For me, traveling means adventures, unforgettable experiences, and exciting encounters. But every trip starts with the question: what goes in the luggage? I want to avoid overpacking, but still want to bring everything that will keep me feeling good while traveling. Can you relate to that? Besides the right clothes for the selected destination (I tend to bring more than I need 😉) and the tech gear that accompanies me on almost every trip (phone, laptop, chargers, adapter – hello, "workation"), a well-thought-out first-aid kit is essential. Whether it’s a city trip, a beach vacation, or an adventure trip – the most important essentials shouldn't be missing.But have you ever considered making your first-aid kit as natural as possible? If not, here’s how you can be fully prepared for your travels with the power of nature. Because natural products aren't just good for your body, they're also good for the beautiful world we all want to experience for as long as possible.
Less chemicals, more nature: Why I rely on the power of nature even when traveling
Just a few years ago, I had almost no knowledge of essential oils. So, on my travels – especially my world trip – I carried a whole range of medications and care products, from painkillers to various ointments. Thankfully, I hardly used most of them and carried them around unnecessarily for months And when I had an issue, I often didn't react until it was really urgently needed and I was already half sick. Today, I pack my "natural medicine cabinet" instead, which consists primarily of essential oils. In most situations, it replaces the many medications I used to pack. It saves space, and I can maintain my well-being completely naturally. "Maintaining" is the key word here. Because these days, I don't wait until it's almost too late to act. I do my best to ensure that I don't need medication in the first place.
Why Essential Oils?
They are true multi-taskers, providing well-being and protection not just at home but on the go too. Lavender soothes sun-kissed skin, peppermint refreshes on hot days. Other oils support the skin and hair, digestion, and immune system, help with clean hands, ensure a good night’s sleep, or provide relief for tired legs after 20,000 steps. Thanks to their compact size, they even fit easily into your hand luggage.
Most of my travel companions come from Young Living Essential Oils, as I trust their excellent quality, and many of them are from the Young Living Starter Kit. I also take a few supplements, sunscreen, insect repellent, and hygiene products for traveling.
What Travel Issues Might You Face?
Sun & Insects, Immune System & Poor Digestion, Flight Anxiety, Nervousness, Sleep Issues, Hygiene, and Injuries or Muscle Tension.
First, here’s an overview of which products I pack from the Young Living range:
- Immune System & Digestion: Thieves®, Inner Defense, Di-Gize®, Peppermint
- Flight Anxiety, Nervousness, Sleep: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Lavender, possibly Deep Night Essence
- Cleanliness: Thieves® Spray, Hand Sanitizer
- Sun & Insects: Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, Lavaderm After-Sun Spray, Purification and/or Citronella (or pre-mixed insect spray), Lavender
- Injuries: Blue Relief (or homemade PanAway), Lavender, Frankincense, Valor
General Products I Always Carry:
L-Lysine (for cold sores), Band-Aids & small scissors, bandage (for sprained ankles), feminine hygiene, earplugs, and natural deodorant. For adventure holidays, I also carry a strong painkiller for emergencies. And, even though I prefer not to, I pack an insect repellent with DEET for the "just in case" situations, especially if traveling to malaria risk areas.
Which products should you have for which application?
Immune System Support:
My absolute favorite topic is the immune system. Why? Because I used to get sick or caught a cold so often, often within the first few days after arriving at my destination. These products not only help me keep my immune system under control at home, but they also provide wonderful support while traveling. If I do catch a cold, I get over it much faster than I could a few years ago. Honestly, I swear – I'm absolutely thrilled and convinced. And Thieves® was definitely my "gateway" into the world of essential oils.
Thieves® and Thieves®+: My personal favorite not just for traveling. It strengthens the immune system and supports any signs of weakness. Perfect before and during flights (due to cold air conditioning) or before eating in regions where cleanliness may not be guaranteed. Apply to the soles of your feet or place Thieves®+ under your tongue (caution: it's spicy; mix with honey or juices if desired). Thieves® is a blend of Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Rosemary.- Inner Defense: These are pre-filled softgel capsules with Oregano, Thyme, Thieves® and Lemongrass. The first two oils are especially effective against immune weakness, supported by studies. These oils strengthen systemic defense, create an unfavorable environment for yeast and fungi, and support respiratory health & the immune system. Take 1 capsule immediately at the first sign of a cold or as needed (maybe not on an empty stomach if you're not used to them). For prevention, I take it before flying to avoid catching a cold from air conditioning.
