Apparently, we had lost it.
A few months ago, my husband and I decided it would be a good idea to start training at Iron Sports, a Ninja Warrior gym that has sent quite a few competitors to American Ninja Warrior.
Don’t be impressed.
I do NOT suspect either of us will be competing on national television anytime soon. 😂
When we started, we could barely hang from a bar, much less swing across one or knock out pull-ups during the group warm-up.
It was humbling.
Actually, it was embarrassing. 😂
We had officially become living proof of the saying:
If you don’t use it, you lose it.
And friends…
we had lost it.
Your Body Needs to Be Used
Nothing dramatic happened to either of us.
We simply stopped doing certain things.
We weren't hanging from bars.
We weren't pulling our body weight.
We weren't stretching very much.
We weren't regularly asking our bodies to move in ways that required balance, flexibility, grip strength, or agility.
And slowly, without really noticing it, our bodies had gotten a little…
rickety.
But then something interesting happened.
A few months of consistently asking our bodies to do more, and we were hanging, swinging, stretching, climbing, and doing pull-ups.
Are we Ninja Warriors?
Absolutely not. 😂
But we are stronger.
We're more flexible.
We move better.
And things that felt almost impossible a few months ago now feel much more normal.
That has been such a good reminder for me:
Our bodies were made to MOVE.
Movement Is About More Than Exercise
Life gets busy, and it's incredibly easy to reduce “movement” to walking from the car to the grocery store and carrying twelve bags inside at once because apparently making two trips is a character flaw. 😂
But everyday movement matters.
Our muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments are designed to move. And as we get older, maintaining strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and mobility becomes especially important for staying active and doing the things we enjoy.
That doesn't mean you need to become a gym rat.
It doesn't mean you need to train for American Ninja Warrior.
And it certainly doesn't mean you need to spend hours exercising every day.
It means we need to keep asking our bodies to do things.
The “Use It or Lose It” Principle
Think about what happens when you stop doing something for a long time.
The first time you try it again, it may feel awkward.
Maybe your balance isn't what it used to be.
Maybe reaching overhead feels stiff.
Maybe getting down on the floor isn't as easy as it once was.
Maybe your grip isn't what it used to be.
Maybe climbing stairs leaves you thinking, Well, that was humbling.
That's not necessarily a reason to give up.
It can be a reason to start using those abilities again.
Our Iron Sports experience reminded me that our bodies can adapt when we consistently challenge them within our abilities.
What feels difficult today may feel surprisingly normal after you've practiced it for a while.
You Don't Need a Ninja Gym to Move More
Here's the good news:
You don't need a Ninja gym.
You don't need an elaborate workout plan.
You don't need fancy equipment.
You just need to start using what you've got.
Take the walk.
Stretch while you're watching TV.
Get down on the floor.
Practice getting back up.
Hang from something that's secure and appropriate for you.
Lift something.
Dance in your kitchen.
Do a few squats while you're waiting for your coffee.
Reach.
Bend.
Push.
Pull.
Walk.
Stretch.
Play.
Move.
The goal isn't to prove how athletic you are.
The goal is to remind your body that you're still planning on using it for a very long time. ❤️
Today's Tip: MOVE YOUR BODY
Today's tip is simple:
MOVE YOUR BODY.
I especially love the agility tips from Vanja Moves, because they make movement feel practical, playful, and approachable.
You don't have to do everything.
Pick one thing.
Take a walk.
Try some gentle mobility exercises.
Practice your balance.
Strengthen your legs.
Work on your grip.
Stretch.
Dance.
Just move a little more than you did yesterday.
And if you're starting something new, start where you are and progress gradually. Your body doesn't need you to prove anything. It needs consistency.
What I Use to Support an Active Lifestyle
Of course, movement is the foundation. Products can simply be part of the routine surrounding it.
AgilEase for Joint Health
I like keeping AgilEase next to my coffee maker as a reminder to take it with breakfast, following the product directions.
AgilEase is formulated with ingredients including Frankincense, Clove, and Copaiba and is designed to support joint health, flexibility, and mobility.
For me, it's a convenient addition to the rest of my active-lifestyle routine.
But no supplement replaces the actual work of moving your body.
That's still our job.
Ortho Sport Massage Oil After an Active Day
After a day when I've asked a little more of my body, I also like Ortho Sport Massage Oil as part of a soothing massage routine.
It combines vegetable oils with essential oils including Oregano, Peppermint, Thyme, and Wintergreen and provides a cooling sensation when massaged onto the skin.
Follow the product's label directions for topical use, and remember that essential oils and products containing them aren't appropriate for everyone.
