Lifestyle
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has been used long throughout history and across various cultures, serving as the first true form of medicine known to man. With its numerous therapeutic uses and properties it’s no wonder it has re-emerged today as a popular therapy, both for home use and in the clinical setting. Stimulating to all the senses, essential oils have applicable uses ranging from topically (soap, cosmetics ect.) to perfumes and are even present in many natural cleaning products.
Derived by distillation from various plant species, the essential oils available on the market today are as extensive and unique as their many uses. I’ve personally found the best and most enjoyable use of essential oils to be through the use of an ultrasonic diffuser. It’s easy and fun to experiment with different blends to suit both your mood and your senses. No matter which you choose they always pack a welcomed punch in any environment! They’ve easily become a huge part of my daily routine and I’m excited to share my favorites with you! From cleaning to relaxing I’ve found the essential oil for it all.
With all the various brands out there it’s easy to find affordable options to fit any budget. Whether your a newcomer to the world of aromatherapy or looking to try something different, take a peek below at my favorite recipes and tips/tricks for success.
A few quick notes about diffuser use:
It’s important to maintain good cleaning practices while using your diffuser. Each diffuser you purchase will come with its own respective instructions for cleaning and care, but I’ve found the most effective way is using either isopropyl alcohol or white vinegar. Be certain not to submerge your diffuser in water or allow liquid near the base (where the plug connects.) It’s important to routinely clean your diffuser as not to allow bacteria build up or residue from your oils.
It’s important to always take care when using essential oils and be extra cautious when pets and young children are present. If using topically, pregnancy and breastfeeding are also important considerations and you should always consult your physician prior to use!
My Diffuser and Essential Oil Picks
DIFFUSERS
Diffusers are available in all styles and sizes and you can easily find one to blend with your decor! Having had numerous diffusers over the years, I’ve found these to be my favorite and have grouped them by price point.
1) Vitruvi Stone Diffuser ($110)
This Minimalist stone diffuser is both practical and stylish. It comes in several colors to pair with any decor. Available in: Terra-cotta, Blush, White, Black and Charcoal.
2) The Sparoom PureMist Ultrasonic Diffuser ($30)
This diffuser is great for those new to aromatherapy. It clean, simple to use and comes complete with a nightlight.
3) Serene House Cosmos Diffuser ($39.99)
This petite diffuser comes complete with an on trend metal cover. Great for travel and is always my go to favorite!
Available at Nordstrom and Amazon.
ESSENTIAL OILS
Depending on the size of your diffuser, you traditionally only need 5-10 drops of your oil of choice.
1) Guru Nanda ($24.99)
This is an affordable sample kit that never disappoints! The kit comes with your basic oils and they make a lovely tranquility blend that I often enjoy at bedtime. Also available on Amazon and at most drug stores.
2) Target’s Made by Design Essential Oil Starter Pack ($17.99)
Complete with lavender, balsam fir and the relax blend, it’s easily a favorite and
I frequently purchase this Target trio. I’ve found Target’s brand to offer a great array of affordable and wonderful smelling essential oils. (They smell even better all blended together!)
3) Woolzies ($11.99 - $23.99)
When it comes to selecting individual essential oils and blends, Woolzies is my go to. Check out their site and discover one of their unique blends! I’ve linked a few of my personal favorites below.
They can also be found on Amazon and are frequently on sale at discount retailers (such as TJ Maxx and Marshall’s.)
HEALTH
Mask Wearing: Political Statement or Fashion Statement?
Mask wearing, as we know, has become an integral part of our day to day to keep ourselves, our loved ones and those around us healthy and safe. It may come as a surprise, but not every state is currently mandating the use of masks! It’s important to note not only the individual requirements of each business you visit while doing your shopping/eating/exercising ect, but the state’s current policies should you travel. The best resource for this up to date info is the individual health department website of the state your visiting.
Thankfully, we’re fortunate to now have the appropriate materials and resources to make masks available to all. That being said, there are several options when choosing a mask and some things to consider when doing so.
If choosing a cloth mask/face covering, be certain you are taking care to clean it appropriately and have access to the supplies needed to do so! Disposable masks are widely available and are an affordable alternative if this isn’t a possibility for you.
The increase in demand has sparked a surplus of fun and stylish styles that are both on trend and meet the necessary guidelines put forth by the WHO. Wearing a mask has recently become something of a fashion statement! Instagram and other social media outlets are flooded with images of people matching their masks to their attire and even with their pets’ bandanas. Choosing and designing a mask can serve as a creative outlet and source of expression and also a great way to shop local and support growing businesses in your area. With so many of them turning to mask making, the possibilities truly are endless!
Throughout the pandemic I’ve found my state’s Health Department website and the WHO to be the best and most accurate up-to-date sources of information. If you're in the market to purchase a new mask and are uncertain if it meets the necessary criteria, these are two excellent sources to check.
I’ve linked several of my favorite cloth masks below that meet the necessary guidelines and are on trend style-wise!
My Cloth Mask Picks
1) The Paws: ($7)
The Paws is a cute Instagram boutique that sells dog bandanas and accessories. These cotton face masks are available in several adorable prints to match with your pup!
2) Donna Lewis Alfresco Masks: available in-store and online. ($22)
Alexandria, VA
These cotton masks are not only on trend style wise, but each purchase is matched one-for-one with a donation to John Hopkins hospitals!
3) Pura Vida x Vera Bradley Face Masks:
($8)
Pura Vida collaborated with Vera Bradley to make these affordable, cotton masks. They feature the option for a disposable filter and 5% of each purchased goes to Direct Relief.
4) Target Fabric Face Masks:
($2-$4)
These simple cotton face masks are inexpensive and an easy grab and go item before check out! They come in adult and kids sizes.
About Me
HI THERE, IM ERIKA. WELCOME TO THE WELLNESIST!
Erika Jones is a Registered Nurse, nature enthusiast, and wellness advocate based in Nashville, TN. Erika wishes to make a difference by offering tips and advice in a holistic light to promote a healthy lifestyle to all through her lifestyle blog.
Please note:
The Wellnessist Blog does not constitute an attempt to practice medicine or diagnose any health issues. Opinions and ideas expressed on this blog are solely my own and do not constitute medical advice. Always seek and consult a qualified health care provider for any and all medical advice related to personal questions. While this blog attempts to be as accurate as possible, the posts contained herein may not be comprehensive or error-free.