- Breathe Again Roll-On: With a refreshing, energizing aroma, this is the perfect travel companion to help you breathe freely in the morning, on long days, or after intense workouts. I also use it for a stuffy or blocked nose. Since it’s already mixed with a carrier oil, I can apply it directly under my nose. It contains Peppermint, Myrtle, Copaiba, and four types of Eucalyptus – including Blue Eucalyptus.
Digestive Support:
- Di-Gize®: To support me after overeating (All You Can Eat 😉), bloating, indigestion, hangovers, or general discomfort, this is the ideal travel companion.
Even when digestion isn't functioning as you are used to at home, just apply it to your stomach. (*A blend of Tarragon, Ginger, Peppermint, Juniper, Lemongrass, Anise, and Patchouli). Di-Gize® is definitely one of my favorite oils, not just for travel but it's also always in my bag in Austria. It helps me a lot with bloating and even nausea. I often apply it under my tongue since I know it only contains 100% natural oils. - Peppermint: Can also be used for bloating or to support during choppy boat rides, helping to prevent or ease travel sickness. Best: just breathe it in from the bottle or put one drop in your palm, spread it and cover your nose with the products. Peppermint has so many other positive uses – it cools on hot days (apply to the back of your neck and inhale the rest), and it’s often called "the smallest air conditioner in the world." Its refreshing scent helps wake you up and boosts energy – great on long car rides. Just breathe it in or apply as mentioned above.
Flight Anxiety, Nervousness, Sleep Problems:
Unlike immune weakness, these issues aren’t as critical for me, but I hear about them from others. So, here are some natural ways to support you in these areas:
- Lavender: Calms and balances. Perfect for winding down (especially with work stress or if you’re nervous about flying). It’s also great for sunburn – more on that later.
- Cedarwood: If I can't fall asleep, it’s the best oil for a peaceful night’s sleep, especially on planes or in unfamiliar places. I also use it at home if my brain starts racing at night and prevents me from sleeping.
- Peace & Calming®: Perfect for relaxation or when you need a dose of peace and tranquility. You can even wear it like a perfume on your neck or behind your ears. (*A blend of Ylang Ylang, Blue Tansy, Patchouli, Orange, and Tangerine)
- Stress Away®: Does exactly what the name says – it eliminates stress. I usually need it more at home than on vacation. (*A blend of Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Lavender, Ocotea, and Vanilla)
- Deep Night Essence: If you’re the type to seek inner support, I recommend the new Deep Night Essence supplement. The specially developed formula combines high-quality botanical ingredients with the essential oils of Green Mint and Lavender. It contains no melatonin and is ideal before bed for a restful night’s sleep. I use it when I’ve had a particularly stressful day that might otherwise make me sleep restless.
Injuries:
Depending on whether it’s skin injuries or bone/ligament issues, there are different oils I take. Here are the ones I usually carry:
- Lavender: an ideal first aid kit for minor cuts or scrapes, insect bites, and sunburn. It is one of Young Living's most popular products and has been highly valued by many cultures throughout history. It has a relaxing and refreshing scent that is particularly calming. While the ancient Romans used it in baths for its cleansing properties, today lavender oil is typically applied in the evening before bedtime to cool the skin after sunbathing and during massages for its calming effect on the body, mind, and spirit.
It can support tissue regeneration and accelerate skin renewal. Lavender is also referred to as the "Swiss Army knife of oils" because of its versatility. - Alternative – Frankincense: A great oil for the skin, often used in natural beauty products. It’s known as one of the best anti-aging oil and has a calming, grounding effect.
