Post 2: Don't just survive the newborn days, THRIVE!

Not only did you survive your pregnancy, but you thrived!  CONGRATULATIONS!!!  Bringing home a newborn baby is oh so precious!  But it can also be a wee bit stressful.  We now have 5 children (with number 6 on the way), but I still remember the anxiety and fear over bringing home our first child and caring for her.  I could not believe that such a tiny, fragile, precious piece of life was entrusted to ME!  I pretty much had no clue what I was doing, but was determined to do everything right.  She even received her first bath in a heated tub of water that we placed in front of the fireplace so she would not get chilled.  I spent much of that first year anxious and stressed out, and she did too!  She would cry and cry and cry and never seemed to sleep.  We NEVER left he house.  It's funny to me now that I could not go food shopping with just her but now I'm that crazy housewife that drags all of my kids and 3 shopping carts in a trail behind me through Kroger.  I've learned a lot these past 8 years!  One revolutionary discovery I made almost four years ago was Young Living products - what a blessing!  I'd love to take a few minutes to share a few of the products that made the biggest difference in our family life, especially for our little ones.

Essential oils are plant based, created by God, and designed to support our bodies!  But, they are very powerful and it is good to be cautious, especially if you are new to oils or you are using them children.  A newborn’s skin is very thin and delicate, so the essential oils will be absorbed much more rapidly than on an adult.  Start slow and dilute appropriately!  The best place to apply a new oil topically is to the feet.  Use one oil at a time.  Introduce a new oil as you feel comfortable.  God has given us mothers an intuition for what is best for our babies.  If you feel comfortable with introducing a new oil every few days or every 6 hours, do what feels right for you.  I personally chose to anoint our child with Frankincense when he was less than an hour old.  However, frankincense and diluted Myrrh were the only oils I used on him for the first several weeks because that is what I felt best.  By the time he was 6 weeks old I felt comfortable using most of the oils.  If you are still a bit hesitant, use the KidScents oils!  They are prediluted and gentle for babies and kids. 

Those first few weeks it may seem as if you are never going to sleep again, but I promise you, this season will pass!  And there are lots of things you can do to help you and baby sleep.  SleepyIze essential oil blend can be diffused at bedtime to promote relaxation and restful sleep.  It contains Lavender and Valerian essential oils, known to help promote a peaceful environment, plus many others.  Or you may choose to create a rollerball to easily apply to baby’s feet during your bedtime routine.  I have also found it helpful to use Lavender or SleepyIze with a nightly baby massage.  I find massaging with oils to be relaxing in itself, and a bonding moment between mom and baby.

Peace and Calming and Stress Away are well loved in this household!  Oh how I wish I had these oils when our daughter was a baby.  She would cry and cry and cry.  I remember one of us always having to hold and walk with her just so the other person could eat. 

Stress Away is a personal favorite of mine!  It is the first product to contain the unique stress-relieving combination of lime and vanilla pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils. Stress Away also includes copaiba and lavender to reduce mental rigidity and restore equilibrium. Featuring powerful plant constituents, such as the cedrol found in cedarwood and the eugenol that occurs naturally in vanilla, Stress Away can help induce relaxation and reduce occasional nervous tension. All of these ingredients are expertly blended with the exotic scent of ocotea, Young Living’s exclusive Ecuador single.

One of the most common reasons for an unhappy baby is an unhappy tummy.  Remember that Ginger you used to help you survive morning sickness?  You can now use it on your baby!  TummyGize Essential Oil for Children supports healthy digestion and quiets little tummies. Soothing and supporting specifically formulated for kids!  TummyGize contains 8 essential oils – including Spearmint (rich in carvone and d-limonene, may help occasional nausea), Peppermint (one of the most highly regarded herbs for supporting normal digestion), Tangerine (contains esters and aldehydes that are calming), Ginger (to soothe, comfort, and balance digestive discomfort), Fennel, Cardamom, and Anise (all supportive of a healthy digestive system). 

