Do you remember ninth grade biology class? The pungent smell of formaldehyde filling the air as you performed the public school ritual of frog dissection? Did you know that many popular personal care products list formaldehyde as an ingredient or mention a preservative that releases formaldehyde? Yeah, we think it’s gross, too. That’s why we don’t include it in our products and have a list of other ingredients that Young Living doesn’t use.

When creating a new product, Young Living takes great care to scrutinize, analyze, and research each ingredient to ensure that it is as pure as possible. We also consider the conditions of sourcing and closely monitor how ingredients are being harvested. Our aim to deliver naturally derived products that you feel confident using around your family is at the core of who we are.

If we’re unsure about an ingredient, we’ll pass on it completely. For example, we never use artificial dyes, harsh chemicals, or fragrances other than essential oils. In place of artificial flavors, we use essential oils and natural flavoring. The elimination of these constituents helps us provide you with products we are proud to call ours. Ready to take a closer look at what else we don’t use?

Personal Care

Our personal care line ranges from serums you apply to your face to toothpaste you put in your mouth—and that’s about as personal as it gets. It’s important to us that you feel secure in the ingredients. Here’s what we avoid and why we never use it:

Glycols (propylene, butylene, hexylene, caprylyl): Glycols are moisturizing agents. We don’t use them in our products simply because there isn’t enough research to declare them as safe to use, so why take the risk?

Triclosan: This is an antimicrobial agent, often found in toothpastes and hand soaps, that was recently banned by the FDA for antiseptic skin products due to lack of data regarding its safety and efficacy.*

*See ruling here.

Nano particles: These are commonly found in sunscreen. These reactive particles can be very unpredictable and are small enough to pass through cell membranes and enter the bloodstream. For more information, check out our blog post.

Formaldehyde: This preservative is often seen in lotions, cosmetics, and baby wipes. After repeated contact, skin sensitivity may arise.*

*See FDA advice here.

Oxybenzone: This organic compound is an example of an ingredient that could be toxic to the symbiotic algae that lives within coral and might pose a huge threat to coral reef.* As conscious stewards of the environment, we use reef-friendly sunscreen ingredients such as zinc oxide (non-nano) or titanium dioxide (non-nano) in our sunscreen.

*See National Ocean Service report here.

BHA and BHT: These are common synthetic preservatives found in fatty oils or carrier oils. There’s a reason other companies use these ingredients, even if they haven’t been proven to be safe or properly researched. They contribute something to the finished product, but we refuse to settle. In our creams and lotions, instead of using these preservatives, we choose to utilize naturally derived ingredients such as essential oils, pH regulators, acid regulators, and plant extracts. In place of fatty acids, we opt for BHA- and BHT-free coconut and carrier oils. In our bath bombs, we choose simple sodium bicarbonate and citric acid in place of boric acid.

Cleaning–Thieves® 

Imagine you’re wiping off your counters with popular disinfectant wipes when you hear your baby start to wail. You feel you need to vigorously scrub your hands to rid them of harsh chemicals before going to sooth your upset child. This is not what we want for your homes and families. We want you to feel a sense of confidence when cleaning around little ones and pets. We make that happen by eliminating these substances:

Sulfates: These cleaning agents are synthetic and are purposely absent from our Thieves line.

Triethanolamine (TEA): This ingredient is often found in retail detergents, but there’s not enough safety data available for us to feel comfortable using it.

What we use instead:

When it comes to the cleaning products you trust us to formulate, we use natural surfactants like glucosides, soapberries, and quillaja extract instead—all derived from plants.

Babies–Young Living Seedlings™

If there’s one thing we know about parents, it’s that if you’re unsure if an ingredient is okay for you, it’s an absolute no for your babies. This led to the formulation of our Young Living Seedlings line. Young Living products are meant to be used in the home, and the last thing you should stress about is which kind of chemicals your children are exposed to. That’s why we refuse to use the following ingredients:

Talc: This powder contains potential carcinogens in certain products. Most baby powders use it, but the costs could be very serious when inhaled.

PEGs (PEG–polyethylene glycol; PPG–polypropylene glycol): These ingredients are surfactants and are most commonly used in cleaning and personal products. When synthetic, they carry potential safety concerns such as pore clogging and toxicity.

