By Rania Watts

Can you imagine using an oil extracted from pine needles, leaves, bark, and berries? Those are the various distilled components of cedarwood essential oils.  There are so many benefits to cedarwood; it can be used as “antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, insecticidal, and antifungal.” (Healthline).

Depending upon which tree is distilled for the cedarwood essential oil can impact how beneficial it is for specific ailments. Please note, a carrier oil should be use to dilute the cedarwood oil if it is being applied to skin or being used on a pet. 

More specifically cedarwood oil can be used for hair loss, scalp conditions, skin, as a sleep aid, and even for anxiety; either via cedarwood essential oil and aromatherapy.

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

https://www.healthline.com/health/cedarwood-essential-oil#benefits

By: Rania Watts

Did you know that not only do we carry our lives on our feet, but that there are nerve endings in our hands and feet which connect throughout the convoluted map of our mysterious bodies. 

Imagine if someone said to you that a headache can be eased by massaging pressure points on your hands – more specifically the LI-4 Pressure Point (known as Hegu), which “is located between the base of your thumb and index finger. Doing acupressure on this point is supposed to relieve pain and headaches.” 

The instructions are as follows “Find pressure point LI-4 by placing your thumb in the space between the base of your thumb and index finger. Press down on this point for 5 minutes. Move your thumb in a circle while applying pressure. Be firm, but don’t press so hard that it hurts. Repeat the process on your other hand. You can do acupressure several times a day, or as often as needed for your symptoms to go away.” 

I know, it sounds somewhat strange that massaging pressure points on your hands has the capacity to alleviate a headache but it works and is even used as emergency treatment in ambulances. 

In my younger years, I wanted to study massage therapy and learned all about various techniques of how applied pressure on hands and feet can genuinely reduce pain.If anything I am now more aware that one doesn’t need to pop a pill every time one has an ailment. There are other effective natural methods such as this.

In biology we are taught about all of the nerve endings humans have on the bottom of their feet and palms of their hands which, upon reflection, is actually a lot for parts of the body that do not take up a huge amount of space.  It’s amazing how something so small has the capacity to hold every aspect of a human body, and not even be appreciated for it. 

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/acupressure-pain-and-headaches

By: Rania Watts

It is almost unbelievable to consider that an aroma literally has the capacity to make a human being feel better. 

When I started to research aromatherapy for this blog I had no idea that it had roots steeped in some of the most “ancient cultures in China, India, Egypt and elsewhere which incorporated aromatic plant components in resins, balms, and oils”.  

Aroma therapy can be absorbed cutaneously or through the sense of scent. However, please note to check the bottle before placing anything on your skin, as some essential oils could potentially be toxic to touch but not to scent. There are various tools that assist in disseminating the aroma into your environment with the use of “diffusers, aromatic spritzers, inhalers, bathing salts, body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application, facial steamers, hot/cold compress, and clay masks which can be used alone or in any combination.”*

It has been suggested that if you are going to purchase any essential oils, to do it from a manufacturer who is reputable. That way you ensure receiving a product that contains no additives or synthetic components. This is because there are no FDA regulations when it comes to monitoring essential oil quality. 

Always remember to thoroughly research any product before purchasing, check to make sure that quality ingredients are being used. 

Some benefits include: “manage pain, improve sleep quality, reduce stress, agitation, anxiety, soothe sore joints, treat headaches and migraines, alleviate side effects of chemotherapy, ease discomforts of labor, fight bacteria, virus, or fungus, improve digestion, improve hospice and palliative care, and boost immunity” * to name a few.  All those benefits from not just applying these essential oils topically, but even just inhaling their fragrance which is remarkable.

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

*Healthline https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-aromatherapy#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1

By: Rania M M Watts

Lavender oil is typically used to induce sleep & relaxation. Moreover, lavender oil can assist with the treatment of some skin conditions. It is also used to flavour different foods, drinks, and commonly used in soaps and cosmetics to induce a beautiful scent. 

Essential oils can be harsh on the skin if directly or  neatly applied on the skin. It is essential that they be mixed with a carrier oil first like argan, coconut or jojoba oils. 

Lavender essential oil is one of the only safe essential oils that can be applied neatly without any negative effect.

