R.C. - Respiratory Care

Do I really need to explain WHY I had to add this amazing essential oil blend to my collection? I'm not entirely sure what the R.C. stands for but I think it should be "Respiratory Care" since the essential oils in it were especially combined to support the respiratory system. This particular blend is very strong so it's NOT generally recommended for those who are pregnant or under the age of 2. But I feel perfectly comfortable diffusing it regularly around my little girl. Diffusing is my preferred method of stronger essential oil use since it's not going directly on or in the body, but being absorbed through the air more gradually. A diluted roll-on blend on the bottoms of the feet would also be a gentler, safer method of application. Personally, I breathe easier knowing I have this blend on hand and I diffuse it regularly.

Young Living says: "R.C.™ Essential Oil Blend is a unique combination of Cypress, Spruce, and three types of Eucalyptus (E. globulus, E. radiata, and E. citriodora) oils, and includes the naturally occurring constituent limonene. Rub R.C. on your feet or chest before exercise to uplift and inspire, or massage three drops on your feet before bedtime to encourage an atmosphere of comfort. R.C. can also be used in place of Aroma Siez™ in Young Living’s Raindrop Technique®."

The first essential oil ingredient in this powerhouse blend is Myrtle, which supports the respiratory system. Plus, it's generally regarded as safe for children. So, if you're looking for something more mild and suitable for children, Myrtle and the soon to follow Lavender, Marjoram, and Cypress ingredients in this blend would be great choices!

Next is Eucalyptus Globulus, because what respiratory support blend would be complete without some Eucalyptus, right? This blend actually has THREE different types of Eucalyptus to cover all the bases. It's also one of the main reasons this blend isn't recommended for young children because Eucalyptus is a "hot" oil and Eucalyptus Globulus is the strongest of them all.

Marjoram supports the respiratory and immune systems. It is a muscle relaxer and soother that I have found to be highly effective.

Then we have Pine, which both supports the respiratory system and soothes with its deliciously comforting aroma.

Eucalyptus Citriodora supports easy and clear breathing.

Then there is Lavender or what it is often called the Swiss Army Knife of essential oils because of its usefulness. It's generally regarded as safe for children and "is relaxing and grounding" (170-171).

Cypress is also generally regarded as safe for children. It supports the circulatory and lymph systems while comforting and soothing.

Eucalyptus Radiata supports healthy sinus and lung function.

Spruce "helps the respiratory and nervous systems." (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 171).

And finally we have Peppermint, which tops off the blend perfectly. It powerfully supports the respiratory system and is cooling, invigorating, and energizing. Much like Lavender, it soothes discomfort and supports the entire body.

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Diffuse with Lemon, Ravintsara, and/or Wintergreen to support the respiratory and immune systems, and purify the air.
• Diffuse with Geranium and Copaiba for a relaxing, uplifting atmosphere.
• Diffuse with Copaiba and Cedarwood to support restful sleep.
• Combine with Melaleuca and Lemon in a roll-on blend to support the respiratory system.
• Combine with Copaiba and Geranium in a roll-on blend to relax, soothe, and uplift.
• Combine with Frankincense, Copaiba, and/or Wintergreen in a roll-on blend to soothe tense or sore muscles.
• Add to bath salts with Lavender and Geranium for a relaxing detox bath.

This blend is so popular and useful that it was recently added to the new 2015 Premium Essential Oils Collection. It smells so fresh, sharp, minty, and clean that I just love diffusing it. It would also be great added to a humidifier, but be aware that essential oils can begin to dissolve and react with plastic over time. Conveniently, diffuser act as both air purifiers and humidifiers! A diffuser of your choosing, R.C., Peppermint, Lavender, Lemon, Copaiba, and Frankincense are all included in the Premium Starter Kit, plus so much more. It's the perfect way to try out some of the most popular, useful, best quality oils! Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com to learn more. I love to answer questions about the oil lifestyle and mentor others in their journey.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

The Family is of God

The primary purpose of families is to lift each other. The Family: A Proclamation to the World makes this clear and lays out how that should be done. Surely, God ordained marriage to be between a man and a woman because "the nature of male and female spirits is such that they complete each other" (We'll Ascend Together). Corinthians explains, "Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.  For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God" (1 Corinthians 11:11-12). Men and women need each other in order to be exalted. It is rather disheartening and alarming that much of our society has chosen to reject or ignore this eternal truth.

