Natural Home Remedies to Ease Menstrual Pain

The pain that comes with menstruation can be so ridiculously debilitating that women often end up missing work or social activities and must resign themselves to lying miserably in bed, wishing for a way to surgically remove their insides.  Sounds like a morbid exaggeration, but the truth is, this is an all too common reality for so many women. 

So it's no surprise that when that time of the month rolls around, women sometimes feel the need to wear a neon sign that reads, 'approach with caution'.   Being a woman myself, I entirely agree.  It's an under-recognized time of both pain and cleansing that we are expected to experience while just getting on with life.

Why?

Well, because we can!  We do!!  However, that doesn't lessen the pain or the frustration that accompanies it.  And who really wants to resort to popping pain killers every three hours?

I believe that our reproductive systems and overall health are requesting (begging) for a better way.

So, I have compiled a small yet helpful list of natural home remedies to ease that pesky menstrual pain.

Hot shower.  
Not just any hot shower.  Turn up the heat as much as you can stand it.  Let the steam add up.  While you're at it, spray some of Eurospa's Eucalyptus Shower Spray into the steam.  The cleansing nature of the oil will be heightened in the stream and permeate your bronchial passages, resulting in relaxation and a further detoxified system.   Make sure that while you allow the hot water to really fall on your lower back.  This will relax those aching muscles and give you the chance to, at the same time, massage your lower belly which actually makes the process of 'release' more efficient!  Who wouldn't want that?

Massage.   
Just like I mentioned above, you can also do a similar massage while laying down.  I suggest getting some massage oil.  A warming oil would be great, but if you only have a regular base, try adding some other essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus and cinnamon to the massage.  Lavender will relax and calm you, the cinnamon aids in circulation (bringing comfort) and the eucalyptus is actually a very good topical anti-inflammatory.  I did this step recently and slept so much better that night.

Hot Water Bottles.  
Yep, I mean the same kind you may (or may not) remember your grandparents using for their back pain. They may seem old-fashioned, but they really, truly help warm and relax the muscles in your lower abdomen. They are an affordable and worthy investment that will bring you relief month after month.  GO get one. 


Just Say NO to Caffeine.  
Don't freak out... I know it’s an intimidating thought, but eliminating caffeine from your diet could help alleviate a large amount of menstrual pain. Caffeine constricts your blood levels and raises tension: so when you’re suffering from cramps, you want to get the opposite happening. Additionally, caffeine dehydrates you, causing the cleanse to be a slower process. Drinking water and herbal tea instead will not only keep your flow hydrated, but will also help relieve bloating that may occur during your period. 


I'm not saying this will make your reproductive pain disappear all together, but I do believe you will feel more alive and able to function more comfortably and happily. 


It's a part of life, but it doesn't need to control it. 



At Eurospa, we enjoy bringing more quality to your life!  Stop by and see what we can do to better your health and daily living!




by:  Navae Fiona

Cold? Here are 5 Tips for a Better Winter

These winter days can really get the best of you.   Even if you live in a moderate climate, the general feel in the air is that of stillness and stagnation.  The chill damp nature of winter leaves our bones begging for sustainable warmth.  Investing in life quality should be a priority for anyone really desiring to feel their best in the midst of trying circumstances.

So it seems to make sense to look to how other people around the world deal with these frigid seasons and then try their methods in our own days.

- Turn Down Media.   As a whole, our society forgets how important it is to rest our minds from  our screen addicted culture. (this I say, while writing from a computer of course) But the point remains.  We have a hard time turning off our screens.  We likely spend half our day in front of a computer, then go home to watch t.v. and likely watch some youtube or play on our phones before retiring our overworked eyes.   So do your health and sanity a favor by turning those screens of at least an hour before bed.

- Slow Down & Say No.  It's ok to say 'no' occasionally... maybe even more? We tend to over 'yes' people and then find ourselves missing times of relaxation and needed stillness.   When we say 'no' appropriately, we remind others and ourselves of our personal value and the self respect that should go along with it.  You know what's going to benefit and drain you; it's ok to set those boundaries.

