Tell us about the beginnings of The Garnet Shop and the inspiration
behind it?
Where did you hear about Norfolk Natural Living?
We try as much as possible to stock local produce. As we are based on
Norwich market in the heart of the city we get a lot of tourists and they love to
pick up something from Norfolk. We had discovered NNL sometime before on
a visit to Holt so they were one of the first stockists we approached. They are
still one of our biggest sellers!
We’re not just biassed, but you can’t beat Norwich Market or the Lanes. The
food stalls, cafes, little bistros, and independent shops really are wonderful.
You could spend an entire day browsing and eating… and finish it all off with
a glass of wine or ale on the terrace of The Garnet (of course)
If a customer asked for your favourite Norfolk Natural Living product
currently in store, which would you choose and why?
That’s a tough one, but we would have to say either Coastal Walks eau du
parfum, or the Garment Refresh. The fabulous thing about NNL products
aren’t just that they are beautifully packaged and incredibly effective… but
they smell so good! We always have a little spritz of the room spray every
morning before we open, and the first comment everyone says as they enter
the shop is always ‘oooh… smells amazing in here’
What’s currently your best selling product?
We can’t stock up on the eau du parfums quick enough! They are the perfect
size and price for either a little gift for a friend, or to have one in every
Handbag.
How to spend a weekend in Norwich?
Our favourite weekends would be a Saturday on the coast. We’re so spoilt for
coastal walks and towns you can’t possibly visit Norwich without visiting our
beaches. Then on Sunday a lovely wander through the Lanes, a glass of fizz
downstairs in the Jarrolds Food Hall, then a pub roast with friends. I mean,
can a weekend get better that that!
When I first started designing the Norfolk Natural Living collection, cedar balls were one of the first products we developed - and I was surprised when many members of our team had never used them.
]]>How do cedar moth balls work?
Made from 100% aromatic cedar wood, they have a very pleasant aroma and are a discreet and natural way of dealing with moths. Insects and other pests are naturally repelled by them, keeping your sweaters and woollens in the best possible condition after washing.
And the science behind it? It’s all in those rich natural oils in the wood. These oils discourage moths from laying their eggs in wool, due to the release of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. The continuous aroma ensures these insects aren’t attracted to your jumper drawer. And they really do smell rather gorgeous.
How to use cedar moth balls.
I just scatter these wherever our clothes are - whether they’re in drawers, a wardrobe, or in sealed boxes stored away for winter. For spare coats and jackets, we just pop them in the pockets.
How to stop moths from eating your clothes.
As ever, prevention is better than cure, but here are some basic tips that I’ve picked up in my quest for moth-free wardrobes:
Give cedar balls a try in your wardrobe, I’d love to hear about the difference they make in your home
Bella x
]]>Quick jump:
1.Be generous
2.Move your body
3.Educate yourself
4.Make a connection
5.Notice your everyday
Since finding the Five ways to Wellbeing I’ve put together 5 wellbeing tips based on this research in the hope it will inspire and uplift you too.
Nothing gives me more joy than giving to others and seeing the happiness it can bring. When we shift the focus from ourselves to helping others it can do wonders for our wellbeing.
Giving something, when it’s least expected, gives you the most wonderful feeling.
I have found so many different ways to incorporate this - either by gifting a thoughtful gift - you may have a friend who’s having a particularly stressful time at work, for whom our De-Stress on the Go gift set or candle could be the perfect way to make their day that little bit more bearable.
But gifts don’t have to be physical, simple acts of kindness in your everyday, like a simple Hello to a stranger, picking a bunch of garden flowers for a friend or leaving a secret note in your partner's lunch box to surprise them - can create a great sense of joy!
The gift of your time is invaluable - just picking up the phone to call an old friend can be quite wondrously uplifting for both of you.
Find a way to move your body that works for you, try taking yourself for a brisk 20 minute walk within half an hour of waking. It might be to grab your morning coffee or to take the dog round the block before snuggling back under the duvet for a lazy morning in bed at the weekend.
Not only does it create a great sense of achievement before you’ve even started your day - it is also proven to help regulate your circadian rhythm, so you will sleep better at night.
I’ve been surprised at how energised I feel throughout the day when I manage to fit in a morning walk, it sets you up for the day.
Sometimes if I have a window - I’ll allow myself that extra time on the weekend to do a Yoga session. I love to use a pulse point oil whilst I'm practicing. The Focus & centre made with a blend of Basil, Bergamot and Lavender and boosted with Carnelian and Amethyst gemstones - known for their ability to help focus the mind and create a sense of calm is usually my go to.
Whatever it is that inspires you to move your body, find something that brings you joy.
I’m constantly researching and finding out ways to live a healthier, more natural lifestyle.