We have diffusers in just about every room of the house!  Have you seen the KidScents diffusers?  Our girls LOVE their Dolphin Diffuser, and the boys are getting the Dino Land Diffuser for their birthday!  But regardless of what diffuser you have or what it looks like, you will love the benefits and support it provides your little ones. 

SniffleEase essential oil blend contains oils such as Eucalyptus Blue, Peppermint, Lavender, Ravintsara, Palo Santo, and other respiratory and immune supporting oils.  This oil blend is refreshing, and as part of the KidScents line, is formulated just for kids.

Myrtle has an uplifting aroma that is pleasing when diffused.  It also supports healthy respiratory function.

Lavender and Melrose are so supportive of the skin.  I use these two oils in many applications for baby.  You can make your own baby wipes by cutting a roll of Brawny paper towels in half.  Combine 1 ½ cups water with 1 TBSP Young Living bath gel base, and 10 drops of Lavender or Melrose (or combination) and store in a round Rubbermaid container with ½ roll.  You can also mix Lavender and Melrose with Coconut oil or Animal Scents Ointment and apply to a sore bum. 

Speaking of sore bums, enjoy some of these Sore Bum tips from Melissa Poepping’s “The Chemical Free Home 3” (see book for a complete list). 

*“Change it: Change the diaper immediately after baby goes.

*Wipe it: With wipes that you that you make that are free of chemical irritants that worsen a sore bum.

*Swap it out: Conventional diapers contain dyes and chlorines that can agitate even the healthiest bum.  If using cloth diapers, swap out your detergent and soaking solution with one you have made yourself.”

Soothe delicate skin with Young Living’s mild and gentle baby balm. Tender Tush™ baby ointment, part of Young Living’s KidScents® line, is an essential oil balm formulated with natural vegetable oils and pure essential oils—including Frankincense, Lavender, and Ylang Ylang—to moisturize and nourish dry skin. Made without synthetic perfumes, mineral oils, artificial colorings, or harsh chemicals, this mild essential oil moisturizer promotes healthy skin while soothing sensitive skin.

Ditch overpowering and harsh chemical-based sprays and keep your home smelling fresh and clean with Young Living’s Purification® essential oil. This blend is made up of six essential oils for the ultimate weapon against odors. Citronella, Lavandin, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Myrtle, and Tea Tree work together to create a refreshing, bright scent that keeps you and your family happy and comfortable.

With Purification oil, you’ll never need to feel embarrassed by bad odors from cooking, laundry, pets, or anything else life throws your way. Diffuse it throughout your house or use a more targeted approach so you always feel confident in your home, in the car, or on the go!

We gave up on one of those special diaper pails many years ago.  The bags for it was just one more expense, we clothe diapered part of the time, and I just didn’t find it all that convenient.  If they work for you, great!  Instead, we found Walmart sacks work great and we occasionally diffuser Purification to help with any unpleasant odor. 

And you all know my love of Thieves Household Cleaner.  Did you see the before and after pictures of our couch on Toxin Free Family?!?  If it could save that old dirty couch, it can handle any messy situation!  Plus, I love that I can spray Thieves on the children’s toys and not have to worry about them putting those toys in their mouth.  And as the kids get older, it nice to allow them to clean without worry of exposing them to toxins.

By now, if you are not yet a Young Living member I’m sure you are a tad overwhelmed and wondering where to begin.  With a Young Living Premium Starter Kit!  I’m a frugal momma, and it’s the only thing on the Young Living site that’s half off.  I recommend one of the Diffuser Premium Starter Kits.  If you take the diffuser off, you’re literally getting 11 bottles of therapeutic grade oil for $70!  The kit also comes with bottles to share the oils with your family and friends, an AromaGlide roll-on bottle to apply the oils on the go, and samples of NingXia Red for full system support.  You also get a diffuser with the kit AND a lifetime wholesale membership.  That means 24 percent off your oils and products FOR LIFE.  Every single order you place is 24 percent off.  What a way to invest in the future health of your child! 