For me, it's one more little signal that the active part of the day is over and it's time to take care of my body.
Start Where You Are
Maybe you're reading this thinking, “Terri, I can barely get through the grocery store without my body complaining. You're talking about hanging from bars!”
I hear you.
I'm not suggesting everyone needs to start climbing, swinging, or doing pull-ups.
Start where you are.
If walking is where you are, walk.
If stretching is where you are, stretch.
If you need to work on balance, start there.
If getting up and down from the floor is difficult, that's useful information—and something you can work on safely and gradually.
Your starting point doesn't matter nearly as much as continuing to move forward.
Because the goal isn't to become a Ninja Warrior.
It's to remain capable of doing the things you want to do.
For a very long time.
What Part of Your Body Complains First?
We all have that one spot, don't we?
The neck.
The shoulders.
The knees.
The lower back.
Or maybe the entire body sends you a group text when your schedule gets too busy. 😂
What's the part of your body that always tells you the schedule is packed?
I'm curious where everyone else feels it first.
To staying loose,
Terri
Terri
My husband and I go to bed a solid TWO HOURS before our teenagers do.
We’re done.
They are not. 😂
Apparently, 9:00 p.m. is when teenagers suddenly remember they’re hungry, need to wash something for tomorrow, want to tell you a 17-minute story, or become extremely productive.
And this has been true for each of my 11 children!
Meanwhile, their dad and I are fluffing our pillows and preparing to call it a day.
But just because I’m going to bed doesn’t mean I stop mothering.
IYKYK.
I encourage bedtime in all my subtle little ways.
The lights get dimmer.
The house gets quieter.
And I put calming essential oils in the diffusers.
Basically, I’m sending one giant aromatic message throughout the house:
People. It is time to wind this operation DOWN. 😂
Nobody is forcing four teenagers into bed anymore. Those days are long gone.
But I can set the atmosphere.
Why a Calming Bedtime Routine Matters
Our environment can become part of our daily routines. The same lights, sounds, activities, and even familiar scents can become cues that it's time to transition from one part of the day to another.
Think about how quickly you know it's bedtime when the house is quiet, the lights are low, and you're already in pajamas.
You don't necessarily need someone standing over you saying, “It's bedtime!”
The environment is already telling you.
That's the idea behind creating a consistent bedtime routine for teens.
Instead of another reminder, lecture, or countdown, create an atmosphere that helps everyone start winding down.
Today's Tip: Create a Consistent Bedtime Cue
Diffuse the same calming blend between dinner and lights-out every night for two weeks.
The goal isn't to make an essential oil magically make your teenager sleepy.
It's to create a consistent evening cue.
When the same aroma becomes part of your family's nighttime routine, it can simply become associated with that transition from busy evening activities to a calmer part of the night.
And honestly?
That can be helpful for Mom and Dad, too.
Because we could all use a little help winding down.
How I Use Essential Oils for Our Evening Routine
Peace & Calming II for the Whole House
I like putting Peace & Calming II Essential Oil Blend in the living-room diffuser about an hour after dinner.
The blend includes Tangerine, Orange, Ylang Ylang, Patchouli, German Chamomile, Vetiver, and Northern Lights Black Spruce.
For me, it's all about creating a welcoming, peaceful evening atmosphere.
Five drops in the diffuser, and the house starts feeling a little different.
The lights are lower.
The noise is coming down.
The diffuser is going.
And I'm quietly communicating:
We're winding down now, people.
No announcement necessary. 😂
KidScents SleepyIze for a Bedtime Cue
KidScents SleepyIze is another blend I like incorporating into a nighttime routine.
It contains Lavender, Geranium, Roman Chamomile, Bergamot, and other essential oils and is designed to complement a calming bedtime routine.
I especially love the name.
Because let's be honest—sometimes the name itself is half the fun.
“I'm breathing SleepyIze… I guess I'm getting sleepy.” 😜
You can use it according to the product label, including appropriate topical or aromatic use.
You Don't Have to Force the Transition
One of the things I love about this approach is that I'm not trying to control every minute of my teenagers' evening.
They're getting older.
They have more independence.
And bedtime isn't the same with teenagers as it was when they were little.
But I can still influence the environment.
I can make the house quieter.
I can dim the lights.
I can turn on a calming diffuser.
I can establish routines that signal, “The day is winding down.”
And then I can go to bed.
Because at some point, Mama needs her beauty sleep, too! 😂
Try a Two-Week Bedtime Experiment
If bedtime at your house tends to turn into a nightly negotiation, try keeping it simple.
