Jun 17, 2014 | Uncategorized
Allergies and hay fever seem to be at their peak this year and the world is feeling their misery! There’s a certain torture about the never ending sinus pressure, itchy eyes and relentless sneezing and leaving you with your arms in the air begging for relief.
Well put your arms down. Relief is on it’s way. You’re welcome to reach for the nearest OTC pills, but we’d like to suggest something a little healthier on the short and long term.
The added bonus is how fast relief will come!
Here are 5 ways to defeat seasonal allergies and feel better fast!
DIY ACUPRESSURE FACE MASSAGE
You can heal yourself. It’s true. The Chinese have been working with the body’s immune system for thousands of years with unexplainable results! There are many points all over the body that when pressure is applied to them, relief and healing is found. (it’s how the ninjas were treated after rigorous kung fu training!) For allergy relief, simply see the photo below and use your index or middle fingers of each hand to apply a firm pressure to each of the points marked. Be sure the pressure is firm enough to create slight discomfort, but not enough to hurt. You will know you are on the right spot as it will be a little tender. Stay on each point for about 30 seconds. Please drink a lot of water after performing this on yourself. You need to dilute the toxins that have been released!
DRINK WATER
Old news rings true. Water is our KEY SOURCE for ridding toxins and stagnant bacteria out of our bodies. It’s THE necessary ingredient to our kidneys and livers functioning well. Guess what? It also thins your mucous. Want to get that mucous flowing and the anti-histamine to calm down? Drink water. As stated above, it will also get things diluted and expelled faster! (Additional side note? Dehydration is one of the biggest causes behind halitosis; bad breath! During allergy season (and daily life) bacteria accumulates in our sinus passages, mouths and stomach (from the mucous) and sits there. You can’t brush or rinse these guys away, but you can dilute and flush them.) So drink up.
WORK OUT AND SWEAT
Sorry, to bring it back to water, but it’s a vehicle that moves things. When you need relief from seasonal allergies, get your blood moving. When you exercise, you increase your circulation and begin to sweat. Both blood and water carry the pollen and anti-histamine out of yours system faster. Think of a stagnant river vs. a flowing river. Which one’s going to have more bugs, slime and bacteria? If it’s so bad, stay indoors for your work out. OR, get above it and hike on a mountain where it’s less concentrated. Lastly, try going for a swim. It’s great exercise and there’s no pollen in the water!
HOT SHOWER // STEAM ROOM
A relaxing option is to breathe in the steam. The steam will break up the mucous and relax the uptight muscles involved. You can enhance this option by using the acupressure mentioned while in the heat. Also, adding essential oils like our Eucalyptus Oil Shower Spray to the steam WITH the acupressure IN the steam, will give you peak relief. Try it! We’d love to hear how it worked out for you!
WATCH YOUR FOOD
Stay away from foods that dehydrate or add to histamine production. Beverages with high caffeine, like coffee and black or alcoholic drinks are all dehydrating. Beer is even worse as it’s both dehydrating and the hops add to histamine production. It’s best to stay away from too many tree fruits, bananas, mushrooms, tomatoes and all breads and pastas. I know that sounds difficult, but it won’t be forever. These foods carry their own histamine in them and will only make things worse. Just think of it as a cleanse for a few days while you get your health and sanity back!
At Eurospa, your health is our priority. We enjoy bringing the quality back to your life. Please stop by and let us know what else we can do to make your experience a better one!
Jun 12, 2014 | Uncategorized
It’s so hard to keep up with the demands of life! Families, jobs and other responsibilities pull us in every direction until one day, we just cave in. We are not robots. If we don’t take care of our health with self care, we WILL BREAK DOWN.
Self-care, while often neglected but absolutely necessary, can be any positive behavior or practice that helps us avoid triggering worse health problems (like the risk of heart problems due to high stress, for example) and betters our life quality by improving our mental and physical health through increased self-esteem, less stress, and overall well being. Implementing these simple tips can also help provide balance in our over-stimulating world. Self-care makes up an essential part of a healthy lifestyle that keeps us healthy, happy, and more in-tune with our minds and bodies.
Problem is, engaging in self care only occasionally isn’t going to do the trick. We need to commit to regularity. Of course, new patterns of change in our lives can be hard to commit to, as they can feel intimidating or maybe we have a fear of failing. That’s very common, which is why I’ve compiled these tips together for you. I chose them because they are easy to implement into our daily lives, allowing us to set new patterns.