Leonardo Da Vinci famously said that “Learning never exhausts the mind”, by exploring what I love it has been transformational for my own wellbeing.
It’s never too late to learn a new skill, humans are designed for life long learning, open your mind to new experiences you might surprise yourself. A great tip I was given was to set aside just 20 minutes a day to read a physical book - there’s nothing quite like turning a page.
I make a point of always having a chat with my local shop assistant making sure to put away my phone. Engaging in conversation with another human has been proven to release the same endorphins you get when you’re exercising.
We are made to be social creatures, however connection doesn't just mean human connection, it may be a connection to your pet, a spiritual connection or even the sun.
Connecting with others is so important and being part of a community is so beneficial to your personal well being. If you’d like to join the Norfolk Natural living community and hear more from like minded individuals please feel free to sign up here.
By simply choosing to notice what is around us we can find so much beauty and joy in our surroundings - even doing mundane tasks around the house can become imbued with magic.
Just making your bed in the morning - notice how wonderful it feels in the evening, pulling back the sheets and climbing in.
When sitting for lunch - perhaps gather a few flowers for the table - take a moment to enjoy the sweetness of the narcissi.
Allow yourself 10 minutes as you crawl into bed to give your feet a little massage. With over 7,000 different nerve endings in each foot - giving yourself a little time to rub your toes will not only help release toxins and cleanse neural pathways - it feels really good.
I hope these five wellbeing tips will inspire your weekend and bring helpful tips allowing you the freedom to find your own way to wellbeing. If you have any wellbeing hacks that you’ve found work for you, I would love to hear from you.
Bella x
]]>
Christmas is upon us, and finding the perfect gifts for teenagers can be a challenge. Teenagers, with their unique tastes and evolving interests, deserve thoughtful presents that reflect their personalities. In this guide, I explore some creative and trendy ideas to help you navigate the world of teenage desires and find the perfect gifts that will light up their holiday season.
With the rise of social media, houseplants have become one of the most wanted trends on 2023 - Instagram, in particular, has become a haven for foliage fanatics.
As a parent, you want to ensure that your teenager's bedroom is a place they love to spend time in. From décor to ambiance, it's all about creating a space that feels good. One underestimated way to achieve this is by adding some greenery to your teen's room. Not only do plants add aesthetic appeal, but they also come with some impressive benefits. Studies show that they can improve air quality, lower stress levels, boost productivity, and even elevate mood.
If you have a plant lover in your life, a Bonsai Tree Growing Set is a great gift - or for those who already have indoor plants - our Indoor Plant Food Set is a wonderful gift set that is perfect to fit in a stocking. Not only does this keep plants looking and feeling it’s best but it also makes a perfect display set!
The worst part about Christmas being over as a teenager is knowing that the January mock exams are just around the corner. For those who need a little help in staying focused, our Focus and Centre aromatherapy pulse oil has been synergistically blended specifically to help sharpen your mind and bring clarity to your thoughts. This uplifting blend will help to focus your mind and body. With a blend of Basil, Bergamot and Lavender - we have boosted it with Carnelian and Amethyst gemstones - known for their ability to help focus the mind and create a sense of calm. Our Pulse Point Oils can be purchased individually, as a trio or even the full set.
Imagine the beauty of nature captured in delicate pressed flower prints that are perfect for any teenager's bedroom. Combining the timeless charm of flowers with a modern aesthetic. From vibrant blooms to subtle foliage, our Pressed Flower Prints are a perfect addition to any teenager's room, bringing the outdoors inside and creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Our beautiful set of six Dried Flower Prints have each been hand picked, pressed and dried in Norfolk. Inspired by 19th-century scientific illustrations, each flower is identified with their Latin names beneath. Hung together, they make a wonderful display of wall art but these pieces look equally wonderful combined with other art work, or even seen individually.
Teenagers often prioritise skincare, making our Natural Deodorant an excellent choice. Free from harsh chemicals like aluminium, our refillable deodorants are gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation. Our commitment to sustainability extends to eco-friendly packaging, making it a gift that aligns with a teenager's desire for both quality and conscience. From invigorating citrus notes to soothing Aloe Vera, our natural deodorants offer a refreshing alternative to traditional options. The subtle fragrances provide a burst of energy, making them an ideal gift for teenagers who appreciate a touch of nature in their daily routine.
This holiday season, make a positive impact by choosing a gift that aligns with their values and contributes to a greener future. Gift fresh, gift consciously, and make this Christmas one to remember.
As always, please do let me know if you have any questions and I will do my best to help.