But no individual or family here on this Earth is perfect. I wonder if when we read about the divine nature of families and family responsibilities in The Proclamation, if we are looking judgmentally outward rather than humbly inward.

"The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners" (The Family: A Proclamation to the World).

I believe no family can truly thrive or continue in the next life if not based upon these sacred, eternal principles. A marriage between a man and a woman in the temple does not automatically create an eternal family. It is only in living by these sacred principles of faith in our Savior Jesus Christ, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work and wholesome recreation that a marriage can be sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise and be perpetuated beyond the grave. And I think we ALL fall short of living this way in our families from day to day. A marriage that has not been sanctified and given to God has no real power in this life or the next, for it is by Him that marriage and families were ordained.

When I have so much to improve day to day in my own marriage, it can be much easier and briefly satisfying to criticize others who appear to be doing worse in their families than I am. It is all too tempting to try to lift ourselves up by putting others down. But this is not and has never been the Lord's way. The only way to be lifted ourselves is to lift those around us. This does not mean that we condone sin at all, but that we choose to see the good in others and their lives rather than what might be lacking.

The place to begin and focus on defending the family is not necessarily in the political or social sphere, but in our very own homes. Political and social activism are surely necessary, but the only family whose eternal success we are responsible for is our own. I have and will continue to support measures that protect the traditional family because I believe that is the only healthy way to build a society. But I can not allow myself to be so distracted by identifying the natural man in others that I forget to see it in myself. Only the Savior can know the individual struggle we all labor under. I want only Him as my judge in this life and at the last day. How can I claim to "love my neighbor as myself" if I do not allow them the same opportunity? Love unfeigned, courageous example, and testimony is what will soften hearts and improve our society.

We are ALL children of a Heavenly Father who loves us and wants us to return to Him. How I treat my fellow spiritual brothers and sisters on this Earth can either demonstrate or deny my love for Him. I hope to continue to improve myself and my own family first while lifting those around me.

Jump Start your Wellness Journey with Essential Oils

I always thought essential oils sounded way too good to be true before I tried them! Then, when I started to get interested in and hear more about how useful these oils are, I thought I could never afford them. Sound familiar? Well, fear no more, because the brand new 2015 Starter Kits have been released and they are the best possible value for the highest quality oils on the market! I did a lot of research before jumping in with essential oils, because while the Premium Starter Kit is half the price of what its components would retail for separately, it was still a major investment. Months later, I am still SO glad I chose Young Living and the Premium Starter Kit to jump start mine and my family's journey toward greater wellness. These kits are truly worth their weight in gold because of their life changing and even money saving possibilities!

Did you know there are multiple Starter Kits available at a range of prices? The Premium Starter Kits are the best possible value and the best way to jump start your journey toward better health and wellness! And there are six different and equally useful Premium Starter Kits available. So, what's new in these lovely starter kits? The to die for Stress Away blend has replaced Citrus Fresh as the bonus oil and is included in every single kit! The Premium Starter Kits now come with a range of different diffusers. And instead of Melaleuca (Tea Tree), Joy, and Stress Away, the Premium Essential Oils Collection comes with Copaiba, R.C., and DiGize - some of the most popular essential blends and single.

The change I am MOST excited about though are the redesigned essential oil bottle labels! They are so professional, legible, functional, and just plain beautiful. Plus, they now have a a clear line in the back to show how full or empty the bottle is so you can anticipate the need for a refill much more effectively.

Even if essential oils or any starter kit seems to be way out of your price range, there is something for everyone and every budget at Young Living. A Basic Starter Kit includes the following for a totally affordable price:

• 5-ml Stress Away™
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

For those who are looking for the absolute best that Young Living has to offer at an incredible value, the Premium Starter Kit with the Aria diffuser is the way to go! The Aria diffuser features LED lighting, a remote, and even acts as a speaker system that can connect with your phone to set the perfect mood along with the rejuvenating power of diffused essential oils.