Please ensure you wash your hands before applying the lavender oil on the skin to ensure the best possible outcome. 

“Studies have shown that lavender oil can have a positive effect on symptoms associated with anxiety. One 2013 study, for example, found that lavender oil’s effects on anxiety were comparable to that of lorazepam, a common antianxiety drug.” (Medical News Today)  Lavender oil can also be used as an anti-inflammatory, for acne, dry skin or eczema, hair, and bug bites to name a few. 

Please ensure you do NOT apply directly to your skin without a carrier oil. For your reference I have furnished you with a list of links below. 

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

Medical News Today  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lavender-oil-for-skin#benefits

US National Library Of Medicine (Anxiety) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6007527/

US National Library Of Medicine (Anti-Inflammatory)    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5878871/

US National Library Of Medicine (Acne) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6982929/

US National Library Of Medicine (Dry skin or eczema) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4621348/

National Library of Medicine (Hair) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9828867/

US National Library Of Medicine (Bug bites) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6925501/

By Rania Watts

In a myriad of ways German & Roman Chamomile Essential Oils house similar characteristics although they are also quite different.

As stated from this phenomenal article that breaks down the differences in a nutshell, this is what they had to say: 

“GERMAN (BLUE) CHAMOMILE 

·         Contains chamazulene, giving the oil its deep blue color, and anti-inflammatory and infection fighting properties.

·         Maintains normal skin; calms dry, irritated or flaky skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis; promotes healing and regeneration of damaged skin tissue.

·         Stimulates liver, kidneys and gallbladder to improve digestion, remove toxins and infections.

·         Calms mind and body for menstrual and menopausal problems, including PMS.

ROMAN CHAMOMILE

·         Contains a high level of esters, has a yellow-pale blue color, is anti-spasmodic, anti-fungal and highly calming.

·         Provides restful sleep, relief from sore muscles, arthritis, headaches and migraines.

·         Effective at calming irritation, rage, mood swings. For children it’s useful for teething, colic, and temper tantrums. (Morgan, L)”

Before using either of these oils directly on skin, please ensure that they are mixed with a carrier oil.  

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

https://healingscents.net/blogs/learn/compare-german-blue-vs-roman-chamomile-essential-oils

https://www.healthline.com/health/chamomile-oil

https://www.alliance-aromatherapists.org/aromatherapy

By Rania Watts

I am the type of person that requires the strongest possible cough drop when I am ill. There was this brand, when I was younger that was was advertised as a mix of Eucalyptus and honey. However, all I could taste was the Eucalyptus.  Mind you, I was not complaining, as for me it was the quickest way to help soothe the prickles that were attacking my throat during a cold.  Is it any wonder one of the main uses for Eucalyptus Essential oil is to soothe congestion.  

Whilst engrossed in research I found one use for Eucalyptus oil that I’d never imagined in my life.“Toward the end of the 19th century, eucalyptus oil was used in most hospitals in England to clean urinary catheters. Modern research is now starting to back this practice up.” (Nordqvist, J., 2018) 

‘It seems that if you are desperate to disinfect something, Eucalyptus will do in a pinch. Eucalyptus can be found in so many products – ranging from insect repellent, to disinfection of various surfaces, fungal infections and wounds, insect repellent, pain relief and stimulating the immune system’.  (Nordqvist, J., 2018) 

Please ensure to dilute Eucalyptus Essential oil with a carrier oil before using it directly on the skin and DO NOT INGEST this oil – as it is toxic and poisonous. “Signs of eucalyptus poisoning include dizziness, feelings of suffocation, and small pupils. It is important to note that eucalyptus may interact with other medications and can impact the liver.” (Nordqvist, J., 2018)

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — Written by Joseph Nordqvist on January 5, 2018 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266580

By Rania Watts

Before I even begin to research this subject, I am going to take a wild guess that one of the uses for Orange essential oil will involve something to do with old antique wood furniture and a natural polish. 

The reason I am guessing is, as a child, the wood would be cleaned with Orange Glow; and the smell was so pungent it bowled me over, and I had to leave the room – until the aroma of the orange was neutralized by flowing air moving through the house. 

