Festivus for the Rest of Us!

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Festivus for the Rest of Us! Unashamedly a Re-Blog from Last Year!

 

Festivus for the Rest of Us! pic via thewordzombie.com

Festivus for the Rest of Us! pic via thewordzombie.com

I’ve always loved Seinfeld (the comedy show), and its whacky way of looking at the world. This is one on the hundreds of moments that have stayed with me, and Wikipedia sums it up perfectly:

Festivus, a well-celebrated parody, has become a secular holiday celebrated on December 23 which serves as an alternative to participating in the pressures and commercialism of the Christmas holiday season.

Originally a family tradition of scriptwriter Dan O’Keefe working on the American sitcom Seinfeld, the holiday entered popular culture after it was made the focus of a 1997 episode of the program.The holiday’s celebration, as it was shown on Seinfeld, includes a Festivus dinner, an unadorned aluminum “Festivus pole,” practices such as the “Airing of Grievances” and “Feats of Strength,” and the labeling of easily explainable events as “Festivus miracles.”

The episode refers to it as “a Festivus for the rest of us”, referencing its non-commercial aspect. It has also been described as a “parody holiday festival” and as a form of playful consumer resistance.”

So whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or any other tradition that I don’t know about; or you prefer not to celebrate any of these,  there is always Festivus to bring us all together. It’s nearly the end of the year so basically let’s all come together and celebrate that.

So here’s a few essential oil recipes to scent your home and which I feel reflect the true meaning of Festivus.

Scent Your Space – In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

The Festivus Pole

The Festivus Pole

1. The Festivus Pole

Inspiration: clean lines, modernism, clarity

Petitgrain                   10 drops

Black Pepper               8 drops

Clary Sage                   2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    5 drops

Happy Festivus! pic via

Happy Festivus! pic via thewildheartrocks.wordpress.com

2. The Airing of Grievances

Inspiration: truth, honesty, flow of energy, detox, communication

Frankincense           10 drops

Sage                          4 drops

Cardamom                 4 drops

Orange                      7 drops

Feats of Strength - festivus isnt over until someone gets pinned. pic via zazzle.com

Feats of Strength – Festivus isn’t over until someone gets pinned. pic via zazzle.com

3. Feats of Strength

Inspiration; strength, fun and games, masculinity, flexibility

Sandalwood Australian        8 drops

Geranium                             5 drops

Lemongrass                        5 drops

Palmarosa                           7 drops

I hope you have enjoyed this year on earth and you better get ready for 2015 because we are called to make a difference, to evolve. In the words of the great Bob Marley:

“One world, one love, let’s get together and feel alright”

copryright SR Banks 2014

The 12 Days of Christmas – Essential Oil Recipes for Your Home Part 1

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback


The 12 Days of Christmas – Essential Oil Recipes for Your Home Part 1 – Unashamedly a Re-Blog From Last Year!

The 12 Days of Christmas folk song - pic via wikipedia.org

The 12 Days of Christmas folk song – pic via wikipedia.org

Thought to be of French and English origin this little ditty is called a cumulative song where we build a verse on top of another verse. Its origins lay in France but it was popularised in England in the 1700’s. There is all sorts of information attached to where the lyrics came from and they are all very different but what I know is that even though I might not remember all the 12 gifts my true love gave to me, I sure do know “a partridge in a pear tree”. There also seems to be a lot game birds in this song too but I’m a vegetarian …..

I’ve taken each verse and created an oil blend for you to scent your home. To scent you own space I recommend 25 drops of essential oil, and you can use a traditional oil burner with a candle, an electric vapouriser, or for a quick and easy result put 25 drops of oil into a bowl and pour boiling water over it and leave it to stand – instant aromatherapy!

