February 2012

I recently added two new fabulous oils to my essential oil collection. Initially I was not too sure how I was going to use them, I thought of incorporating them into some of my body scrub recipes or facials, but I actually found myself using them to clean around the house instead.

Since both lemon and sweet orange oil are antimicrobial, antiviral and antibacterial, they’re ideal oils for simple wipe downs of surfaces which not only disinfect germs and bacteria, but also leaves a citrusy aroma especially around the bathroom and kitchen. They’ve also become my favorite oils to use for my homemade “febreze”, instantly giving each room a refreshing boost.

Sweet Orange

Household uses: Sweet Orange is my favorite to add to floor washes, leaving my mop and floors smelling like freshly cut oranges. Depending on the mop bucket I add about 10 drops. I also like to add a few drops to my kitchen sponge and rags to help disinfect in between washes. Sweet Orange, like lemon oil can be put into a diffuser to help kill airborne bacteria as well.

Aromatherapy uses: I like to add a bit of water to my oil burner and add a few drops of sweet orange oil to help keep cooking odors at bay. Sweet orange is also a great aroma to help promote positivity, cheerfulness and relaxation. You truly can’t help but feel peace when smelling the sweet scent of orange. It’s scent instantly enlivens you while at the same time promotes a sense of calm. I like to use my oil burner on Saturday mornings while cleaning around the house and reach for sweet orange to help clear the air and set the mood.

Lemon Oil

Household Uses: Lemon oil is derived from the peel of the lemon. Like sweet orange, Lemon oil is also antiseptic,antibacterial and can also be used as a disinfectant. I like to use lemon oil mostly around the bathroom. Typically I take a wet rag and add about 5 drops and wipe down my sink and toilet as well as add a few drops to the toilet scrub.

I also use lemon oil to disinfect my makeup brushes. I thoroughly wash my makeup brushes with regular or clarifying shampoo. Once they are rinsed I dip them in lemon oil and water for about 2 mins, rinse with hot water and air dry.

Aromatherapy uses: Lemon is known to help improve concentration and clears the mind.

Promotes health and longevity, purification, helps attune with the moon’s energy.

Essential oils are truly fascinating. I also have been using these oils in my homemade body spritz as well. Right now, I have a yummy smelling sweet orange and vanilla spritzer and I swear I smell like a creamsicle! Love it.

Hello all!

First and foremost many apologies for my absence. I’ve been trying to get settled these past few weeks. I’ve also been working 9 hour shifts in front of a computer which leaves little to no desire to be in front of any computer screen during my off time. Although I’ve been away from typing, I’ve been diligently jotting down ideas and writing blog drafts periodically.

One post I’ve been really meaning to get to is a Deity (Bodhisattva) of the day post featuring Kuan Yin. Kuan Yin is very well known throughout Asia, especially China and venerated for many qualities particularly peace, love and compassion. Last summer at a yard sale I came across this very beautiful porcelain statue of a Chinese woman. I have a similar statue in color which I turned into a lamp, (see below)

but I was drawn to this particular all white one. Since my house is mostly Asian themed, I thought this statue would fit in perfectly.

For many months I never really put too much thought into the statue. It was actually gathering dust in a corner for sometime. All the while this seemingly unknown statue was sitting around, I was actually reading and researching Kuan Yin. Perhaps the most interesting thing was that I would alway associate my staute with Kuan Yin while reading about her. At one point I even thought about using this “unkown” statue to represent Kuan Yin since she appealed so much to me during my readings.

Then one day while surfing images of Kuan Yin I realized it was her all along! It was truly a very interesting coincidence that her energy was around me the whole time.

She is simply beautiful and I try to meditate with her every chance I get.

There are many variations of KuanYin. For example some are depicted with a variety of symbols such as dragons, seashells and gestures, each depicting her versatile powers. My Kuan Yin has several lotuses at her feet and one lotus growing from the palm of her hand.

When I see her she reminds me of peace and tranquility. Her flowing gown reminds me of the passing times which have been quick and swift, constantly reminding me to enjoy every moment. The lotus growing out of her hand kind of tells me that anything can grow out of nowhere, especially from within.

I’m glad I’ve come across her and will share with you the many ways I interact with Kuan Yin and the many ways her energy can benefit you.

Get to know more:

Kuan Yin: Accessing the Power of the Divine Feminine By Daniela Schenker

Kuan Yin Box: Divine Giver of Compassion By Manuela Dunn Mascetti

Archives for February 2012

Essential Oils: Sweet Orange and Lemon

Goddess of the Day: Quan-Yin