Parabens: The FDA has no conclusive research regarding the effects of these preservatives, which are often used in deodorants, moisturizers, and shampoos.

What we use instead:

Once again, we choose to focus our resources on providing you plant-derived, natural surfactants and safer alternatives to parabens such as acid regulators, plant extracts, and essential oils.

Makeup–Savvy Minerals by Young Living®

For some, makeup comes into daily contact with their skin. That’s why we created Savvy Minerals by Young Living for the woman who wants to feel confident and beautiful without constantly worrying about what’s on her face and seeping into her skin. To accomplish this, we say no to these constituents:

Synthetic dyes or colors: These additives are used to make cosmetics pigmented and are mostly made of petroleum sources.

Bismuth: This is a coloring agent in makeup, and since we have insufficient evidence of its safety, we don’t use it.

What we use instead:

Instead of using harmful, unknown agents to color our makeup, we rely on minerals or mineral oxides.

With each of our products, we put quality first. We take great pride in scrutinizing our ingredients—from the source material to the country of origin—and celebrate spreading Gary Young’s vision of bringing the world’s purest essential oils into your home.

Quality sourcing, healthy lives, and naturally derived products are our passion. To learn more, read our blog posts on the Seed to Seal® process and how to use essential oils to create a healthy lifestyle.

Help us out! What other information would you like to see about Young Living and essential oils? Let us know in the comments below!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/ingredients-youll-never-find-in-yl-products/

What’s your reason for getting your body moving? Maybe you’re looking for a new way to relieve some stress, or maybe you want to push yourself to excel at a sport you love. Maybe you want to show yourself that you can achieve whatever you put your mind to!

Whatever reason you have for unearthing your inner athlete, we’re here to cheer you on and give you the support you need to reach your goals. Whether you’re already at the top of your game or you’re taking your first steps into a new sport like basketball, backcountry skiing, or rock climbing, we’ve got tips and tools that can help you feel energized, inspired, and ready to go!

DAILY SUPPORT

PowerGize

A blend of essential oils and carefully selected botanicals, PowerGize™ is one of our favorite daily supplements! Jump-start every morning with two capsules of PowerGize before your daily workout. This unique blend is formulated to help support energy levels, sustain mental clarity, and more!*

Why we love PowerGize:

• Helps maintain balanced energy levels for physical performance and endurance*
• Helps support healthy muscles, increase muscle size and strength, and enhance muscle tone and the rate of muscle recovery in men*
• Promotes a balanced sense of energy and calm*
• Helps promote mental clarity, concentration, and alertness*
• Helps promote a healthy response to everyday stress, overwork, and fatigue*

PRE-WORKOUT BOOSTS

NingXia Nitro

When you’re facing a tough workout—or you need a boost to get you out of bed and into the gym—reach for NingXia Nitro®. This blend of essential oils and botanical extracts supports normal energy levels and alertness to help you get through your workout routine with energy to spare!*

Why we love NingXia Nitro:

• Supports cognitive and physical fitness*
• Provides a boost before or during your workout, thanks to naturally occurring caffeine*
• Easy to carry and pack in a gym bag

Before-Gym Essential Oils

These essential oils are great on their own, but we love using them together to give us a refreshing aroma before we hit the gym. You can diffuse this blend or apply it topically. Our favorite way to get pumped for a workout? Put on your favorite workout playlist, put a drop or two of this blend on your palms, then cup your hands to your face and breathe in deep. Let the fragrance and tunes inspire and uplift you!

Wake Up and Work Out Blend*

5 drops R.C.™ essential oil blend

4 drops Peppermint essential oil

1 drop Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil

*This recipe is based on a 10-drop diffuser blend.

POST-WORKOUT RECOVERY

AminoWise

Your workout regimen shouldn’t end when you leave the gym or step off the trail! It’s important to make sure your body has the support it needs for recovery. AminoWise™ is formulated to support your muscles during and after your workout to enhance recovery and performance.* Mix one scoop of AminoWise with eight fluid ounces of water and drink it during or immediately after your workout! This post-workout drink includes a muscle performance blend, recovery blend, and hydrating mineral blend to build and repair muscles, reduce lactic acid, and replenish minerals lost in exercise.*

Why we love AminoWise:

• Helps support muscles during and after exercise to help fight fatigue and enhance recovery*
• Reduces lactic acid induced by exercise through a complex blend of antioxidants and minerals*
• Helps support the production of nitric oxide, which can improve vascular blood flow*
• Contains branched-chain amino acids, which have been shown to aid in preventing muscle breakdown from exercise*
• Supports hydration by replenishing important minerals lost during exercise*

Pure Protein Complete

Don’t settle for any old protein supplement. Pure Protein Complete™ provides 25 grams of protein and a full range of amino acids to help your post-workout muscle recovery.* Mix your choice of Pure Protein Complete—in Chocolate Deluxe or Vanilla Spice flavor—with water or the milk of your choice and drink it within 45 minutes of your workout. This proprietary blend of enzymes, amino acids, and protein will give your body the post-workout support you need!

Why we love Pure Protein Complete:

• Supplies 25 grams of protein with an optimal five-protein blend*
• Provides a full range of amino acids, including d-aspartic acid, threonine, l-serine, glutamic acid, glycine, alanine, valine, methionine, isoleucine, leucine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, lysine, histidine, arginine, proline, hydroxyproline, cystine, tryptophan, and cysteine*
• Offers protein metabolism support*
• Supports ATP production, the energy currency of the body, with elevATP—an extract of ancient peat and apple*
• Supports post-workout muscle recovery*

After-Workout Topical Muscle Relief

Give your body some post-workout pampering. Your muscles will thank you! Give some of our favorite essential oils and Young Living products for after a workout a try:

• Add a few drops of PanAway® essential oil blend to a carrier oil, and use this cooling blend as a massage oil before bed.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Young Living products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Looking for more healthy tips? Get ideas for slipping exercise into your daily routine and learn how to make the most of your meals with this seven-day plan!

What tips, tricks, and tools do you use to support your inner athlete?

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/essential-oils-and-supplements-for-atheletes/

When it comes to cleaning, some tasks simply stink—figuratively, literally, and sometimes both. To handle the chores that always get moved to the bottom of the to-do list, we’ve pulled together some deep cleaning tips using Thieves® Household Cleaner that will make your house sparkle from top to bottom.

Diluting Thieves Household Cleaner appropriately will help you get your job done quickly and easily. It will also help you keep your house fresh and clean without using toxic chemicals or harsh synthetics:

• All-purpose cleaner: 30 parts water to 1 part Thieves Household Cleaner
• Heavy degreasing: 15 parts water to 1 part Thieves Household Cleaner
• Light degreasing/glass and windows: 50 parts water to 1 part Thieves Household Cleaner

Now you’re ready to take on everything on your house cleaning checklist!

1. Range hood

Did you know that a completely plant-based product has the power to address the heavy grease that can accumulate under your range hood? It’s easy to forget about this kitchen workhorse, which is how it ends up hanging on to the funk of way too many meals past! Clear the air:

1. Mix according to directions for heavy degreasing and put in a spray bottle.
2. Spray range hood and let product sit for 5 minutes.
3. Wipe clean with dry microfiber cloth.

2. Doorknobs and light switches

We touch them every day, but we rarely think about cleaning them. When kid’s little hands are constantly reaching for them, it might be a good idea to give the doorknobs and light switches in your house a good cleaning. Fortunately, when you use Thieves Household Cleaner, you don’t have to worry about harsh synthetic products that are harmful for kids or pets, since you know the minute you wipe it down, tiny hands will immediately reach for the same spots. Thieves Wipes make this job a breeze, or:

1. Mix a spray bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Spray a cloth with 3­–4 spritzes.
3. Wipe affected areas.

3. Phone

From pockets to purses, our phones see a lot of action, but they rarely get cleaned. Get rid of fingermarks and general yuck with the help of Thieves Wipes, or follow the instructions for doorknobs and light switches above, making sure to keep the spray on your rag and not on your phone.

4. Cabinet doors

Whether they’re in your kitchen, bathroom, or hallway, cabinet doors get opened a lot but rarely by recently cleaned hands. Freshen them up with a quick wipe down.

1. Mix a spray bottle of light degreaser.
2. Spray cabinet doors and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Wipe clean with a dry microfiber cloth.

5. Washing machine

The residue from your washing machine can slowly build up and lead to gunk that keeps your clothes from getting as clean as possible. Help your washing machine do the best job it can by giving it a deep cleaning.