Talk soon,
B x
I love my Sundays, it’s my time when I can truly be present with myself, my mind and my body. It’s when I consciously choose to take time out to recharge. It’s amazing how our mind and body communicate with us, by regularly undertaking “me” time it helps me to understand what I need to be healthier and happier. This is why I wanted to share with you my weekly Sunday rituals and pop in a few of my current favorite ways to relax and recuperate.
1.Read
An absolute treat of mine on a Sunday is finding the time to disconnect by flipping through the pages of a new book. My current read is, Scent Magic, a beautifully written collection of poetry, gorgeously illustrated which takes you on a journey through the seasons by scent. It wonderfully describes the way that botanicals can easily seep into every part of our lives, this is a gardening book I actually get excited about and even get into bed early so I can pick it back up again.
2.Eat
Sundays for me are taking extra time to enjoy a relaxing time at the end of the weekend. If i’m having my girl friends over sometimes I’ll try my hand at a new cocktail recipe, this is one I will be trying today;
Using my (insert essential oil) I’ll let you know how I get on!
3.Relax
When I’ve put the children to bed on a sunday evening, I love to catch up on my favourite series, my light hearted chill out is currently working moms or Grace and Frankie, I love to pour myself (insert drink?) and
Or sometimes we just need to sit in our pajamas with some ice cream or favourite chocolate and have a good cry and a good binge on a series, I’d recommend the “The Split” or “This is us”.
I’d love to hear your favourite me-time treats - sharing and helping each other is the only way we can learn and grow. I’d love to be able to share your tips with our community. I hope you have a wonderful week and a deliciously relaxing Sunday.
Talk soon,
Bella x
The decision to hang or fold your laundry ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the types of clothing you own. A combination of both methods may be the most practical approach. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each method and following the tips provided, you can keep your wardrobe organised, minimise wrinkles, and make laundry day a little more manageable. Ultimately, the key is finding a system that works for you and helps you maintain an organised and functional wardrobe.
As always, please do let me know if you have any questions and I will do my best to help.
Talk soon,
B x
Winter can be such a cosy and joyful time, curling up by the fire, wrapping up for winter walks and delicious comfort food with friends and family. All of these seasonal highs can also lead to some less than welcome side effects. Harsher weather, a drier climate and indoor heat can wreak havoc on your skin, not to mention a richer diet….cheese overload anyone?
My hands especially seem to be the most affected and I’m always on the lookout for natural remedies to protect my hands and skin from the elements to keep them soft and supple. Here are my absolute essentials for keeping hands and nails during the winter
Colder conditions can lead to bad circulation and all sorts of skin conditions like dry skin, chilblains and eczema to name a few. Essential oils are such an important part of my everyday routine and Geranium Oil has to be at the top of my list, not only is it antibacterial and anti-inflammatory but it’s also known for its moisturising properties and its ability to calm skin irritation and inflammation.
For Chill-blains : Usually it is the fingers, but for me it's always my toes, my mother her ears. I just pop one neat drop of Geranium oil directly onto the chill-blain for two days.
Beautifully nourishing for your cuticles and when your skin is in need of some extra TLC. Formulated with 6 botanical oils known for their wonderfully healing and skin reviving qualities, I love to use this at night on my hands for an intensive treatment and for added moisturisation on my face during the day, perfect for getting rid of fine lines and wrinkles or when your skin feels dull or dehydrated.
For your Hands: Gently massage into your nails and cuticles at night or whenever your hands feel sore or dehydrated.
3.Gloves
Like our feet, our hands are a good distance from our heart so cold hands are commonplace during winter, this is why it’s so important to protect your hands. Cold dry air can suck the moisture out of your skin leading to dry, chapped hands or worse. Wearing gloves is vital for keeping your hands safe from the perils of winter weather and keeping you warm. Another reason for cold hands can be due to circulation, when our bodies are exposed to a cold environment your body reacts by trying to preserve your core temperature, another reason to bundle up well and wear gloves when you can.
The ultimate defence against dry winter skin is to use a rich and effective moisturiser which will repair and retain your skin barrier and keep your skin healthy and hydrated. It’s important to choose a moisturiser that suits you and your skin type. I designed the Gardener’s Nourishing hand cream to be rich and soothing, ideal for working hands after a day in the garden and ideal for intense moisturisation for the colder weather. Utilising the naturally powerful properties of essential oils combined with Vitamin E and Shea butter for added moisturisation, this hand cream is my absolute favourite for keeping my hands protected.
I hope my essential products for the winter season will help to alleviate and hydrate your skin and leave you feeling nourished and ready to brace the colder weather with confidence.
Talk soon,
Bella x
Christmas is an abundance of food, festivities and joy and one of my favourite parts of it has to be the food. A shared meal can bring people together; gathered around a table stories are told, memories are created and love is abundantly grown.