- Get Outdoors.  I know it might be grey and cold outside, but fresh air is so necessary! Get out your rain or snow gear and feel alive.  Whether for a brisk walk, run or hike, the strain the cold weather puts on our system is countered by the deep breathing and increased circulation in the fresh air.  I know it may be hard, but it's worth it.  Love yourself enough to make it happen.

- Stop Working.  No, not entirely.   But did you know that in Sweden, it's against the law to work overtime?  It's not because they don't want to pay for it. Rather, they know that an employees gives their best when they are happy and healthy.  If you are allowed to clock out after 8 hours, please clock out.  In the end, your work will be more efficient and you won't burn out.  Live your life, don't just work it.

- Turn Up the Heat.  Leave your thermostat alone; I'm talking about heat therapy.  Steam rooms and saunas offer a world of relief, relaxation and detoxification in this season of cold and flu.  In many European countries, it's the norm to have a sauna in your home or apartment building.  We haven't caught up as fast with that one, but it doesn't mean they are hard to find.   Usually your local gym and fitness center will have an option for you.  However, if this isn't an option, take a steam bath or shower at least twice a week to really sink some heat into your bones.  An added bonus?  Add some Eucalyptus Shower Spray to the steam and cleanse your bronchial passages.

Winter isn't easy for many people.  Your option may include moving to a warmer client, but for many, they just need to adopt some simple practices to maximize the experience to a positive one.
Life is what you make it.  If you want to experience better quality in life (even when it's unpleasant) then increase the quality of your activities and daily practices.

I'd love to hear what you do to better your winter season.  What's your secret?  Let us know in the comments below!




by: Navae Fiona

5 Tips to Glowing More Youthful Skin

Have you looked in the mirror lately?  Are you haunted by the ever increasing lines showing up on your face?  Are you finding that the skin you so proudly wore in your youth is beginning to hang out a little further from your bones than it used to?  Never fear.  Don't simply run to the nearest medical spa!  Below are 5 simple, easy everyday tips for glowing, more youthful skin.

You ready?

1.  Hydrate - Water is your friend.  Coffee, tea and sodas are NOT your friend.  Sure they taste good and we are used to them.  But it's time we accept the truth that our bodies are 80% water and it needs water to function best.  Beverages that wet our mouth but actually dehydrate our bodies are an addicting disservice that we have allowed to become an unhealthy norm.  If you really feel you can't live without these things, please by all means, counter them with and increased water intake. Not sure how much to drink?  Simply determine how much you weigh in pounds - let's say 140.  Now divide that in half and convert to ounces - 70.  If you weigh 140 pounds, you should consume 70 ounces of water daily.  Go for 90 ounces at least if you need to include coffee, tea or soda.   Now, I know this may seem like a lot.  But please don't be discouraged.  Feel free to add a couple lemon or orange slices to the water and make it taste good.  Your blood needs water to flow well.  Your skin is the organ that tells you when the inside of your body has a need.  Love yourself and your family enough to take care of yourself, even if only with baby steps.

2.  Green Food - This one is pretty self explanatory.  As long as you know that I'm not talking about green food coloring, then you will know what to do.   Green fruits and vegetables are packed with Chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals that both bring elasticity and suppleness to the skin.  Bonus point?  Great for you metabolism as well!  Eat plenty of what you already love and begin to experiment and explore the delicious ways to enjoy the new foods!

3.  Sleep - Do it.  Sleep. Try not to eat 3 hours before going to bed.  Turn off all TVs, computers and phones at least an hour before you sleep.  Take some deep relaxing breathes and be thankful for the beauty in your life and day. Make sure your sleep environment is peaceful and calm.  Then dive in.  Sleep, is the time when our cells rejuvenate.  Things like mind activity and digestion steal our cell's focus and keep them from using our sleep ours from the priority of their renewal.  Do your body a favor and sleep in peace.  You will not only get more youthful skin, but will wake refreshed and more motivated to continue caring for your health.


4.  Stress - We all have stress.  It's the common thread in our modern society.  We are over committed, over worked and have a hard time saying 'no'.  It's ok to take time for yourself.  It's ok to make a cut-off point for your work day.  When stressed, the body releases the hormone cortisol into our systems, causing tense muscles, emotional highs and lows, lowered immune system and well - wrinkles!  Now, this could be a whole topic in itself an maybe that's soon to come.  But for now, consider what stresses you and ways you can relieve those situations and responses.