• Aria Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection:
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

If you are looking for a mid-price ranged, sleek, and professional starter kit, the Premium Starter Kit with a Bamboo diffuser is an excellent choice! The Bamboo diffuser diffuses over a wider range, not nearly as much as the Aria, but more than the Dewdrop or Home Diffusers. It is also beautiful, sleek, slim, white, gender neutral, and the perfect, almost invisible addition to any room.

• Bamboo Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection;
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

 The Premium Starter Kit with the Dewdrop diffuser is the most affordable of the premium starter kits and an amazing value. The Dewdrop diffuser kit is equivalent to and the same value as the Home diffuser Premium Starter Kit (pictured above). The only real difference is that the Dewdrop diffuser is a bit more gender neutral and less conspicuous than the gorgeous Home diffuser.

• Dewdrop Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection;
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

 The Premium Starter Kit with the Home Diffuser (pictured above) is such an incredible value for access to a life changing lifestyle with essential oils. It's my personal favorite, and equivalent to the kit I started with with just a couple of changes.

• Home Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection;
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

For the devoted or aspiring athlete in need of a daily boost there is the incredible Premium Starter Kit with NingXia Red. It is an antioxidant rich, energizing drink formulated by Young Living that supports general wellness and energizes. It is excellent added to juice, smoothies, or any other energy drink. Plus, it's an incredibly healthy alternative to the sugar and caffeine that we too often fall back on to get us through the day.

• NingXia Red 2-pack
• 30 NingXia Red Singles (2 fl. oz. ea.)
• NingXia Nitro
• 5-ml Stress Away™
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

And finally, there is a Premium Starter Kit with Young Living's infamous Thieves products. Thieves is an essential oil blend formulated based on four thieves who robbed the dying and the dead during the Bubonic Plague and escaped illness by covering themselves in a mixture of herbs. "This Starter Kit is ideal for those wishing to replace harmful chemicals in the home with powerful, natural alternatives." I use Thieves in my indispensable All Purpose Cleaner  and Sanitizing Spray because it's so powerful and yummy smelling. And the Thieves toothpaste has done wonders for strengthening my weak, sensitive teeth.

• 15-ml Thieves
• Thieves AromaBright™ Toothpaste
• Thieves Fresh Essence Plus Mouthwash
• 2 Thieves Cleaner
• 2 Thieves Foaming Hand Soap
• 2 Thieves Spray
• 2 Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier
• 5-ml Stress Away™
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

Do you want to know what the very best part of jumping into essential oils with a starter kit is? Let me tell you - it's those invaluable Member Resources listed at the bottom of each kit. Member Resources include the following:

• 24% Discount on ALL Young Living products only so long as you make a 50PV (usually about $50) purchase PER YEAR. And yes, your premium starter kit will qualify as your PV order for your first year. All of the Premium Starter Kits are valued at 100PV. But the Basic Starter Kit, while significantly cheaper than the others, has no PV (point value). 
• Access to the Essential Rewards program. This is a totally optional program that you can enter and leave at any time for any reason. It allows you to make monthly purchases while earning a percentage of the PV back to redeem for free product. It also allows you to redeem free oils and promotional offers from Young Living with qualifying purchases. The longer you participate in the program, the greater your percentage of points earned will be.
• Free mentoring and education from a sponsor who is committed to guiding you in your wellness journey and will often offer promotional offers of their own.
• The Opportunity (never an obligation) to share the Young Living lifestyle with others and earn commission as others join your oiling team.

Signing up with a Premium Starter Kit was one of the smartest moves I ever made for me and my family. It is such an incredible community and opportunity to improve your health and happiness in the way that nature intended. Set yourself up for success in life and with these powerful oils by jumping in with a starter kit that fits your specific lifestyle. By choosing me as your sponsor you will qualify for monthly promotions plus devoted mentoring and essential oil education! You can get started on this empowering journey by clicking here and entering my member number 2546134. If you're simply interested in learning more feel free to email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com with any questions you may have!