For two weeks, choose one calming aroma and diffuse it at roughly the same time each evening.
Pair it with other predictable cues:
- Dim the lights.
- Lower the volume.
- Put away stimulating activities.
- Start the family's normal bedtime routines.
- Give everyone some quiet time.
- Keep the timing reasonably consistent.
You're not trying to create a perfect bedtime.
You're creating a predictable transition.
And sometimes a predictable transition is exactly what a busy household needs.
What Made Bedtime Easier at Your House?
Every family figures out its own little tricks.
Maybe it was a particular routine.
Maybe it was turning off the Wi-Fi. 😂
Maybe it was dimming the lights.
Maybe it was simply realizing that teenagers are going to find 14 things to do at 9:00 p.m. no matter what you say.
For us, I'm happy to let the atmosphere do some of the talking.
What's the one thing that finally made bedtime easier at your house?
Hit reply and tell me. I love hearing what other parents figured out about bedtime!
Walking through a department store at the mall, my daughter and I approached a mother, daughter, and granddaughter coming toward us.
Bouncing on the young mother’s hip was one of the cutest little ballerinas I had ever seen. She was decked out in a pink onesie covered in rhinestones, a puffy pink tutu, and a giant gauzy bow perched on her head.
I smiled at the trio as we passed, then looked at my daughter with that “Did you see that adorable baby?” expression.
Except my laughing face was met with a sour expression on hers.
Did I miss something?
“Did you see that cute baby?” I asked.
“Did you hear the grandmother?” she replied.
“No. I was too enthralled with the adorableness of the child and her doting mamas. Why?”
And then she filled me in.
The grandmother had apparently admitted to giving the toddler a bag full of cookies over the course of an hour to “shut her up” because she was whining. The toddler’s mom agreed that her daughter was a whiny child.
My daughter was incensed.
Meanwhile, I had noticed absolutely none of the conversation.
Two People. One Scene. Two Completely Different Impressions.
My daughter and I had walked through the exact same scene at the exact same time and walked away with two completely different impressions.
I visually soaked up the details—the adorable toddler, the pink tutu, the giant bow, the three generations together.
My daughter, on the other hand, had tuned into the conversation.
I couldn't tell you one word the mom and grandmother had spoken.
My daughter was clueless about what any of them were wearing.
Once again, I was reminded of how differently we are wired.
I tend to observe the world visually. My daughter takes in words and sounds. We can walk into the same situation and walk away with completely different pieces of the puzzle.
Which, by the way, would make us a pretty great spy team.
But that's a different article. 😂
Understanding Your Child's Learning Style
As another school year approaches, it's worth taking some time to think about how your child learns best.
Not every child absorbs information in the same way. And when we expect every child to learn exactly as we do, frustration can build quickly—for both parent and child.
Understanding your child's individual learning preferences can give you another tool for helping them engage with schoolwork and remember what they're learning.
Sometimes what looks like stubbornness, laziness, or not paying attention may simply mean the way we're presenting the information isn't connecting with the way that child processes it.
I learned this lesson firsthand with my oldest son.
My Son Needed to Move to Learn
When my son was young, I would get so frustrated because he couldn't seem to retain his lessons.
I was convinced he was being hardheaded and stubborn simply to torture me.
(I'm sure none of you have ever experienced anything like that. 😉)
Then I discovered Cynthia Tobias' book, The Way They Learn, and suddenly a whole new world opened up for us.
I began to understand that my son was a kinesthetic learner. At six years old, he benefited from physically engaging with what he was learning.
So instead of sitting at a table repeatedly going over numbers, letters, and spelling words, we got creative.
We:
- Shaped numbers and letters with clay.
- Used alphabet cookie cutters to form words with sugar cookie dough.
- Clapped out syllables.
- Hopped up and down the stairs while reciting spelling words.
And something changed.
He started remembering his lessons.
The problem wasn't necessarily that he couldn't learn. We needed to find ways to make the learning experience work better for him.
Learning Styles Can Help Explain Everyday Frustrations, Too
Understanding how our children process information can help far beyond homework.
I remember realizing that when one of my kids said, “I didn't hear you tell me to do such and such,” I couldn't automatically assume they were ignoring me.
Depending on how that child was wired, they genuinely may not have registered the information the way I expected them to.
That doesn't mean every missed instruction is a learning-style issue. Kids are still kids, after all! But understanding their individual strengths and preferences can give us a different perspective before we jump straight to frustration.
And sometimes, that little shift in perspective makes all the difference.
