In today's fast-paced world, it's crucial to prioritize the well-being of our beloved canine companions. One area that often goes overlooked is the impact of toxins present in our homes, including cleaners, air fresheners, and other household products. These products can not only harm humans but also affect the health and well-being of our four-legged friends. Fortunately, there are less harmful products we can use, including essential oils, to offer a natural and safe alternative to these harmful substances. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of using natural products and essential oils for canine wellness and how easy it is to replace toxic household products with more natural alternatives. By doing so, we can create a healthier and safer environment for both ourselves and our furry companions.
Understanding the Dangers of Common Household Cleaners and Air Fresheners
To fully appreciate the importance of transitioning to natural alternatives, it's essential to understand why common household cleaners and air fresheners pose a risk to people and dogs alike. Many commercial products contain toxic chemicals such as ammonia, bleach, formaldehyde, and phthalates, which can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritations, hormonal disruptions, and even cancer. Dogs are particularly vulnerable as they often lick or sniff surfaces treated with these chemicals, exposing themselves to harmful toxins. Additionally, they spend their lives much closer to the floor where common toxic household products can live from cleaning. In many households, our dogs spend much more time inside the home than we, as owners do, since we're off to work for the day. This can make them more susceptible to the adverse effects of these products.
Common Myths About Natural Cleaners
Common myths often circulate around the use of natural household cleaners versus chemical cleaners.
Myth #1: Natural cleaners are less effective than chemical cleaners.
- Fact: Several products on the market today can offer a safer alternative to clean with. Plain ol' soap and water, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and alcohol have long been used to clean and disinfect surfaces. According to this article published by the CDC, "Published reports ascribe good germicidal activity to hydrogen peroxide and attest to its bactericidal, virucidal, sporicidal, and fungicidal properties". The addition of essential oils can add wellness benefits as well. The Antimicrobial effects of Tea Tree, a popular essential oil that many people like to add to their home cleaning products, has been studied on PubMed.gov.
Myth #2: Natural cleaners are expensive and hard to find.
- Fact: Essential oils and other natural ingredients are often affordable and readily available in local stores or online. After the initial purchase and investment of ingredients for DIY's, many natural homemade cleaners are less expensive in the long run. If you're not into DIY, check out my favorite toxin free cleaner, Thieves™ Household Cleaner concentrate, from Young Living™ Essential Oils. One bottle of concentrate can make over 20 quarts of cleaner, making it one of the least expensive toxin free cleaners on the market!
Myth #3: Natural cleaners lack a pleasant scent.
- Fact: The addition of essential oils offers a wide range of fragrances, such as lavender and citrus, providing a delightful aroma while effectively cleaning your home. Some alcohols that you can use for cleaning have no aroma at all.
Dispelling these myths can help pet owners and families make informed choices in opting for safer, more natural alternatives for their homes. To make it easy, I've got an 'Essential Cleaning Supplies Checklist' so you can grab the products you need to get started. Click HERE!
Benefits of Essential Oils for Canine Wellness
Essential oils, derived from plants, offer numerous benefits for canine wellness. They are natural, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals. When used correctly, essential oils can promote relaxation, reduce tension, support healthy skin, and enhance overall well-being. Essential oils can also be used for odor, making them ideal for various household applications. Some essential oils can even be used for outdoor and indoor annoyances, helping to keep unwanted critters at bay. This study on PubMed.gov, found essential oil vapors "effective in reducing microbial contamination". They can add a wellness and cleaning boost to your natural products. In fact, many 'natural' cleaners on the market today include essential oils.
Essential Oil Safety Guidelines for Canine Wellness
While essential oils have numerous benefits, it's important to use them safely around dogs. The two most important factors when using essential oils around dogs are quality and dilution. To learn how to make sure you are using a pure, high quality, and premium essential oil, click HERE. When you are adding essential oils to, or making your own cleaners, you'll already be diluting the essential oil for safe use in the home.
Replacing Toxic Cleaners with Essential Oil-Based Alternatives
Transitioning to toxin free cleaners can be simple and easy. Here are some popular household cleaning products you can use:
- Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Liquid Castile Soap
- Vodka
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Essential Oils
1. All-purpose cleaner: Mix half water and half vinegar, and add several drops of essential oils like lemon or tea tree oil for a safe and effective all-purpose cleaner that can be used on countertops, floors, and other surfaces. Yes, you can use tea tree oil around your dogs, click HERE for what you need to know. If you have natural stone, granite, or marble, vinegar isn't recommended as it can scratch and dull the countertop, and affect the sealers. You will want to use plain ol' soap and water. For more in depth info on using natural cleaners specifically, check out my 'Healthy Hacks To Clean Your Home' article by clicking HERE!
2. Air freshener: Instead of using aerosol sprays or plug-in air fresheners, consider making your own natural alternatives. You can easily make a room spray with essential oils. Click HERE for a step by step guide to making a spray. Consider an investment of an essential oil diffuser. Placed strategically in your home, adding several drops and diffusing daily can be a perfect way to uplift and freshen your home. There are many diffusers on the market today, for help in picking out the right one for you, check out my blog HERE!