1. Turn on your washing machine for the largest load size, with the hottest water setting and the longest wash.
2. As the washer fills, add ½ quart of white vinegar and 1 cap of Thieves Household Cleaner.
3. Let the washer fill for approximately 1 minute; then add ½ cup of baking soda.
4. Open the lid and let it sit for 1 hour. While the water sits, spray all-purpose cleaner on the washing machine top and sides and wipe.
5. After the water sits for 1 hour, let the machine run for the full cycle. Once the cycle finishes, run a short cycle to clean off any leftover residue.

6. Remote controls

The remote controls that your family members use for everything from TV to gaming have seen some things. Let us not speak of their many journeys to the depths of the couch cushions. Cleanse them of what likely ails them using Thieves Wipes or a cloth spritzed with all-purpose cleaner, as noted in our doorknobs and light switches tip.

7. Bathtub

Finally win your battle against the ring of soap scum that constantly evades you. Your bathroom will smell fresh after you take on the toughest tasks using Thieves Household Cleaner, which has a bright, lemon scent, derived from essential oils, not synthetics!

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner with ⅓ part white vinegar; then spray tub generously.
2. Sprinkle tub generously with baking soda. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. Scrub lightly with a sponge or rag; then rinse with warm water.

8. Shower curtain

Wrestling with the shower curtain is no one’s idea of a good time—or maybe it’s yours, which if it is, you probably don’t need this tip! To wrangle with this bathroom monster:

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Spray down the inside of the shower curtain—go buck wild and spray down the outside if you’d really like to go crazy—let sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. Rinse with warm water.

9. Toilet base

Ah, the chore for when fancy company is coming—you know what we mean. No one likes getting down to clean behind the toilet unless someone extra important is coming for dinner. Well, when the Queen of England traipses in for tacos, here’s what you do:

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Spray down the base of the toilet and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Wipe down.
4. For the hardest to reach spots, try spraying a retired toothbrush with all-purpose cleaner!

10. Computer keyboard

Messy, grimy keyboards are havens for crumbs and gunk. Clear away the grime quickly by taking a Thieves Wipe to it, or using a cloth spritzed lightly with all-purpose cleaner. Make sure your computer is turned off so you don’t aof;joewifaho90we8fuyhonhvgo’drenvgn

11. Toothbrush holder

Here’s another oft-forgotten dirty spot. Perhaps because it’s where we go to make mouths clean, we don’t recognize it’s laden with filth. Clean it up quick!

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Spray the toothbrush holder generously with all-purpose cleaner and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
3. Wipe with a lightly abrasive rag or sponge; rinse any remaining residue and cleaner.

12.  Trash can

Hoo-boy! If there’s a funky spot in your house, this might be it. No matter how careful we are when we change the liners, somehow, the bottom of the trashcan seems to get filthy. Make it fresh, fast!

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Remove liners from inside trash can and spray generously in and outside the trash can. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Wipe down the trash can with a cloth; then rinse with warm water.

13. Vacuum

It makes sense that your vacuum cleaner would need a deep cleaning every now and again. To clear out the dust bunnies and make it like new, give it a good scrub with Thieves Household Cleaner.

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Change or dump out the filter.
3. Spray a microfiber cloth with all-purpose cleaner and wipe down all accessible parts.
4. For hard-to-reach spots, use a toothbrush sprayed with all-purpose cleaner to scrub away!

14. Fridge

From finding unidentifiable bits of old produce to leftovers way past their prime, cleaning out the fridge is always an adventure. The bright scent of Thieves, coupled with its toxin-free cleaning power, makes getting through this chore much easier.

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Remove all food from the refrigerator and throw away old and expired food.
3. Spray shelves and walls of fridge with all-purpose cleaner and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Wipe with a microfiber cloth and put remaining food back into the fridge.

15. Faucets and showerheads

When you see the hard water- or soap-stained scum on your faucets, don’t tell yourself, “I should do something about that.” Face your problems head on—conquer your world! This is a challenge that is easily faced and so satisfying once completed.

1. Mix a bottle of all-purpose cleaner.
2. Spray showerhead, faucet, or drain cover generously with all-purpose cleaner.
3. Using a plastic bag filled with 1 cup of vinegar, submerge the shower head and faucet. Secure the bag with string or twist tie. Let sit for 30 minutes
4. Remove plastic bag and rinse with warm water. For any remaining residue, use a toothbrush sprayed with all-purpose cleaner.