I am laughing right now. I found a Healthline Article and I quote:

“Orange essential oil has a variety of uses. These can include applications to: lift your mood or reduce stress, treat skin conditions such as acne, reduce pain or inflammation, relieve stomach upset, use as a natural household cleaner, add a pleasant scent to a room or to products like perfumes/cleaners, give flavor to a variety of foods and beverages.  Although orange essential oil has many uses, it’s important to remember that many of them are supported through anecdotal evidence. This means that the benefits are related to personal experience instead of being backed by scientific research.” (Seladi-Schulman J., 2019)

The main uses for the oil are via: diffuser, spray, or topically as a massage oil.  If you are going to administer a massage, PLEASE ENSURE TO ADD A CARRIER OIL – DO NOT APPLY UNDILUTED TO SKIN.  

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — Written by Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph.D. on October 3, 2019 https://www.healthline.com/health/orange-essential-oil-uses

By Rania Watts

The first time I heard the word lemongrass was associated as an ingredient in Thai cooking. I had no idea that there were so many benefits to its uses.  

For one, it houses “antibacterial properties” that can be used to treat various ailments such as “skin infections, pneumonia, blood infections, and serious intestinal infections.” (Healthline Editorial Team) 

If you want to read more about this specific topic, I suggest that you look at the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, Volume 3, Issue 7 From August 2020 on the Science Direct website. It is the second link below. 

Please ensure that you mix your Lemongrass Essential oil with a carrier oil. DO NOT USE IT ON SKIN DIRECTLY,  and make sure to do a patch test first in case of any allergic reactions.

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

The content above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.  

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — Written by the Healthline Editorial Team — Updated on April 13, 2020 https://www.healthline.com/health/lemongrass-essential-oil

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1995764510601290

Antifungal properties http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/(SICI)1099-1573(199611)10:7%3C551::AID-PTR1908%3E3.0.CO;2-Q/abstract

Anti-inflammatory properties https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4170112/

Antioxidant Properties https://www.researchgate.net/publication/307583343_Antioxidant_activity_of_lemon_grass_ESSENTIAL_OIL_Cympopogon_citratus_grown_in_North_Indian_plains

Prevention Against Ulcers http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/0975-1483.93578

May assist with slowing down diarrhea http://www.zoology-nehu.com/ckfinder/userfiles/files/40_Antidiarrhoeal%20CYMBOPOGON%20CITRATUS_Pharmacologyonline.pdf

By Rania Watts

Death brings with it so many questions and almost forces everyone to look internally, with regards to the person they are versus the person they desire to be.  Death holds the potential to push our boundaries to see what we are able to achieve on this earth.  

I have observed individuals who lost someone to a drink-driving accident – who refuse to drink, or someone who watched their best friend die in front of them and realised that they had no real love in their life. Or those who have memorialised their hero and create goals for themselves – based on what others wanted for them – honouring that life for themselves.

Personally, all of the deaths I’ve experienced throughout my life have changed me. My first experience with death was at the age of 8, when my best friend died.  

I remember, when my teacher called my parents to let them know that I was going to be able to attend the funeral. My mother didn’t fully realise I was quite aware and sensitive at that age. She turned to me and said, “you know this is a sad time, right?”  

All I wanted to do was honour his life. Even at the age of 8 years old, I understood the importance of celebrating the life of this beloved friend who spent many indoor recesses with me. 

I still think of James, the funeral and the ache his mother exhibited when she literally jumped on top of his open casket. It was a sight that I would never wish on anyone, ever.  Now, as a parent, my ache for James’ mother is a thought I would ever wish on any parent. 

Any personal opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author Rania Watts and not the Practitioner advertised in this website or social media.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-we-grieve-the-importance-of-mourning-loss_b_58de79c6e4b0d804fbbb7226

https://nycdirectcremation.com/why-do-people-grieve.html

https://www.centredaily.com/living/liv-columns-blogs/article196800144.html

By Rania Watts

I am so the last person to be writing about meditation, as I am genuinely not the breathe in an’ out type. I cannot sit still long enough to contemplate. However this last year, when I decided, after decades to finally return to school and take the Victimology Salimiana class, I was so incredibly grateful for self care. 