Partridge in a Pear Tree - pic via www.pspassociation.org.uk

Partridge in a Pear Tree – pic via http://www.pspassociation.org.uk

1. On the first day of Christmas I got a partridge in a pear tree (lucky me).

“A Partridge in a Pear Tree”

Inspiration – contentment, attuning to nature, simplicity

Orange                10 drops

Black Spruce         8 drops

Cedarwood Atlas   4 drops

Patchouli                3 drops

2 Turtle Doves -pic via blupenny.com

2 Turtle Doves -pic via blupenny.com

2. On the second day of Christmas I received 2 turtle doves.

” 2 Turtle Doves”

Inspiration – love, partnership, courtship, romance

Petitgrain           9 drops

Ylang Ylang        8 drops

Rose Geranium  4 drops

Fennel               4 drops

3 french hens - pic via www.booksillustrated.com

3 french hens – pic via http://www.booksillustrated.com

3. On the third day of Christmas I was fortunate to have three french hens come into my life.

” 3 French Hens”

Inspiration – creativity, working together, friendship, loyalty

Lemongrass    7 drops

Lime                8 drops

Cinnamon       6 drops

Sage               4 drops

4 Colly Birds - pic via nostalgicallyyours.blogspot.com -

4 Colly Birds – pic via nostalgicallyyours.blogspot.com –

4. Then unexpectedly on day four, four colly birds swooped me! Those naughty French thrushes!

“4 Colly Birds”

Inspiration – lots of choice, abundance, laughing with friends

Palmarosa                         8 drops

Sandalwood   (Australian)  6 drops

Mandarin                          11 drops

5 gold rings - pic via www.beverlybremer.com

5 gold rings – pic via http://www.beverlybremer.com

5. Here’s the good present – five gold rings (or is it golden)?

“5 Gold Rings”

Inspiration – infinity, universal love, wishes coming true, prosperity

May Chang      6 drops

Cardamom      6 drops

Cypress          13 drops

6 Geese laying - pic via ronwalls.blogspot.com -

6 Geese laying – pic via ronwalls.blogspot.com –

6. I’m running out of room in my backyard for the six geese who are laying eggs!

“6 Geese a-Laying”

Inspiration – happiness, maternal love, caring for others, willingness to share

Peru Balsam   10 drops

Spearmint        8 drops

Lavender         7 drops

Get your essential oils working for you this festive season, they will bring charm and kindness into your life. They will allow you to open to the infinite wisdom of the universe and help others to do the same.

Stay tuned for Part 2 next week.

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2014

10 Recipes with Sage Essential Oil – Salvia officanalis

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10 Recipes with Sage Essential Oil – Salvia officanalis

Sage has a beautiful soft leaf with a pungent scent

Sage has a beautiful soft leaf with a pungent scent

I’ve written about sage before calling it “An Essential Oil of Wisdom and Abundance”.

In my book I refer to sage oil as an oil of wisdom and courage and it appears in the chapters about SPIRITUALITY, ABUNDANCE and DHARMA. It is a very powerful oil in its energetic resonance and scent, and I must admit in my practice I don’t use it nearly as much as the other herb oils, (sorry sage). It has a cousin called clary sage which is also quite pungent and both these oils can be used for feminine issues including;

* to stop milk production in lactating women

* to help regulate periods, and even participate in some pain relief with other oils

Sage is also used in aromatherapy today

* as a diuretic

* to ease sore throats

* to ease rheumatic pain

Fresh sage

Fresh sage

So let’s check out some recipes.

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Easy. This will open your throat, third eye and crown chakras to the intelligence of the universe.

It will help you realise, and speak the truth. Remember to be kind to yourself.


Classic oil burner with candle

Classic oil burner with candle

 

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil. You will notice the difference in the scent when you use a candle vapouriser as the oils are gently warmed and infused into the atmosphere. The fire of the candle is also transformational in its sheer existence. Transform and cleanse as you scent your space.