Before School Starts, Learn How Your Child Learns
If you're heading into a new school year already anticipating homework battles, forgotten instructions, or “But I didn't know!” moments, consider taking a little time to learn more about how your child learns.
Cynthia Tobias' The Way They Learn was incredibly helpful for our family. Her work explores different ways children approach learning and gives parents practical ideas for working with those differences.
You may discover that your child doesn't need more repetition—they may simply need a different way to interact with the information.
Maybe they need to see it.
Maybe they need to hear it.
Maybe they need to move.
Maybe they need a combination of approaches.
The goal isn't to put your child into a rigid box or excuse poor habits. It's to better understand the child standing in front of you so you can help them succeed.
A Little Understanding Can Change the Whole School Year
Parenting can be frustrating enough without fighting against the way our children naturally process the world.
When we take time to understand how they learn, we can replace some of that frustration with creativity, patience, and practical strategies.
And who knows?
You might even find yourself turning spelling practice into a dance party or molding math problems out of clay.
Whatever works, right?
Here's to a great school year—and to learning how our kids learn!
Have you ever discovered that your child learns very differently than you do? I'd love to hear what you've learned along the way!
You know when your computer has 47 tabs open and you can't figure out where the music is coming from?
That's my brain in September. 😂
Emails.
Appointments.
Kids.
Work.
Things I need to order.
People I need to call.
And that ONE thing I was absolutely positive I would remember—but did not write down.
Like the mandatory youth group meeting I missed last week!
Nothing is necessarily wrong. There's just… a LOT going on in there.
And I've noticed something about myself: when my brain feels full, starting anything feels strangely difficult.
Not doing it.
Starting it.
Some days it takes me ten minutes to settle in. Some days thirty.
And the difference usually isn't willpower.
It's whether I settle myself down first.
Why It's So Hard to Focus When You're Stressed
There may actually be a reason that sitting down and concentrating feels harder when your mind is already running a million miles an hour.
Stress and attention rely on overlapping brain systems. When we're stressed or keyed up, our attention can become more easily pulled toward distractions, while tasks that require organization, decision-making, and sustained concentration can feel more difficult.
Well, that's helpful. 😂
I'm over here trying to bully my brain into concentrating, when what it may need first is a completely different message:
We're good.
Settle down.
Let's do this.
That little shift in perspective has changed the way I approach busy days.
Calm First, Then Focus
I've started paying attention to what I do before I sit down to tackle something that requires my full brain.
Instead of immediately reaching for more caffeine and trying to power through, I give myself a minute.
A few slow breaths.
A calming aroma.
A moment to settle.
Then I begin.
It sounds almost too simple, doesn't it?
But sometimes the best way to get your brain to GO…
is to help it slow down first.
Today's Tip: Settle Your Nervous System Before You Ask Your Brain to Focus
When you're feeling keyed up, focusing can take more effort. Every distraction seems harder to ignore, and even getting started can feel like a project in itself.
So try changing the order:
Calm first. Focus second.
You don't need a 30-minute meditation session or a complicated morning routine. Give yourself a few minutes to transition from everything happening at once to this is what I'm doing right now.
For me, essential oils have become part of that transition.
How I Use Essential Oils to Create a Focused Routine
Valor: A Grounding Start to the Day
I like to use Valor Essential Oil Blend as part of my morning routine.
I apply a small amount, diluted according to label directions, to the back of my neck and inside of my wrists and enjoy the aroma as I get settled into the day.
For me, it's become a simple cue that says, Okay, we're getting started.
And when my neck is feeling tense from hunching over a computer, I appreciate having a soothing topical routine, too.
Clarity: Create a Focus-Friendly Workspace
Once I'm sitting down to work, I like putting Clarity Essential Oil Blend in my diffuser.
Clarity contains 12 essential oils and has an aroma that I associate with feeling centered and ready to work.
Three drops in my diffuser is part of my workday routine.
It's not about expecting an essential oil to magically make me productive. Instead, I think of it as creating an environment that helps me transition into focus mode.
Sometimes those little environmental cues matter more than we realize.
Why Small Routines Can Make a Difference
One of the things I love about this approach is that it doesn't require me to completely overhaul my day.
I'm not adding another complicated task to my already-too-long list.
I'm simply creating a transition.
Busy brain → pause → calm → focus.
And once you repeat that sequence often enough, your brain begins to recognize the cue.
The aroma.
The deep breath.
Sitting down at the desk.
Opening the computer.
It's time to work.
It's a small ritual, but sometimes small rituals are exactly what we need when life feels noisy.
Don't Try to Out-Caffeine a Frazzled Brain
Listen, I love coffee as much as the next person.