If you’re anything like me I have a habit of cooking for a small army so I'm always left wondering what to do with my post-christmas leftovers and love finding new recipe ideas to use up my leftovers making sure food doesn’t go to waste.
I asked all of our artisans at the workshop for their go-to christmas leftover recipes; Turkey pie or a Turkey curry seemed to be the most popular to the more unusual cranberry sauce muffins and even a christmas dinner in a giant yorkshire pudding! However, the Roast Turkey Ramen definitely won my vote.
Roast Turkey Ramen:
If you’re looking for something a bit different than your standard turkey sandwich try a Roast Turkey Ramen. I love japanese food and Ramen is the ultimate japanese comfort food, simple, nourishing and super tasty.
Ingredients (serves 2) :
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
12 Oz shiitake mushrooms
2 Garlic cloves
1200 ml chicken stock, turkey or vegetable stock
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 blocks dried ramen noodles, seasoning packets removed
3 to 4 ounces roasted turkey
4 spring onion, sliced
2 Nori sheets
2 or 4 eggs, soft boiled or poached
2 tablespoons chilli garlic paste
3 teaspoons black sesame seeds
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 handful fresh coriander
Method
Food is not only meant to nourish and sustain us but also to fulfill us, it is such an important part of our physical and emotional wellbeing and is one of the simplest and most beautiful ways to show you care.
Let me know if you try this delicious Ramen and if you have any other Christmas leftover recipes for me to try!
Hope you all have a wonderful yuletide break.
Bella x
What is it Balneotherapy?
Balneotherapy is an ancient practice that has been enjoyed for centuries, for its well being benefits. Nowadays bathing is usually practiced at spas or if you’re anything like me, it’s a daily indulgence (if I have the time) at home. As early as the 1st century and King Herod's reign humans have been seeking solace in the waters of a hot bath.
Stemming from the Greek Balneae, Balneotherapy is the belief that hot waters containing naturally occurring minerals can provide wonderfully effective medicinal benefits. Hot springs, public baths and thermal medicine for therapeutic effects have been a central part to human health for very good reason.
How does it work?
Based on Scientific evidence, Balneotherapy has so many benefits for your mind and body from simply bathing and immersing yourself in mineral rich water. From relieving sore muscles and a whole host of conditions like arthritis to relieving stress.
The interesting thing about balneotherapy compared to hydrotherapy (where only tap water is used) is the fact that the benefits are brought about by the physical properties of natural minerals or mud combined with their chemical and biological composition. In simple terms, natural springs and spas contain minerals already and many spas around the world have adopted this practice by either utilising naturally occurring springs or recreating their own by adding natural minerals.
The most important part of the therapy is heat, it enhances the benefits by enabling these natural properties to be released slowly, gently alleviating aches and pains. Natural minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium are absorbed into your body during a soak correcting deficiencies and healing ailments.
How to create your own balneotherapy experience?
By adding bath salts and essential oils you can recreate the effects of balneotherapy easily at home. An aromatherapy bath is my ultimate luxury; containing a delightful melody of 84-mineral rich ancient salts including Epsom, Himalayan and Magnesium I designed the bath salts to suit every mood.
If I'm in need of an extra boost in the morning and I have some extra time I add my energising boost formulation which helps to encourage positive energy, enhance mood and create increased alertness. This carefully curated essential oil blend releases the effects of uplifting grapefruit, white thyme renowned for its courage enhancing and spirit lifting properties and basil oil creates an optimistic atmosphere.
Or for an indulgent evening time bath try I reach for my Lavender Bath calming remedy rich in soothing magnesium.
Simply add a generous sprinkle of our delicately scented bath soak into a warm bath, lie back and take three deep breaths. Sultry notes of essential oils fill the air, to help you truly relax. I love to immerse myself in a hot bath in the evening before bed to help me sleep.
Although taking a quick trip to a Japanese onsen or to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland may not be realistic, hopefully this has helped inspire you to create your own naturally detoxifying, relaxing and rejuvenating experience at home.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>Lavender always reminds me of my Grandmother, there would always be a hand-made lavender filled heart filling the spare bedroom with its calming scent. I always seemed to have the best sleep whilst staying at my Grandmother's house. Whilst this is a lovely memory I had no idea at this point how beneficial Lavender is for improving sleep quality. It’s definitely making a comeback and there's a good reason for it too. Lavandula Angustifolia, commonly known as english lavender has been used in medicine since medieval times, recent scientific studies have led to a revival of this super herb so I thought it was a good time to explore whether Lavender really does help you sleep.
So why is Lavender so good for sleep? Studies show that those who inhale lavender have enhanced mood, increased relief from anxiety and overall improved health and wellbeing. Essential oils are a great way to heal yourself naturally and Lavender is one of my top essential oils for its multitude of benefits.
