Tag: lifestyle

Peppermint Essential Oil Overview

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Hello, my loves!

Welcome back to my blog, my dears. Today we are going to be talking specifically about peppermint essential oil. I know I touched on essential oils in the past but now I will be talking about a single essential oil in a post each week. I love talking about all things that are healthy for our bodies and holistic ways to help with illness. I am not saying I am a doctor or know the specifics of illnesses or diseases but I do know how to help with minor ailments.

Peppermint essential oil is one of the most common oils on the market. I personally love peppermint! It is a great oil for feeling refreshed and ready to go. Honestly, I use it every day before a workout so that I can feel inspired to get started. I love the way it smells and brings life back into a house if you are using a diffuser.

Some of the other uses for peppermint essential oil is for stomach aches or digestion. You can drink peppermint tea, or use a drop of peppermint with a carrier oil and rub it on your tummy. It is also great for relieving headaches and sore muscles. You can also use it for emotional support when you are feeling distressed or having low energy.

Peppermint essential oil is also used for common colds and can help treat cough or congestion.

Some of my favorite diffuser blends are:

Lemon And Peppermint – for uplifting

Orange And Peppermint – for relaxing

Lavender And Peppermint – for calming

Rosemary And Peppermint – for refreshing

I do suggest that you find an oil that is therapeutic grade and is made with care.

I hope you enjoyed my blog post today and if you have any questions or have anything to share please feel free to do so in the comments!

Love,

Julie

How To Have A Better Day

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Hello, my loves!

I hope your Monday is going well. Today, we are going to be talking about things that can make you have a better day when your day isn’t going so well.

Make or buy a good drink. Honestly, it is a small gesture but it is something that always uplifts my mood when I’m feeling down. A nice, iced coffee or a hot tea is wonderful for the spirit. The process in making one is a slow meditation that can make you relax in between tasks. Put your drink in your favorite mug and voila you are all set.

Use essential oils. God blessed us with nature and with that is flowers,, fruits, trees, and many other beautiful sights. These can be converted into wonderful essential oils which can be used to support our emotions and moods. I personally love using peppermint essential oil when I’m feeling low or run down. Lemon is also a quick mood booster.

Physical activity. We can all get in a mood where we don’t want to get up and do anything but I guarantee you that if you start moving you will not regret it. Honestly, working out is a huge factor in my own life. I like to workout at least four times a week. I get on the treadmill and do some weight training. I also do yoga on a daily basis and go for walks as much as I can if the weather permits. It is not only good for your physical body but it is excellent for improving mood and relaxing you. So, if you’re having a bad day why not try it.

Creative outlet. If you have some time, you should give a creative project a try. It doesn’t have to be the best or the hardest. Doing crafts is just for fun! If you are burnt out from work, try something like adult coloring books or water colors. There are YouTube videos on all sorts of creative projects so it should be easy to do. I personally like writing as my hobby. My blog reflects me and it is just a fun thing to do. I hope you can find something you enjoy.

Clean. Cleaning isn’t the most relaxing thing to do when you are having a bad day but it is so worth it. It will set your mind free of the clutter that may be haunting you. Light some sage or Palo Santo and find a way to refresh your home or bedroom. You will be energetically cleansing your home and it will be like a reset button. Perhaps set a corner of one of your rooms to be a meditation center where you know it is going to be safe for you to relax.

Shopping. Okay, last but not least. Retail therapy can definitely help once in a while. As long as you aren’t spending 500 dollars at Target every time you have a bad day. It is fun to buy new thing and a new dress to wear is always exciting. Honestly, it could be a new bubble bath for your self care day or a new pair of shoes to wear out with your girlfriends. Who doesn’t love to shop?!

Well, I hope some of these ideas helped. If you have any of your own ideas, please share them in the comments!

Love, Julie

Sleep Hygiene

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Hello, my loves!

Welcome back to my blog. I hope you are all having a wonderful day. It is getting closer to spring and I cannot wait for the snow to melt and it to turn green again. I’m going to be talking about something that is important at any time of year and it is sleep! We need to talk about sleep today because I feel like a lot of people’s anxiety may be on the rise due to current world events.

So what is sleep “hygiene”? Sleep hygiene is just a healthy way to maintain sleep and rest during the night and even during the day. So, let’s get started.

Clean your room and your bedsheets. I think it is very important to physically remain clean in your bed. When you are going to sleep it will be easier to fall asleep when everything in your room is put away and you are in an environment that you don’t have to worry about. I recommend washing your bedding at least once a week and tidying your room once a day.