But I've learned that there are days when adding another cup isn't really the answer.
Sometimes I don't need more stimulation.
I need a reset.
A few slow breaths. A drink of water. A quick stretch. A calming scent. A minute away from the screen.
Then I can come back and tackle the thing I've been avoiding.
Because sometimes the problem isn't that you don't have enough energy.
Sometimes your brain just has too many tabs open.
And closing a few tabs—or at least letting them stop playing music—is a pretty good place to start. 😂
What Helps You Get Started?
The next time you're staring at your to-do list and can't seem to make yourself begin, try this:
Don't force focus immediately.
Take a minute.
Breathe.
Settle.
Create a calming environment.
Then ask your brain to focus.
Calm first. Focus second.
What helps you start a hard task on a busy day?
To clearer focus,
It’s 95 degrees outside, so clearly "cold season" has NOT gotten the memo.
But school is back.
Hallelujah! 🙌
Activities are back.
I love a solid routine!
And suddenly we're spending a whole lot more time indoors with the air-conditioning blasting.
Now, don't get me wrong. I am NOT complaining about air conditioning when it's 95 degrees outside. 😂
But that cool, dry indoor air can leave my throat feeling dry and irritated, especially when I'm bouncing between the heat outside and freezing-cold buildings inside.
So while I'm definitely not pulling out the sweaters because "cold season" has arrived, I am pulling out a few of my favorite things to keep nearby.
Why Does Air Conditioning Make Your Throat Feel Dry?
Air conditioning removes moisture from the air, which can contribute to a drier-feeling nose and throat.
And when you're constantly moving between hot outdoor temperatures and cool, dry indoor spaces, your airways can really notice the difference.
Add in busy school schedules, packed classrooms, travel, sports, and everyone's increased exposure to other people—and suddenly that little throat tickle is getting your attention.
That's why I prefer to be prepared before I need something.
Today's Tip: Keep Your Favorite Throat & Chest Comforts Within Reach
My strategy is simple:
Don't wait until you need them to go looking for them.
Keep the Thieves® Chest Rub on your nightstand.
Keep Raven™ Essential Oil Blend beside your diffuser.
And tuck a few Thieves® Hard Lozenges into your purse or pocket.
Because here's what I've learned:
If something isn't in plain sight, I'm probably going to forget I have it!
Out of sight, out of mind.
And when that little throat tickle shows up, I want my favorite comfort products right where I can reach them.
Thieves® Chest Rub: A Bedtime Favorite
Thieves® Chest Rub is one of those products I like having in the medicine cabinet year-round.
When my chest or throat needs some extra comfort, I apply a small amount as directed on the label.
The formula includes camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus, creating that familiar cooling, soothing sensation we all associate with traditional chest rubs.
I especially like using it as part of my nighttime routine when I'm feeling congested or dealing with an irritating cough.
Sometimes a little bedtime comfort goes a long way toward making the night more pleasant.
Raven™ Essential Oil Blend: Freshen Up Your Space
Then there's Raven™.
Oh, Raven.
This blend combines aromatic oils including:
- Ravintsara
- Eucalyptus Radiata
- Lemon
- Peppermint
- Wintergreen
It's one of my favorites when I want a fresh, invigorating aroma in the bedroom.
Add a few drops to your diffuser according to the diffuser's instructions and let that refreshing aroma fill the room.
I like to think of it as giving my bedroom a little breathing-room makeover.
A Quick Safety Reminder
Because Raven contains potent essential oils, always follow the product label and diffuser manufacturer's directions. Keep essential oils away from the eyes and use appropriate caution around children and pets.
Thieves® Hard Lozenges: Keep Them Handy
And then there are the Thieves® Hard Lozenges.
These are perfect for keeping close when your throat starts feeling dry or irritated.
I like having a few with me when I'm:
- Running errands
- Traveling
- Spending the day at school activities
- Sitting in a chilly office
- Out and about with the family
They're an easy little addition to your bag when you want something soothing for your throat.
And let's be honest...
A lozenge that tastes good is a whole lot more fun than one that tastes like you're chewing on a medicine cabinet. 😂
Why I Like Having a "Wellness Station"
There's something to be said for making your favorite wellness products easy to grab.
Instead of searching through cabinets when you're already uncomfortable, create little stations around your house.
Nightstand: Thieves Chest Rub
Bedroom: Raven + diffuser
Purse or pocket: Thieves Hard Lozenges
It's simple.
It's practical.
And it means I don't have to think about where something is when I actually want it.