1.Diffusing Lavender
A great way to use Lavender is to diffuse a pure essential oil
Lavender essential oil x 3 Drops
Fill your electric diffuser with purified water, add 3 drops of Lavender essential oil and let the essential oil fill the room with its relaxing aroma. I love to do this before bedtime or even whilst I sleep. In warmer weather pop next to a fan for a cooling and soothing sleep. Alternatively there are many diffusers on the market, our Lavender reed diffuser set is a beautiful and simple way to release the powers of Lavender into your space.
2.Topical Lavender
Another great way Lavender can be used is to use it topically, Lavender is my wonder oil, it can be used for both the mind and the body. With its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to de-stress, it is known to soothe angry and irritated skin flare-ups like eczema and psoriasis which can often be triggered by anxiety. It can also be used to treat sunburn, bug bites and even acne.
Lavender essential oil x 1 Drop
Apply neat Lavender essential oil covering the entire affected area, it may be surprising just how much area one drop can cover or add a couple of drops to your face cream or a carrier oil to experience its antioxidant effects.
3.Lavender bath
When I’m feeling particularly stressed I will always try to make time for a bath. For me, this is my ultimate stress reliever and sleep inducing aid. Draw the most perfect herbal calming bath to help soak your stresses away.
Lavender essential oil 3-6 drops
For added luxury:
Epsom salts 1-2 cups
Carrier oil (Jojoba is my favourite) 1 Tablespoon
If you’re not a bath person, perhaps a pillow mist would work well for you; or combine both by following your bath by misting gently over your pillow with this floral wood aroma, sending you into a deep slumber.
4.Lavender for sleep
Scientific studies have revealed Lavender to be a mild sedative, used to combat insomnia; it actually increases the time spent in deep slow-wave sleep. Some studies suggest that Lavender taken orally lowers anxiety as effectively as a low dose of anxiety medication, these effects are also apparent when diffused or inhaled. Or you could light one of our soy wax candles and let the aroma infuse your home to reap the benefits of this wondrous herb.
I hope that this has enlightened you about how wonderfully powerful lavender really is and I hope that it will give you that well deserved nights sleep you’re striving for and an overall sense of calm and wellbeing.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>It’s that time of year again when everything in sight is blooming, your garden has come back to life and the sun is shining. The arrival of spring and the buzz of summer on the horizon brings that feeling of joy we’ve been eagerly waiting for.
However, if you’re anything like me, seasonal allergies always seem to put a dampener on the jubilation summer can bring. Hayfever can be so irritating, streaming eyes and a constant runny nose leads us all to traipse to the local pharmacy to clear the shelves of their strongest antihistamine.
Support your symptoms with essential oils:
Whilst it might feel like the only option is to use medication to get through the day, there are many natural ways to support your symptoms and make you feel human again, one of these being essential oils.
If your space allows diffuse the following essential oils to alleviate the symptoms of hayfever, diffusing and inhalation will relieve your symptoms quicker:
Lavender essential oil
Lavender with its floral, herbaceous and fresh aroma is my wonder oil. This multi use essential oil is antimicrobial, antiseptic, calming and can also relax your breathing. I like to keep stocked up especially during the summer months as it’s also great for allergy related rashes, hives and even sunburn.
Rosemary essential oil
Rosemary contains a compound called cineole which helps to break down mucus and also reduces inflammation and pain. Rosemary is my absolute saviour when my Hayfever starts to rear its ugly head as it also boosts mental activity which is needed when you’re suffering and feeling under the weather.
Eucalyptus essential oil
Eucalyptus which blends really nicely with lavender in a diffuser or steam inhalation aids with congestion and inflammation making it a firm choice for my top three essential oils for Hayfever. The cooling sensation you experience whilst breathing in Eucalyptus is the ideal treatment for respiratory ailments.
Tea Tree essential oil
Tea tree, known for its antibacterial properties helps to destroy fungal, mould and bacteria particles in the air which in turn will reduce your allergy symptoms. A known antiseptic, when diluted it's a great remedy for skin allergies. It also helps to relax the nasal muscles which clears out mucus and allergens like pollen.
Hayfever Relief remedy:
Hayfever can be exhausting, I love to add the following combination to my bath, relax and breathe deep inhaling this healing aroma whilst resting my weary muscles:
Chamomile essential oil x 2 Drops
Lavender essential oil x 1 Drop
It’s important to note that Hay Fever can affect people in different ways, treatment therefore is often a case of trial and error. It’s important to experiment with essential oils to find the right one or combination for you. I hope these suggestions will help you to find a more natural way of tackling your Hayfever.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>
Summer is finally here and most of us are getting ready for holidays or spending far more time outdoors trying to lap up every spare moment in the sunshine.