“Softly, Gently, Open Your Mind”

Sage            8 drops

Mandarin    12 drops

Patchouli      5 drops


“Stand Up for Yourself”

– in a compassionate way

Sage            6 drops

Fennel          6 drops

Petitgrain     13 drops


“Get Into The Flow”

Sage                   6 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops

Cinnamon           6 drops

Orange               6 drops


a simple hairdressing mist bottle will do the trick for your amazing essential oil mist

A simple hairdressing mist bottle will do the trick for your amazing essential oil mist

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“I’ve Got My Own Thing Goin On”

Sage                5 drops

Peru Balsam   10 drops

Lime               10 drops


“I AM Living My Dream Life”

Sage                              8 drops

Bergamot                      10 drops

Sandalwood Australian    4 drops

Lavender                         3 drops


The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“I’m Ready for Expansion”

Sage                  1 drop

Jasmine 3%       4 drops   * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Owl”

Sage          1 drop

Spearmint  1 drop

Lemon        1 drop


Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend - pic via redbookmag.com

Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend – pic via redbookmag.com

5. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“That Time of the Month”

Sage           2 drops

Geranium    3 drops

Lavender     2 drops

Peppermint  1 drop


“Abundantia”

Sage              2 drops

Ylang Ylang    2 drops

Rose 3%        4 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2014

10 Recipes with Orange Essential Oil – Citrus sinensis

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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10 Recipes with Orange Essential Oil – Citrus sinensis

Oranges and orange oil can make you happy!

Oranges and orange oil can make you happy!

I love orange oil because it’s light and fresh and so easy to use. Like most of the citrus oils the molecules are slightly less complex than other oils and have a smaller amount of chemical bonds. This makes them quite light and when using them to scent a room, you will need to anchor it down with a heavier oil to keep the scent around for a bit longer. You could use a wood like cedarwood or sandalwood; a floral like geranium or ylang ylang, or herbs like lavender and marjoram.

Citrus oils are best avoided in large amounts before going into the sun. A few drops in a blend will be fine but don’t lather yourself in orange and lime then head down to the beach for a full-on sunbaking session. They can be phytotoxic which means they can make your skin burn in the sun and while I’ve never seen evidence of this I’m sure people have found out the hard way.

Let’s go:

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

1. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness.

Orange oil will brighten your outlook.


There are lots of great essential oil diffusers on the market now - pic via www.aliexpress.com

There are lots of great essential oil diffusers on the market now – pic via http://www.aliexpress.com

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Sweet Surrender”

Sweetly happy and content –

Orange             12 drops

Peru Balsam       7 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops


“Cool Kids Space”

Create a lovely environment for the little ones –

Orange       15 drops

Cinnamon    5 drops

Marjoram     5 drops


“Invitation”

Invite happiness in –

Orange        10 drops

Palmarosa     8 drops

Lime              7 drops


“Pixies”

Connect to the elements –

Orange                           9 drops

Frankincense                 10 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan    6 drops


Chinese tea cup - perfect for a little perfume magic

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

3. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Helium Balloon”

Happiness and lightness –

Orange     2 drops

Geranium  1 drop


“Life is Wonderful”

Orange           1 drop

Jasmine 3%    2 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Laughter is the Best Medicine”

Orange         1 drop

Lime             1 drop

Rosewood    1 drop


“In This Moment”

Be present –

Orange                            2 drops

Sandalwood Australian    1 drop


“Maybe”

I’ll make up my mind when I fee like it, I’m going with the flow today –

Orange         1 drop

Lemongrass  1 drop

Ylang Ylang   1 drop


Essential oils can make you happier

Citrus essential oils are all about making you happier

 

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supermoon Across The World and The Essential Oils that Add to It’s Power

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


 

Supermoon Across The World and The Essential Oils that Add to It’s Power

The supermoon through the trees in my backyard in Sydney

The supermoon through the trees in my backyard in Sydney

Yep it’s been a supermoon frenzy all over the world with lots of amazing pictures of this gorgeous big round thing in the sky. The moon looks so beautiful and luminescent when it is close to the earth and it certainly has the power to get us talking about it. The perigree moon is the scientific name for the moon when it orbits close to the earth, and this full moon we have just experienced, is definitely the closest moon to the Earth this year. We are also in the middle of 3 supermoons in a row, with September being the next and last.