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. The oils only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

How We Made it to our 3rd Anniversary

I know it may not seem like much - making it to your 3rd anniversary. But for us, it is a miracle and one that we will never take for granted. This past year has been the absolute hardest of our lives and we did not know if we, let alone our marriage, would survive it. But you know what? It has also been one of the best. Our marriage was never harder and yet never better than it has been this past year. How is that even possible?

It is because He lives. It is because our Savior lives and loves us no matter what. We have had to turn to Him and hand our marriage over to Him to survive. And that is how it is better than it has ever been. This past year has shattered and then remade us anew.

The situation is still too sensitive for me to go into details about it. But I could not let this day pass without writing about the resources that we have had to cling to in order turn our hearts and our marriage to the Savior. About a year ago a crisis took place that made me feel as if I had no choice but to leave my husband. But because of angels, miracles, inspired ecclesiastical leaders, therapy, our Savior, and these amazing resources we are still together and still a relatively happy family today. The gratitude I feel for this miracle is overwhelming and indescribable. I can only pray that our story of hope, healing, forgiveness, brokenness, weakness, and miracles can give others hope.

1. The Book of Mormon - this spectacular, life changing testament of Christ has changed our hearts and family in a way I can barely begin to describe. About a year ago, Matt found himself in jail facing very serious charges and a very grim future. When he began to come to himself he turned to prayer. Much of his life he had been losing faith in and getting angry with God because He would not heal him of the addiction that made him hate himself and distanced him from all those he loved. But he needed help and he was humble so he turned to prayer. He pleaded only that he would be able to find a Book of Mormon. He did and he was surprised because it didn't have the sticker of stamp of the jail that most of the other books there had. It was just sitting apart and it saved him. He began to read it and continued to do so when he was released from jail. It took him just a few short months to finish and then he began to read it again. When Aria and I rejoined him we began to read it as a family. It has changed our hearts and our family and our lives.

2. The Spouse and Family Support Guide - I will always remember how I found this invaluable resource. In much the same way Matt found The Book of Mormon, I stumbled across it in a time of great need in a miraculous way. I was sitting on the couch crying and praying, which was all I had been doing since the police gave me the news. I was in so much pain and confusion that I honestly did not know how I would survive it. I was still going through the motions but only because there were quite literally angels all around me bearing me up and I had been promised in a priesthood blessing that Heavenly would be with me every single step of the way. I pulled up lds.org on my computer and there on the front page was a picture and a link to the Spouse and Family Support Guide for those with loved ones ensnared in addiction. I was drowning and it was my life raft:

"Spouses and family members may labor under the heavy emotional burdens of worry, hurt, and hopelessness caused by the addictions of their loved ones. The Addiction Recovery Program supports spouses and family members as they seek the Savior’s help to carry their burdens and receive His promise: “My peace I give unto you. … Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). The Lord’s plan is to rescue and heal each of us as we yield our hearts to Him (see Helaman 3:35). Just as those who are addicted need the Atonement of Jesus Christ in order to find freedom from the bondage of addiction, spouses and family members also need His healing power to be free from the bondage of despair."

I read and studied each of the 12 principles as well as the talks and scriptures they linked to. It began to heal me. I had some of the strongest spiritual experience of my life while reading these, especially the talks, that gave me the strength and hope I needed to stay in my marriage. I also attended the spouse and family support meetings.

 
3. He Restoreth My Soul - I often attribute this book to truly turning us to the Savior and giving us the understanding about addiction and overcoming it that saved our marriage. I simply did not understand how an addiction works or what it feels like before reading this book. And Matt did not understand how to describe it to me. This book provides the most insightful and inspired support for both the person caught in addiction and the grieving family members. It is all about "understanding and breaking the chemical and spiritual chains of pornography addiction through the Atonement of Jesus Christ." Matt and I read this book together in the three months that we were separated. Each night we would call each other and discuss what we read, how we felt, and more. Those were some of the most harrowing, painful, broken, and yet beautiful, priceless, and cleansing conversations we have ever had.