Don't Forget the Basics
Of course, essential oils and comfort products aren't a substitute for the basics.
When your throat feels dry or irritated, remember the simple things too:
Drink plenty of fluids.
Use a humidifier if your indoor air is particularly dry.
Give your body enough rest.
And if you're experiencing significant symptoms, trouble breathing, a persistent or worsening cough, fever, or anything that concerns you, don't try to DIY your way through it—talk with your healthcare professional.
The Bottom Line
I may not be ready for fall temperatures yet.
I'm still perfectly happy wearing shorts while everyone else is talking about pumpkin spice. 😂
But back-to-school season means our routines have changed, we're spending more time indoors, and the air-conditioning is working overtime.
So I'm getting prepared.
Not because I expect everyone to get sick.
Because I like having what I need before I need it.
Thieves Chest Rub.
Raven.
Thieves Hard Lozenges.
A diffuser.
Water.
And maybe a sweater for those restaurants that apparently believe 60 degrees is an appropriate indoor temperature in September. 😜
What Do You Keep Within Reach When the Air Changes?
Do you have a favorite lozenge, chest rub, diffuser blend, humidifier, or other comfort item that always has a place in your home?
Hit reply and tell me!
I love seeing what other people put within reach when the seasons—and the thermostat—start changing.
Here's to breathing room and making the transition into fall a little more comfortable! 🍂
Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita) has been used for centuries to support digestion, boost energy, soothe discomfort, and freshen the air. Modern research backs many of these traditional uses, making peppermint one of the most popular essential oils for home wellness.
Before diving into the uses, remember: pure peppermint oil only. Synthetic oils do not offer the same benefits and may even be harmful.
🌬️ Why Pure Peppermint Oil Matters
Pure peppermint oil contains naturally occurring compounds which support digestion, respiratory comfort, mental clarity, and more. Young Living’s Seed to Seal® process ensures the oil is distilled at the right temperature and pressure to preserve therapeutic properties.
If peppermint ever gets into your eyes or sensitive areas, apply a carrier oil like olive oil to dilute—never water.
🌸 Aromatherapy & Diffusing Benefits
Diffusing peppermint oil releases micro‑fine vapors into the air, helping support breathing, energy, and focus—without synthetic fragrances.
- Sinus support — Diffuse at night to help open airways and reduce snoring.
- Mental clarity — Peppermint’s aroma may improve concentration, accuracy, and recall.
- Workout motivation — Inhale before exercise to boost mood and reduce fatigue.
🌿 Digestive & Stomach Support
Peppermint oil is widely known for its digestive benefits.
- Indigestion relief — Rub 4–6 drops over the stomach and navel.
- Heartburn support — Add one drop to herbal tea.
- Nausea comfort — Massage several drops on the abdomen.
- Travel sickness — Rub 4 drops on chest and stomach.
- Cooling drink — Add one drop to cold water or iced tea on hot days.
💆♀️ Head, Neck & Muscle Relief
Peppermint’s cooling sensation can soothe tension and discomfort.
- Injury tenderness — Massage several drops on the area.
- Head pressure — Apply to temples, forehead, and neck (avoid eyes).
- Joint comfort — Rub directly onto joints.
- Menstrual cramps — Massage on the abdomen.
- Sore feet — Add to a footbath and keep water moving.
🌡️ Cooling & Temperature Support
Peppermint’s cooling properties make it ideal for temperature regulation.
- Lowering body heat — Rub on the bottoms of the feet.
- Hot‑day relief — Drink one drop in cold water.
🌱 Skin Soothing & Outdoor Uses
Peppermint oil can help soothe irritation and support skin comfort.
- Itch relief — Apply one drop to unbroken skin.
- Poison ivy/oak — Apply directly to the irritated area.
- Tick removal — Dab near the tick (not on it) to encourage release.
- Callused heels — Rub on heels to soften skin.
🌿 Respiratory & Sinus Support
Peppermint’s menthol content helps open airways and support breathing.
- Sinus clearing — Place a drop on the tongue and inhale.
- Stuffiness relief — Inhale deeply after applying under the nose.
🧠 Focus, Alertness & Mood
Peppermint oil is known for its energizing aroma.
- Concentration boost — Diffuse while studying or inhale before tests.
- Alertness on long drives — Rub on head and neck and breathe deeply.
- Satiety support — Inhale to help curb appetite.
🏡 Home, Garden & Cleaning Uses
Peppermint oil is a natural solution for pests, odors, and plant care.
- Natural pest deterrent — Place drops on cotton balls near entry points.
- Paint fume neutralizer — Add one 15 ml bottle to 5 gallons of paint.