Avoid using technology before bed. I know we are all addicted to our phones, computers, and tablets but it is important we ditch them before we fall asleep. It’s a lot more difficult for us to shut off our minds when we are constantly scrolling before bed. Our minds need to rest which means turning off the lights, the phone, and even the books. Try to meditate before bed and clear your mind from the days noise.

Do not use your bedroom for anything but sleep. I know it is hard but your bedroom should be an oasis from the rest of the world. It shouldn’t be your home office or yoga studio. When you correlate your bedroom to relaxation and sleep it is much easier to relax and calm down at the end of the day because you aren’t about to pick up your client’s latest call. Avoid eating or drinking in your room and try to keep everything soft in your space.

Make your bedroom a sacred space. Try to keep your room an area of the house that is cozy and warm for you. You don’t want to get into a bedroom that isn’t comfortable for you. Put plants in the room, put nice pillows on your bed, and if you enjoy them maybe add some fairy lights. As said before, try to keep your room tidy and clean so that you won’t be in there as a chore. Light candles, burn incense, or diffuse essential oils like lavender and frankincense.

I hope these tips for healthy sleep works for you. If you have any suggestions please leave them in the comments below!

Love, Julie

Cottagecore Lifestyle Ideas

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Hello, my loves!

Welcome back to my blog. Today we are going to be sharing a few cottagecore lifestyle ideas. There are tons of things you can do to embrace the cottage core lifestyle.

Dress like it. So, of course we have the obvious but it can be so fun to do! When dressing for a cottagecore day you can dress up or down. You can add tons of beautiful layers and curious jewelery pieces. You can then go frolic in the meadow or have a tea party.

Have a tea party. Honestly, I love tea and drink it almost every day. It is so delightful to get out a tea pot and add some fresh loose leaf tea. Spring is coming around the corner so remember to add some hibiscus or lemongrass. You can set up a table for your friends or even just for yourself. You can add tea cakes and art work to your table.

Run through the meadow. As I stated before, when you are in your pretty dress you can run through the meadows and the fields with bare feet. It is a wonderful activity that gets you into the nature. You can sit down and relax and read a book whilst out in the fields.

Bake. It is always fun to bake something and you can wear a cute apron whilst doing so. You can create some masterpieces and share them with your family and friends. There is absolutely nothing wrong about enjoying a piece of cake in the afternoon with your tea.

Sing and dance. We all secretly love dancing and singing. It is a wonderful joyous pastime that can never go wrong. It doesn’t matter if you feel you aren’t adequate. Just get up and do it! It releases so much stress and anxiety. It’ll make you feel so good inside. Try to do this daily even if it is for a short period of time.

Be by animals. Animals are so cute and cuddly and even when we are at our worst they can bring joy to our lives. If you’re lonely, maybe think of getting a pet to help ease the alone time. Or you can obviously go to a petting zoo if you don’t have the ability to take an animal home. Go out into nature and see the birds and woodland creatures.

Well, that’s it for now. I hope you enjoyed reading a few of my ideas for a cottagecore lifestyle. I may make a part two, so look out for that!

Love,

Julie

Current Favorites

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Hello, my loves

!

Today we are going to be talking about my current favorites. Whether it be food, makeup, or music!

First, a drink.

I’m obsessed with Trader Joe’s chai tea concentrate. It is easy to just pour a little liquid into almond milk and make a delicious drink. It is the perfect drink to wake up to or have as an afternoon drink.

The next product is a liquid lipstick by Nyx. It is their XXL Lip Lingerie line and it is the shade Push’d Up. This is a beautiful pink shade that can be worn with any makeup look.

For hair, I really have been enjoying the OGX Tea Tree and Mint clarifying shampoo. I absolutely love it because I don’t have to wash my hair every other day – it doesn’t make my hair greasy and I can go days without washing.

For songs, I really like “God’s a woman” by Ariana Grande. I also have been liking “I’d do anything for love” by Meat loaf. I know that is so random but it’s true!

On YouTube, I really enjoy watching that girl videos and morning routines. I’ve been struggling with my morning routine so I am taking tips away from the videos.

For body products, I’ve really been enjoying the Johnson’s baby lotion. It is perfectly gentle on skin and can really provide a lot of moisture.

Lastly, for food. I really love my organic turkish figs from Trader Joe’s. They taste like a piece of candy. Also, the Trader Joe’s heart jelly beans are delicious!