With the warmer weather and soaring temperatures you are more prone to sun related issues like Heatstroke or prickly heat. To make sure you enjoy your summer holidays naturally and safely, read about my favourite natural remedies for four different types of heat exhaustion using essential oils.
1.Prickly Heat essential oil remedy:
Prickly heat is a rash of tiny blisters usually caused by blocked sweat glands. They can be extremely itchy and can affect any part of the body in the heat. Try to keep as cool as possible and expose the area to air. Apply a splash of the following remedy to the affected area for instant relief:
Eucalyptus essential oil x 6 Drops
Lavender essential oil x 6 Drops
Chamomile essential oil x 6 Drops
Dilute in a teaspoon of alcohol and shake in a quarter of a litre of spring water. Or try a warm bath with 4 drops each of eucalyptus and lavender essential oils.
2.How to heal Sunburn naturally:
Sunburn can be so painful and no matter how much we try to avoid it, it happens to all of us at some point. The most effective treatment is the miraculous essential oil, Lavender. With all burns the first thing to do is to remove the heat from the skin; make sure to immerse the burn in cold water for ten minutes at least, adding ice if possible.
Lavender essential oil x 1 Drop
Apply neat Lavender essential oil covering the entire affected area, it may be surprising just how much area one drop can cover (use eucalyptus if you don’t have Lavender). By morning you won’t notice a thing but try to avoid the sun for the next two days and as always make sure to wear sunscreen.
3.Essential oil remedy to help with Heat Cramps:
Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that generally occur during exercise in a hot environment due to loss of electrolytes and dehydration. Massage the legs with the following:
Geranium essential oil x 2 Drops
Eucalyptus essential oil x 3 Drops
Diluted in 1 teaspoon vegetable oil.
4.Natural remedy for Heatstroke:
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats due to extreme weather or exercise. It can easily turn into heatstroke which can be life threatening. When your core body body temperature is greater than 104 F or (40 C) or higher then this can cause all sorts of issues including serious damage to the brain and internal organs. The temperature must be brought down immediately and treatment continued for at least 48 hrs until it is alleviated.
Immerse the body in cold water to which you have added the following:
Eucalyptus essential oil x 4 Drops
Lavender essential oil x 4 Drops
You can also pour icy water directly onto the body whilst also applying neat eucalyptus to the temples and back of the neck. Make sure to move the affected person into a cool indoors area and sponge the body down frequently with ice cold water over the next 48 hrs. Make sure to drink plenty of water, adding a teaspoon of salt per litre to rehydrate.
I hope these four ways to use essential oils to avoid heat related ailments will help you to enjoy your summer naturally, safely and worry free.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>
I am excited to share with you how Yoga can be beneficial for your mind and your body. Yoga, an ancient practice and meditation, has helped me personally with my overall health and wellbeing and I think anything that brings us joy is worth sharing. Of course it’s not for everyone, you might love running or hiking instead or have your own wellbeing strategy but for those of you who are Yoga lovers or are interested in perhaps delving into this practice you might be surprised by some of the benefits it can bring.
There have been numerous scientific studies highlighting Yoga’s value in healthcare. It has been proven to benefit those suffering a multitude of ailments including; arthritis, women's health, chronic pain, oncology and other specialities. It’s no wonder pro athletes including professional football players are using this method to enhance their performance and strengthen their minds and bodies.
The slow movements and deep breathing at the core of yoga practice increases blood flow and warms up your muscles, whilst holding yoga poses builds body strength. Yoga soothes tension and can boost your energy and endurance levels. Yogic practices are most obviously known for increased flexibility, it gradually loosens the muscles and connective tissues around the joints easing aches and pains. It also helps to build muscle mass and strength. Try the Yoga stretch kit, our indulgent post yoga trio to soothe and recuperate tired muscles.
I could physically see the changes in my body from starting Yoga but was dubious about Yoga actually having an impact on my overall health including my mental health. After what has now been years of practicing I now know how therapeutic yoga can be, not only has it enhanced my wellbeing but has also given me a much better quality of life. My sleep patterns have improved, I feel more satisfied and at peace with myself and others and it's given me a sense of balance and union between my mind and body. This is what inspired me to create the yoga essentials kit.
I started doing yoga as I was starting to feel burnt out, a friend of mine suggested yoga and I haven’t looked back. I make sure to set time aside for it at least once a week. It's my time away from the chaos and distractions of life where all I have to focus on is my breath and the next pose I'm doing. It helps me to manage stress in a healthy way. I’ve also found it helps with weight control, mindful eating and body image bringing a heightened self awareness that transcends into all aspects of my life.