3. Odor control: To combat unpleasant odors, baking soda can be your new BFF.
You can add essential oils to baking soda and make closet and drawer sachets as well as standing air fresheners around your home. For more easy ways and ideas to replace chemical laden air fresheners, check out my 'Ultimate Guide To Eliminating Pet Odors Naturally' by clicking HERE!
4. Carpet cleaner: Add about 20-30 drops of an essential oil or blend to 1 cup of baking soda. Mix well and then sprinkle on carpet you have already vacuumed. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes or even overnight for heavily soiled areas, then vacuum up.
5. Mop water: Add around 10 drops of essential oils like lemon, pine, or lavender to your mop water for a natural and refreshing scent while cleaning your floors.
6. Bleach and Hand Soap: For my favorite bleach alternative and hand soap recipes, click HERE. Sometimes its easy to think that your exposure to chemicals isn't that big, but how many times do you wash your hands each day? We may not realize it, but with each hand wash and product use, we accumulate a significant chemical load. Moreover, products labeled with "fragrance" can hide a multitude of chemicals, as they are protected by 'trade secret' laws and may contain hundreds of undisclosed substances. Making your own natural alternatives empowers you to lead a healthier, chemical-free lifestyle for you, your furry friend, and the planet.
7.Window and Mirror Cleaner: Click HERE to learn how to make an all-natural window and mirror cleaner using just four ingredients, ensuring a streak-free shine while promoting a healthier living environment for you and your furry friend.
By replacing toxic household products with natural alternatives, we can create a safer and healthier environment for both ourselves and our canine companions. Essential oils offer a versatile and effective solution to eliminate harmful chemicals from our homes while promoting canine wellness. With a little knowledge and effort, you can easily make the switch and experience the benefits of essential oils for your home and your furry friend's well-being.
If you're curious about where I source my essential oils, I highly recommend joining me on a journey with Young Living™. Their unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and purity through their Seed To Seal™ process makes them my top choice. Explore the Thieves™ product line, a perfect addition to creating a natural home environment. Embracing safe and toxin-free cleaning products has never been easier. If you prefer not to DIY, Young Living™ offers a complete product line ideal for cleaning your home. Check out the Make a Shift™ Happy, Healthy Home™ Kit HERE. This kit is all you need to get started with natural home cleaning today!(This is an affiliate link, and I earn a small commission from your order at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business! I'm thrilled to assist you in getting started and will connect with you after your order to send something special your way!)
In the world of equestrian sports, I believe the rider's emotional state can be just as crucial as the physical well-being of the horse. As riders, we strive to provide the best support and care for our equine partners, and one way to achieve this is by balancing our own emotions. Essential oils offer a natural and effective means to harmonize our emotional well-being, allowing us to be at our best when supporting our horses. In this blog post, let's explore the power of using essential oils to help balance our emotions and maintain optimal mental health when we are at the barn. We are half the equation and when we are balanced, it helps our horses be balanced!
First lets understand what essential oils are and why we can use them to affect our emotions.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the beneficial properties of various botanicals. They are obtained through processes such as steam distillation or cold-press extraction, resulting in highly potent and aromatic substances. Each essential oil possesses unique chemical compounds that contribute to its specific aroma and wellness effects.
Plants produce essential oils as a defense mechanism and to support their own well-being. Essential oils are found in various parts of plants, including leaves, flowers, bark, and roots. These aromatic compounds serve multiple purposes for plants, such as attracting pollinators, repelling pests and pathogens, and combating environmental stressors. Essential oils can deter insects and herbivores with their strong scents, preventing damage to plant tissues and ensuring survival. Additionally, these oils can inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and provide protection against fungal or bacterial infections. In some cases, essential oils play a role in plant communication, allowing them to send signals to neighboring plants or attract beneficial organisms.
What Does This Mean For Us?!
The fact that plants produce essential oils as a defense mechanism and for their own well-being holds great significance for us as humans. Through our understanding and utilization of these natural aromatic compounds, we can harness their benefits for our own well-being and support. Just as essential oils serve plants, they can offer similar advantages to us.
Why Do Essential Oils Affect Our Emotions?
The sense of smell is intricately connected to our emotions and memories. When we inhale the aroma of essential oils, the molecules stimulate the olfactory system, which is directly linked to the brain's limbic system—the center of emotions and memories. This direct connection allows essential oils to have a profound impact on our emotional state. Each essential oil contains unique chemical compounds that can trigger specific emotional responses. For example, the scent of lavender is known for its calming and relaxing properties, while citrus oils like grapefruit and lemon are uplifting and energizing. By inhaling the aroma of these oils, we can activate neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain, promoting the release of certain chemicals that help balance our emotions. This process provides a natural and non-invasive way to influence our emotional well-being, allowing us to create a positive and supportive environment for ourselves and our equine partners.