I hope you enjoyed my favorites!

Much love,

Julie

New Years Goals

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Happy New Year 2020. Lettering Composition With Stars And Sparkles. Holiday Vector Illustration.

Hello, my loves!

I hope you are all enjoying the holiday season. We are close approaching the new year and I thought I’d share with you my goals. I do not like to set lofty goals that need to be accomplished overnight, but rather, goals that can be a long term ambition.

Physical Goal:

Lose 20 pounds by Spring.

Walk outside every day if weather permits.

Eat healthy, but don’t restrict.

Mental Goal:

Read one chapter of book per day.

Learn to crochet.

Learn basic astrology.

Emotional Goal:

Seek a therapist.

Meditate when needed.

Write in my journal daily or weekly.

Be kind to myself even when it is difficult.

Spiritual Goal:

Learn about Native American history.

Find peace with God.

Belly dance.

Be with nature without distractiions.

I hope this year is a good one for everyone. Let all your dreams and passions come through.

Love, Julie

Winter Self Care Routine

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Hello, my loves!

I hope you’re all enjoying the winter season so far. It is time to change our routines so we can get used to the colder weather and the more dry skin. I personally love winter because you get to cozy up into your sweaters and warm fuzzy socks , etc.

When the winter comes it is easy to nestle into our houses and be as laid back as possible. However, just because it is winter doesn’t’ mean you shouldn’t’ take care of yourself.

It is vital that you take your vitamins during this season. We are not able to get the same amount of vitamin D as we are during the warmer months. We also should make sure we uptake our vitamin C because our immune systems have less to fight off illness with. There are many other vitamins and antioxidants we need, so consult your doctor to see what personally you need in your diet.

Speaking of diet, you should be eating as many fruits and vegetables as you can. This is important all year round but especially in winter because your body needs more nutrition because we are sitting inside a lot more and aren’t moving our bodies as often as we should. A healthy baseline is important.

Movement is important because as I said we are not moving naturally as much because of the bitter cold. You can move by doing workouts in your house. It doesn’t matter if you have the equipment. You can simply do jumping jacks or lunges or walk in place. Try to get outside if you can but if you can’t, YouTube has many videos for those who want to get active.

Besides diet and exercise, our mental health is very important. This time of year can be difficult on us in general. It’s time to put yourself first. What kind of hobbies interest you? Do you like to cook or bake? Or do you just like watching your favorite television show? It doesn’t really matter, as long as you are doing something you enjoy. Try making yourself a priority. Don’t forget, spring always comes.

Be social. As much as you can. I know in times of the pandemic it is hard to see your family and friends. However, you can make sure you’re calling, texting, or facetiming. You can also go out in small doses even if it is to run to the store so you are seeing another person and feeling their energy. I hope one day soon we can live our lives freely but until then do what you can to not get sucked into a deep slump.

Love yourself. This is the perfect time of year to turn inward. You can work on your goals and dreams and make yourself grow into who you want to be. Journal, do self improvement exercises, and dance, sing, scream, love. It is so important not to forget why you’re here and have a purpose. Though, just getting through every day is your purpose too.

Lastly, meditation. It is important to nourish your spiritual side. It doesn’t have to be crazy but try to dig deeper into your spirit. What can you do to be real? To throw away all the anger, the frustration, the hard stuff. You don’t need to beat yourself up! Let it go! Like Elsa says, let it go! You are capable of so much more, my love. You can do this. I believe in you.

And those are my tips for self care for winter. I hope you stay warm!

Love,

Julie.

Collagen Peptide Overview

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Hello, my loves!

I an so happy to share with you a product overview which I’ve been using for around a month now. The product is building status and can be found in most drugstores. It’s called collagen peptides.

Collagen peptides are a form of protein made from connective tissue of fish or bovine. These connective tissues provide a large source of moisture and firmness to your skin, nails, and joints. The cushion makes your skin plump and radiant.

It is easy to take collagen. You can either take a tablet or the most common is taking a powder version that is tasteless so you can add it to your coffee, smoothies, or even water! There are also flavored collagens on the market right now so you can enjoy a flavored beverage too! You need to take the supplement for at least two weeks for there to be a noticeable change.

It is suggested to take 2.5-10 grams of collagen each day to see results.

Personally, I’ve been using the collagen peptides from Trader Joe’s made by Great Lakes Gelatin Co. This specific collagen comes from pasture raised bovine. This collagen goes for Nine USD.