Yoga develops inner awareness, by harnessing the power of meditation and breath work and the mind-body connection. You are present in that moment, focused on your body's abilities. I love to take three deep breaths and light a candle when practicing. I designed the Yoga travel candle with the hectic pace of life in mind. This way you can bring a sense of calm to any environment when you’re on the go with minimal effort. Try this quick meditation if you're limited on time.
One of the main goals of yoga is to achieve tranquility of the mind. Consistent yoga can actually lead to significant increases in serotonin levels. Now seen as a mind and body medicine, Yoga is recognised for its therapeutic effects in stress management. Research has shown that people who practice yoga have reduced levels of cortisol. A high stress lifestyle can cause all manner of illnesses which is why we should be making stress management a priority in the search for a healthier way of living.
Power pose for the mind
Viparita Karani: which translates to ”Inverted”
First, diffuse essential oil in the air. I love to use our energising boost essential oil remedy which helps to stimulate the mind and reawaken your senses. Try this simple pose to alleviate migraines, improve digestion, and help relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Whilst modern medicine has its place in healing physical and psychological diseases, it has been argued that a purely medical approach is less effective in healing the intellectual and emotional side of the human mind. Yoga can offer a timeless and holistic model of health and healing and whilst it may not eliminate some physical or adverse conditions of the body it offers a holistic path of healing and wellbeing.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>
Why Refill?
I’ve had quite a few customers chat to me about how they were keen to lower their impact on the environment and find more sustainable and eco-friendly ways of living. It's so important to me that as a company we are doing everything we can to help the world we live in not only for ourselves but for our children and future generations.
Refills are now becoming far more popular, we are all recognising how important it is to be consumer conscious and how we can live more sustainably to lower our impact on the environment and reduce waste but also save ourselves money in the process.
This is why I wanted to make sure refills were available for those choosing to opt for a sustainable alternative.
Yesterday being world refill day, I thought I take this opportunity to explore and explain why refills are so important to me.
Are refills sustainable?
A great way to live sustainably is to think about how and what we are consuming. It is so easy to get caught up in what has become a throwaway culture. It may be an easier option to live in this way but how do the choices we make impact the world we live in? As an alternative to creating more waste to throw into landfill, refills are a great way to live in a way that is eco conscious, preventing pollution and further damage.
I often wonder how big of a difference little old me will actually make but I have to remind myself that it really is about the small choices we collectively make every day which will eventually work together to make a much bigger difference.
How will using refills help the planet?
I’m sure all of us are fully aware of David Attenborough’s campaign for nature to be recognised in a fight against climate change and the importance of human beings' impact on the environment. Packaging makes up a huge part of pollution which is why it’s so important to be aware of what your products are made of but also what they’re packaged in.
Refills allow you to continually use the container from your initial purchase therefore reducing unnecessary plastic waste, recycling plastic is much less effective than you might think. Only 7% of plastic waste is actually successfully recycled or repurposed with the rest going to landfill or worse being dumped into our oceans. This has led me to exploring alternatives, refills seemed to be the ideal solution plus our refills pouches are 100% recyclable.
How can I save money using refills?
Not only are you saving money but you are also saving the environment. Refills are a great way to use less waste but also save those pennies. With the rising cost of living it’s so important that we are getting the most out of our hard earned money. Which is why it is important for me to provide refills for those that wish to make that choice. Like buying in bulk, this is an eco-friendly way to order your products which will last longer and use less waste. It’s a win-win.
This is also the reason why I created Subscribe and Save. When I find a product that I love I will buy it over and over again. With a subscription you get an extra 20% off and it means that you can have your favourite item delivered to you without having to constantly reorder. You keep full control, including swapping out fragrances or products, choosing your own delivery schedule, skipping orders and changing payment schedule if needed.
I would love to hear if you have any ideas about refills or whether you have any tips on living more sustainably?
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>
Opting for a natural laundry detergent may seem daunting and leave you wondering whether it actually is as effective. Choosing a natural laundry alternative is becoming more of a necessity not only for the environment but also your health.
Why choose a natural laundry detergent?
For something that cleans our clothes and essentially comes into contact with our skin every day, why aren’t we more cautious about the ingredients in our laundry detergent? It might be that like me, you have sensitive skin, or perhaps you are opting for a more ethical and environmentally friendly option. Whatever the reason for choosing an eco-friendly, natural alternative, the benefits outweigh a synthetic washing detergent by a mile. Generic detergents are often packed full of toxic chemicals which are not only an irritant but will pollute our waterways and damage the world we live in.
What makes laundry detergent eco friendly?
