The world that we live in today is full of deadlines, traffic jams, convenience foods and sedentary activities. In our struggle to make life easier and more efficient, I think people have actually made their lives more complicated by making more room for the mundane and insignificant, and losing focus on what’s really important. At the end of the day, nothing really matters if you’ve busied yourself to exhaustion and don’t have time to enjoy all of the good things that life has to offer.
Ironically, that’s why we’re so busy in the first place. We work long hours to make a decent amount of pay so we can enjoy the nicest cars, eat out at the fanciest restaurants, and wear the best clothing. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not saying that these things are bad. I enjoy a good meal out and a nice pair of new shoes like most people would. What I’m saying is that we’re avoiding the thing that REALLY makes us who we are – our inner self.
How often does the average person take time out to do things that makes us truly grounded? I can’t give you statistical data, but answer the question for yourself. What kinds of things do you do each day to connect with the earth? Do you garden, go hiking, play an outdoor sport or recycle? Do you meditate often? When was the last time you prepared a meal that didn’t come from a box, can or fast food window? If you’re the average busy person, you may have to think for quite a bit before coming up with an answer.
I think one of the most important things we can do to keep ourselves lively and healthy is to somehow connect with the earth on a regular basis. You don’t have to be a hippie or tree-hugger to do it either. I’m talking about things that you can do right in the comfort or immediate surroundings of your home. Bring nature into your home just as you would a close friend or family member, and I guarantee that your life and vitality will flourish.
There are so many ways that you can connect with the earth at home. My favorite ways of connecting have to do with the use of essential oils, herbs and other plant life in my daily activities. All living things contain a life energy that passes to other individuals who experience them. By making these things part of your every day life, you begin to absorb those life energies, making you a happier, healthier person.
Below is a list of some different ways you can begin including the life energy of botanicals and essential oils into your everyday life. Many of these things are simple and will only take a few minutes of your time, but can produces hours of happiness and years of longevity when properly used.
- Use the freshest herbs in your cooking. Many people use dried herbs for their convenience, but often keep them long after they have lost their best flavor. To ensure that you’re using the freshest herbs possible, store them in a dry area away from the stove, where heat will cause them to more quickly lose their flavor. Also, when measuring out herbs, pour the necessary amount in your hand away from the top of the pot or pan, so steam rising from your dish doesn’t enter the container, causing your herbs to spoil more quickly. Also, spend a few extra dollars on quality herbs. They always taste better, and you’ll end up using less. Most importantly, use fresh herbs whenever you can, either purchasing small amounts at the market or growing a small windowsill garden in your kitchen for easy access.
- Decorate with nature. A few drops of your favorite essential oil in a warm container of oil can improve your mood and make the house smell wonderful. Wreaths made from bunches of herbs can be both attractive and add color to your front door. Coming up with projects to make your home more lively, or giving the gift of herbs and essential oils to friends and family can add an enriching element to your life.
- Prevent common illnesses with essential oils instead of using prescribed and over-the counter medicines. Prior to learning about essential oils, I had regular sinus infections and headaches that caused me to take frequent amounts of decongestants and aspirin. At the time I was unaware that these drugs were really only masking my symptoms, and not really curing my problems at all. I later learned that many headaches come from dehydration; a glass of water and some eucalyptus oil usually did the trick.
- Make homemade skincare recipes whenever possible. While natural skincare may not last as long without the preservatives, the fresh ingredients without the inclusion of chemical ingredients will certainly show a difference on your skin. Ingredients such as fresh fruits and vegetables can easily be pureed or juiced, then added to milk, honey, and oatmeal to make delicious cleansers, scrubs and bath soaks. You can even use some of the herbs and spices that you keep in your kitchen to prepare natural skincare remedies.
About the Author
Burgundy Shank makes handmade personal care products using essential oils, dried botanicals and other natural ingredients. You can receive natural skincare recipes by joining her newsletter, “Beauty Secrets from Around the World” at http://www.burgundysoap.com