My friend Amanda took this last night in Positano, Italy

My friend Amanda took this pic last night in Positano, Italy

According to some scientific information, the supermoon plays on illusion, how our minds perceive the moon in the sky. One site says that even though we call it a supermoon, it is only about 14% closer that a regular full moon, but it appears much, much closer. Interesting eh? Is this telling us that our lives are an illusion and we must look deeper within to access the real reality? Or is it simply a reminder of the ebb and flow of the stars and the galaxies that we are intrinsically linked to?

My friend Frank took this is NYC the other night - Aquarius supermoon

My friend Frank took this is NYC the other night – Aquarius supermoon

 

In astrological terms this moon is in Aquarius, and I’ve also just read it’s an Aquarius/Leo full moon (as the sun is in Leo and provides the opposing force). As full moons are the culmination of the month, they can be seen as a time of releasing old patterns and energies, and with the supermoon it can be slightly magnified. Or perhaps it’s just an illusion that we are effected more strongly at this time? However you look at it, the supermoon is super gorgeous!

From Molly Hall from Astrology.About.com:

“This is a chance to rebel against deadening conformity, to break free — of ideas about reality, a habitual rhythm, deeply embedded conditioning. Epic ah-has happen at the Aquarius Full Moon, when we bust through our own (often self-imposed) glass ceiling and breathe the air.

 

The good vibes of Aquarius are best received with an open mind.  If it’s time for a radical upgrade in your thinking, there’s often a period of in-between. Aquarius has two rulers — Uranus and Saturn. One is the evolutionary urge, the other (Saturn) shows us how to ground the charge.

 

Being able to see that the way we organize and perceive reality itself, is up for tweaking, can be liberating. This one-two punch of Aquarius Full Moons celebrates out of the box thinking. If you’ve felt at a dead-end, and stagnant, get ready for unexpected plot twists!”

 

 

Beautiful green basil!

Beautiful green basil!

Ok so let’s find some essential oils to break free of our self-imposed limits –

Basil – open the upper chakras and connect to universal intelligence

Rosewood – open your heart and flow with the love energy all around you

Sandalwood – allow a deep connection to the divine to move your entire being to a new paradigm

 

Black pepper - pic via www.seriouseats.com

Black pepper – pic via http://www.seriouseats.com

and radically change our thinking –

Rosemary – stimulate your mind to take action

Petitgrain – the essence of pure potentiality will help you dream up a better way to think

Black Pepper – courage to change and progress

Juniper berries - pic via www.thedrinksbusiness.com

Juniper berries – pic via http://www.thedrinksbusiness.com

and move stagnating energy –

Juniper – release watery emotions

Fennel – dissolve the barriers to releasing – be willing to let go

Lemongrass – get your energy moving!

 

Using essential oils in everyday life will give you a beautifully scented landscape from which you can prosper, grow and help the world evolve.

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copyright suzanne

Essential Oils that Inspire Love, Truth and Acceptance

What is love?

What is love?

Ok here’s the thing people.

Be kind to each other and all the animals too.

Accept your fellow humans as a reflection of yourself.

Move your energetic vibration to peace.

Do it now because we’ll all be dead in the blink of an eye, and if not you, then who will help the evolution of our species?

How?

Well use essential oils of course! Throw in meditation, mindfulness and empathy for every living entity, and I think we’ll make it.

One drop leads to many ripples...

One drop leads to many ripples…

Many of you already feel this way, so I’m writing this in the hope that I will reach someone new and bring them into our fold. We must keep talking about the future, we must accept we have the power to drive consciousness to new multidimensional levels, and we must allow our brilliance to change the way we have structured life on the planet.

It’s important that you treat yourself first, and then emanate the qualities of the oil from your energetic body. It’s never about treating someone else unless they ask for help. So with that in mind here are some recipes for your own little daily perfumes to help the evolution of humanity. Yep, really. One drop of lavender could save the world.