Go to youngliving.com, click on “Become a Member”, and fill out the form.  You’ll need a sponsor and enroller number because Young Living is a multi-level marketing company.  Many people tell me they can’t buy from an MLM, but when you shop at Walmart, you’re supporting a CEO’s third home.   When you shop at a MLM, you’re buying local.  You’re supporting my family business.  You’re paying for gas in our car and food on our table.  It’s the best business out there, and one of the most important reasons is you get to see your friends and family financially blessed.  My member ID is 1570232.

***I do have to say that I am not a medical professional. The information shared in this class is not intended to treat, cure, or diagnose any illness, nor is it meant to replace professional medical attention or advice.  Advice and testimonies are all based on use of Young Living brand of oils specifically. Use and application of this information is done solely at your own risk. The FDA has not evaluated these statements contained in this workshop. Please understand I cannot answer any disease/illness related questions.***

If you are pregnant or nursing, please consult Gentle Babies by Debra Rayburn or The Reference Guide for Essential Oils by Higley for safety information.  What I am sharing with you today are all things that I personally did during pregnancy, labor & delivery, and what I call the 4^th trimester (those early newborn days).  I do not claim to be an expert on these topics, just an experienced mom that is pleased with her oily pregnancy.  You must weigh all the advice given to you and take only what you and your health care provider deem appropriate.

Would it be ok if I shared another secret with you?  When baby is fussy or unhappy and I just don't know what to do, I scan him/her with my personal iTOVi!  This little device is AMAZING!  In less than a minute I gain so much insight into what my little ones need to stay happy, calm, and healthy.  Get yours today at itovi.com.

Part 1: Don't just survive pregnancy, THRIVE!

Did you know God created us to not only survive these precious years but actually thrive? I am presently 32 weeks pregnant with baby #6. This is our 2nd "oily" pregnancy and I've learned a lot along the way.

In this Part 1 we will cover natural ways to support your body through pregnancy, and then I'll share about nursing and caring for newborns in Part 2. 

Morning sickness can leave you feeling weak, exhausted, and struggling to keep up with the minimum demands of everyday life.  Pure Protein Complete is a comprehensive protein supplement that combines a 5-Protein Blend, amino acids, and ancient peat and apple extract to deliver 25 grams of protein per serving in two delicious flavors, Vanilla Spice and Chocolate Deluxe.  Protein is crucial for your baby’s growth, especially during the second and third trimesters.  Ideally you would need 71g of protein per day.  The first trimester when I don’t feel like eating, I enjoy sipping on a Pure Protein Complete Shake or Slique Shake, and can rest easy having confidence that the baby is getting the protein and nutrition it needs to grow.  If your digestive system needs a little extra support, Ginger Vitality can be added to water or in a capsule to support digestion. 

 

Pregnant mama’s love to be pampered, and this nourishing body butter will moisturize and support mom’s growing baby bump.  If DIY recipes are not your thing, did you know that Gary Young actually designed Tender Tush for Mary’s growing baby bump?  You could also add Frankincense and Lavender to Animal Scents Ointment.

Getting a good night’s rest while pregnant can be challenging!  Tranquil Roll-On combines the comforting aromas of Lavender, Cedarwood, and Roman Chamomile into a blend that is easy to apply and even easier to love.  Peace & Calming® essential oil is a gentle, sweet blend of Ylang Ylang, Orange, Tangerine, Patchouli, and Blue Tansy.  It’s great not only for helping you get rest during pregnancy, but one you will love to use when you welcome your little one into your home.

Some other oils you may want to try include Cedarwood and Valerian (my personal favorite during pregnancy).

 

We all know that when mama’s not happy, nobody’s happy!  With the rapidly changing hormones, it can be difficult to maintain emotional balance.  Some of the best mood boosters are citrus oils.  Simply breathing these essential oils aromatically can promote a sense of well-being and happiness. 

