Hey Friend,
I love having pretty nails as much as the next girl. Sometimes I’ll rock nail stickers, but other times… a certain shade of polish just calls my name, by golly! 🎨
I live by the 80/20 rule—super duper clean most of the time, with a little wiggle room for polish. But here’s the deal: while nail polish isn’t always the cleanest thing, it’s actually the removal process that can be the real troublemaker.
Why Switch to DIY Nail Polish Remover?
Most conventional nail polish removers rely on acetone—a harsh solvent that seeps into the skin, stings, and can build up in the body over time. Repeated exposure has been linked to headaches, respiratory irritation, and more. Yikes. 😬
That’s why I went on a little deep dive into safer nail care. And guess what? Certain essential oils can actually dissolve polish naturally—no acetone required.
This method is:
- ✨ Safer for your skin and nails
- 🌿 Free of harsh chemicals
- 💅 Effective, even on stubborn polish
- 🍊 Naturally fragrant (goodbye chemical fumes!)
What You’ll Need for Your Natural Nail Polish Remover
Before we get started, grab these ingredients and tools:
- 🧪 2 oz Glass Dropper Bottle – Perfect for storing and applying your remover.
- 🍊 Essential Oils:
- 2–3 drops Grapefruit essential oil
- 2–3 drops Orange essential oil
- 5–6 drops Lemongrass essential oil
These oils smell amazing and have natural cleansing properties that help break down polish.
- 💧 Rubbing Alcohol – Helps lift polish effectively.
- 🍎 White Vinegar – A gentle acidic agent that boosts cleaning power.
Step-by-Step: How to Make DIY Nail Polish Remover
🪄 Step 1: Add Your Essential Oils
Start by dropping your grapefruit, orange, and lemongrass oils into the clean 2 oz glass bottle. This combo smells so fresh and gives the remover its polish-dissolving magic.
🧪 Step 2: Mix the Solvents
Next, fill the bottle with two parts rubbing alcohol and one part white vinegar. This creates a powerful yet skin-friendly base.
🤝 Step 3: Shake to Combine
Secure the lid and gently shake the bottle. This blends the essential oils with the solvents so they can work together beautifully.
💅 Step 4: Remove Your Polish
Apply a few drops of the DIY remover to a cotton pad. Press it onto your nail for a few seconds, then gently wipe. Repeat as needed until all the polish is gone.
No harsh fumes. No chemical burn. Just clean, happy nails. 🙌
Why I Love This DIY
This recipe checks all the boxes:
- ✅ Non-toxic & safe for you and your family
- 🌿 Environmentally friendly—no acetone going down the drain
- 💰 Budget-friendly—you likely already have most ingredients at home
- 💅 Effective—because clean beauty should work, too!
Plus, it turns a routine task into a little self-care ritual. ✨
Final Thoughts
Switching to DIY nail polish remover is a simple step toward a healthier, cleaner beauty routine. This gentle, acetone-free remover keeps your nails and skin happy while supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.
Give it a try—I have a feeling you’ll never want to go back to the harsh stuff again. 💚
Here’s to pretty nails the natural way,
Terri
Empowering health one drop at a time
In today's fast-paced world, finding balance between work, family, and personal well-being can often feel overwhelming. Embracing natural health solutions like essential oils, whole foods, and mindful practices is a great way to regain control. These simple changes can lead to improved physical health, mental clarity, and even save you money, all while positively impacting the environment.
Getting started with a natural health lifestyle is easier than you might think. Begin by researching practices that resonate with you, such as incorporating essential oils or trying yoga. Gradually detox your environment and diet by using natural cleaners and consuming whole foods, which are both beneficial to your family's well-being and the planet.
Success in natural health comes from small, intentional changes. Begin by swapping one item, such as choosing herbal tea over soda, and invest in high-quality essential oils and fresh foods to see the most benefit. Build a supportive community and consider professional guidance to tailor your lifestyle changes, and remember—every small step you take contributes to a healthier, more intentional way of living.
Read more...
Hey Friend,
Did you know you can actually change whether you’re a night owl or a morning person? 🤯
Yep — your body’s internal clock isn’t set in stone. With just three consistent days, you can start to reset your circadian rhythm and wake up feeling more energized, focused, and ready to take on the day.
If mornings have always felt like a struggle bus 🚎, keep reading. I’ve got four simple (and science-backed!) habits you can stack into your morning routine to shift your natural rhythm.
1. Soak Up That Morning Sun ☀️
Morning sunlight within 30 minutes of waking is one of the most powerful ways to reset your internal clock.
Why it works: sunlight tells your brain, “Hey, it’s daytime!” This boosts alertness, improves mood, and helps your body know when it’s time to wind down at night.
👉 Step outside, even for 5–10 minutes—no sunglasses if you can help it. Let that light hit your eyes and skin.