4. The Addiction Recovery Program - During the initial two weeks he spent in jail, Matt heard another inmate talking about how the LDS Addiction Recovery Program helped him. It was unfortunately the first time Matt had ever heard about the Church's addiction recovery program. He had spoken with at least one bishop and maybe more about his problem. He had even attended an addiction recovery facility that was unfortunately corrupt and shut down for the abuse and excessive medication of their clients. This of course did much more harm than good and convinced him that he needed to handle it on his own. In the time that we were dating and preparing to go to the temple together Matt got as clean as he ever could on his own by working with his bishop and even locking his computer away for a time. But this was "white knuckle sobriety" as He Restoreth My Soul calls it. It is what many do to prepare for the temple, to serve a mission, or get married. It almost never lasts though because addiction is a disease and needs serious, in depth, lifelong treatment. It is much like cancer. Someone who is in denial about having cancer may feel and even do better for a time, but it will continue to grow and corrupt in secret until their life becomes unmanageable. When they hit that point, where recovery is absolutely necessary, they will often seek real help or be consumed by it.

True recovery often requires the 12 steps, complete honesty and humility, therapy, healthy boundaries often set with a therapist, ecclesiastical support and confession, and group meetings. The LDS recovery program includes the 12 steps and meetings and even offers therapy through LDS Family Services. There are meetings for the addicted, for the family, and even couple meetings. These steps and these meetings are difficult but uplifting and healing. They are changing our lives day by day.

5. Healing Through Christ - Help, Hope and Healing for those who have a loved one in addiction - this resource was given to me at my first family group meeting. It is actually a modified 12 steps for family members of the addicted. I remember being shocked and put off when I realized that it was a 12 steps for me because I certainly was not the problem. Here's what I slowly but surely learned - I am the only problem I can truly turn over to the Savior. My own is the only heart I can humbly offer Him and these 12 steps allow me to turn my heart to Him. I have been to enough family support 12 step meetings now to recognize a significant pattern - those who focus their emotional, mental, and spiritual energy only on their loved one's recovery are no more healthy or happy even if their loved one recovers. And those who turn their hearts to the Savior and work diligently on their own recovery and personal path to healing are often happy and healthy even if their loved one continues in addiction.

It was the depth and pain of my anger that finally humbled me enough to work the 12 steps for myself. In a meeting I have heard them called "The Dummy's Guide to the Atonement" and don't we all need that at some point in our lives? It fosters a deeper understanding of the gospel and what we are here to learn. Every time I turn to it I find peace and healing. When I neglect it, I feel more confused, anxious, depressed, and hopeless. It is the boat that the life raft brought me to.

I just want to bear my testimony that because He Lives there is always hope. He is invested in our marriages, our families, and our lives. He wants us to succeed. If we will but seek Him and let Him in he will help clean the mess that we can not. For so long, I was afraid to really let him in because I was so ashamed of the mess my life was. But I could not fix it without Him. And when I finally let Him in, He did not condemn or judge me. He simply began to clean and strengthened me to be better. All I felt was love. Matt felt the same. Even when he finally came to a fuller realization of the consequences and seriousness of it all. Even in the midst of feeling reprimanded and corrected by God it did not feel like shame or condemnation. Rather, it felt like love. The love God had for him superseded any other emotion. When God corrects us He does it with love because He understands and loves us perfectly. And it is His love that motivates and inspires us to change. We know this to be true.

If you or a loved one are struggling with a similar situation we invite you to study and utilize the resources above. We also welcome you to email us at rach.dorian@gmail.com any time and we will do what we can to help. We know our Savior lives and loves us and that is how we are here and smiling today.

Miracle Grout Cleaner

The townhouse we live in is only a couple of years old, but I don't think the grout had been scrubbed since it was built! Rather than the pale beige it started out as, much of it had become a dark, grimy gray. It was not attractive. You never realize how much of a difference the color of the grout can make in a room until you finally clean it. But the difference is huge!

So, I took my beloved all natural All Purpose Cleaner to it with a scrub brush. I also used a bowl of soapy water, white distilled vinegar, and lemon juice to rinse the brush in. The result was astounding! The grout actually became its original color again and it's SO refreshing.

I love being able to clean effectively without any harsh, toxic, or cancer causing chemicals. Especially when you're cleaning around little kids or pets who inevitably lick everything, it can bring a lot of peace of mind. Plus, my all natural cleaners smell about a million times better. Sure, I felt a bit like Cinderella, down on my hands and knees, scrubbing the grout. But I also felt empowered and excited to be doing it on my own terms without having to depend on bleach or the like.