As a family we enjoy starting our day with our “Happy Day” routine, which includes apply Joy over our hearts and singing “A joyful heart is good medicine” or “I have the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart”.  Joy is a blend of 10 different essential oils; Bergamot, Ylang Ylang, Geranium, Rosewood, Lemon, Mandarin, Jasmine, Roman Chamomile, Palmarosa, and Rose.

 

Oh how I treasure Epsom Salt Baths!!!  A few years ago I read “Large Family Logistics” by Kim Brenneman.  At the time we had 3 children, but I would recommend reading this book whether you are just dreaming of kids or you have a houseful.  It completely revolutionized the way I manage the household. One of the life-changing changes I made to my routine was nightly baths.  Here is what Kim Brenneman recommends (and I agree!): “Take an honest look at your spa.  You’re going to be spending time in there every day anyway, so make it a place where you will be able to unwind from the day.  There is something about sitting in warm water that causes your muscles to relax.  When the house is quiet and we are relaxed, we can contemplate, dream, remember, and just be… A bath sounds like a luxury you think you can’t manage in this stage of life, doesn’t it?  You’re wrong.  You can do it every night.  Let me tell you how.  First, tuck your children in bed, feed the baby and put him to bed.  Start the tub.  Straighten the bathroom, do a quick cleaning job, light the candles [I say ditch the candles and start the diffuser!!!].  Lay out your night clothes and your clothes for tomorrow.  Get a glass of water, cup or tea or whatever suits your fancy to sip while you soak.  Wash and soak until the water starts to cool and get out before you get cold (15 minutes or so).  Drain the water; hair, teeth, lotion, put on a nighty.  Rinse the tub, straighten the bathroom.  Go to bed.  Do you see that it doesn’t take much longer to add a bath to your bedtime routine?  I promise you will go to bed much more relaxed than when you don’t bathe, that you will fall asleep more quickly, and sleep better.”  I love to add Epsom salts with Frankincense and Copaiba (or recently Cypress Blue is a favorite of mine) to my bath, but now with the release of the Stress Away Bath Bombs and Lavender Bombs, enjoying a nightly spa is easier than ever!!!

I have also found that the more active I am through pregnancy, the better I feel and easier my labor and delivery.  If any discomfort gets in the way, I support my body with this roll-on blend.

 

Did you know that pregnancy suppresses your immune system to ensure the fetus isn’t rejected as something foreign?  That means your body is less able to fight off infection and illnesses, making you much more susceptible to colds and flu.  I also became a lot more concerned with germs when I became pregnant with our first child.  All of a sudden germs seemed to be lurking everywhere.  I don’t know what it is about becoming a mama that turns on what I call the “mommy alarm” and bring out the “mama bear” in me.  Before I used oils, I wanted to douse everyone in a gallon of hand purifier before they would even look at our baby (and please, still don’t touch!).  But as I started changing our lifestyle and learning more and more about toxins, I was horrified at the thought of using triclosan and chemical-laden antibacterial products on me or my children.  Thankfully, there is an entire line of Thieves products and they are awesome to use during pregnancy and beyond.  I use the Thieves Spray for everything from shopping carts to toilet seats to door knobs and more!  I wipe down restaurant tables with the Thieves Wipes (because toddlers just don’t like to keep the food neatly on their plates).  I pass the Thieves hand purifier around the car after a shopping trip, and each of the kids has a bottle of it in their backpacks.  It’s also great to take to church because you know that cute, little old ladies just are not going to be able to keep your hands off of your newborn.  Check out Toxin Free Family to learn more about the Thieves line of products!

 

I love gifting essential oils to new mama’s!  I know they are products they will use and love and that I am helping them kick the toxins from their home and thereby investing in the future health of their precious child. 