So take a few minutes for yourself (that’s the first step, anyway!). Get out a pen and paper and write down the suggestions below that feel right to you; ones that you feel you can accomplish and will make you feel lighter, more free and generally good. Cause that’s what we all want, right? To feel good?
MAKE A LIST WITHIN A LIST
Write a list of the things that make you smile, giggle and make your arms spread open in pure joy. What are those things? Can you think of 3? How can you make those things happen each week or even each day? For some, it’s loud happy music and dancing around. For others it’s swimming or playing with a child. Think on that one. Life is best experienced when our hearts can smile. What gets yours going?
IT’S TIME TO GET OUTSIDE
Ditching the comfort of your home gets us out in the world without obligation; cause walking from your front door to your car doesn’t count. Get outside, take a walk and BREATHE deeply. Being outside alone is associated with less mental stress and increased quality of living.
TAKE IT FURTHER
While you’re at it…. exercise outdoors. We all know the benefits of exercise and even if you’re feeling a little shy – there are plenty of ways to get your heart rate going and oxygen pouring into your lungs. Find a friend to play tennis or go on a long walk with. Find a more private park path or beach to stand strong and engage your core muscles. Climb a tree. Hike. Swim. Run. Bike.
Get your eyes wide open. Look around and find
happiness. Find love. Notice acts of kindness, encouraging words and heart felt smiles. Watch the love between people and see the beauty in the flowers. It can be hard to get past the sadness and hostility in the world, but when we focus on the beauty still present, we are more excited to share it. Be part of a joy revolution – and start with yourself.
PAY IT FORWARD
Have you heard of those stories of people in line at Starbucks, waiting to pay, only to find out that the person ahead of them took the bill? By helping others, we actually help ourselves, too. Lending a hand not only boosts mental health, but may also lead to a longer more fulfilled life. Volunteering also affects self-confidence, self-esteem, and general wellbeing in a positive way.
USE SOME COMMON SCENTS.
Yes, that was intentional. Essential oils are getting more and more recognition for their healing properties and we are happy that it’s happening. Breathe the right scents. We have all been taught that deep breathing can help us relax. But what we breathe might be just as important as how we breathe. But current research suggests that citrus scents, orange essential oil in particular, can help slash stress and anxiety, and inhaling eucalyptus oil can invigorate the senses while also going deep inside our cells to purify and cleanse us from bacteria and toxins.
CLOSE YOUR EYES
Get Sleep! So many things can sabotage our sleep, whether it’s a late night working, a reality show marathon, a wild party, or just normal life. The problem is, skimping on sleep can seriously hurt clarity and productivity, causing us to eat more, and may lead to adrenal and thyroid problems; which domino to diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Prioritize your rest to be a healthier, happier you — even if it’s just a power nap on your lunch hour!
It’s time to upgrade your experience on the planet. This is your chance to live more fully. Are you ready to reduce your stress and start to feel GOOD?
We are. Eurospa is committed to global self care, which is why we provide top quality eucalyptus products and menthol crystals for spa and home use. Your health is our priority!
How do you reduce the stress? We’d love to hear from you!
Jun 3, 2014 | Uncategorized
How often do you say ‘thank you’ to the dads in your life? Fathers are too often overlooked and not thanked for their hard work. Just as mothers, they too have a tough job to do and deserve recognition.
It’s safe to say that we all have an incredible dad in our life. Whether our own father, a step parent, one we’ve claimed later in life, an uncle, a grandfather or even the sons or son-in-laws that we are thankful for; for stepping up and leading the next generation.
We want you to show you care, this year. And showing you care doesn’t have to cost a lot.
1. Watch home videos.
Choose a time during the day, perhaps after a nice dinner, when you and your mom can sit down with dad and watch the videos. Relive the beautiful memories and talk about all that happened during those times. You may cry or laugh and different memories, but at least the emotions are shared together.
2. Make a healthy gift box.
Dads like to be pampered too. Encourage their health with a basket of goodies they will enjoy and think of you whenever they get something new out of it. Consider a neck tension pillow for use after a long day at work, some eucalyptus oil shower mist to get refreshed and boost the immune system, a couple bars of quality dark chocolate, a CD of relaxing classical music, and even a gift certificate for massage. This will be well received for sure.
3. Make his favorite meal.
Send your father on an errand to get him out of the house long enough for you or you and your mom to cook up his favorite meal. If his favorite meal happens to be a breakfast dish, wake up early and whip up the dish alongside Mom. Let the aroma of a delicious breakfast do the honors of waking him up. Either way, he is sure to be so tickled to have such an honor.