Chinese tea cup - perfect for a little perfume magic

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

I love the following oils to support our journey;

Love

Love

LOVE

Love is a word used for many things, including the one positive force that connects us all. It could also be aligned with the 99.999999% space around the atoms of our cells and the universe at large. It is an emotion of feeling good. Keep sending it out to those that need your help whether you know them or not. You can do this by starting your day with a little scented message to yourself –

Patchouli

* peace, grounding, mother earth, collectiveness, wholeness

Patchouli       1 drop

Cypress        2 drops

—————————————————————————————————————–

Rose (usually in a 3% blend)

* nurturing, self love, softness and kindness

Rose 3%      3 drop  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Petitgrain      1 drop

—————————————————————————————————————–

Truth

Truth

2. TRUTH

What is the truth? It’s the same as love. One love.

Frankincense

* “frank” incense is the scent of truth, deep breathing, connection to everything

Frankincense     2 drops

Rosewood         1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Sage

* speak the truth, abundance, wisdom

Sage               1 drop

Palmarosa       1 drop

Lavender         1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Accept you are part of a simple (yet complex) existence

Accept you are part of a simple (yet complex) existence

3. ACCEPTANCE

Acceptance is the emotion of the NOW. If there is only one NOW, allow acceptance to flood your aura with its subtle power, and when you do, all barriers to life will melt away. By accepting things you are not giving up desires or wishes for things to change; you are simply stepping into the slipstream that binds us all together.

Lavender

You knew I’d have to say lavender at some stage didn’t you?

* solidarity, consolidation, acceptance

Lavender                       1 drop

Orange                          1 drop

Sandalwood Australian  1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Jasmine (usually in a 3% blend)

* remove anxiety, immersion in the creative forces of the NOW

Jasmine 3%     2 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Juniper            1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

 

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Basil Essential Oil – Ocimum basilicum (part 2)

Beautiful green basil!

Beautiful green basil!

If you are ever feeling down, a bit tired and generally blah, grab some fresh basil. Grind up a leaf in your fingers and inhale deeply. Eat a few leaves. Rest a minute.

Phew!

And if you can, make a few blends with basil oil it will not disappoint you at all. It is an oil that is so clearing and revitalising you’ll be so glad you’ve made friends with it. Here are a few recipes.

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

1. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam.

Basil oil will wake you up in the morning and give you a fresh green start to the day.

——————————————————————————————————————

Just use any mist bottle you can find

Just use any mist bottle you can find

2. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Cool Water Brain Rinse”

Clear brain fog –

Basil           8 drops

Orange     12 drops

Cypress      5 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Creative Explosion”

When you need to open to your creative drive –

Basil           6 drops

Rosemary   6 drops

Lime           6 drops

Geranium    6 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Bubble of Inspiration”

When you need to surround yourself with light, creative energy –

Basil              7 drops

Rosewood   12 drops

Lemongrass   6 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“It’s Morning!”

Help the whole family wake up smiling –

Basil                           8 drops

Petitgrain                  12 drops

Cedarwood Virginian  5 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

3. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Awaken the Goddess”

Open to divine guidance –

Basil                               1 drop

Sandalwood Australian   1 drop

Mandarin                         1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

“Big Meeting this Morning”

Stay focused and relaxed-

Basil             2 drops

Lavender      1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

“Clean Green”

Give yourself a burst of vitality –

Basil              1 drop

Palmarosa     1 drop

May Chang    1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Throw some essential oils into your bucket and mop your floors

Throw some essential oils into your bucket and mop your floors

4. Scent Your Space

I usually say “In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil”,  but I also recommend you put about 15 drops in the water with your usual product and mop the floors. It’s a great way to get an aromatherapy treatment while cleaning!

and

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil –

“Hello World”

Welcome every day –

Basil                6 drops

Peru Balsam    8 drops

Lemon           11 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas.See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

 

 

 

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Juniper Essential Oil – Juniperus communis

Juniper berries - pic via www.thedrinksbusiness.com

Juniper berries – pic via http://www.thedrinksbusiness.com

Juniper essential oil is one of my favourites! I go through periods of needing to use it a lot. It has a clean fresh scent, with spicey undertones and conveys a sense of lightness and freedom. The essential oil is steam distilled from the berries and most people know it as the main flavouring in gin.