The Role Of Emotions In Equestrian Performance
Emotions have a profound impact on our ability to connect with and guide our horses. Stress, Anxiety, tension, or distraction can hinder our communication and negatively affect our performance. It can make our bodies tight and unable to perform their best. Conversely, a calm and focused mindset can promote trust, confidence, and synchronization with our equine partners. Have you ever had a riding lesson and your instructor reminded you to breathe, and then magically everything got better, I have! Once you recognize the significance of your emotions and how they affect your horse when you interact with them, you can use an essential oil as a tool to help with emotional balance.
Ways We Can Use Essential Oils As Riders
There are various ways to enjoy the aromatic benefits of essential oils, allowing you to incorporate them seamlessly into your barn routine. One simple method is inhaling the aroma directly from the bottle, which can provide an immediate sensory experience and mood boost. Alternatively, you can create your own oil blend by adding essential oils to a roller ball and applying it to pulse points to wear as a perfume.
This is one of the safest and best ways to use essential oils with horses and even dogs, as you become a walking diffuser. You dont need to apply the essential oil to your skin for it to be effective for emotional support for your mind and body. To read more about that-click HERE
For a continuous aromatic experience, diffuser jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets designed with absorbent materials, can be a stylish and effective option. You can add a drop of your favorite essential oil or blend essential oils together for a powerful aroma. These methods allow you to fully embrace the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils and carry their uplifting scents with you throughout the day.
Roller Ball Recipes For:
1. Promoting Tension Relief
Tension can manifest in both riders and horses, impeding performance and creating a stressful environment. To alleviate tension, essential oils such as grapefruit, lavender, Roman chamomile, and cedarwood, can be utilized. A roller ball recipe for a tension relief blend could include:
10 drops of Lavender essential oil
5 drops of Roman chamomile essential oil
5 drops of Frankincense essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the pulse points or inhale it before riding to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, and create a calmer atmosphere for both rider and horse.
2. Cultivating Calmness
Maintaining a sense of calmness is essential for riders to provide steady guidance and support. Essential oils such as cedarwood, frankincense, myrrh, and vetiver are known for their calming properties. For a calming blend, try:
10 drops of Cedarwood
5 drops of Frankincense
5 drops of Vetiver
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the wrists and wear it as a perfume to promote a peaceful and centered state of mind.
3. Building Courage and Confidence
Fear and lack of confidence can hinder riders from fully realizing their potential. Essential oils such as Spruce, Fir, Juniper, and ylang-ylang can help boost courage and self-assurance. To create a courage-enhancing blend:
10 drops of Spruce essential oil
5 drops of Juniper essential oil
5 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the solar plexus area or inhale it deeply before riding to instill a sense of courage, boldness, and assertiveness.
4. Enhancing Focus and Concentration
Focus and concentration are vital for clear communication and effective riding. Essential oils such as rosemary, lemon, and peppermint can help sharpen mental clarity and enhance focus.
10 drops of Rosemary essential oil
5 drops of Peppermint essential oil
5 drops of Lemon essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the back of your neck after inhaling deeply to stimulate alertness, improve concentration, and promote mental acuity.
5. Managing Frustration and Impatience
Equestrian pursuits often come with challenges and setbacks, leading to frustration and impatience. Or we can simply be in an impatient mood after waiting all day to get to the barn. Essential oils such as clary sage, juniper, and sandalwood possess soothing properties to aid in frustration management. To create a blend for frustration relief:
10 drops of Clary Sage essential oil
5 drops of Juniper essential oil
5 drops of Sandalwood essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the chest and inhale it deeply to promote emotional balance, release tension, and restore a positive outlook.
Emotional balance is a vital aspect of equestrian performance that I feel is often overlooked, and essential oils provide a natural and effective means to help achieve this balance. By utilizing essential oils and blends for tension relief, calmness, courage, focus, and frustration management, riders can enhance their emotional well-being and support their horses more effectively.
You don't have to create a blend either...simply pick one of the essential oils, open the bottle, inhale deeply and let your horse inhale deeply before you get on or work with your horse! Blends are fun to create and use throughout the day...but don't let creating a blend stop you from harnessing the power of essential oils at the barn!
You can also try diffusing a calming essential oil blend for a half hour before you head for the barn to let the stress of the day melt away from your body. This could be all it takes to work thru any negative emotions that might affect your time with your horse before they become a problem.
Discovering the potential of essential oils to foster a profound bond with our equine companions is a delightful and gratifying experience. As we harmonize on an emotional level, the journey towards a joyful and fulfilling partnership with our horses unveils itself effortlessly and with great enjoyment.
As an essential oil enthusiast who has experienced the transformative benefits firsthand, I invite you to join me in exploring the world of essential oils with Young Living. I personally recommend Young Living for their unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and purity through their Seed To Seal™ process. Discover the wide range of high-quality essential oils and oil-infused products they offer by clicking HERE and visiting their website. You'll find essential oils and blends perfect for equestrians, supporting your journey towards enhanced well-being for both you and your horse. Embrace the power of nature and unlock the potential of essential oils with Young Living today. Let's embark on this aromatic adventure together! (This is an affiliate link and I earn a small commission from your order at no cost to you. Thanks for supporting my small business! I'm so excited to help you get started, that I'll connect with you once you order and send you something special!)