4. Buy him a gift card.
When you buy dad a gift card or gift certificate, make sure it is in something he would benefit from – car wash, sporting store or clothing store he actually shops at. Don’t overwhelm him with a card to a store he doesn’t go to – unless you KNOW he will love it and you plan on joining him for the excursion.
5. Attend an event or activity together.
If your dad’s baseball team is playing on or around Father’s Day, surprise him with tickets. Maybe your dad to be celebrated is one that prefers fishing, hiking or a day at the beach. Whatever the case, make sure to plan a dinner before or after. You’ll need to appease a built up appetite either way. Remember to take plenty pictures, too!
6. Go to his favorite museum.Get involved in what he enjoys there. If it’s a history museum, ask about his favorite events. If it’s an art museum, as who his favorite artist or period is. For Science, get involved with him; play the games, watch the films and experience it together.
Dads are beyond deserving of some special attention for the love and care they have poured into their families. Whether they’re new at this or have been on the journey for over 50 years, be sure to take the time to celebrate them well!!
From all of us at Eurospa, here’s to your health and a Happy Father’s Day!
May 30, 2014 | Uncategorized
Tummy aches can come and go without warning. Maybe you ate something spoiled or just have some nerves wreaking havoc. Whatever the case, an upset stomach deserves some relief and you have the power to do it yourself at home, without turning to damaging over the counter medicines.
HEAT:
You’d be surprised how much this helps. Now, if you’re nauseous, this can make it worse, so check your symptoms. I’ve found that this helps calm the spasms and relax the ache. Grab a hot water bottle or heating pad and apply to the ache. Or jump in with two feet and immerse yourself in a hot bath. I prefer this method, as you also sweat some of the impurities and toxins that may be contributing to the symptoms.
TWIST:
Just like wringing out a wet towel of it’s moisture, twisting your body can aid in releasing toxins stored in your intestines or stomach lining. It’s very simple. You just sit down on the floor with your back straight up and your legs outstretched, together in front of you. Now, bend and pull your left leg up and place your foot on the floor, with your knee standing up and your foot touching your inner right thigh. Now take a deep breath, and as you exhale, slowly turn your body to the left as far as you can go, exhaling all the air out. Then, as you twist back to center, inhale gently. Switch legs and repeat this process on the other side. Keep doing this if you can for 3-5 repetitions and then lay flat on your back and relax. Your belly will thank you.
ESSENTIAL OILS:
There are a few ways to ease your stomach ache with essential oils. One, is to place a couple drops of peppermint oil or tincture into your glass of water. (It’s important to remember that you should aim to stay hydrated during this time anyway. While that may not sound appealing, the peppermint will help ease that distaste.) Next, it’s good to have a bottle of Eucalyptus Oil Shower Mist on hand anyway, for many reasons! One being that you can add it to the steam of the above suggested bath for internal relaxation and refreshment; great for internal spasms! Another use being that you can grab a little caster oil, mixed with a little coconut oil and rub that gently on your abdomen. Then spray the eucalyptus onto your belly and rub in a clockwise motion. The oils will carry the anti microbial and anti-spasmatic power of the eucalyptus into your body and allow them to work their healing magic.
Nobody wants an upset stomach, but it’s comforting to know that there are options out there that are natural and efficient in bringing healing and relief.
At Eurospa, helping you achieve health naturally is our priority. We are proud to provide you with the highest quality products to deliver that health. Please stop by and let us know how we can further the health of your life or business, today!
May 28, 2014 | Uncategorized
Eucalyptus Oil has microbial benefits that allow us to feel invigorated and rejuvenated both inside and out. It can be inhaled and applied topically. But did you know how deep the benefits of eucalyptus oil really go? Here are 7 interesting benefits of eucalyptus oil, I’ll bet you didn’t know about!
TREAT YOUR SKIN
Eucalyptus oil is commonly used for first aid purposes because of its vast healing properties. Because it’s anti-bacterial and anti-fungal and is used for the treatment of cuts, minor wounds, blisters, and bruises. Application of the oil also helps heal skin irritation and insect bites. Especially useful for skin eruptions and to regulate oily complexions, it is also used to treat herpes, acne and chicken pox.
BLISSFUL FOR AROMATHERAPY
Mix a few drops of Eucalyptus oil into a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut and massage around your chest and shoulders. Then, feel free to dip in to the bath tup. This will benefit your lungs and sinuses through the inhalation of the scent through the steam and also by absorption of the oil through the skin. Just really be sure to mix the essential oil with a carrier oil or even bath salts, as the essential oils are not water soluble.