2. Get Moving with Light Exercise 🚶♀️
You don’t need an intense workout—just a brisk walk, some gentle stretching, or a few yoga poses will do the trick.
Light exercise in the morning:
- Signals your body to wake up naturally
- Improves circulation and mental clarity
- Helps set your energy levels for the day
Bonus: combine this with your morning sunlight for double the impact!
3. Enjoy a Little Caffeine or Breakfast ☕️🍳
Whether it’s a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a nourishing breakfast, a small morning “anchor” helps cue your body that it’s time to be awake and alert.
The goal isn’t to rely on caffeine—it’s to use it strategically to support your rhythm. Pairing this with light movement and sunlight works like a charm.
4. Connect with People (and Pets!) 🐶🧍🏼
This one might surprise you, but social interaction plays a role in your internal clock, too!
A quick morning chat with a friend, a smile from your barista, or some snuggles with your dog can actually help reinforce your wake cycle.
Morning connection boosts mood, reduces stress, and tells your brain it’s time to engage with the world.
Reset Your Rhythm in Just 3 Days 🌅
By stacking these four simple habits every morning, you can teach your body to wake up earlier—without dragging yourself out of bed or relying on endless coffee.
Here’s the quick recap:
- ☀️ Morning sunlight within 30 minutes
- 🚶 Light exercise
- ☕️ A little caffeine or breakfast
- 🐶 Social interaction
Do this consistently for three mornings in a row, and you might be surprised at how naturally your body adjusts.
You’ve Got This 🙌
Shifting your sleep rhythm doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. With a few intentional habits, you can turn those groggy mornings into your new favorite part of the day.
So, are you Team Morning Person yet? 🌞
Hey friend,
This one’s for the ladies—because let’s be real: the luteal phase (that stretch of time after ovulation and before your period) can be rough. 😵💫
Mood swings? ✔️
Heightened emotions? ✔️
Impatience and irritability that seem to come out of nowhere? ✔️✔️
Heightened emotions? ✔️
Impatience and irritability that seem to come out of nowhere? ✔️✔️
No bueno.
But here’s the best part: you don’t have to just “deal with it.” There are simple, natural ways to support your body and bring things back into balance.
Essential Oils for Hormone Balance 🌿✨
The four oils I’m sharing today have the power to seriously change your life. We’re talking:
- 🌸 Total hormone balance
- 💆♀️ Less irritability and mood swings
- 🧠 A clearer, calmer mind
- 🙅♀️ No more hormonal headaches
These are some of my favorite tools for navigating that tricky time of the month with a little more ease and a lot more grace.
Start with Just One 🌼
If you’re new to essential oils or just want to keep it simple—start with just one. Seriously. You’ll notice the difference.
Apply topically (diluted) on your lower abdomen, diffuse throughout the day, or add to your evening routine for extra emotional support.
And if you’ve got loyalty points, this is the perfect time to cash them in and treat yourself to something that truly supports your well-being. 🙌
You Deserve to Feel Balanced ❤️
The luteal phase doesn’t have to control your mood or energy anymore. With the right natural hormone support, you can feel more steady, calm, and empowered all month long.
Give these oils a try—you might be surprised at how much easier this time of the month can be.
👉 Grab yours here and Balance Your Hormones Naturally
Hey Friend,
Our lives can feel SO full this time of year, am I right?! 🤪 Between school schedules, holiday prep, work projects, and just trying to keep up with everyday life, it’s no wonder that afternoon slump hits hard.
But here’s the good news: if you’re needing an extra boost of energy—without reaching for that third cup of coffee—I’ve got something you’re going to love.
Let’s talk about one of my absolute favorite essential oil blends for natural energy: En-R-Gee.
Why En-R-Gee Is a Game-Changer for Mental Clarity ✨
When my brain feels foggy and I’m running on fumes, En-R-Gee essential oil is my go-to. This powerful blend is designed to energize your body, sharpen your focus, and help you push through those long, busy days with more pep in your step.
👉 Simply diffuse it in your space or apply it (diluted) to your wrists and the back of your neck for a quick pick-me-up.
My Secret Midday Crash Fix 🔥
You know that 2 p.m. crash—the one that has you staring blankly at your screen or reaching for a sugary snack? 🙋♀️
Here’s my little secret weapon: I grab a Zing and a Nitro.
- Zing gives you a refreshing, lightly carbonated lift without the junk.
- Nitro provides a focused burst of energy with natural ingredients—no jitters, no crash.
The combo is seriously a game-changer for busy days when you need to keep going strong.
Keep Your Energy Flowing Naturally 🌿
Instead of pushing through exhaustion, why not support your body naturally?
With En-R-Gee, Zing, and Nitro, you’ll feel more alert, focused, and ready to tackle whatever’s next—without the caffeine overload.