As a pet owner, essential oils can be a valuable tool for creating a calm and soothing environment, managing odors, and balancing emotions within your household and barn! One effective way to achieve this is by diffusing essential oils. My favorite way is with an ultrasonic diffuser, but did you know there are many ways you can diffuse essential oils without a 'diffuser'? Lets dive in and see how easy it is to use essential oils to transform your home or barn environment, whether you have a traditional diffuser or not!
Understanding Essential Oils and the Benefits of Diffusing
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that capture the plant's aroma and beneficial properties. These oils have been used for centuries in aromatherapy to promote physical and emotional well-being. When diffused, essential oils release their aromatic molecules into the air, allowing us to experience their wellness effects through inhalation.
Diffusing essential oils offers several benefits, both for humans and our animal companions. Some of my favorite advantages include:
1. Promotes Relaxation: Certain essential oils, such as lavender and chamomile, are known for their calming properties. Diffusing these oils can create a peaceful atmosphere, helping to reduce stress and tension in both pets and humans.
2. Cleanses the Air: Many essential oils possess odor controlling properties, which can help purify the air by eliminating and neutralizing smells.
3. Supports Respiratory Health: Some essential oils, like eucalyptus and peppermint, have properties that can aid respiratory health. Diffusing these oils may help promote good breathing.
4. Enhances Focus and Concentration: Essential oils like rosemary and peppermint can help improve mental clarity and focus. Diffusing these oils while working, studying, or during horse training sessions can enhance productivity.
Tips for Diffusing Essential Oils without a Diffuser
While traditional diffusers are convenient, there are alternative methods to enjoy the benefits of essential oils even without one. Here are some pet-safe techniques for diffusing essential oils:
1. Open Bottle Method: This method is a straightforward approach to enjoying the benefits of essential oils. To experience their aromatic properties, all you have to do is inhale the aroma. Essential oils are highly volatile, meaning that when you open the bottle, their molecules disperse into the air. They actually diffuse themselves-lol. When it comes to your horses and dogs, you can simply allow them to smell the essential oil directly from the bottle.
For dogs, you can unscrew the cap of the essential oil bottle and place it on the counter. This approach is particularly useful if your dog is not accustomed to essential oils or if you prefer to introduce an aroma temporarily. In the long run, it’s advisable to use a different method to prevent your essential oil from oxidizing or evaporating. With dogs incredible sense of smell, they can receive the benefits oftentimes without even taking the lid off.
2.Tissue or Cotton Ball Method: This is a simple and cost-effective way to diffuse essential oils. Apply a few drops of your chosen oil onto a tissue or cotton ball and place it in strategic areas around the house. Ensure your pet has the option to move away from the aroma if they find it overwhelming. This can also work well for trailering horses. Use a calming essential oil like lavender, cedarwood, or vetiver, and stash a couple of cotton balls in the trailer.
3. Air Filter: Apply 5-10 drops to your air filter when you change it out. Use your favorite or try eucalyptus, lemon, or lemongrass!
4. Spray Bottle Method: Dilute your essential oils in water and use a spray bottle to mist the air. This works well for odor control. I like to make one with lemon essential oil and keep it in my tack room. Say no to sweaty horse and leather smell -lol! For a step by step guide to making a room spray, click HERE.
5. Aromatherapy Jewelry: Consider wearing aromatherapy jewelry, such as a diffuser necklace or bracelet, infused with essential oils. The heat from your body will gently release the aroma throughout the day, providing a subtle and personal diffusion experience. This is also one of the best ways to use essential oils with your horses and dogs, especially if you are just starting out. You become a walking diffuser and you are also half the equation. When you are calm, happy and balanced, your horses and dogs are more likely to be too!
6. Ceramic or Clay Diffusers: Look for porous ceramic or clay objects, such as a decorative dish or diffuser stone. Add a few drops of essential oil onto these objects, and the porous material will slowly release the aroma into the air.
7. Dryer Balls: Adding several drops of essential oils to dryer balls will impart a lingering aroma on your clothes and dog bedding. I like to use the citrus oils like orange and lime, but you can use any essential oil you like. Try using a calming essential oil for nervous dogs when you wash their bedding.
8. Make A Coffee Filter Sachet: These are easy and simple to make. You only need coffee filters, baking soda, essential oils, and a twist tie or rubber band. Add essential oils to your baking soda, put a tablespoon in the coffee filter and twist tie shut. Then stash in strategic places around your home or barn. You can hang these (out of reach of your horse) in the stall for a calming boost or odor control. For A step by step guide, click HERE.