Eco friendly seems to be a popular term at the moment but what does it actually mean? There are so many supposedly ‘green’ products out there that it can be tricky to determine what you’re buying and what’s worth investing in. The official definition of eco-friendly is ‘not harmful to the environment’ and when it comes to products, everything from production to packaging must be safe for the environment. This is why it was so important to me to uphold our ethos and create a detergent following these guidelines. All of our packaging is PET, a sustainable solution with a lower carbon footprint which is highly recyclable. You can also buy refills which again, leads to a more sustainable and eco friendly way of living, the detergent is highly concentrated and hand made in small batches in the UK. It also helps to choose products that are local to you if you can, I alway try my best to shop local or at least UK based.
Benefits of using natural laundry detergent
Natural laundry detergent is especially good for those of us with sensitive skin, a good friend of mine has recently spoken to me about what a difference in their overall skin health changing from normal to natural detergent has made. Ours is free from harsh chemicals, parabens, phosphates, chlorine, phthalates and bleach which can all cause irritation and are well known to cause allergic reactions. These harsh toxins can be so damaging and by making a simple choice to change over to natural detergent is so worth it, I know that I could never go back to using normal laundry detergent now that I’ve realised the harsh reality of the effects it has.
How effective is natural laundry detergent?
So, the burning question I get asked a lot, is natural detergent as effective? Does it work? Many people are hesitant to make the switch however the naturally derived surfactants and earth-sourced cleaning agents that are now available are super effective at removing a multitude of stubborn stains. The simple answer is yes, I would never go back to using unnatural detergent as the natural option is just as effective and I sleep better at night knowing that I'm doing my bit for the planet, my health and my children. This was the reasoning for creating natural laundry detergent that is safe, great for every day washing but equally kind and gentle for sensitive skin.
For me, choosing a natural laundry detergent is the right choice for our health and the environment. I hope that you have found this helpful and if you’d like to learn more about our products you can shop our Garment care here.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>
We all need a little boost sometimes, perhaps you wake up tired and listless and need something that will help you to start your day feeling refreshed and ready for exercise or perhaps you need an energising remedy to help heal your body after your workout.
For a quick remedy try our energising shower mist which combines wondrously uplifting grapefruit essential oil helping to reduce stress blended with red thyme essential oil creating a spirit lifting and mood enhancing shower experience.
Exercise can actually boost your energy levels, it delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. And when your heart and lung health improve, you have more energy to tackle your day.
Life is busy. It can be overwhelming, exciting, stressful, blissful and crazy all at the same time. I’m often so busy balancing work and home life that occasionally it all gets a bit too much and I start to feel a bit drained. I’ve realised If you continue at full throttle you will eventually run out of steam which is why I’ve come up with a few solutions for preventing burn-out and seeking a more balanced state of being. It’s important to check up on yourself from time to time to see if there are simple alterations that can help you to feel refreshed and renewed.
How to avoid burn-out
Burn-out can happen when you’ve been under stress for a long period of time, it can happen to all of us at any stage of life for all kinds of reasons if we do not take care of our natural resources. There are a few things you can try to implement which will build up your energy stores and avoid exhaustion; I try to make sure I start and finish work at preordained times and when feeling particularly overwhelmed, focusing on your breathing will slow down your pulse rate. I find it helps to open a window or step outside and focus on simple breathing techniques. Simply inhale taking in large volumes of air, then exhale slowly, do this several times, once a day at least.
How to feel refreshed
If you’re feeling like you need a reviver at the moment, especially after all of the jam packed jubilee celebrations this bank holiday weekend, try the following refresh and renew reviver recipe:essential oil formula for an instant pick me up at any time:
You will need - Lavender essential oil, Eucalyptus essential oil, Rosemary essential oil
Add 5 drops of Lavender, 8 drops of Eucalyptus and 4 drops of Rosemary essential oils to a bottle of water or mix with a dispersant and keep in the fridge. Ideally used to splash all over yourself as an ice cold reviver after a warm bath, but equally effective as a refresher in the morning or throughout the day when you need a boost. Have a prepared bottle of essential oils ready to diffuse or spray throughout the day in an open space or pop the solution on to a tissue or handkerchief and breathe deep or pop a dab of oil on the space between your nose and upper lip.
How to Fight off fatigue
Regular exercise is also essential; it can help to keep you healthy which will fight off fatigue, it also gives us those feel good endorphins and strengthens the heart providing you with a sense of wellbeing. It can be as simple as introducing a quick walk during your lunch break. Try to choose an option you can easily fit into your schedule without it feeling like a massive chore.
I hope these ideas will inspire you and help you to feel refreshed as they have for me. I would love to hear if you try any of my suggestions or if you have any ideas that work for you to avoid burn-out and to feel revived.
Talk soon,
Bella x
]]>