As the days grow shorter and the weather starts to get a bit crisper, you instantly know that fall is here and the holidays are just around the corner. With the holidays comes family get togethers, dinners, parties and parties. Most of us feel the intense need to have a sparkling clean house for those family gatherings and parties.
For those of us in the south, as this weather cools off, we throw open the windows and let that autumn air in. But now that we have that supposed extra hour, with the time change, and the cooler weather, why not put those two to use? Along with throwing open the windows to air out the house, put that "extra hour" to good use by getting a jump on that "deep cleaning" for the holidays.
Why not put mother nature to use for you? Instead of using the dryer and heating up the house, why not hang the laundry to dry in the crisp fall air? You'll get that fresh clean smell without having to use synthetic dryer sheets or smelly scent extenders. Plus the sun, which is the original solar dryer, will help to kill bacteria that you don't even know is there hanging out on your clothes. And the windows open helps to air out all the musty smells that have accumulated all summer. You know those smells, the ones that have just been hiding - wet dog smell in the carpets, towels or sofas, stinky shoes and socks that just stays hanging around in the closet smelling up the clean clothes, and let's not forget the smelly clothes hamper that accumulates the damp towels, smelly gym clothes, etc. Let nature come in and remove many of these "hiders" out of the house for you. You don't have to do anything but open some windows and doors, provided you have screens. You won't have to spray any chemical sprays or plug ins to get that fresh clean scent blowing through your house.
If you start now at the beginning of November, with doing one deep clean item a day/week; when it comes to Thanksgiving, your house should be clean and smelling great for when family and friends arrive.
For those up north, you know Colorado, Massachusetts, N. Dakota, etc., it's different for you guys. What we southerners call "Fall Cleaning" is what ya'll call Spring Cleaning. But the concept is still the same just a different set of seasons. You do it for the big spring holidays of Easter and Mother's day. There are other holidays around the same time, but those are the biggies in the spring, like Thanksgiving and Christmas are in the fall/winter. The spring cleaning has one big drawback that the fall doesn't..... and that's the loss of an hour instead of the gain of an hour.
Just a little something to think about as the seasons change, and the holiday hustle and bustle begins. Take a few minutes to throw open those window and drink in the sun.
Blessings to you,
Cheryl
The simple answer to this question is YES! But there is so much that underlies that yes than could be discussed in this single little post.
The biannual time change can have a more significant impact on the body than one might expect. Our bodies run on a circadian rhythm, which is our natural internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles and other physiological processes. When we shift the clock forward or backward by even one hour, it can disrupt this rhythm, leading to various effects.
1. **Sleep Disruption:** The most immediate effect of time change is on our sleep pattern. Losing or gaining an hour can affect the quality and duration of sleep, leading to feelings of fatigue and irritability.
2. **Mood Swings:** Disrupted sleep can lead to mood changes or increased stress levels. It's believed that the sudden change in daylight and sleep cycle affects hormone levels, which can impact mood.
3. **Decreased Cognitive Function:** An altered sleep schedule can result in decreased alertness and concentration. This is particularly noticeable in tasks that require attention or critical thinking.
4. **Impact on Immune System:** Consistent sleep is vital for a strong immune system. Disruptions caused by time change can make individuals more susceptible to illnesses.
5. **Metabolism and Appetite Changes:** There’s evidence suggesting that shifts in time can influence metabolism and hunger cues, potentially leading to unhealthy eating patterns.
To help ease the transition, consider using essential oils like Lavender or Cedarwood to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. These oils can be diffused in your bedroom or added to your nighttime routine. There are other products that can also help with sleep and keep us well rested. For instance, Deep Night Essence is a non-drowsy and melatonin free supplement that helps to promotes relaxation, which can help with increased quality and quantity of sleep.
Other ways to help minimize the effects is to start incrementally increasing or decreasing the time for certain daily routines. For instance go to bed 20 minutes earlier several days before the time change, and then increase that time by 10-15 minutes each night until time change arrives. By then your body has started to get used to the change in schedule and it isn't so jarring.