- Aphid control — Spray 4–5 drops mixed with water on plants.
- Food flavoring — Add to recipes as a natural flavor and preservative.
- Coffee alternative — Enjoy a couple drops in hot water.
😁 Oral & Breath Support
Peppermint oil is a natural way to freshen breath and soothe oral discomfort.
- Bad breath — Place one drop on the tongue.
- Tooth discomfort — Apply to gums for temporary relief.
🌱 Final Thoughts
Pure peppermint oil is one of the most powerful, multi‑purpose essential oils you can keep in your home. Whether you’re supporting digestion, boosting focus, soothing skin, or freshening the air, peppermint offers natural solutions backed by centuries of use.
As the new school year begins, it’s time to get back into the rhythm of early mornings, homework, projects, work deadlines, and all the other things competing for our attention.
And let’s be honest—sometimes we could all use a little help staying focused.
Whether you’re a student trying to finish a paper, a parent juggling a million responsibilities, or simply someone with a long to-do list, essential oils can be a simple addition to your daily routine.
Instead of reaching for your third, fourth, or fifth cup of coffee when you need to concentrate, try creating an environment that helps you feel focused and ready to get things done.
Here are three of my favorite essential oil blends for focus, motivation, and productivity.
1. Clarity Essential Oil Blend for Mental Focus
When you need to sit down and actually concentrate, Clarity Essential Oil Blend is a great place to start.
Clarity combines essential oils including Basil, Peppermint, Rosemary, and other aromatic oils to create a fresh, invigorating scent.
It’s especially nice to diffuse while:
- Studying for an exam
- Doing homework
- Reading
- Working on a project
- Working from home
- Tackling a task that requires sustained attention
I love having Clarity going in the background when it's time to buckle down and get something accomplished.
2. Motivation Essential Oil Blend for Getting Things Done
Sometimes the problem isn't that we can't focus.
We simply don't want to start.
You know the project you've been putting off? The paper you've been avoiding? The laundry, paperwork, or work assignment that's been sitting there staring at you?
That's where Motivation Essential Oil Blend comes in.
Motivation is designed to create an uplifting, encouraging atmosphere when you're ready to move from thinking about doing something to actually doing it.
Diffuse it while you're working or getting ready to tackle your to-do list.
Sometimes a small change in your environment is just the nudge you need to get moving.
3. Brain Power Essential Oil Blend for Clarity and Productivity
The third blend on my list is Brain Power Essential Oil Blend.
A friend of mine swears this is the blend that helps her conquer her to-do list—and I can understand why she loves it.
Brain Power contains aromatic ingredients such as Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood, Blue Cypress, and Frankincense, creating a rich, woodsy aroma that's especially enjoyable when you're settling in for focused work.
Try diffusing Brain Power while you're:
- Working through your morning tasks
- Studying
- Writing
- Planning
- Reading
- Tackling a long to-do list
It's a simple way to create a focused atmosphere around whatever you're working on.
Essential Oils Aren't Just for Students
When we hear "back to school," it's easy to think exclusively about kids and homework.
But focus and productivity aren't just student problems.
Adults have plenty of mental demands, too.
Between work, family responsibilities, appointments, household projects, and everything else life throws at us, there are plenty of days when we need to sit down and get something done.
That's why these essential oil blends aren't just for students.
They're for anyone who wants to create a more focused environment for work, learning, or everyday life.
How to Use Essential Oils for Focus and Productivity
One of the simplest ways to incorporate these blends into your routine is to diffuse them while you're working or studying.
Choose your blend based on what you need:
Need concentration? Try Clarity.
Need a little motivation to get started? Try Motivation.
Need to settle in and tackle your to-do list? Try Brain Power.
You can also make your chosen aroma part of a consistent routine. For example, turn on your diffuser every time you sit down to study or work. Over time, that familiar scent can become part of your "it's time to focus" ritual.
Create Your Own Back-to-School Focus Routine
A new school year is the perfect time to establish routines that make life a little easier.
Instead of waiting until you're already distracted, overwhelmed, or reaching for another cup of coffee, create your focus environment before you need it.
Fill your diffuser.
Choose your playlist.
Clear your workspace.
Put your phone away.
Take a breath.
And get started.
Choose your playlist.
Clear your workspace.
Put your phone away.
Take a breath.
And get started.
A little consistency can go a long way.
Which Essential Oil Blend Should You Try?