5.  Detoxify - Our body detoxifies itself best through release.  One way we 'release' is through sweat.  My two favorite ways to sweat is through exercise and heat.  Exercise is anything that gets your heart rate elevated for more than 20 consecutive minutes.  You can decide what exercise is best for you but then stick to it.  (Again, it seems this should be expanded in another blog.  What do you think? Let me know!)  On to the topic of heat.  Shower, sauna, steam room... you decide.  Of course, the luxury of a sauna and steam room are ideal but if you have only a shower as an option, you will get the most out of it by adding a few sprays of our Eucalyptus Shower Mist to really open up the respiratory passages, increase circulation and further detoxify the skin.

Your health and life quality is our priority.  It's why we do what we do.

So instead of being frustrated at age taking it's toll, step in to action and implement the 5 tips into your life schedule.  You will be so happy you did.

To know more about what we can do for your home or even health spa, visit us at Eurospa Aromatics and we'll be happy to get you started!


Until then, more water!  Have a beautiful day!

by: Navae Fiona

6 Natural Ingredients for Non-Toxic Cleaning!

I rarely go to the supermarket for anything more than food these days.  Of course I buy certain staples like toilet paper but when it comes to cleaning supplies, you may be surprised as to what I buy, where I buy it and how I use it.

Cleaning your house is pretty counter productive if you spend all this time killing germs but allowing chemicals to infiltrate your lungs in the process. The chemical ingredients found in most household cleaners are simply dangerous to your health and I urge you to take a moment and read about some great alternatives!

Here are 6 basic ingredients every cleaning cupboard should keep:

Vinegar: One bottle of distilled white vinegar is a healthy home’s perfect companion. Use it anywhere and everywhere. Whether cleaning windows, toilets, drains, sinks etc., it is the active ingredient to cut through grease and kill certain types of bacteria, yeast and mould. You can simply fill a spray bottle with vinegar and add a couple of drops of an essential oil like tea tree or eucalyptus for a safe and efficient do-it-yourself surface cleaner!

Baking soda: Not only a very versatile cleaner, though that's what we're focusing on, but it's also great as a face and body scrub! (But love your skin and still be gentle!) Useful as a mild abrasive and a disinfectant, it's great for all that needed scrubbing.  Just combine it with the above white vinegar and you'll be able to clean just about anything. I like to mix baking soda with vinegar to clean my kitchen sink, shower, bathroom sink and toilet (also adding a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil). 

Eucalyptus oil: I'm sure you noticed from the above, my mention of Eucalyptus Oil.  This miracle oil is a great addition to your self made cleaning products as it not only smells wonderful and fresh, but also adds anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties to your already hard working concoctions! Spray and wipe down the kitchen and bathroom benches to disinfect and deodorize as well.  As a bonus, you can also use eucalyptus oil in spray form, to both freshen up the room or by adding it to the steam in your shower; great for the home and for your health! 

Castile soap: A great natural cleaner. Castile soap can be used on your body and your home. It comes in concentrated form, so you don't need much each time you use it.  Can be used for laundry, dishes and even on the baby!  No worries here, just squeaky clean living!

Lemon juice: This fruit is so useful, safe and fragrant. The citric acid in lemon is one of nature’s best cleaners. It breaks down oils and also dead skin.  You can easily add this too baking soda and *gently* massage it in to your skin ... leave it on for no more than 5 minutes and then use a little castile soap for the final rinse!  You'll love how your skin glows afterwards!

Clove oil:  Great for mould infested areas.  Simply dilute 2ml of clove oil in 1 liter of water and spray on to problem areas. 

See?  Not so bad!  Unfortunately, in the name of convenience, we tend to carelessly buy the cheapest products on the market and it's time we changed our mentality!  

These mixes are easy to make and tend to last far longer than your common store bought products.  Imagine how wonderful it will feel to know that when you are cleaning with these natural ingredients, that you are also creating a healthier home environment for yourself and the ones you love.  

Stop on by to Euro Spa and see what we can do for you!  Your health is our priority. Please feel free to leave a comment below about YOUR favorite DIY cleaning solutions! 