- Blue Relief/PanAway (homemade): For sprains or other muscle tension, I use Blue Relief and, alternatively or in addition, Frankincense or Copaiba. Last year, I sprained my ankle while hiking and immediately treated it intensively with these three oils. After it swelled up very quickly in the beginning and I had to travel on soon, I took a single painkiller to quickly relieve the intense, acute pain. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to carry my backpack with only one functional leg. The acute pain subsided quickly. And after just one night, I felt almost no pain at all, which I definitely attribute to the support of the essential oils.
Recipe: Strengthening Blend for Joints (& Muscles)
30 drops Peppermint
30 drops Clove
30 drops Immortelle
fill an empty 15ml bottle with Wintergreen and mix well! 😊
Other Tips:
- AromaSeiz: For muscles, tension, back pain, or possibly with a compress.
- Ligament and tendon problems: Lemongrass, Marjoram, Copaiba, Frankincense, Elemi
- Intervertebral discs: Raindrop application – deep muscle relaxant
- Cypress: Energy blockage, heavy legs, lymphatic stimulant – mixed with peppermint after a long day of sightseeing
- Dietary supplements: such as BLM, Sulfurzyme, or Olive Essentials – good for joints – in my opinion more preventative and not for acute cases
Cleanliness:
- Thieves® Spray: The perfect travel companion. Use it to clean door handles, toilet seats, and any other surfaces. It’s great for removing dust, mold, and other unwanted microorganisms.
- Thieves® Waterless Hand Purifier: A natural hand cleanser to clean and refresh your hands. Perfect for adults and kids on the go, providing a hygienic and natural way to care for your hands without needing water.
- Peppermint is amazing for dealing with ants! I had a great experience with this on one of my recent trips to South Africa. Simply apply it where you see the start of the ant trail and follow their preferred path.
Insects:
Insect Spray: You can easily create your own natural insect repellent spray.
Ingredients (e.g., 4-5 drops of each per 50 ml): Lavender, Rosemary, Purification, Citronella, Lemongrass, Peppermint. You can also add Geranium (for ticks).
Mix all oils with water and a pinch of salt. Shake well before use.
Ingredients (e.g., 4-5 drops of each per 50 ml): Lavender, Rosemary, Purification, Citronella, Lemongrass, Peppermint. You can also add Geranium (for ticks).
Mix all oils with water and a pinch of salt. Shake well before use.
After an insect sting/bite:
- Lavender: relieves itching; provides fast relief from bee stings (I've tried this myself).
- Peppermint: cooling and soothing, also helpful after contact with jellyfish (best when mixed with vinegar).
- Melrose: disinfecting.
- Purification: cleansing
Support from Within:
NingXia Red: Goji berries are effective at neutralizing free radicals, slowing the oxidation process, and preventing free radical damage. They can repair sun-damaged skin and help with hyperpigmentation. Rich in Vitamin C, Beta Carotene, and amino acids. NingXia Red also contains other berries such as blueberry (30%), plum (22%), chokeberry (16%), sweet cherry (16%), and pomegranate (15%), as well as an acidity regulator. I drink the NingXia Red juice I drink at home from bottles. For traveling it comes in convenient 60ml single-serving packs for on-the-go use. I love this product, as it boosts my energy. I make sure to take it with me on shorter trips or at least for the first few days.- Super C: Healthy skin contains high concentrations of Vitamin C, which supports essential functions like collagen synthesis and protection against UV-induced skin damage. Without sufficient Vitamin C, collagen synthesis decreases, leading to less collagen production.
Sun Protection:
- Mineral Sun Screen Lotion SPF 50: This natural sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF 50, featuring plant- and mineral-based ingredients enriched with 7 natural essential oils (like Helichrysum, Carrot Seed, Frankincense, and Lavender). It shields against both UVA and UVB rays (UVA = skin aging, UVB = sunburn). It’s water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, ideal for sensitive skin (hypoallergenic), and free from chemical UV filters, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, synthetic preservatives, artificial fragrances, and dyes. Contains non-nano zinc oxide.