Remember that time change doesn't just affect people, it affects your pets too. To know more about how to decrease the effect of time change on your pet, read this article:
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Essential oils have been used for various purposes, including supporting digestive health. While they are not a substitute for medical treatment or a cure for digestive disorders, some essential oils may offer benefits when used appropriately. Here are a few essential oils that are commonly associated with digestive support:
- Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil is often used to address symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, and stomach discomfort. It may help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting smoother digestion. Inhaling peppermint can help keep that queasy feeling at bay, and so can rubbing it on your tummy area. But when you think you may need it to be a bit more intense, swirling a toothpick into your peppermint and then into your tea or water can many times do the trick.
- Ginger Oil: Ginger oil is known for its potential to alleviate nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. It may also aid in reducing inflammation in the gut and improving overall digestive function. It's one of the reasons we reach for GingerAle to drink when we had an upset tummy. A drop of ginger rubbed on your tummy or dropped into your tea can work like a charm.
- Fennel Oil: Fennel oil is believed to have carminative properties, meaning it may help relieve gas and bloating. It can also stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and support healthy digestion.
- Lemon Oil: Lemon oil is commonly used to support detoxification and cleanse the digestive system. It may help stimulate bile production, aiding in the breakdown of fats and enhancing digestion. No wonder so many people have a slice of lemon in their water. Not only is the flavor great, but the actual oil is contained in the peel, and seeps into the water to help aid in digestion. Want the benefits without the hassle of chopping the lemon - a drop of lemon oil in your water gives the same great benefits and more!
- Peppermint and Caraway Oil Blend: A combination of peppermint and caraway oils has been studied for its potential in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including abdominal pain and bloating.
It's important to note that essential oils are highly concentrated and potent substances. To use them safely for digestive support:
- Consult with a qualified aromatherapist, naturopathic doctor, or healthcare professional for guidance.
- Dilute essential oils properly with a carrier oil before applying them topically or using them internally.
- Perform a patch test before applying the oil to a larger area of the skin to check for any allergic reactions.
- Follow recommended dosages and guidelines for each essential oil.
- If you have any underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or taking medications, consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils.
Remember, essential oils should complement a comprehensive approach to digestive health, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate medical care when necessary.
Pets are an essential part of our families, but they can also leave behind messes and odors that are difficult to clean. While traditional household cleaners are often effective in removing dirt and odors, they can also be harmful to our pets and the environment. Fortunately, there are many natural cleaners that are safe to use around pets and the planet.
Here are a few natural cleaners that are pet-friendly and effective for household cleaning tasks:
- White Vinegar: This all-purpose cleaner is safe for pets and can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks, including removing pet stains, cleaning windows, and sanitizing surfaces. Simply mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and you're ready to go! If you want to be adventurous, soak some lemon or orange peels in the mix for several days before straining and using!
- Baking Soda: This kitchen staple is a great natural cleaner for removing pet odors from carpets, furniture, and litter boxes. Simply sprinkle baking soda on the affected area, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then vacuum it up.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a natural deodorizer that can help remove pet odors from carpets, furniture, and other surfaces. Simply mix lemon juice with water in a spray bottle and spritz on the affected area.
- Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as lemon and eucalyptus, can be used to clean and deodorize your home. Simply add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and use as a natural air freshener or surface cleaner. In the same way you add lemon juice to water to spray as a deodorize, you can substitute a drop or two of lemon essential oil or purification essential oil. BONUS: it makes a great bathroom deodorizer for those icky bathroom smells.
One of my favorite all natural cleaners that we use in our home is Thieves Household Cleaner. It contains Eucalyptus, Cinnamon, Clove, Rosemary and Lemon essential oils and smells heavenly. Just a capful into a 16oz spray bottle of water and I have enough 
to clean my entire house multiple times - including the ultimate pet messes that come up on the floor, rug, or sofa.
to clean my entire house multiple times - including the ultimate pet messes that come up on the floor, rug, or sofa.By using natural cleaners, you can keep your home clean and fresh while also protecting your pets and the environment. Give these natural cleaners a try and see how well they work for you!