If you would like to learn more about how essential oils can benefit you and your family email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com! It's such a fun and exciting process leading a healthier, more non-toxic, chemical free lifestyle with essential oils that I love to mentor others in. You'll be surprised just how indispensable they become in your home.

30 Essential Oils UNDER $20

The truth is, the only reason I missed out on learning about essential oils years ago was because of the price sticker shock for the high quality oils. I was actually pretty horrified when I discovered how much they cost. Some of the more rare and precious oils like Frankincense retail for almost $100 a bottle! I thought "thanks, but no thanks" and did not give them another thought. It was when I became a Mom that I first got really interested in and curious about essential oils. The Mom guilt and worry is real and I wanted to use the healthiest on my baby. I specifically told my husband: "Someday when we have more money, I'd really like to try essential oils." I did not want to use anything but the purest and the best on my baby or in my body, but there was just no way I could afford it.

Then, I discovered what a great value the Premium Starter Kit is. It comes with the most useful, everyday oils (including Frankincense!), a home diffuser, literature, samples, and a Wholesale Membership discount that retail for twice the value of the kit with no strings attached. When I realized how much this would SAVE me money not just on the oils, but the priceless peace of mind it could grant me, I knew I had to take the plunge. But a lot of people are pretty skeptical about taking a $150 plunge on something they're not certain will work.

So, I decided to write a post about all of the different and totally affordable ways to start your essential oil journey! There are $40 (samples and literature)  and $75 (samples, literature, diffuser) Basic Starter Kits that also include a Wholesale Membership discount with no strings attached so you can still get the highest quality oils at the deepest discount. Plus, a membership gives you the option to utilize the Essential Rewards program to earn points for free product. And of course, there's the option to sign up as a Retail Customer with no starter kit or fee required.

Even though I took the plunge on a Premium Starter Kit (with my credit card), that doesn't mean that I could automatically afford the more expensive oils. So, I've been scoping out the deals and compiled a list of totally affordable oils under $20 with the 24% member discount. Even without the discount, all of these oils will still be in the $20 something range or lower. These oils are NOT cheaper because they're any less popular or useful - they're simply cheaper because they're less expensive to produce. For example, even though the citrus oils are some of THE most popular and useful oils around they are all under $20 because they're simply cold pressed from the rinds, making them very inexpensive to produce. Young Living offers the best oils at the best prices for the quality level, which is why they are the World Leader in essential oils with farms and users all over the world.

The following list of oils and prices reflect the wholesale member price - tack on a few dollars to get an idea of retail customer price. And keep in mind that this is a list of currently available oils and their current prices that are subject to change. (Valor, a very popular strengthening and calming blend, would normally be on this list too, but is currently out of stock.)

RC (5ml) - $10.25 - is an incredibly popular respiratory support oil. It is a blend of three types of Eucalyptus, Myrtle, Marjoram, Pine, Lavender, Cypress, Black Spruce, and Peppermint.

Melrose (15ml) - $19.75 - has quickly become a favorite of mine since it's a gentler and affordable substitute for the infamous Thieves blend. It supports the immune system, protects the skin, cleans, and dispels odors with a blend of two types of Melaleuca (Tea Tree), Rosemary, and Clove.

Grapefruit (15ml) - $16.75 - is uplifting, detoxing, aids in maintaining a healthy weight, and tastes and smells very yummy.

Lemongrass (15ml) - $11.25 - supports overall well-being and is often used to aid healthy digestion.

Black Pepper (5ml) - $18.75 - soothes muscle discomfort, supports the digestive system, is excellent for cooking, cleaning, and immune system support.

Clove (15ml) - $15.25 - is the most antioxidant rich oil there is. It is a key ingredient in Thieves and Melrose because it supports the immune system and soothes.

Ginger (5ml) - $13.25 - is energizing and soothes digestive discomfort.

Nutmeg (5ml) - $13.00 - is comforting and soothing and helps boost energy.