- TIP: For easier application, mix the sunscreen with fractionated coconut oil, the V-6 oil complex, or “Lavender Hand & Body Lotion.” You can also add carrot seed oil and/or Lavender, Helichrysum, and Myrrh.
After Sun:
- LavaDerm Cooling Mist: Contains two of the most soothing substances found in nature: Lavender essential oil and Aloe Vera. Cooling and calming for the skin.
- LavaDerm After Sun Spray: Contains Menthol from Peppermint. It cools and calms the skin, providing instant relief for sun-irritated skin. Moisturizes with Aloe and essential oils like Lavender and Helichrysum. Vegan-friendly, alcohol-free, and free from artificial colors and fragrances.
- DIY After Sun: Mix the V-6 Oil Complex or “Lavender Hand & Body Lotion” with oils like Helichrysum, German Chamomile (or Blue Tansy), Lavender, Copaiba, and Peppermint. I’d recommend this for shorter sun exposure only.
Conclusion - Why a natural first aid kit is the best choice?
With a well-thought-out natural first aid kit, I'm well prepared for many situations. I can support my health and well-being without having to use chemical products. Therefore I feel better about the environment because I know I'm doing something good for myself and nature.
What natural travel essentials do you always have with you?Do you also rely on natural solutions when you travel? Which ones are your absolute essentials?
For more inspirations visit the Young Living Blog for Travel Tips or Skin Care for Summer time
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Love what you read here?
 | Hey, I'm Lucy! After my world trip in 2018, 'ENJOY LIFE RESPONSIBLY' became my motto. Be inspired as I share my adventures, my evolving worldview, and my journey to a more responsible and natural lifestyle. Find out how my life is connected to “Young Living Essential Oils”, why travel and oils are my two great passions and how I combine them. |
You may have already read some things about me here on my website. But you're probably thinking... I'm sure she can't only travel all the time and live responsibly? What else does she do? Who is she really?
You're right! I am more than just the idea of my ideal life and a better world. Yes, I am a passionate traveler, I love to enjoy life and still try to live more responsible but there is quite some more to know. Let me introduce myself a bit better and help you get to know the real me:
- Probably first important thing to mention: I grew up on a farm in a very small village? That had a big impact on me, but I swear... I've really turned into a city girl. Probably BECAUSE I grew up in a small village on a farm 😉
- Of course, I like being in nature. But I LOVE living in a beautiful city like Vienna with all its possibilities – I call it my adopted home.
- My favorite city so far besides Vienna is Barcelona (I love it!!)
- Budapest, Vancouver, San Francisco, Melbourne, Brisbane, Arequipa (Peru), Valparaiso (Chile), Antigua Guatemala, San Cristobal de las Casas (Mexico) are some of my other favorite cities. I hope I'll have the time to visit them again one day, and to write more about them 😊 If you’re curious, you can read what I’ve already written (here in German or here in English)
- I have 2 brothers, 1 sister and 8 nephews & nieces (and I am the proud godmother of 3 of them). I am the baby among my siblings. The only one who is not married, has no children, no husband, no house, no dog, no cat... But... I'm also the only one of the four of us who has studied at university and traveled all over the world. So I think that's fine 😉
- After I finished school, I worked as an accountant at a tax consulting company for 4 years before studying business administration and marketing in Vienna. When I became self-employed, I worked as a freelance accountant again - after almost 20 years, who would have thought that 😊
- Before I became self-employed as a business consultant and direct marketer, I worked in marketing for global luxury cosmetics companies for around 10 years. And I still do marketing for luxury cosmetics brands, although for smaller ones and for those that care more about corporate social responsibility and sustainability.
- I still enjoy working in marketing for “cool” brands with interesting brand stories and creative packaging. I still love those luxurious products on occasion and why not? Who doesn't enjoy the best sometimes?
- I’m lucky enough to enjoy a good (and sometimes luxurious) life and I'm really thankful that I am able to. But I really don’t need much to be fulfilled. I love to travel as much as possible - which for some already means luxury - but I also occasionally stay in simple hostels, even dorms, if it means I can save money to travel more or for longer. And I prefer experiences over things.