IMPROVE YOUR HAIR HEALTH
Eucalyptus oil improves the shine, thickness, and overall health of your hair. However, use caution! Too much use can actually reduce shine and result in greasy scalp. Most experts suggest using eucalyptus oil for hair an hour or so before bathing, then using a good shampoo to remove the residue, followed by a good conditioner.
GOODBYE HEAD LICE
A stubborn nuisance, head lice spread very quickly and once hatched, they lead to a very itchy scalp. Unfortunately, regular hair washing does not help to get rid of them. Eucalyptus oil has traditionally been used to help kill head lice and their eggs because of the eucalyptus vapors. During an outbreak of head lice, try the following:
You’ll Need:
- 10 drops eucalyptus oil
- 2 TBSP regular shampooAdd eucalyptus oil to your regular shampoo in the ratio mentioned above. Shampoo the hair cover it with a plastic shower cap for 10 minutes. Remove the cap, rinse hair and towel dry it. Comb hair with a fine tooth (nit) comb to help remove eggs.
FRESHEN YOUR BREATH
This oil can be used as a mouthwash to kill staph bacteria- a bacterium that causes bad breath and other mouth problems. WIN WIN.
SOOTHE ASTHMA
Simply massage few drops of eucalyptus oil mixed with a carrier oil on the chest during an asthma attack or inhale the aroma directly to breathe better. You’ll be so glad you did.
COOL IT DOWN
Yes, it’s true! Eucalyptus oil even cools the body down! During those quickly approaching hot summer months, heat strokes become common occurence. In the case that your body needs immediate cooling down, grab your own bottle of
Eucalyptus Oil Shower Mist and spray it all over the body. Your body temperature will instantly start to fall!
The benefits of eucalyptus oil are absolutely amazing! It’s truly a miracle plant, to say the least!
At
Eurospa, our dedication is to your health and life quality. We are happy to help you thrive! Let us know, today, how we can make your life a better one!
May 26, 2014 | Uncategorized
Ah, hay fever. The dependable relative to spring that likes to show up at random hours, interfering with your daily routine and work schedule.
I can’t stand these phases in nature that are so invasive of my space and comfort!
It’s so incredibly frustrating to have that continuous, unrelenting urge to sniffle, sneeze and scratch your eyes out, than sinuses plugged up with pollen. It’s all really quite strange and unnecessary really. This is the time we are meant to celebrate the return of the sun, not dread it’s aftermath. It begins, our immune systems go haywire, and see harmless plants (or dust, or dander) as real threats, and works overtime to push them out of our system, causing inflammation and irritation along the way! And using all those conventional allergy meds will often leave you feeling even worse.
Are you feeling it? If you’ve suffered from sinus irritation and crazy pollen induced hay fever, you know I’m not exaggerating and totally feel the pain. But instead of despairing, running out to buy a gas mask or hiding in your window-sealed house for the season, let me give you some tips.
You actually can find relief and do so naturally with essential oils.
(aren’t you excited??)
Starting with our favorite, of course:
Eucalyptus Oil! (You knew I was going to say that, right?) Eucalyptus is the super hero of essential oils. When inhaled, it’s oil can open the respiratory system, reduce inflammation and allow for better breathing! It confidently storms through your bronchial passages to clear to the path for more air! Add to that, it’s anti-microbial properties and you’ll not only clear your airways, but clean house of all it’s enemies! I recommend using this Eucalyptus Oil Shower Mist in your morning/mid-day/evening shower routine, or in a sauna/steam room if you have access to one!
Clove Oil is another anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, and can help to reduce allergy symptoms. It’s not as strong as the menthol based oils, but is best used in the heat of a sauna. Get to one!
Peppermint Oil will help to open those stuffed nasal passages and can reduce headaches caused by sinus pressure as well! Special bonus tip? Mix with a little coconut oils and rub on the top of your forehead, at your temples and behind your ears. You’ll be surprised at how this gives you relief.
Lavender Oil, a natural antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and very calming. It can help reduce irritation and relax your breathing.
Lemon improves immunity, relieves respiratory issues, is antibacterial and relieves respiratory inflammation.
The truth is, all of the above oils would do well to be inhaled in the heat of a shower, sauna or steam room and will work miracles when rubbed on to the head, neck and chest with a carrier oil. They will all penetrate your skin and airways to both cleanse them of the pollen and to give you the sinus relief you so desperately need!
You don’t have to be miserable any more. There is help!
At
Eurospa Aromatics, we are committed to your health. Stop by and see what else we can do to increase the quality of your life and overall health.
You deserve it.