With En-R-Gee, Zing, and Nitro, you’ll feel more alert, focused, and ready to tackle whatever’s next—without the caffeine overload.
If you’re ready to beat that midday slump and boost your energy the natural way, grab yours right here.
Hey friend,
You know I’m all about simple, natural things that actually work—and peppermint oil totally delivers. If you’ve got a fitness goal (or just want to feel strong and energized in your body), this little bottle might be your new best workout buddy.
Peppermint Oil and Athletic Performance: What the Science Says
Here’s where it gets exciting…
Researchers found that athletes who inhaled peppermint essential oil before exercise experienced some pretty amazing results:
- ✅ Squeezed out one more pushup (the one that makes you feel like a boss 💁♀️)
- ✅ Shaved 2 seconds off a quarter-mile run
- ✅ Felt more motivated overall
✨ The science-y folks explain that peppermint oil works by:
- Relaxing airway muscles (hello, easier breathing!)
- Boosting oxygen flow to the brain (better focus + endurance)
- Lowering blood lactate (aka: less burn, more go)
Peppermint Oil Reduces Fatigue and Frustration
We all know the mental side of working out can be just as tough as the physical side.
➡️ In one study, college athletes who inhaled peppermint on the treadmill reported feeling less tired and less frustrated.
And honestly—who doesn’t want that during a workout?
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Stronger, Longer, Better
Another group of athletes saw their performance stats skyrocket after using peppermint oil:
- 💪 50% harder effort
- ⚡ 20% more power
- ⏱️ 25% longer endurance
Yes, please! 🙌
That’s why I call peppermint my pre-workout without the sketchy ingredients. It gives me the kick I need—naturally.
How to Use Peppermint Oil for Energy
Here’s the best part: you probably already have a bottle in your cabinet. If not, grab one [here].
Ways to try it before a workout:
- Inhale straight from the bottle.
- Add a drop to your palms, rub, and breathe deeply.
- Diffuse in your workout space.
- Put a drop in water (Young Living peppermint is food-grade!) for a refreshing boost.
Why Quality Matters
PS: Remember, the studies were done with authentic peppermint essential oil—not the synthetic, grocery store stuff.
When you bought Young Living, you bought the best. That’s why you can expect the best results. There’s a reason Young Living is the leading essential oil company! 🌿
Final Thoughts
So whether you’re chasing a new PR, wanting to feel energized at the gym, or just need a natural pick-me-up, peppermint essential oil is the simplest, safest, and most refreshing way to power through.
Cheering you on (with oils in hand),
Terri 💚
Empowering health one drop at a time
Terri 💚
Empowering health one drop at a time
Hey friend,
Even if you don’t have insulin resistance (yet!), it’s so helpful to understand what it is and how to avoid it—because trust me, it can sneak up on anyone.
I honestly never thought insulin resistance would happen to me. But once I started digging deeper, it all made sense. Let’s break it down together (and don’t worry, I’ll share some blood sugar–friendly sweet treats too).
What Is Insulin Resistance (And Why Does It Happen)?
Insulin resistance happens when your cells stop responding properly to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. Instead of using sugar for energy, your body starts storing it—leaving you with blood sugar spikes, crashes, and eventually more serious issues if it’s not addressed.
Here are some common triggers:
- Injury or stress can set it off.
- Poor diet (too much processed food, not enough nutrients).
- Multiple pregnancies—that’s what did it for me.
- And sometimes? It just happens. #life
The good news? There are simple, natural ways to support healthy glucose levels.
My Go-To Tips for Balanced Blood Sugar
1. Essential Oils for Glucose Support
Certain essential oils can help your body stay more balanced after you eat carbs or sugar. I like to take 3–10 drops in a capsule (depending on your size and what you ate).
2. Stock Up on Glucose-Friendly Sweet Treats
Because yes—you can enjoy dessert without wrecking your blood sugar!
Recipe: Lighter Keto Ice Cream
Most keto ice cream recipes rely heavily on heavy whipping cream. But honestly? Most of us already get plenty of fat in our diet. So I lightened mine up with half and half + cottage cheese.
Here’s how to make it:
- 1 part organic half & half
- 1 part mashed cottage cheese (smooth, no lumps)
- Egg yolks (1 per cup of half & half)
- Dash of vanilla
- Optional: cocoa powder to taste
- A few squirts of stevia
Mix thoroughly, then pour into your frozen ice cream bowl (I use the KitchenAid ice cream attachment). In just a few minutes, you’ll have creamy, dreamy, blood sugar–friendly ice cream!
Pro tip: add chopped Chocox keto chocolate for extra yum.
Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cake
This one feels decadent, but it’s gluten-free, sugar-free, and perfect for pairing with your keto ice cream (or even Greek yogurt).