My results from using collagen peptides for a month have been quite good. I have experienced more plump skin which is soft and clear. My hair has definitely been more thick as well as shiny and growing out fast. My nails have also grown out faster than normal.

I’d highly recommend purchasing a collagen powder if you want to see if it will help aid in softer skin, nails, hair, and joints.

I’d also suggest doing research on the collagen powder you want to use so it will fit what you are looking for.

If you have any questions about collagen peptides or want to share an experience with it, please leave a comment.

Much love,

Julie

My Curly Hair Routine

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Hello, my loves!

I hope you are all enjoying the autumn so far. Today I thought I would share with you my curly hair routine. I have naturally curly hair that has a mind of its own. I love to have curly hair but sometimes it is a beast to control.

I take a shower every day but do not wash my hair every day. Sometimes it is better to have second or third day hair if you have the right products.

First of all, I shampoo my hair with Luseta Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil shampoo and conditioner. I absolutely love these products. Honestly, I can feel my hair growing thicker with each use of these products even though it is already so thick! I absolutely love the smell and it comes with a ton of product.

After I get out of the shower I immediately spray the Purelogy Color Fanatic Multi Tasking Leave In Spray. This is wonderful for getting my hair combed out and feeling smooth. It smells great and keeps my hair frizz free. It says it has 21 benefits in the one spray! As I said, I comb this through my hair and it has made such a difference in the texture of my hair.

After I spray that in my hair and is all combed out I use either the Botanical Solutions Styling Foam or the Morocanoil Volumizing Mousse. I like both of these products for building volume in my hair. I already have a lot of volume but it doesn’t hurt to build some more.

My last step is the Ouidad Vitalcurl. This product is great for keeping my hair shiny, hydrated and curly. I love this cream to finish off my look.

Another step I may add in depending on the day is the Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak Dry Shampoo. This is a really good dry shampoo that builds even more volume! It doesn’t leave a white cast or any residue and blends really well.

I also may use the Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray. I absolutely adore this product and have been using it for years. It smells wonderful and is like going to the beach with beautiful waves/curls.

(not pictured)

I absolutely love talking about products so if you have any suggestions feel free to share them below!

Love,

Julie

Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Cream Review

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Hello, my loves!

Today I’m going to be reviewing a product which I have been using for two months straight. The product is the Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Cream. I bought this product at Target for 24 USD. I have been using the cream nonstop since I purchased it and will be going through an overview of the product and what I thought was beneficial or nothing to write home about.

So first, I noticed that the jar was a heavy glass one, instead of plastic. I also noticed the beautiful packaging which I and so many people enjoy. The product is labeled cruelty free and vegan and comes with 1.7 fl oz. or 50 ml. So quite a bit of product in my opinion and especially because you are only using it at night it comes with plenty . As I stated, I was able to use this product every night for two whole months.

The product is a a thick and rich cream that bears no real overwhelming scent. It smells a bit floral if anything. The product states on the jar that it has retinoid, melatonin, and mushrooms. I have used retinol before and it really did help with dry skin as well as combating aging. I feel like this has softened my skin and made it a little less dull and to be honest I wasn’t expecting any drastic changes.

I did not breakout almost at all with my use of the product but I did have some bad blemish days because of my time of the month.

Even though the product was very rich and moisturizing I did apply a thin layer of Ponds cold cream to get an extra surge of moisture.

These are some of the top ingredients and their purpose:

  • Granactive Retinoid: Petroleum-free retinoid known for helping fight signs of aging, and found to be less irritating than traditional retinol.
  • Melatonin: In your body, melatonin reminds your brain it’s time to sleep. On your skin, melatonin is a supercharged free-radical scavenger. One of the key ingredients in your fight against aging.
  • Mushrooms: Promote hydration and help reduce puffiness.
  • Quinoa: Loaded with antioxidants, which help fight free radicals, and high in lysine, which is an amino acid that helps promote collagen production.

(ingredient excerpt taken from pacifica website)

Overall, I was very pleased with this product. For the amount of product I received for the price it was well spent I also really enjoyed the softening and brightening of my complexion. I would definitely repurchase this product and I may even try the eye cream that is in the same line. I am a fan of taking care of my skin every night and this was a beautiful cream to add to my self care.

I hope this gave you a little bit of insight on this Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Cream and if you have any more questions feel free to leave a comment and I will gladly answer.

Love,

Julie