You did it! You handled some of the household tasks that never get tackled. For more tips on how to get your house sparkling with the help of Thieves, check out this post on getting your bathroom completely clean. To find out all about the essential oil blend that powers our household cleaner, check out this post!

What YL products help you keep your home spic and span? Let us know in the comments, so we can all try the ideas!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/the-15-dirtiest-spots-in-your-house-and-how-to-make-them-sparkle/

There’s little worse than watching your furry friends in pain. After hikes, playdates in the snow or on hot pavement, and daily walks with the family, your dog or cat might need some TLC. When they spend all day on their precious paws, this homemade ointment is sure to do the trick. Try this DIY paw balm to keep your pet’s paws happy all year round.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons shea butter
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax
• 1 teaspoon V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex
• 1 drop Animal Scents® Mendwell™
• 1 drop Animal Scents® Infect Away™
• 1 drop Animal Scents® PuriClean™

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small pot and place over medium heat until everything is melted and mixed well.
2. Pour into a small glass storage container and let cool for 2–3 hours or until fully solidified.
3. Massage a small amount into your pet’s paws when in need of a little extra pampering.

*If your pet or animal has a known health issue, please consult your veterinarian before administering essential oils.

Interested in learning more about how to use essential oils around beloved animals? Check out this post for tips and tricks for animals small to large.

Which Animal Scents® products do your furry friends love the most?

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/diy-paw-balm-infused-with-essential-oils/

Looking for a power boost? We all run low on confidence from time to time, but you can get motivated again and start seizing the day in just a few minutes. Whether you need to be at your best for a job interview, a big presentation, a first date, or simply to tackle today’s long list of errands, these tips can help you find your tenacity. Make these 15 ways to feel more powerful a part of your regular routine and combine them with your favorite essential oils for heroic effects.

1. Strike a pose

Did you know that the way you stand can make you feel more powerful and confident? Stick your hands on your hips, with your feet hip-width apart, and hold for two minutes. This is the super power pose for a reason! Find out more about this power pose and pick up even more poses for a powerful mood.

2. Sweat it out

You know how powerful regular exercise can make you in the long term, but working out helps in the short term, too. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which invigorate both your brain and your body. Hit the gym before an important meeting, event, or get-together to help your feel more powerful!

3. Smell like success

Create your own signature power scent! Combine aromas that promote an invigorating environment—like Peppermint, Bergamot, or Eucalyptus—with your personal favorites for a signature roll-on that gets the ball rolling. Our DIY perfume blog post is the perfect place to start.

4. Dress up

Getting dressed up can instantly make you feel more confident. Wake up 15 minutes early to style your hair and apply your makeup just how you like it, or try a new look with our guide on how to apply eyeliner for your eye shape. Combine with your favorite power outfit and you’ll be dressed for success!

5. Jam out

Your favorite high-powered songs can help you get and stay motivated until your tasks are done. Create a playlist full of your favorite upbeat anthems and listen to it any time you need to slay the day.

6. Fuel your fire

It’s hard to feel powerful when you’re hangry or missing out on key nutrients. Making time for a vegetable now and then can do wonders for a positive outlook. Prepare a healthy lunch or snack on the days when you need extra motivation. Stash some dried wolfberries in your car or desk for emergency snacking, or take a break from carrot sticks and salad to try some of our no-bake energy ball recipes.

7. Hydrate

It’s much easier to power through the challenges of the day when your body is operating at 100 percent. Keep your strength up by staying hydrated. Ditch the soda drive-thru and add a drop of Citrus Fresh™ Vitality™ or Peppermint Vitality to your water for a powerful burst of flavor without the sugar or artificial sweeteners.

8. Stretch

Get your circulation flowing for a boost of powerful energy! If you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to do some simple stretches, listening to your body to locate sore or tender muscles, and give them a little extra attention. You can even give yourself a massage with our Cool Azul™ Sports Gel.

9. Think like a winner

Simply thinking about past wins can help you find inspiration for the next task. Take 15 minutes to make a list of all the things you’re good at or proud of having accomplished over the past year.