- I'm just a human and not a saint 😊 Even though I have already made some changes to live more responsibly, I still sometimes use products that simply make me more beautiful or make me feel good when I wear them, even if they are not entirely “sustainably produced”. But I'm trying my best. Step by step...
- I love good food - especially Italian, Thai, Indian - and I still like eating meat, although I have decreased significantly - mainly for environmental reasons.
- I worked a lot on my self-development. Through reading books, through coaches or mentors, through therapy or simply by talking to different people around the world. Sometimes it's so inspiring to just experience a different "worldview" through someone you just met. Through this, I learned a lot and have started to look at things differently.
- Before traveling around the world, I wasn't really interested in health topics or alternative medicine. Luckily I was mostly healthy so it wasn't necessary. But after my trip around the world, I became more and more fascinated by this wide world of mindful living, the power of positive thoughts and gratitude, “natural healing” through the power of nature and even energetics. The possibilities are huge if you are open to new ideas. And you can just choose the things that appeal to you the most.
- Writing is not my great passion. Sometimes I prefer to speak through my pictures. Also, my English is not perfect. And yet I decided to write a blog in English. Crazy, isn't it 😉 So if you're a native English speaker, please forgive me for some mistakes or unfortunate wording. 😊
- I am not an aromatherapist and know that you don't have to be one to be able to use the positive effects of essential oils and "oil-infused" natural products ideally for yourself and to recommend them to others. You just have to be interested and open to having your own experiences with nature's gifts.
- I don't consider myself particularly interesting or special. Still, I want to inspire people because I think the world needs a lot of positive energy. I think I'm just average and I stand by it! I don't think that's wrong! 😊
I think I could go on like this for a while. But you're probably already bored. However, if you have read this far and still want to know more, discover more facets of me or hear more travel or other tips from me, I would be more than happy to talk to you!
Love what you read here?
| Hey, I'm Lucy! After my world trip in 2018, 'ENJOY LIFE RESPONSIBLY' became my motto. Be inspired as I share my adventures, my evolving worldview, and my journey to a more responsible and natural lifestyle. Find out how my life is connected to “Young Living Essential Oils”, why travel and oils are my two great passions and how I combine them. |
You think essential oils are only meant to be diffused or applied to the skin? You've got it wrong.
With Young Living Plus oils (also called Vitality Line outside Europe) you can spice up your life or at least your food and drinks with some simple tips and recipes. They are a great alternative to herbs, citrus peel or juice, lime juice or spices such as oregano, cloves, rosemary, etc. You can also use them to make or refine delicious drinks, teas, juices, cocktails, etc. This means that even people like me - who are not DIY professionals when it comes to “homemade juices” - can make great and relatively “healthy” alternatives to drinks with artificial flavors. Or if you don't have the time (or the garden) to get fresh herbs, simply use the spice oils from the Plus line:
Basic tips for using essential oils in the kitchen:
- Less is more: essential oils are very potent, especially with (hot) spice oils such as Oregano+, Thyme+, Rosemary+, Black Pepper+, Cinnamon Bark+, Clove+ or Ginger+, one drop is often too much for your recipe. Try yourself and start with very little.
You can start with using the “toothpick method”: dip a clean toothpick into the Plus oil (or stick it into the dropper opening) and then swirl it either directly into your recipe or mix with olive oil and spread it over your food.
- Prepare a seasoned oil or a seasoned salt: like that you can dose the essential oils better. Ideally, the ready-mixed oil or salt is only spread onto the food at the end of the cooking time so that the taste is not lost through long cooking. If the oil is not heated too much (e.g. in cold drinks or dressings), the general positive effect of the essential oil is retained (e.g. detoxifying effect of lemon oil)
Recipes for seasoned salts: use 3 tablespoons each of rock or sea salt and add the respective oils. This can then be stored in a sealable jar (no plastic container or lid). Either stir into the dish at the end of cooking or sprinkle on the food directly at the table as a refinement. Always close tightly after each use:
You can start with using the “toothpick method”: dip a clean toothpick into the Plus oil (or stick it into the dropper opening) and then swirl it either directly into your recipe or mix with olive oil and spread it over your food.