Juniper comes from the cypress family, Cupressaceae and the genus Juniperus which contains many species from all over the world. The essential oil is high in a-pinene (anti-inflammatory and broncho-dialator) and sabinene. For more info see my previous article on juniper here.

I use juniper in my practice when someone is overwhelmed with emotion or is needing (or wanting) to clean out their life and start afresh. It is a great oil to help release watery emotions and to energetically cleanse a space.

sprawling juniper bush

sprawling juniper bush

In Aromatherapy today it is used –

* as a diuretic

* as a treatment in a sitz bath for urinary tract infections

* for acne

* to stimulate digestion

Try these 10 recipes –

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

1. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Begone Bad Stuff”

A little purse pack of cleansing energy  –

Juniper       9 drops

Orange     12 drops

Geranium   4 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Light On My Feet”

Put a spring in your step –

Juniper          8 drops

Mandarin       6 drops

Rosewood     6 drops

Cinnamon      5 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Bubble of Love”

Surround yourself with good vibes –

Juniper             6 drops

Ylang Ylang      4 drops

Bergamot        10 drops

Peru Balsam      4 drops

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“Feather”

Float with the universe –

Juniper                           8 drops

Fennel                            3 drops

Lime                               8 drops

Sandalwood Australian   4 drops

Nutmeg                          2 drops

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The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Evaporate”

Let your concerns evaporate –

Juniper       1 drop

Rose 3%    2 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

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“Create Space”

.. to be creative –

Juniper              1 drop

Pink grapefruit   2 drops

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“Refresh”

Refresh your mind –

Juniper         2 drops

Basil             1 drop

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“Accept”

Don’t fight it –

Juniper                             1 drop

Roman Chamomile 3%      2 drops   * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

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Green clay face mask - pic via www.wholisticresearch.com

Green clay face mask – pic via http://www.wholisticresearch.com

3. Face Mask

Usually add 2 or 3 drops of oil to some clay and add water, floral water or hydrosol

Juniper   2 drops in green clay to soothe and tone acne skin

—————————————————————————————————————–

4. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and  “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Pick-Me-Up”

Give your body a buzz in the morning –

Juniper          2 drops

Eucalyptus     1 drop

Grapefruit       2 drops

Jasmine 3%    3 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

——————————————————————————————————————

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas.See my article about intention.

copyright suzanne

10 Recipes with Clary Sage Essential Oil – Salvia sclarea

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10 Recipes with Clary Sage Essential Oil – Salvia sclarea

10!

10!

I tend not to use Clary sage very often but maybe that’s just a phase I’m going through – I used it frequently when I was first introduced to essential oils. It belongs to the Lamiacae family and the genus Salvia. It is a strong sweet, heady oil with an herbaceous note. Clary sage is an expansive oil I consider it to be a very spiritual oil, as it relates well to the crown and third eye chakras. It seems to have the ability to open our conscious minds, and stimulate the subconscious to stir. I use Clary sage as a stimulus for the dream dimension – daydreams and night-time dreams, which can help shape our lives.

Looking back over the centuries it has been employed to help people over come depression and melancholy. Clary sage is an inspiring oil and has been to referred to as an  oil of euphoria. We can connect to the creativity of the universe too when we encounter Clary sage.

The essential oil is made from the flowering tops and the foliage

The essential oil is made from the flowering tops and the foliage

It is also powerful as an analgesic particularly in regards to period pain and I’ve used this oil with pregnant clients in preparation for labour and even in oil blends in a birthing suite. It also works well for symptoms of menopause.