We love to hear from you! 

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By: Navae Fiona

How Can Eucalyptus Help Your Hair??

Many people already know that Eucalyptus is a powerfully medicinal tree found in Australia and is widely known to go hand in hand with the adorable koala bear.  However, it's value reaches far deeper than that.  We love to educate people on it's anti-microbial properties, antiseptic nature, deodorant, decongestant, anti-inflammatory and even respiratory aid when the eucalyptus oil is added to the healing steam of a sauna or shower.

Maybe you already know all of this.

Maybe you are ready to move on to a new topic.  How CAN Eucalyptus help your hair??

Everyone, whether man or woman, likes to have a head full of clean, healthy and shining hair.  In our modern world full of air conditioning, heating, drastic climates, environmental change, products, straightening and curling, chlorine and even daily washing, we've learned that our hair isn't bullet proof and these factors do affect the quality and sheen of the hair.

About the hair...

Each strand has at the base of it's shaft, a follicle,  which is comprised of a produced protein substance called keratin and a little moisture.  The strands of hair are moisturized by an oil gland in the follicle that also protects the hair.

So now that we understand the hair itself and the abuse we put it through.. let's look at some ways to repair the damage done.

About the solution...

First let's start with massage.  Feel free to directly apply the oil to your scalp and gently massage with your fingers in a circular motion, encouraging hair growth.  Alternatively, you can also mix a few drops of the concentrated oil with a base such as olive or Castor oil.  Warm the mixture at a low temperature and then do the same gentle circular massage with your finger tips. This not only improves your blood circulation, stimulating hair growth, but also makes your hair shine with a healthy glow!

Eucalyptus oil can also help in getting rid of dandruff, which is not only unsightly but also clogs the pores, making it difficult for the hair to grow.  Remember, when aiding our hair in it's growth, we want to make sure we are getting the stimulation needed and the roadblocks out of the way! When using eucalyptus oil for dandruff,  you simply have to mix 8 to10 drops of the oil into your shampoo and gently massage your scalp for a few minutes (preferably allowing the oil to activate in the steam of the shower so you get the other health benefits as well!  Breathe in that steam!). This method is also beneficial in getting rid of head lice and their eggs, so parents are wise to keep this oil handy and keep the little one's heads safe against that invasion!

Another benefit of eucalyptus oil is that in can increase the elasticity of your hair.  So many of us know how frustrating it can be when you are trying to grow out your hair in to luxurious locks only to loose your progress to breakage and more split ends. When doing both of the above treatments, you will happily enjoy stronger hair - more resistant to further breakage and split ends.

All in all, it's an incredible oil from a miraculous plant.

What have YOU got to say?   Do you have a great way that Eucalyptus Oil has done wonders for your hair or simply your life?  Let us know!  We'd love to hear from you!


by: Navae Fiona

Eucalyptus: Good for Mind, Body and Business

You may be surprised to find that Eucalyptus, a plant commonly known for it's essential oil, is a valuable enhancement to your creativity, personal health and productivity.

Follow me here.  First, let's dive into some of the main properties of Eucalyptus oil and see why it is such a valuable asset to your life quality and success.

• antiseptic
• expectorant 
• stimulant
• anti-inflammatory
• anti-spasmodic
• decongestant
• deodorant
• anti-microbial  

There's a common thread weaving through that list of characteristics.  Not only does it kill bacteria (and other invaders) but it improves circulation and acts as a bronchiodilator. 

Do you see where this is going?  It's absolutely amazing!  

The benefit this miracle plant brings to your health is clear.  Think of the opportunities to empower your immune system against the cold season in winter!  On top of that, add it to your first aid kit for your next camping adventure as both an aid in healing and as an anti-inflammatory muscle rub.  

Next up - is the bronchioldilation perk.  This is the substance that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles, decreasing resistance in the respiratory airway and increasing airflow to the lungs.  This not only breaks up congestion but paves the way for deeper breathing; and that's something we all need much more of.  Studies have shown us that deeper breathing slows the heart rate along with the rate of aggression and the cortisol (stress hormone) that accompanies it.  In addition to decreased stress, deep breathing brings more oxygen to the brain; a necessary ingredient for creative flow and productivity. 