Cedarwood (15ml) - $11.25 - with the highest level of sesquiterpenes, which stimulate the emotional area of the brain, this essential oil is especially calming. It supports restful sleep and emotional balance AND it's kid friendly.

Tangerine (15ml) - $16.00 - is calming, uplifting, and rich in antioxidant d-limonene.

Orange (15ml) - $10.75 - is very similar to Tangerine but at an even better price! I love it diffused or in my water.

Dill (5ml) - $15.75 - is great for cooking, emotional and digestive support.

Citrus Fresh (15ml) - $15.25 - is excellent for cleaning, purifying the air, cooking, water flavoring, detoxing, energy, emotional support, and mental clarity. It is a lovely blend of Orange, Tangerine, Mandarin, Grapefruit, Lemon, and Spearmint essential oils.

Goldenrod (5ml) - $15.25 - is relaxing, calming, supports the circulatory system, urinary tract, and liver, and even supports the libido.

Lemon (15ml) - $11.25 - or liquid sunshine as I like to call it is the one oil I would choose if I could choose only one because it's SO versatile. I use it for cleaning, water flavoring, detoxing, air purifying, energy, supporting the circulatory system, emotional support, and it is rich in antioxidants.

Fennel (15ml) - $17.25 - is excellent for supporting hormonal balance and supporting the digestive system. It's also great for boosting milk supply while nursing.

Citronella (15ml) - $19.50 - supports the respiratory system and relaxes.

Lime (15ml) - $12.25 - is one that I'm dying to try because I love it so much in my favorite blend Stress Away. It's list of uses is just as long as any of the other citrus oils.

Jade Lemon (5ml) - $10.75 - is a type of Chinese lemon that stays green, which makes it stronger than Lemon and just as yummy and useful.

Eucalyptus Blue (5ml) - $15.00 - is calming and supports the respiratory system. (Eucalyptus Globulus and Eucalytus Radiata are also available at the 15ml sizes for under $20).

Pine (15ml) - $15.00 - useful for soothing discomfort, emotional balance, and respiratory support.

Spearmint (5ml) - $10.75 - a rich antioxidant: it is useful for digestive support, respiratory support, emotional release, water and food flavoring, and soothing discomfort. It's similar to but milder than Peppermint.

Rosemary (15ml) - $15.50 - useful for supporting mental clarity and energy, supporting liver health, and keeping skin and hair clear, full, and vibrant.

Cypress (15ml) - $19.25 - is comforting, grounding, emotionally stabilizing, supports the respiratory system AND it's kid friendly!

Wintergreen (15ml) - $17.75 - useful for soothing minor aches and pains. It is a primary constituent in the amazing soothing blend, PanAway.

Sacred Mountain (5ml) - $15.50 - fosters empowerment, emotional support and strength, promotes restful sleep, hormonal balance, and supports the respiratory system. It is a blend of Spruce, Ylang Ylang, Balsam Fir, and Cedarwood.

Grounding (5ml) - $17.75 - calms, supports emotional balance, mental clarity and positivity with a blend of White Fir, Spruce, Ylang Ylang, Pine, Cedarwood, Angelica, and Juniper.

Envision (5ml)  - $18.75 - stimulates creativity, focus, renewed motivation and a positive attitude with a blend of Spruce, Geranium, Orange, Lavender, Sage, and Rose.

Palmarosa (15ml) - $19.75 - supports the skin and emotional balance.

Purification (15ml) - $18.75 - is amazing for cleaning, laundry, dispelling odors and skin care.

A lot of these amazingly affordable oils have become mainstays in my home and daily routines. There's no reason that beginning a healthier lifestyle with essential oils has to break the bank. Less than a $20 order a month can begin to change your life! I know it's changed mine. Anyone can create a beautiful collection of the happiness and wellness provided by nature in their home. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that you "have to be rich" to try essential oils like I did for so many years. Plus, with a wholesale membership you'll not only get the best discounts, but you'll also have the opportunity (never an obligation) to share the oils with others and earn a commission to more than pay for your own oils and even make a living! It's a lifestyle of love that only keeps giving. Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com if you'd like to learn more about how essential oils can benefit you and your family at the best possible value!

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These product(s) have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.