- Prepare a seasoned oil or a seasoned salt: like that you can dose the essential oils better. Ideally, the ready-mixed oil or salt is only spread onto the food at the end of the cooking time so that the taste is not lost through long cooking. If the oil is not heated too much (e.g. in cold drinks or dressings), the general positive effect of the essential oil is retained (e.g. detoxifying effect of lemon oil)
Recipes for seasoned salts: use 3 tablespoons each of rock or sea salt and add the respective oils. This can then be stored in a sealable jar (no plastic container or lid). Either stir into the dish at the end of cooking or sprinkle on the food directly at the table as a refinement. Always close tightly after each use:
Lemon-Pepper-Salt*: 10-20 drops Lemon+ depending on taste 4 drops Black Pepper+ 1 pinch of salt and fresh Pepper | Rosmary-Lime-Salt: 2-3 drops Rosmary+ 1-2 drops Sage+ 6 drops Lime+ | Mediterranean mix*: 2-3 drops Oregano+ 2-3 drops Thyme+ 3 drops Rosmary+ 3 drops Marjoram+ | Herbs of Provence mix*: 3 drops Lavender 3 drops Rosmary 3 drops Basiil 3 drops Thyme |
Its also a great Christmas Present or a nice souvenir if you are invited for dinner: 
Recipes for seasoned oils: here too, you mix the essential oils with 200 ml of organic olive oil and can then use them to refine salads, pizza, pasta or oven-baked vegetables. Always start with small amounts and then increase depending on your taste.
Mediterranean mix*: 4 Tr. Oregano+ 4 Tr. Thyme+ 4 Tr. Rosmary+ 4 Tr. Marjoram+ Optional 2-4 Garlic cloves | Herbs of Provence mix: 6 drops Lavender 5 drops Rosmary 4 drops Basiil 3 drops Thyme |  |
*Recipes taken from the book: “Nimm dir MA[H]L-ZEIT – Kochen mit ätherischen Ölen“ from Barbara Ahorn
Dips and spreads:
Lime+ oil (or Lemon+ or Citrus Fresh+) in particular is ideal for refining dips, spreads or even salad dressings. Parsley+ also goes well with pasta, Coriander+ goes great in guacamole:
Lime+ oil (or Lemon+ or Citrus Fresh+) in particular is ideal for refining dips, spreads or even salad dressings. Parsley+ also goes well with pasta, Coriander+ goes great in guacamole:
- Guacamole recipe: De-seed and peel 2 avocados, crush and mix with 2 drops of Citrus Fresh+, 1 drop of Coriander+, 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice (or 3-4 drops of Lime+), 1 chopped garlic clove, a pinch each of salt and pepper, optional 3 tbsp chopped red onion and 1 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro.
- Sour cream dip recipe: Mix sour cream, several drops of Lime+ as desired, salt well. Super tasty as a dip for tortilla chips or on crackers garnished with finely chopped salmon cubes.
- Sour cream dip recipe: Mix sour cream, several drops of Lime+ as desired, salt well. Super tasty as a dip for tortilla chips or on crackers garnished with finely chopped salmon cubes.
Baking with YL: Cinnamon Bark+, Clove+, Ginger+, Orange+ are ideal for baking. Peppermint+ can be combined great with chocolate, e.g. in a chocolate cake for a special taste.
Drinks: Since I don't bake much, I like it more to use the oils to refine or make drinks. There are very simple recipes but also playful cocktails (which I didn't try much yet). I'll let you know after 😉.