If you're new to using essential oils for focus, start with the one that matches your biggest challenge:
- Clarity — for a fresh, focused study or work environment
- Motivation — for overcoming procrastination and getting started
- Brain Power — for creating an atmosphere of concentration and productivity
Whether you're heading back to school, returning to work, or simply trying to get through your ever-growing to-do list, you don't have to save these oils for the kids.
Sometimes Mom needs a little help getting things done, too! 😉
What do you need most right now—clarity, motivation, or brain power?
I used to brush my teeth while scrolling through my phone.
Brush. Scroll. Floss. Scroll. Lights off.
And then I'd climb into bed with my brain still running through everything that happened that day—and everything I needed to do tomorrow.
Then I'd wonder why I couldn't fall asleep.
Sound familiar?
What finally helped wasn't another complicated sleep hack or a meditation app.
It was changing what I did during the last 15 minutes of my day.
I started creating a simple bedtime routine that felt completely different from the rest of my day. Softer. Slower. More intentional.
And one of the easiest ways I did that was by incorporating calming aromas into my evening routine.
Why a Consistent Bedtime Routine Matters
Your brain and body respond to patterns.
When you repeat the same relaxing activities before bed, those familiar cues can become associated with winding down and getting ready for sleep.
That doesn't mean you need an elaborate nighttime ritual.
You don't need a meditation cushion.
You don't need an hour of uninterrupted quiet.
You simply need a few minutes that look and feel different from your workday.
For me, scent became one of those cues.
Our sense of smell has strong connections with areas of the brain involved in emotion and memory, which is one reason a familiar aroma can immediately remind you of a person, place, or experience.
That's what makes essential oils such an easy addition to a bedtime routine.
Today's Tip: Give Yourself Five Minutes to Wind Down
Here's my challenge:
Give yourself five intentional minutes before bed.
Put your phone away.
Turn down the lights.
Take a few slow breaths.
Choose a grounding aroma.
And give yourself permission to be finished with the day.
You don't have to "do" anything perfectly.
The goal is simply to create a transition between busy mode and bedtime.
Start With Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense has been treasured for centuries and has a long history of use in spiritual and contemplative practices.
One of my favorite ways to incorporate it into my evening routine is incredibly simple.
I put a drop into my moisturizer in the palm of my hand and massage it into my skin as part of my nighttime skincare routine.
Suddenly, brushing my teeth and washing my face aren't just chores I'm trying to hurry through.
They're part of my transition into the evening.
Frankincense also makes a beautiful addition to a nighttime skincare routine, helping support the appearance of healthy, radiant-looking skin.
Create a Calming Bedroom Atmosphere With Inspiration™
About an hour before bed, I like to diffuse Inspiration™ Essential Oil Blend in the bedroom.
It's a beautiful blend featuring aromatic oils including:
- Cedarwood
- Black Spruce
- Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood
- Frankincense
- Other pure essential oils
The warm, woodsy aroma creates an atmosphere that feels peaceful and intentional.
It's exactly the kind of scent I want surrounding me when the day is winding down.
You Don't Have to Meditate to Create a Mindful Evening
Here's something I love about this approach:
You don't have to become a meditator.
You don't have to sit cross-legged for 30 minutes.
You don't need an app telling you when to breathe.
You can simply slow down.
Maybe your five minutes looks like:
- Washing your face slowly instead of rushing.
- Applying your favorite moisturizer.
- Diffusing a grounding essential oil blend.
- Taking five deep breaths.
- Reading a few pages of a book.
- Praying.
- Talking with your spouse.
- Simply sitting quietly.
The point isn't the activity.
The point is the transition.
Make Your Bedtime Routine Predictable
If you want your evening routine to become a habit, keep it simple enough that you'll actually repeat it.
Try doing the same few things in the same order each night.
For example:
Phone down → bathroom routine → skincare → essential oil aroma → lights low → bed.
After enough repetition, those cues can become a familiar signal that the day is coming to an end.
And that's exactly what I was missing.
I wasn't necessarily missing another sleep product.
I was missing a pause.
The Bottom Line
Your bedtime routine doesn't need to be complicated.
Sometimes the most effective change is simply deciding that the final few minutes of your day deserve to be different from the rest of it.
Turn down the lights.
Put away the phone.
Choose a calming aroma.
Take a breath.
Let the day be done.
And then climb into bed knowing you've actually given yourself a chance to wind down.
What Does Your Real Wind-Down Look Like?
Do you read?
Pray?
Take a bath?
Scroll your phone until midnight? 😂
I'd love to hear what actually helps you transition from a busy day to a restful night.
Share your nighttime routine in the comments!
Here's to slower evenings, calmer nights, and waking up ready for a brand-new day. 🌙