10. Turn on your diffuser

Diffuse one of our blends designed to create a more empowered atmosphere, such as Motivation™, Raven™, or En-R-Gee™, which is an invigorating combination of Lemongrass, Balsam Fir, Black Pepper, and Juniper.

11. Get spiritual

When life gets hectic and busy, connecting with your larger purpose—whatever that means to you—can give you the opportunity to feel grounded. Spend 15 minutes in prayer, reading religious texts, meditating, or appreciating the bounty of nature to connect with your spiritual side. Check out our meditation podcast for a guided experience.

12. Jump out of bed

Wake up a little earlier and jump out of bed right away. Ditch the snooze button and get your day off on the right foot with a power pose, a warm drink, and a hearty breakfast, like Gary’s True Grit™ Einkorn Pancake and Waffle Mix.

13. Act in spite of fears

Don’t avoid things you’re afraid of: Act to get over that fear! Whether you’re afraid of commitment, heights, or speaking in front of a crowd, acknowledging the fear and doing it anyway can be an invigorating way to blast through your stumbling blocks and mental obstacles.

14. Plan less

It might seem counterproductive, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed, ditch your schedule and to-do list. Focus just on the next thing you have to accomplish. You’ll feel more powerful when you can celebrate each win and then move on to the next project without feeling like your accomplishments are diminished by the other things you haven’t completed.

15. Be authentic

Say what you feel, when you feel it. Be 100 percent, authentically you! Be kind and tactful, but don’t be afraid to say what you want to say and do what you want to do. This kind of freedom can empower you to take on your biggest challenges.

Do you need more than 15 minutes to boost your motivation? Recharge with a whole day of me time by taking advantage of Self-Care Sundays.

Looking for more tips on using oils to feel confident? Check out our blog post 7 tips and essential oil uses for a balanced life.

What are your tips for feeling more powerful? Share in the comments below!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/15-ways-to-feel-more-powerful/

Fabulous eyebrows are in! Do you need some help leaving your unruly brow game in the past? Select the right eyebrow for your face shape to accentuate your natural features and make a huge impact on your look. Put your best face forward with these eyebrow shaping tips.

Now that you’ve mastered eyebrows for different face shapes, amp up your look by learning how to apply eyeliner for your eye shape.

What are your other favorite Savvy makeup tips? Share in the comments below so we can all try them!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/how-to-get-the-perfect-eyebrows-for-your-face-shape/

Valentine’s Day is all about L-O-V-E, whether it’s romantic, for your family, or for your best friends. We wanted to help you share your feelings for the ones you care about with some essential oil-themed Valentine’s Day cards, and in our opinion, the sillier they get, the deeper the love. Send one or one hundred to your very dearest or to your whole Young Living team!

Instructions:

1. Click on “Get Started.”

2. Pick your essential oil Valentine’s Day e-card.

3. Click the blue checkmark in the right corner.

4. Enter your name and email, then press submit.

5. Click the “Download Share” button to download your Valentine’s Day e-card.

6. Share your YL Valentine’s Day e-card on Instagram, Facebook, email, or wherever you would like to share it.

You got silly with your loved ones,

now try these 28 ways to invite love into your life!

What are some of your favorite essential oil puns?

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/share-a-valentine-the-yl-way/

With a unique spicy and tart citrus scent, Bergamot oil is a favorite among the oil obsessed. But being a Bergamot pro is more than being able to answer questions like “What is Bergamot?” and “What does Bergamot smell like?” It’s knowing Bergamot oil uses, the benefits of Bergamot essential oil, and Bergamot’s background. Check out our insider tips, tricks, and info to get on track to the pro league!

1. Know the history

The quickest way to establish you’re a pro is to know a little about the background of whatever you love—in this case, Bergamot essential oil! The bergamot orange is primarily cultivated in Italy and is about the size of an orange, with a yellow-green color that’s similar to a lime. The rind of the fruit is cold pressed to extract the oil from the fruit and to get it into your hands. Most recognizably, Bergamot has been used as the flavoring in Earl Grey tea.

2. Upgrade your skin care

Because of Bergamot’s cleansing properties, you can find it in shampoos, soaps, cleansers, and skin care! Apply a drop to you skin or add the oil to your toner to create the appearance of smoother-looking skin. We suggest using it as part of your nighttime routine, since Bergamot comes with a photosensitivity warning.