My favorite drinks - not only in winter:
- Hot chocolate with a drop of Orange+ (and maybe a dash of rum 😉)
- Coffee with a drop of Cinnamon Bark+
- Thieves cold nose tea: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, 1-2 drops each of Thieves+ and Lemon+ in boiled water (cooled to approx. 40-60 degrees)
- 50-60ml NingXia Red juice mixed with ¼ liter of water and 1-2 drops of Red Shot (or Thieves+) and optionally with fresh lemon juice or 1 drop of Lemon+
- Ginger-lemon lemonade: simply mix with half or whole tablespoon of honey, a drop of Ginger+ and fresh lemon juice and stir into ¼ liter of water
Extra Tip: You can also simply make your own sugar syrup which you can use for nonalcoholic drinks or cocktails. It dissolves more easily in cold water (or in cocktails) than honey. To do this you need 2 cups of sugar (e.g. Demerara cane sugar) with 1 cup of water - briefly bring the water to the boil, add the sugar and stir with reduced heat until the sugar has dissolved and is completely liquid. Then allow to cool and store in a closed container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. You can then either make ready-made mixtures with the oils or use a drop in 1 tablespoon of sugar syrup and ¼ liter of water (and fresh lemon). Depending on your preference, you can also use Rosemary+, Lavender+ or (in summer) Peppermint instead of Ginger+. I have to try cocktails with this sugar syrup first, but a “Rosemary/Orange” Margarita will probably be the first one I try 😉 I'll
For more recipes:
- Ginger-lemon lemonade: simply mix with half or whole tablespoon of honey, a drop of Ginger+ and fresh lemon juice and stir into ¼ liter of water
Extra Tip: You can also simply make your own sugar syrup which you can use for nonalcoholic drinks or cocktails. It dissolves more easily in cold water (or in cocktails) than honey. To do this you need 2 cups of sugar (e.g. Demerara cane sugar) with 1 cup of water - briefly bring the water to the boil, add the sugar and stir with reduced heat until the sugar has dissolved and is completely liquid. Then allow to cool and store in a closed container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. You can then either make ready-made mixtures with the oils or use a drop in 1 tablespoon of sugar syrup and ¼ liter of water (and fresh lemon). Depending on your preference, you can also use Rosemary+, Lavender+ or (in summer) Peppermint instead of Ginger+. I have to try cocktails with this sugar syrup first, but a “Rosemary/Orange” Margarita will probably be the first one I try 😉 I'll
For more recipes:
Find here the Young Living cookbook
And here some more ideas in the Young Living blog
Find here all Plus Oils
You are interested to buy? Contact me and or Sign in with me to get a -24% discount on all products including the Plus OIls.
Love what you read here?
| Hey, I'm Lucy! After my world trip in 2018, 'ENJOY LIFE RESPONSIBLY' became my motto. Be inspired as I share my adventures, my evolving worldview, and my journey to a more responsible and natural lifestyle. Find out how my life is connected to “Young Living Essential Oils”, why travel and oils are my two great passions and how I combine them. |
It is said that nowhere is as beautiful as home - although as a travel junkie I can't confirm that 100% 😉. That's why our home should be a place where you feel comfortable and safe. And you should also be able to offer this security to your family, children or pets. And what does that mean? For me it means the healthiest, chemical-free environment possible.
A few years ago I knew almost nothing about essential oils. I knew they smelled good and that you could use them in a scented candle burner. Nobody had explained to me what exactly essential oils could do for me and how I could properly harness them. And I know that many other people know just as little as I did a few years ago.
Even though these essences are becoming increasingly popular, many people do not know what treasures lie dormant in nature and what effect high-quality essential oils can have on our body and mind. And even less realize what a huge difference quality products make in this area. So let’s dive in and learn more.
Essential oils – what are they?
Essential oils are aromatic, highly concentrated plant extracts that contain many chemical compounds that are gently obtained through steam distillation, cold pressing or resin extraction. They have been used for cosmetic purposes and to increase our physical and mental well-being for thousands of years. Pure essential oils are significantly more concentrated in their effects than the plants from which they come. They are the pure essence of nature, they are the fragrant soul of the plant!
What is Aromatherapy?
Plants have been the central medicine for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used oil mixtures for healing purposes and used them for religious purposes. Modern aromatherapy goes back to the French chemist and perfumer René-Maurice Gattefossé, the military doctor and the Austrian biochemist and beautician Marguerite Maury.*) Their work was the basis for many different application methods and therapy options that have a holistic effect on the body, mind and soul.
