only are they more nutritious than processed foods, but they're also lower in calories and more satisfying. So next time you're at the grocery store, make sure to stock up on plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds! Your body will thank you for it!
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
Sometimes it's hard to know what to get your husband for Christmas. He always says he doesn't want anything, and it seems like everything he does want is already taken care of. What do you do when you don't know quite what to get him? I've been looking around to find that perfect gift, but what is a perfect git, anyway? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best gift for a husband who has everything will vary depending on his specific interests and hobbies. But it's more about how he feels than about the gift itself. Really, when it comes down to it, you want to make him feel loved, appreciated, and cared for. I found some gift ideas for my husband that are thoughtful, practical, and unique and I hope he feels my heart as I give them!
10 gift ideas for the husband who has everything
1. If your husband is like mine, he loves to make shredded chicken or pulled pork. These Bear Claws meat shredders are perfect. No more bent forks! And these will make perfect stocking stuffers!
2. The right trash can is important, whether in the house or the garage. This stainless steel trash can is just right for the job. The hands-free design is great without the electronic component of an automatic trash can that breaks after awhile.
3. Every man needs a good pair of work gloves. These are high performance plus easy care - they are machine washable! Protect your man's hands with comfort and durability.
4. When my husband walks by and I smell this on him, I swoon! This is the real deal for bringing the togetherness that all men desire! The scent is so attractive to women that I won't let him wear it anywhere but home. This will make you both happy! Might want to lower the lights, and put on some music, too!
5. My friend who owns a construction company swears by DEWALT cordless tools. My husband has had his eye on the 20V MAX reciprocating saw. Have you got anything on the honey-do list? This will help knock out some projects in no time without having to worry about extension cords! Only the best for your husband!
6. Here's another great DEWALT toolset. The DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Combo Set. These tools will set your man up for the long haul! The quality on these is amazing!
7. #4 helps with getting in the mood, while Multigreens helps all the mechanics to work happily. This combines bee pollen with nutritious greens like barley grass, spirulina, eleuthero root, choline, alfalfa, kelp and a blend of essential oils to boost vitality by supporting the glandular, nervous, and circulatory systems. Are you ready for this?
8. Men wear out their socks so fast, they are a perfect gift anytime - I like to let my kids wrap the socks separately just for fun! These are best sellers for a reason, comfortable with arch support for the men who are on their feet a lot.
9. For the man who has everything, I'll bet he doesn't have this! The WavWatch brings self care to a new level. Let him choose from over 1000 sound frequencies across common health categories, then let the frequency run to gently harmonize with his body. This self care tool uses the power of sound therapy to help with problems and imbalances in your body. From emotions to pain to immunity, this is a great support! Use the code ERIKA100 to get $100 off!
10. Personalize this key ring for your husband and he will carry a piece of you with him every time he leaves the house.
It is stainless steel, and you can even add a picture! He will love the daily reminder of your love.
It can be tough to find the perfect gift for a husband who has everything, but don't worry! Your intention to find that perfect gift, along with the love you freely give will make whatever you choose heart-warming. (But let me tell you from experience - #4 is both my husband's favorite and mine!)
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Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
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