3. Use it for more than a great scent

Bergamot is known for its tart citrus scent, which makes it a popular top note for perfumes. But it’s so much more than a great-smelling essential oil! Bergamot oil also helps bring a positive and uplifting environment when diffused, or in a pinch, you can place a drop in your palms, rub them together, and inhale directly during unsettling times.

4. Make something unique

Bergamot is a great oil to diffuse on its own, but it also lends itself to delicious-smelling blends and custom creations. One of our favorite concoctions combines the sweet, tart scent of Bergamot, Lemongrass, and Grapefruit for an aroma reminiscent of chewy fruit candies—without the consequences!

Sugary Citrus Blend

4 drops Bergamot

3 drops Lemongrass

3 drops Grapefruit

5. Discover it in new places

In addition to your custom creations featuring Bergamot, you can also find it in Young Living’s proprietary blends. Add even more Bergamot goodness to your day with popular essential oil blends such as Joy™, Harmony™, and Acceptance™!

6. Add some zest to your day

To truly be a pro, you have to use this citrus oil in every aspect of your life—even your diet! Bergamot Vitality™ has a fresh taste that’s reminiscent of lemon and orange combined. Add a touch of tartness to your baked goods by combining a few drops of Bergamot Vitality with Blue Agave Natural Sweetener to create a simple drizzle you can use to top muffins, breads, and pastries.

Want to master more essential oils? Check out 8 reasons you should be using Vetiver, All about Thieves®, and 9 things you didn’t know about Myrrh essential oil to learn more!

How do you love to use Bergamot? Share your know-how in the comments!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/how-to-use-bergamot-like-a-pro/

Start the day off right with a healthy breakfast infused with the fresh flavor of 100 percent pure essential oils! Instead of grabbing a sugary pastry or drink, fill up on real food with an overnight chia breakfast bowl. We’ve rounded up a handful of chia seed pudding recipes—from traditional to exotic—so you can create a perfect morning!

The best part is that these breakfast bowls are simple and easy. Just prep a few ingredients the night before, let your creation sit in the fridge, and enjoy it the next morning! Be sure to prevent clumps by giving the chia seed pudding a good stir when you take it out to eat or stir it about 30–60 minutes after you put it in the fridge.

Yield: 1

Treat yourself first thing in the morning with this rich, indulgent, and chocolaty chia bowl!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut, almond, or soy milk
• 4 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder (baking cocoa also works)
• Dash of pink Himalayan sea salt
• 1 tablespoon sweetener such as maple syrup, agave, or honey
• Suggested toppings: wolfberries, chocolate shavings, coconut flakes

Instructions

1. In a small bowl or cup, mix milk, chia seeds, cacao powder, and salt.
2. Cover and let sit in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 hours.
3. Add desired toppings and serve cold.

https://www.youngliving.com/blog/5-overnight-chia-breakfast-bowl-recipes/

Looking for more kitchen inspiration? Try our no-bake energy ball recipes or our dairy-free dark chocolate peppermint mousse!

What’s your favorite fast breakfast using YL products?

Tell us your tips in the comments!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/5-overnight-chia-breakfast-bowl-recipes/

The Danish concept of hygge has taken the world by storm. Danes are consistently ranked as some of the happiest people on Earth*, and with the longstanding cultural practice of hygge, it’s not surprising! Before getting too far in our quest for cozy, comfortable happiness, let’s learn how to say it, so sharing this concept with friends and family is easy!

*World Happiness Report 2017

How to pronounce hygge

Hygge is pronounced hoo-gah, but don’t make those vowels too long, pals! The vowel sounds in a lot of languages don’t have an exact match—much like there isn’t an exact word in many languages for hygge. Don’t get too hung up on the pronunciation—that wouldn’t be hygge at all!

Atmosphere

While you can feel hygge anywhere, from on your bike to in the library, it’s easiest to experience it in your home. A few subtle tweaks will have you feeling hygge in no time. You can make similar adjustments to your office or other personal spaces to bring hygge into all areas of your life.

Hygge décor

There’s no need to redecorate your home to have it fit a certain aesthetic. Hygge is about feeling safe, cozy, and comfortable. It may mean adding a few extra pillows and blankets to a basket or lighting a fire in the fireplace more frequently; but don’t redesign for a look that doesn’t feel like you.