9.Air Freshener Jar: Simply grab a cup of baking soda, add it to a glass jar with a metal lid. Poke holes in the metal lid with an ice pick. Add about 25-30 drops of essential oil or a blend into the baking soda and stir well. Add the lid with holes. Refresh the aroma as needed. I probably add more essential oils to mine every couple weeks. This is a great air freshener for tack rooms! For a step by step guide, click HERE
10. Clothespin Method: Grab some wooden clothespins and an essential oil. Add a few drops of the essential oil onto the clothespin. Then simply clip the clothespin where you need an essential oil boost. This works great for the cat box room. I also like to add a drop of a calming oil like cedarwood or vetiver and then clip on my car vent when I have to take my dog to the veterinarian. I’ve also used this method in the horse trailer and tack room!
Diffusing essential oils is a simple and versatile way to create a delightful atmosphere that benefits both you and your pets. There are numerous methods to choose from, allowing you to find one that suits your preferences. These methods provide a variety of ways to experience the aromatic properties of essential oils in safe and easy ways.
When using essential oils for your pets, it's important to prioritize their safety above all else. This means selecting pet-safe essential oils that are pure and unadulterated. To ensure the well-being of your furry companions, it is crucial to opt for high-quality, pure, and premium oils. By choosing reputable brands and carefully reading product labels, you can use essential oils that are safe and effective for your pets.
Wondering where I get my 100% pure and premium essential oils? Click HERE to explore Young Living™ Essential Oils. With Young Living, you can experience the benefits of high-quality essential oils and infused products backed by their Seed to Seal® promise, ensuring purity, potency, and sustainability. As a pet parent, this assurance of quality is crucial when selecting products for your furry friends. Click HERE to learn more! (Please note that the provided link is an affiliate link, and I may earn a small commission from your order at no additional cost to you. Your support is greatly appreciated as it helps support my small business!)
Diffusing essential oils can be a wonderful addition to your pet care routine, providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for your furry companions. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy the benefits of essential oils while ensuring the well-being of your beloved pets.
As a devoted dog and horse mom, taking care of yourself often falls to the wayside amidst the demands of caring for our horses and dogs. However, self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity for our overall well-being and for our ability to be there for our dogs and horses! Who wants to go ride or take time out of our busy day to play with our dogs if we are burned out and and dragging?! In this blog, we will explore self care and the transformative potential of essential oils in promoting self-care. Discover various self-care ideas, delightful DIY recipes, and understand why self-care matters, especially for those of us who have animals that depend on us for everything! Let's learn how to prioritize our well-being and optimize a self-care routine with the natural benefits of essential oils.
Understanding Self-Care: The Key to Balance
Defining self-care: Self-care is the intentional practice of nurturing and prioritizing one's own physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It involves engaging in activities that promote self-nourishment, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Contrary to popular belief, self-care is not a luxury reserved for those with abundant free time or resources. It is a necessity for everyone's overall health and happiness.
By regularly engaging in self-care activities, we replenish our energy reserves, reduce stress, improve our mental and emotional resilience, and foster a greater sense of self-worth. Self-care empowers us to meet the demands of daily life with a clear mind, a balanced spirit, and a healthier body. It is an essential investment in ourselves that enables us to thrive, not just survive, in our busy and demanding world.
The happier we are with ourselves, the better partners we are for our horses and the more balanced our household is for our companion animals. Dogs pick up on energy! Optimal pet care and happy pets depend on how we balance responsibilities, manage stress, and preserve energy.
Here are ten self-care ideas to inspire and nurture your well-being:
1. Engage in a Hobby or Passion: Dedicate time to pursue activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Many of us who have horses are already practicing this one-haha! If you don't have a horse but have dogs, you could try something new with them like hiking, agility, or even just a simple walk around the block. Immerse yourself in something that engages and excites you. If that's not your horses and dogs, add another activity, even simply reading could do.
2. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindful journaling. Take a few moments to be fully present, focus on your senses, and cultivate a sense of inner calm.
3. Enjoy a Nature Walk: Step outside and connect with nature. Take a leisurely walk in a park or forest, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty around you. Let the tranquility of nature rejuvenate your mind and spirit.
4. Pamper Yourself with a DIY Spa Day: Create your own spa experience at home. Treat yourself to a facial mask, exfoliate your skin, give yourself a manicure or pedicure, and indulge in a relaxing foot massage using essential oils.
5. Engage in Creative Expression: Explore your creative side through activities like painting, drawing, writing, or playing a musical instrument. Allow yourself the freedom to express your emotions and thoughts without judgment. Looking for something simple and easy to try? Download some coloring pages!
6. Disconnect from Technology: Take a break from screens and social media. Unplug for a designated period and use that time to engage in activities that nourish your soul, such as reading a book, listening to music, or spending quality time with loved ones. This could be new cuddle time with your dogs if ya have couch potato Chi's like me, or play time for an active dog...or even a grooming/brushing session.
7. Try Yoga or Stretching: Dedicate some time to gentle stretching or practicing yoga. It helps release tension, improve flexibility, and promote a sense of calm and balance in both body and mind. Don;t overcomplicate it to start. You can simply stand up and bend over and touch your toes a few times and add in some arm circles!