When there is plenty of oxygen in the brain, we are stimulated, have the ability to think more clearly, our senses are heightened and we welcome new ideas with improved motivation. 

Imagine adding a Eucalyptus Spray to your shower or steam room.  Imagine enjoying a few sprays in a room just before you begin your workday, creative process or meditation.  I assure you, the results will be invigorating and your health will benefit as well. 

But don't simply take my word for it.  Visit us now, at Eurospa and discover just how wonderful the addition of eucalyptus oil to your daily routine can be!  

by: Navae Fiona

QUICK TIPS for BEATING the COLD SEASON!

You may have noticed the many colds and flu's migrating around the world this winter.  Maybe you have had the ‘pleasure’ of experiencing it yourself?  Or maybe you have simply been one of the lucky parents that have missed work due to the havoc these menaces have caused in schools. 

Whatever the case,  I think we all agree that it’s time we had some simple tools to keep these viruses at bay. 

Here are a few quick tips for beating the cold season this winter:

1.  In lower temperatures, wear a coat and scarf.  I have so often seen people wandering around town like it’s sunny outside while their exposed arms are covered in goose bumps proving otherwise.  A cold body is a compromised body.  If the body is busy working overtime to keep your body warm, your immune system is going to have to settle with the left over energy to fight off these unwanted, contagious visitors.   Do yourself (and your kids) a favor and bundle up appropriately.  Adults?  Hats, scarves and coats are not your enemy.  And if you require your kids to wear them as well, you’re not the enemy either; you are the protector.  You can do it.  I believe in you.

2.  Keep your insides warm too!  When we eat ice creams and smoothies in the winter, we chill our insides causing the same (if not worse) weakening of our immune systems as when we under dress for the weather.  My solution?  Besides chilling out on your cold food consumption?  I call it, the fire starter tea.   It’s quite simple, so get a pen and paper and keep this one visible in the kitchen.  For one serving, simply squeeze ½ a lemon into your cup and add hot water.   Then add about 1tsp (more or less) of cayenne pepper to the mix.  Sweeten with honey or stevia and you’ll be on your way.  Of course, adjust to taste.  I personally prefer much more cayenne and the fire it starts inside me.  But you just play around and see what works best for you.  Lemons are high in Vitamin C and the cayenne is good for circulation, inflammation, congestion, weight loss and so much more.  It’s a win win!

3.  Clean out the bad to make room for the good!  I’m not talking about an all out body cleanse; though you should go for it if you feel so inclined.  Naturally, one of my favorite natural winter immune boosters is eucalyptus oil!  The benefits?

·       Antibacterial Properties – great for respiratory infections!

·       Pain Relief – proven to have analgesic properties

·       Stimulates Immune System Response to common conditions like:  Arthritis, skin problems, congestion,  acne, diabetes, flu, fevers, ulcers and more!

The best way to activate the Eucalyptus is through steam therapy treatment.  Have you noticed how much easier it is to breath once you step into a hot steaming shower?  Your lungs and sinus feel free to expand.  Well, add to that the oils of the eucalyptus joining that steam as it opens up your tightened bronchial passages while penetrating and clearing out the infection causing the problem.  To enjoy a therapeutic steam, just add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a saucepan of simmering water on the stove. You can also use a humidifier -- some actually provide a compartment for essential oils. If you don't have an oil diffuser but would like to disinfect the air, no need to even dilute the oil, just aim and spray!  My personal favorite is to use it in the shower, steam rooms or in a spa!

The result is ridiculously effective, cost efficient and safe for both your body and the environment.  The benefits of aromatherapy as a health investment and even the perfect gift, makes this an easy and relaxing tip to apply to everyone’s weekly winter routine!

A healthy and luxurious winter is available for all at Eurospa Aromatics whether you are a large spa or want to buy independently for personal use in your own home or as a gift.

So let’s recap a moment, shall we?  The top 3 ways you can beat the cold season?

·       Dress for warmth.   (not just success ;) )

·       Light your inner fire

·       Eucalyptus Steam Therapy

Take charge of your health this season.  Get a bottle for yourself or even as a gift, right here.

Take a deep breath. Love your body and practice good health now.