Another element that is very important to hygge is the incorporation of nature into the home to remind people of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. For some, this may mean sheepskin rugs, wooden furniture, and pine boughs. Your interpretation may include fresh floral bouquets or even welcoming a furry family member into your home.

To bring the aroma of nature into your home, try diffusing favorite floral or evergreen essential oils such as Lavender, Geranium, or Pine.

Lighting

One component of hygge that is surprisingly overlooked in many households is lighting. During the daytime, keep curtains and blinds open to let in as much natural light as possible. In the evening, swap out overhead lights for lamps. In Denmark, people go wild for candles to light the dark nights. If that’s not your thing, the Desert Mist™ Diffuser offers a beautiful, warm, flickering light, reminiscent of a candle, with the added bonus of up to 10 hours of diffusing your favorite essential oils on its intermittent mode.

Music

As we’ve noted, hygge is about comfort and happiness. For many, the right soundtrack can be key in creating that feeling. If you have a record player, try digging through some old vinyl for a bit of nostalgia—and to show people how truly hip you are—and spend a weekend spinning vintage tunes. You could also collaborate with friends to make an epic playlist of favorite songs. If you want to cozy up on the sofa and listen to a completely comfortable selection compiled by Young Living members from all over, try our sweater-weather playlist.

Cozy cuisine

Perhaps one of the most hygge things you can do is bring out the yummiest foods to share with family and friends. Don’t fret over the occasional extra calories, or better yet, indulge with treats that you know are made with good-for-you ingredients, including cheesy sweet potato bites, dark chocolate gingerbread truffles, or cinnamon fruit dip.

Warm from the inside out

The feeling of sipping a warm cup of herbal tea or hot cocoa while nestled in a big blanket reading your favorite book: that’s hygge at its best. Try adding a drop of Vitality™ oil to your herbal tea or try this Lavender hot chocolate recipe to elevate your hygge experience.

You’re not alone!

Integral to hygge is connecting with family and friends. When we invite guests into our homes, we often bear the burden of cleaning, cooking, and entertaining. Hygge recognizes that the feeling of happiness comes from being together, not over fussing. Ask friends to bring leftovers, pull out whatever happens to be in the fridge, and enjoy time with one another; loads of laundry can wait! Try diffusing blends like Joy™ or Gathering™ to help add to the intimate setting.

Hygge apparel

The only thing you need to know about dressing for a hygge lifestyle is feeling comfortable. That doesn’t necessarily mean your rattiest pajama pants and the slippers you maybe should have thrown out a few years ago. You should also feel happy and confident in your appearance—ready to take hygge out into the world.

Comfortable clothing

Stay warm and content in cuddly sweaters, woolen socks, and pants whose waistband never digs. To add to your peaceful, easy feeling, place a few drops of Lavender essential oil on a washcloth or dryer ball the next time you do your laundry.

Friends and family

As we noted above, being with loved ones can be one of the greatest elements of hygge. Whether they join you for weekend brunch, an evening walk, or a picnic, time with your favorite people is the best way to make you feel hygge. Don’t forget your furry friends in your time creating connections. Being with them helps build oxytocin—the love hormone—which is perfect for hygge!

Casual get-togethers

We want to reiterate: Hygge isn’t about being lazy, but it is about placing effort and energy into the most important things. To wit, cleaning out the office is less important than fostering relationships with dear friends. Extravagance is unnecessary for inviting friends or neighbors over for playing games or watching movies. Remember to share responsibility with your guests: Maybe whip up something easy, like our Thai mango soup, and get to enjoying each other’s time!

Small groups

Keeping your gatherings small can add to your experience of hygge. Being able to connect over conversation with a few choice friends helps you shake of the stresses of everyday life. Help everyone feel relaxed and calm by filling the room with the sweet, serene aroma of Stress Away™ in your diffuser.

There’s no doubt that we’re huge fans of hygge! For other tips that can help you cultivate the comfortable, happy feelings of hygge, try reading up on essential oils for happy people, as well as ways to cozy up with Clove.

Keep cozy happiness in your life! How will you hygge this year?

Let us know in the comments!

Article source: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/hygge-the-yl-way-your-essential-guide-to-cozy-comfort/