8. Cook a Healthy Meal: Prepare a nutritious and delicious meal using fresh ingredients. Cooking can be a therapeutic activity that nourishes your body and allows you to savor the process of creating something with love.
9. Cultivate Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal or practice daily gratitude reflections. Take a few moments each day to focus on the positive aspects of your life and express gratitude for them.
10. Indulge in a Bubble Bath: Set aside time for a luxurious soak in a warm bubble bath with your favorite bath salts or essential oils. Light some candles, play soothing music, and let the stress melt away.
Remember, self-care is a personal journey, so choose activities that resonate with you and bring you a sense of joy, relaxation, and inner peace.
The essential oils advantage:
Using essential oils in our self care routine adds a layer of depth, relaxation, and even clarity.
And just in case you're wondering what essential oils are....essential oils are like nature's little powerhouses. They're highly concentrated extracts from plants, packed with aromatic compounds that bring joy and wellness. Think flowers, leaves, bark, and roots transformed into delightful scents. These oils have been used for ages across cultures, offering a natural way to relax, uplift, and support our well-being. From lavender's calming embrace to zesty citrus bursts, essential oils are a fun and potent tool for adding some nature magic to your self-care routine.
The Aromatic Magic of Essential Oils
One of the reasons why essential oils work so well for self-care is their unique ability to influence the limbic system. The limbic system is the part of our brain that controls emotions and memories. When we inhale the aromatic molecules of essential oils, they directly stimulate the limbic system, triggering powerful emotional and physiological responses. This direct connection allows essential oils to have a profound impact on our mood, stress levels, and overall well-being. Whether it's the calming effects of lavender to reduce tension or the uplifting properties of citrus oils to boost mood, essential oils offer a natural and effective way to address emotional needs and enhance our self-care practices. By leveraging their influence on the limbic system, essential oils become powerful allies in our journey towards self-care and emotional balance.
Adding essential oils to self care
Because the aroma of essential oils affects our emotions so quickly, taking time out to smell an essential oil can be self care in and of itself! Anytime you need a recharge, simply pick an essential oil and take several deep breaths from the bottle. You can also apply a drop in your hand, rub your palms together, make a scent tent over your nose, and inhale deeply.
Many of the self care ideas listed above can be elevated by the use of essential oils. Here's some easy recipes to get you started:
Delightful Essential Oil Self-Care Ideas and Recipes
1. Tranquil Oasis Bath: Transform your bath time into a rejuvenating experience by adding 5-10 drops of lavender essential oil 1/2 cup Epsom salts. Then dissolve the Epsom salts in your bath water. Embrace the calming aroma as it envelops you in serenity.
2. Serenity Meditation Blend: Elevate your meditation practice by diffusing grounding essential oils like frankincense or sandalwood. Inhale their soothing scents to center your mind and cultivate inner peace. Simply add 4-6 drops in your diffuser or create blend. If you dont have a diffuser, you can add a drop to the palm of your hands and create a scent tent and inhale deeply, or you can add a few drops to a cotton ball or wooden clothespin and have it close by.
3. Blissful Massage Oil: Craft a custom massage oil by combining a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba, with invigorating essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint. Treat yourself to a tension-melting self-massage after a long day of caring for your furry friends. This also works great to massage your feet at the end of a long day at the barn.
4. Serene Sanctuary Room Spray: Create a tranquil atmosphere by mixing half water, half vodka, and calming essential oils such as chamomile and ylang-ylang in a spray bottle. Use 10-20 drops of essential per 2 ounces of liquid. Mist this aromatic blend around your living space to promote relaxation and tranquility.
5. Sweet Dreams Pillow Mist: Enhance your sleep routine by spritzing your pillow with a blend of lavender and cedarwood essential oils. Follow the room spray recipe. Let the comforting scents lull you into a deep and restful slumber.
6. Culinary Delights: For culinary enthusiasts, explore using food-grade essential oils to add a burst of flavor to your recipes. Start by incorporating a drop of citrus oil into dressings or desserts for a delightful twist.
7. Stretch and Breathe: Before stretching or practicing yoga, create a scent tent by adding a drop of uplifting essential oil to a tissue or cloth. Take deep breaths and let the aroma enhance your focus and relaxation. Try cedarwood to help you unwind, peppermint for a pick me up, rosemary for focus, and lemon or orange for happy vibes!
8. Skincare Routine: Add a drop or two of essential oil to your moisturizer or facial oil for added skin benefits. Tea tree oil, rose oil, or geranium oil are popular choices for their cleansing and rejuvenating properties.
9.Aromatherapy Diffusion: Invest in an essential oil diffuser and create an ambiance of your choosing in your home. Diffuse oils like bergamot, chamomile, or ylang-ylang to promote a sense of peace and serenity. Diffuse oils like peppermint, rosemary, basil, and lemon for clarity and focus. This works well for times of journaling. Diffuse any citrus oil any time you need a mood lift. Orange is my go to 'happy oil'.