Let’s check out some recipes –

1. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and  “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“I’m Ready for You Baby”

For the birthing suite or getting prepared for labour –

Clary Sage       3 drops

Jasmine 3%   10 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

——————————————————————————————————————

“Untangle”

When you have pain and can’t relax –

Clary Sage      2 drops

Peppermint     2 drops

Lavender        3 drops

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Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

2. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Take a GENTLE whiff of this oil to open your consciousness or when you can’t see past the little nitty-gritty parts of your day.

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A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Universal Consciousness”

Expand beyond your self-imposed limitations –

Clary sage          6 drops

Mandarin           12 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops

Cinnamon           3 drops

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“I Just Love Everything Right Now”

To help convince yourself life isn’t so bad when you are having a challenging day –

Clary Sage          7 drops

Frankincense   10 drops

Orange                8 drops

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“I Can Dream”

Dream big – it pays off –

Clary Sage                     5 drops

Cedarwood Virginian      8 drops

Petitgrain                      12 drops

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Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Oh Wow I Created That”

Feel supported by the universe –

Clary Sage                   1 drop

Sandalwood Australian 1 drop

Lime                             1 drop

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“It’s Been A Long Day”

Anoint yourself after a long day at work to settle in and relax –

Clary Sage    1 drop

Lavender      1 drop

Marjoram      1 drop

—————————————————————————————————————–

“I’m Over These Hot Flushes”

Clary works well for menopause symptoms too –

Clary sage    1 drop

Fennel          1 drop

Palmarosa    1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————-

“Infinite”

You are……..

Clary Sage     1 drop

Myrrh             1 drop

Bergamot      1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————-

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas.See my article about intention.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

Lunar Year of the Horse 2014, with Essential Oils to Match

Year of the HORSE 2014 - pic via photo.elsoar.com -

Year of the HORSE 2014 – pic via photo.elsoar.com

By the time you read this we have now moved from the Water Snake year (2013) into the Wood (or Green) Horse year of 2014. I think we are suddenly in the future – how did that happen?

Anyway I’m not an expert on Chinese astrology but I love it. Last year was a time for planning and this year is a time to GO FOR IT! Apparently it’s a year to make quick decisions and if it all goes to pieces we have the Wood Goat next year to settle down and “get cozy” according to Astrologer Susan Levitt.

I’ve read the Hong Kong newspaper with its “in detail” Feng Shui, along with lots of other bits and pieces on this year, including a great book by Neil Somerville, and here’s the deal – strap yourselves in its gonna be a bumpy ride!

Strap yourselves in ... pic via saferbychoice.com

Strap yourselves in … pic via saferbychoice.com

The horse will encourage us to be free and to seize the moment, day by day. The horse year will give us opportunities that must be grasped immediately. These situations and snap decisions may work out, or come crashing down on us. It seems like there will be continuing conflicts all over the world (ugh!) and big ups and downs in the financial institutions of various countries – some will rally, others will not.

Travel! pic via asmithblog.com

Travel! pic via asmithblog.com

Travel, romance? Yes for some, but the key is to know in your gut 100% that it’s right or forget about it! Don’t miss any opportunity this year because it’s all about embracing the wild ride. There is caution about spending too much money while you’re caught up on this roller coaster but if the goat year (2015) is going to save us, I say forge on!

Let’s get into some oils;

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

It doesn’t get much easier than this, so to embody the spirit of the horse try –

Rosemary – awaken, remember, get clarity

Black pepper – go out into the world without fear

Cinnamon – warming, enjoy the sweetness of life

Melissa – release anxiety and tension

Myrrh – abundance, experience your true spirit

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

2. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol (like vodka) at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Oh Come With Us and Gallop”

Have fun this year –

Lemongrass         10 drops

Rose Geranium      5 drops

Cedarwood Atlas    5 drops

Cinnamon               5 drops

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“Get Ready…”

Warm up for the big race this year –

Basil             5 drops

Orange       10 drops

Rosewood  10 drops

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“I’m Going to Patagonia”

Be adventurous –

Black Pepper                   5 drops

Sandalwood Australian     5 drops

Frankincense                    8 drops

Mandarin                          7 drops

—————————————————————————————————————–

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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