When I graduated, the subject of self care was really not discussed. That is such an injustice to the students of my programme. Now that being said, oddly enough with serendipity, my group was responsible for covering the benefits of meditation so I learned about various ways to meditate. 

I remember last year I was facilitating a breakout room for the antidote to human trafficking.The youth justice and interventions class had put together information to cover, and the subject that I was given was meditation. Everyone knew in my class that meditation was the last thing that I wanted to  engross myself into. However I genuinely appreciated how the woman who I was speaking to explained meditation and showed a way to meditate by using ‘singing’ bowls. With the onset of a sound at the beginning of the end of the meditation, I found that it made it more organised and easier to focus – in terms of silent meditation – knowing that it would eventually end once you heard the sound. If these types of medications are not for you, there are also other unconventional meditations… 

Walking Meditation: Kinhin Kinhin Instructions:

● Start with planted feet, hands relaxed on either side.

● Take a deep breath and note your feet rooting into the ground.

● Breathe naturally.

● Allow eyes to focus and walk slowly.

● Be aware of the sensations in your feet & whole body.

● Guide focused breath to steps.

● Walk 5-20 minutes.

● Once practice starts coming to an end, stand completely still and acknowledge how it feels.

Mantra Meditation

Mindful walking is a movement meditation which has its roots steeped in Buddhist Traditions.

The main purpose is to be aware of complex movement within the simplicity of walking. This

meditation, unlike other forms of mindful meditation, encourages breathing in the absence of effort.

The body will have sensations that will be felt in the feet, as there are numerous nerve endings at

the base of our bodies. Walking also allows higher body awareness more than a sitting

meditation. An added benefit is a more profound connection to the environment and a reduction in

anxiety.

Mantra meditation focuses on the repetition of a word, phrase or sound which is used to void the mind of stress. 

Instructions:

● 1- 2 minutes for step 1. Choose your favourite word, phrase or passage of a poem for the purpose of meditation. It would be something easily repeated, without feeling lost in the words. It is recommended to choose something that would inspire you.  

Instructions:

● 1-2 minutes for step 2. Sit wherever you feel comfortable – either on a chair or on the floor. It is essential to find a position that is poised, with the natural curves of the spine, to ensure that you will be still. Close the eyes and take deep slow breaths, then relax  the breath completely.

● 3-5 minutes for step three. Repeat the mantra slowly maintaining a steady rhythm of your breath. Split the mantra in half. The first segment comes with an inhale, and the other half of the mantra is said with the exhale. Or repeat both on exhalation and inhalation.

● 5-15 minutes for step four. After 10 recitations, repeat the mantra quietly by only moving your lips, which helps maintain a steady pace. After 10 more recitations, repeat it without moving the lips.

● While thoughts enter your mind, ensure to keep and maintain the mantra.

● Set quiet time to repeat. 

Breene, S. (2013, May 22). 10 Unexpected Ways to Meditate Every Day.

https://Pakwired.Com/9-Unusual-Meditation-Techniques-You-Should-Try/.

Harmer, S. (2015, September 17). 9 Unusual Meditation Techniques You Should Try.

https://Pakwired.Com/9-Unusual-Meditation-Techniques-You-Should-Try/

Leatherman, N. (2019, August 1). A Beginner’s Guide to Walking Meditation.

https://Chopra.Com/Articles/a-Beginners-Guide-to-Walking-Meditation

Schure,M.B., Christopher, J. and Christopher, S. (2011). Mind-Body Medicine and the Art

of self-care: teaching mindfulness to counseling students through yoga, mediation and

Quigong. Journal of Counseling and Development, 86(1), p. 47-56

OSHO Kundalini Meditation. (n.d.). Https://Www.Osho.Com/Meditation/Osho-ActiveMeditations/Osho-Kundalini-Meditation.

The Earthing Movie – The Remarkable Science of Grounding. (2019, November 19).[Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/44ddtR0XDVU

https://mindworks.org/blog/different-types-meditation-technique/

https://mindworks.org/mindfulness-meditation/benefits-meditation/

https://hminnovations.org/meditationapp?gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4X8BRCPARIsABmcnOrBHPROabmn4DJ2jlIpqH7cQ