Understanding the importance of prioritizing self-care is crucial for your own well-being and for providing the best care for your furry companions. By taking the time to recharge, reduce stress, and prevent burnout, you become more balanced and relaxed, which in turn positively impacts the well-being of your dogs and horses. Don't feel overwhelmed; start your self-care journey today by picking one simple activity and giving it a try. If it resonates with you, consider incorporating essential oils to enhance the experience. Remember, self-care is not selfish but a vital investment in yourself and your ability to care for those who depend on you.
Take Charge of Your Self-Care Journey
I know life can get busy, especially when you have pets to care for, but remember: you can't pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing your own well-being is essential, not just for you, but for your dogs and horses too! By adding even small acts of self-care to your routine, you can refresh and recharge, making each moment with your pets even more meaningful.
If you're ready to take the next step in your self-care routine, check out my Self-Care Planner on Etsy. It’s a simple, yet powerful tool to help you stay organized and intentional about caring for yourself. With everything from daily goals to wellness tracking, it’s perfect for keeping you on track as you prioritize what matters most—YOU. Grab yours HERE!
Fireworks can be a thrilling sight for us, but for many dogs, they can be an overwhelming and anxiety-inducing experience. The loud bangs, bright flashes, and unfamiliar smells can trigger fear and distress in our canine friends. There's nothing harder to see than my poor little BooBoo shivering, shaking, and unable to calm down due to the loud noises. Over the years, I've tried many things to help my chihuahuas feel calm and safe over the 4th of July and New Years when my neighbors seem to go crazy with fireworks. In this blog post, I'll share my top tips and strategies that I've used to help keep my dogs calm and comfortable during fireworks, and these tips work well for thunderstorms too!
Understanding Your Dog's Fear of Fireworks
Before diving into specific techniques, it's important to understand why dogs get anxious during fireworks. Dogs have sensitive hearing, and the loud noises associated with fireworks can be extremely unsettling for them. Additionally, the sudden bursts of light and strange smells can further contribute to their distress. Signs of anxiety in your dog may include panting, trembling, pacing, hiding, excessive barking, or attempts to escape. You'll want to plan to make sure your dog stays inside and update contact information on collars and tags, just in case! While different breeds of dogs (like chihuahuas-haha) may be more sensitive in general, any dog or animal can be scared of fireworks, so this goes for all pets, not just your dog!
Preparing for Fireworks
This best advice I can give you, start now before the holidays or rainy season! Many of the methods that I have used require some advance training and preparation to be as effective as possible. There are also tools on the market that will require a purchase, so you'll want to order well before hand and prior to the fireworks display.
1. Create a Safe Haven: Designate a quiet, secure area in your home to be a safe space where your dog can retreat during fireworks. Ideally, this space should be an interior room or basement, away from windows and external noise. Make the area comfortable by adding their bed, favorite toys, and a piece of clothing with your scent. It's helpful to spend time here with your pet beforehand so they know its a safe and comfortable space, Use high value treats and praise to really anchor in positive emotions while your dog is in this space. If your dog uses a crate and is happy and comfortable in it, make sure its available in this space as well. One of my dogs go to safety method is her crate. Anytime she's uncomfortable, just being ale to hide in it is all she needs to pass the time acceptably.
2. Consider Using Desensitization Techniques: It is possible to train your dog not to fear fireworks and loud noises. Consider working with a fear free dog trainer to get the most out of this method, especially if your dog has a lot of fear that comes out in other areas of their life.
Start by gradually introducing your dog to the sound of fireworks by playing recorded firework sounds at low volumes. Start with a very low volume where your dog can hear it but doesn't seem bothered. Provide high value treats and lots of praise and positive reinforcement. Gradually increase it over time, staying within your dogs threshold while providing treats and positive reinforcement. This helps desensitize your dog to the noise, reducing their fear response.
3. Talk to Your Vet: If your dog's anxiety is severe, consult with your veterinarian. They may suggest anxiety-reducing medications or natural supplements to help your dog remain calm during fireworks.
4. Try A ThunderShirt: A ThunderShirt is a specialized garment designed to provide gentle pressure and create a swaddling effect on dogs, helping to alleviate anxiety and fear during stressful situations such as fireworks or thunderstorms. The shirt is made of a soft, breathable fabric and features adjustable straps to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for your dog. The gentle pressure applied by the ThunderShirt has a calming effect on the nervous system, similar to the feeling of being held or cuddled. This can help reduce stress, trembling, panting, and other anxiety-related behaviors in dogs.
- ThunderShirts are widely used and recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers as a non-invasive and drug-free solution for anxiety management in dogs. When used properly, the ThunderShirt can be a valuable tool in helping your dog feel more secure and relaxed during stressful events.