You’ll need:
- 8 large eggs (cold)
- 1 lb dark or semisweet chocolate (sugar-free if possible)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter
- Optional: powdered sugar + fresh berries
Step-by-step:
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Prep your springform pan with parchment + foil.
- Whip eggs in a stand mixer until doubled in volume (about 5 minutes).
- Melt chocolate + butter (gently—don’t overheat).
- Fold eggs into chocolate mixture.
- Pour batter into pan, place in a water bath, and bake 35–40 minutes.
- Chill before serving.
Enjoy! This one is rich, fudgy, and soooo good.
Final Thoughts
Insulin resistance doesn’t have to control your life. With a few smart swaps—like essential oils, and balanced desserts—you can keep your blood sugar steady and enjoy the sweet things in life.
You’ve got this, friend. 💛
Hey Friend,
Before you reach for that next supplement bottle…
Have you tried taking a walk today?
I know, I know—it sounds way too simple to do any real good. But here’s the thing:
Walking is one of the most powerful wellness tools we have—and it’s completely free.
Whether you're overwhelmed, foggy-brained, low on energy, or feeling emotionally heavy, walking can literally shift your chemistry.
🚶♀️ Why Walking Works Wonders for Your Body & Brain
Just 30 minutes of brisk walking, five days a week, has been scientifically linked to:
- 💗 19% lower risk of heart disease
- 💪 Improved blood sugar and insulin levels
- 🔥 Fat burning and reduced belly fat
- 🧠 Sharper brain function and uplifted mood
- 👣 40–50% reduced risk of early death (yes, seriously!)
And it’s not just about the physical benefits.
Walking boosts endorphins, calms your nervous system, and activates BDNF—a miracle protein that protects and grows your brain.
In fact, some studies say a daily walk can be just as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression.
🌿 I can’t count how many days I’ve walked out my front door feeling heavy-hearted, only to return home light, joyful, and renewed.
It’s a miracle… and a ministry.
🌞 How to Turn Your Walk Into Soul Care
Walking doesn’t require a gym. Or a class. Or fancy shoes.
All you need is:
- Your two feet
- A little sunshine
- Time with the Lord (prayer + podcasts count!)
Let’s not overcomplicate wellness.
You were made for peace, not pressure.
🍳 What We Learned From Our Glucose Monitors
My husband and I wear continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) — those little Dexcom patches that track blood sugar in real time.
Here’s what we noticed:
- I eat a simple, protein-rich breakfast every morning.
- He used to skip it and just drink coffee.
👉 Result? My blood sugar stays level.
👉 His? It spikes.
👉 His? It spikes.
Turns out, caffeine + stress + empty stomach = not a great combo for steady energy.
Now that he can see it on the graph, he’s finally eating breakfast with me!
🥚 Simple Protein-Boosting Tips for Morning Balance
Even if you’re not a “breakfast person,” a small protein-rich bite can:
- Stabilize blood sugar
- Wake up metabolism
- Fuel your brain and mood
Think of it like gas in your car—you won’t get far on empty!
Here are some easy protein wins:
✅ Track it – Awareness is step one
🍳 Crack eggs into burger patties or stir-fries
🌱 Stir in seeds (chia, hemp, flax)
🥣 Shake in collagen (Want my protein ice cream recipe? Hit reply!)
🍲 Use bone broth for soups and stews
🍰 Add protein powder to muffins and pancakes
🐟 Snack on seafood like sardines or smoked salmon
🍳 Crack eggs into burger patties or stir-fries
🌱 Stir in seeds (chia, hemp, flax)
🥣 Shake in collagen (Want my protein ice cream recipe? Hit reply!)
🍲 Use bone broth for soups and stews
🍰 Add protein powder to muffins and pancakes
🐟 Snack on seafood like sardines or smoked salmon
🧠 Still Want a Brain Boost? Here’s What I Take
If you’re insistent on a supplement for mental clarity and focus, I alternate between these two:
- Omega 3s – Healthy fats are critical for brain function.
- MindWise – A plant-based blend specifically formulated for brain support.
Would it be awesome to take both every day? Yep.
But even something is better than nothing, right?
I've heard powerful testimonies about MindWise — if you’re curious, reach out and I’ll share more!
🎯 Total Wellness = Habits + Supplements (In That Order!)
Let’s not forget:
Supplements support. Habits transform.
You can’t supplement your way out of bad habits.
But you can walk your way into healing, peace, and energy.
But you can walk your way into healing, peace, and energy.
Today’s Challenge for You:
- Take a walk.
- Eat a little breakfast.
- Add a little protein.
- Smile a little bigger.
- Talk to God as you go.
You’re doing better than you think. 💛
With you every step,
Terri Bonin
Empowering Health One Drop at a Time