Gentle Baby™ is a soft, fragrant combination of essential oils designed specifically for mothers and babies. It helps calm emotions during pregnancy and is useful for quieting troubled little ones. It is also soothing to tender skin. Many of the essential oils in this blend are used in elite cosmetics to enhance a youthful appearance.

I also love the Young Living KidScents products because they are specially formulated and pre-diluted for little ones.  Plus, the names of the oils (TummyGize, SleepyIze, Owie, SniffleEase, and GeneYus) are self-explanatory, making them easy to use. 

By now, if you are not yet a Young Living member I’m sure you are a tad overwhelmed and wondering where to begin.  With a Young Living Premium Starter Kit!  I’m a frugal momma, and it’s the only thing on the Young Living site that’s half off.  I recommend one of the Diffuser Premium Starter Kits.  If you take the diffuser off, you’re literally getting 11 bottles of therapeutic grade oil for $70!  The kit also comes with bottles to share the oils with your family and friends, an AromaGlide roll-on bottle to apply the oils on the go, and samples of NingXia Red for full system support.  You also get a diffuser with the kit AND a lifetime wholesale membership.  That means 24 percent off your oils and products FOR LIFE.  Every single order you place is 24 percent off.  What a way to invest in the future health of your child! 

Go to youngliving.com, click on “Become a Member”, and fill out the form.  You’ll need a sponsor and enroller number because Young Living is a multi-level marketing company.  Many people tell me they can’t buy from an MLM, but when you shop at Walmart, you’re supporting a CEO’s third home.   When you shop at a MLM, you’re buying local.  You’re supporting my family business.  You’re paying for gas in our car and food on our table.  It’s the best business out there, and one of the most important reasons is you get to see your friends and family financially blessed.  My member ID is 1570232.

***I do have to say that I am not a medical professional. The information shared in this class is not intended to treat, cure, or diagnose any illness, nor is it meant to replace professional medical attention or advice.  Advice and testimonies are all based on use of Young Living brand of oils specifically. Use and application of this information is done solely at your own risk. The FDA has not evaluated these statements contained in this workshop. Please understand I cannot answer any disease/illness related questions.***

If you are pregnant or nursing, please consult Gentle Babies by Debra Rayburn or The Reference Guide for Essential Oils by Higley for safety information.  What I am sharing with you today are all things that I personally did during pregnancy, labor & delivery, and what I call the 4^th trimester (those early newborn days).  I do not claim to be an expert on these topics, just an experienced mom that is pleased with her oily pregnancy.  You must weigh all the advice given to you and take only what you and your health care provider deem appropriate.

Part 3: Young Living Skincare for Combination Skin

Regardless of your skin type, Young Living offers Beauty and Skincare products designed for YOU!  In Part 1 of this series we took a look at Dry Skin, and in Part 2 we discussed Oily Skin.   But what do you do if you have a combination of these two types of skin?  Perhaps your skin in dry in some places, but oily in the dreaded T-zone (nose, forehead, chin)?

Let's talk about cleansing.  You'll want to use either the ART Gentle Cleanser or Orange Blossom Face Wash both morning and night. 

ART Gentle Cleanser promotes glowing skin by washing away impurities with a soft, gentle lather. It is infused with skin-loving essential oils such as Frankincense, Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood, Melissa, Lemon, and Lavender.  Your face will feel clean and refreshed with a renewed, radiant look.

Suggested Use: Apply to wet hands, and with a circular motion, massage over face and neck. Rinse with warm water in preparation for ART Refreshing Toner. Use both morning and night.

Orange Blossom Facial Wash is a gentle, soap-free facial wash that cleanses the skin without stripping natural oils.  It contains MSM for softening and Lavender essential oil to soothe skin.  To extend the life of your Orange Blossom Facial Wash, fill 1/3 of a foaming pump bottle with the facial wash and the rest of the 2/3 fill with distilled water.