5. Try Calming Essential Oils: Essential oils have been known to promote relaxation and calmness in dogs. High quality and premium essential oils properly diluted can be safe to use with your dog. You can utilize calming essential oils by diffusing them in the room where your dog will be during fireworks, making a spray, or adding a drop to bedding. Lavender, cedarwood, vetiver, and copaiba are some of my favorite calming oils. For more info on using essential oils to help calm your dog, click HERE.
- Start Early to Associate Calming Oils with Positive Experiences: If you plan to use calming essential oils to help soothe your dog during fireworks, it's beneficial to start introducing them before the actual event. By associating the scent of the oils with positive experiences, you can help create a sense of calm and relaxation in your dog.
- Begin by diffusing the chosen calming essential oil in your home during calm and enjoyable moments for your dog, such as cuddle time or playtime. This helps them develop a positive association with the scent. Offer treats or engage in rewarding activities while the oil is being diffused. This positive reinforcement will help your dog associate the aroma of the essential oil with pleasant experiences. Over time, your dog will start to associate the scent of the essential oil with feelings of relaxation and security. This also works well to do in the safe space you've created for your dog.
- Additionally, monitor your dog's behavior during the initial introduction of the essential oils and discontinue use if you notice any signs of discomfort or negative reactions. Essential oils are very concentrated and a little gos a long way. For everything you need to know to safely diffuse essential oils with your dog, click HERE. By gradually introducing calming essential oils and associating them with positive experiences, you can help your dog feel more at ease during fireworks and other stressful situations.
Tips for Firework Night
1. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Before the fireworks start, engage your dog in a long walk or play session. This helps burn off excess energy and reduces anxiety. Mental stimulation activities like puzzle toys can also help distract your dog.
2. Provide a Calming Environment: Close all windows, curtains, and blinds to minimize the sound and flashes of fireworks. Turn on calming music, white noise, or even a T.V. to mask the sounds outside. Using a Thundershirt or anxiety wrap can also provide a comforting, swaddling effect for some dogs.
3. Stay Calm and Relaxed and Comfort Your Dog: Dogs can sense our emotions, so it's important to remain calm and relaxed during fireworks. Project a sense of normalcy and engage in activities you typically do together. Use a soothing tone and if your dog likes petting, gently pet in slow, long strokes. Dogs look to us as the leader, so it's imperative that we remain calm and reassuring.
4. Distract and Redirect: Offer your dog interactive toys or food puzzles to divert their attention away from the fireworks. Chewing on safe toys can provide a natural calming effect.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Whenever your dog displays calm behavior during fireworks, reward them with praise, treats, or their favorite toys. This positive reinforcement helps associate fireworks with positive experiences. If you have a puppy, you can really anchor in that fireworks are ok by using this method.
6. Essential Oils: When the firework night arrives, use the same essential oils in the same way that you introduced them to your dog in preparation, keeping the positive association intact. Keep in mind that you still want to monitor your dog's behavior and discontinue use if you notice any signs of discomfort that don't seem to be associated with the fireworks.
Here are two of my favorite diffuser blends I use during fireworks:
2 drops cedarwood
2 drops copaiba
2 drops lavender
1 drop cedarwood
1 drop vetiver
If you'd rather make a spray than use a diffuser:
Calming Lavender Spray:
Grab a 2 ounce glass spray bottle (available on Amazon)
-Fill it up halfway with vodka
-Add 10 drops Lavender
-Fill the remainder of the way up with water
-Shake well before use
Spray a fine mist of the mixture on your dog's bedding or in the air, around the designated safe space.
Valor™: Valor is a blend of essential oils, including Black Spruce, Blue Tansy, Frankincense, Geranium, and Camphor Wood, known for their soothing and balancing properties. I find this essential oil blend very calming and grounding. I will often apply a drop in my hand rub my hands together, inhale deeply, then pet my dog with the residue. Valor™ is a pre-diluted blend and is generally safe for topical application in this way.
Stress Away™: Stress Away is another popular essential oil blend from Young Living™ that I have explored for its potential calming and stress-relieving properties. This blend combines essential oils like Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Lavender, and Vanilla, known for their soothing and relaxing qualities. Simply add a few drops to a diffuser. If you don't have a diffuser, add a few drops to a cotton ball and stash in a strategic area.
Young Living™ is a trusted source of high-quality essential oils and infused products, and they are known for their Seed to Seal® promise, which guarantees purity, potency, and sustainability. As a pet parent, this assurance of quality is crucial when selecting products for your furry friends. You can check them out HERE
(Please note that the provided link is an affiliate link, and I may earn a small commission from your order at no additional cost to you. Your support is greatly appreciated as it helps support my small business!)
Start implementing the strategies outlined in this blog post now to give your dog the best chance of getting thru firework night with minimal tension. From understanding your dog's fear and considering desensitization training well in advance to creating a safe space, incorporating exercise, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement, and considering the use of calming essential oils, you have a range of techniques at your disposal. Remember to tailor your approach to suit your dog's individual needs and consult with your veterinarian and dog trainer for advice. With patience, consistency, and a proactive mindset, you can help your canine friend navigate fireworks with reduced anxiety, making the night less of a bad experience for them!