A few times per week you may Exfoliate your skin with Satin Facial Scrub, focusing on the dry/flaky areas..  I am constantly receiving raving reviews on this product!  Satin Facial Scrub, Mint is a water-based exfoliant.  It contains jojoba oil, mango butter, MSM, aloe, and peppermint essential oil to minimize the appearance of pores and invigorate dull skin.  It cleans, nourishes, and stimulates all without harmful chemicals and without disrupting the skin’s natural pH balance. 

Did you know Toners remove impurities that may inhibit the efficaciousness of subsequent skin care products such as moisturizers, serums, and masques?  Toners can also help remove dead skin cells that dull the skin. 

In a matter of seconds, a simple sweep of ART Refreshing Toner can help balance your skin’s pH levels, reduce the appearance of pores, and completely remove any residual particles that cleansing may have missed. The perfect blend of essential oils and natural ingredients will leave your face clean, toned, and refreshed.  After cleansing, gently sweep over face and neck with a cotton round.

ART® Renewal Serum is an intricate blend of exotic orchid extract and essential oils that benefits the most delicate areas of the face. These premium ingredients are formulated to deeply nourish, hydrate, and help maintain a youthful appearance. 

To use: Wash face. Apply ART Renewal Serum to delicate areas of face 2 times daily and allow to absorb. For best results, follow up with your choice of Young Living’s moisturizing creams.

Did you know?  When properly hydrated, our skin cells can better replace themselves, which keeps us looking younger.  ART Light Moisturizer works with your skin to retain and maintain proper hydration. This proprietary blend of essential oils and innovative active botanicals will leave your face feeling soft and supple, revealing your natural, radiant complexion.  It contains all safe and natural ingredients that effectively moisturize your skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines.  After cleansing, apply moisturizer over dry face and neck.  For best results, apply both morning and night and as needed throughout the day.

Boswellia Wrinkle Cream™ contains pure essential oils like Frankincense and Sandalwood that moisturize the skin while minimizing shine and reducing the appearance of fine lines.  Using upward strokes, apply a small amount of wrinkle cream to face and neck.

Sandalwood Moisture Cream™ is a premium hydrating moisturizer infused with pure Young Living essential oils, including Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, Geranium, Lavender, Coriander, Myrrh, Rosemary, and Bergamot.  Massage gently onto face, neck, and other desired areas. Use daily after cleansing and toning your face.

Based on your individual needs you may choose to add one of the following products to your skin care regimen to Refine.

Sheerlume Brightening Cream is an advanced formula powered by a sophisticated, proprietary blend of alpine botanicals and pure essential oils.  Sheerlume will visibly brighten and balance skin tone. 

Apply a thin layer of Sheerlumé™ on clean skin—face, neck, or hands. For best results, use morning andnight either alone or under your favorite Young Living® moisturizing cream.

Wolfberry Eye Cream is a natural, water-based moisturizer. Containing the antiaging and skin-conditioning properties of wolfberry seed oil, this cream soothes tired eyes and minimizes the appearance of fine lines. 

After cleansing and toning, massage gently onto soft skin under the eyes. Use in the evening.

The ART® Creme Masque is formulated to deeply moisturize skin using an exclusive blend of hyaluronic acid and pure essential oils. Other spa-quality botanicals are added to help tighten and restore the look of youthfulness to the skin. Suitable for all skin types.

Wash and dry face. Apply evenly to face. Let sit 20 minutes. Remove excess residue with moist towel.

The ART® Beauty Masque is a premium, orchid-based formula designed to nurture skin and leave it looking healthier and more radiant. Our blend of exotic orchid petals and pure essential oils nourishes and fortifies the most delicate areas of the face, helping promote a more vibrant and youthful appearance. Suitable for all skin types.

Wash face, apply mask to face, leave for 20 minutes, and then gently remove. For optimum results, combine with ART Renewal Serum.

Thank you for generously giving of your time to learn about Young Living’s Beauty and Skin Care Products. 

To learn more about Young Living Skincare Products, visit my Website.