The positive effect is always holistically aimed at body, mind and soul and can therefore support and improve our well-being in many areas. Depending on the type of application, the oils can affect us via the brain (aromatic effect on the limbic system), the lungs (through inhalation) or directly via the bloodstream (application to the skin, ingestion of the oils).
What do you have to pay attention to when using them?
One of the most important factors in choosing the right essential oils is QUALITY. It’s so important to know the manufacturer of the oils and be able to trust in their reliability in production and their quality standards. Stretched, adulterated and incorrectly labeled oils not only lack effectiveness, they can also pose risks to consumers. (I’ll tell you in another blog article why I trust Young Living Essential Oils.)
How can you use them?
There are three ways to use essential oils:
- aromatic
- topically
- internally
Aromatic refers to smelling and inhaling the different oils, while topical application can mean anything from diluting an essential oil with a carrier oil for a relaxing massage to combining it with your favorite lotion for an indulgent, skin-pampering treatment. Finally, internal use refers to taking oils and adding them to your favorite foods and drinks - either just for flavor or to support your well-being. Just make sure you only take 100% pure essential oils that are labeled as food safe.
Possible applications vs. labeling types?
Aromatic application:
Professional oils - due to EU regulations, these must bear the danger symbols despite proven purity - are inhaled by hand or using a diffuser or home-made room spray and thus reach directly into the limbic system - the center of emotions.
External application:
Cosmetically labeled oils (EU Cosmetics Regulation) are suitable for use on the skin*. These can be applied to the soles of the feet, neck, wrists, behind the ears, chest, stomach, along the spine, chakras, etc.
Internal use as a dietary supplement:
Only essential oils that are labeled as dietary supplements (EU Food Regulation) may be consumed safely (cooking, baking, drinking, taking in capsules). Young Living was the first and only manufacturer in the world to market essential oils approved as dietary supplements. Therefore, we can ingest the oils from the Plus line (or Vitality line as called in some other areas of the world) with peace of mind and enjoy their effect on the body in this form.
Extra tips for your safety while using essential oils:
While you can apply many essential oils undiluted directly to the skin, some are considered "warming" or "hot" oils. That's why it's important for some oils to be mixed with a carrier oil (fatty vegetable oil such as jojoba, almond or the Young Living V-6® Enhanced Plant Oil Complex). These hot oils include, for example: Cinnamon bark, thyme, oregano and so on. If you are unsure whether an essential oil is a warming oil, check the label to see if it needs to be diluted. Or just ask me :-) Either I already know or I'll look in my clever books where I can look up the recommended dilution for you. To be sure, you can always do a spot test on the inside of your forearm. Simply apply a little and see if there is a skin reaction. You will soon learn your tolerance limits.
Be careful not to touch the plastic dispenser (the silicone piece on top of the bottle) to prevent dirt from getting into the bottle and thus keep the oil longer. The oils are absorbed quickly into the skin without leaving any residue. Do not wash your hands, but rather spread any oil residue on the back of your neck or the soles of your feet.
Other uses of essential oils:
Essential oils are contained in virtually every Young Living product - including nutritional supplements, beauty or household products. That's why the products always work on multiple levels.
With small steps you can start a natural lifestyle with oils and products from Young Living and create a feel-good atmosphere in the office or at home. You can slowly but surely remove toxins and chemicals from your life. And you can give your well-being a boost so that you feel better in the long term.
For more tips about "How to use essential oils" read this Blog Posts from Young Living:
You are interested to buy? If yes, contact me and/or sign up with me to either receive 24% off individual products or use this link to receive a special offer on a starter pack of the most popular essential oils to start your journey to better wellness ( physically and possibly financially).
Love what you read here?
| Hey, I'm Lucy! After my world trip in 2018, 'ENJOY LIFE RESPONSIBLY' became my motto. Be inspired as I share my adventures, my evolving worldview, and my journey to a more responsible and natural lifestyle. Find out how my life is connected to “Young Living Essential Oils”, why travel and oils are my two great passions and how I combine them. |
For as long as I can remember, I have loved traveling and discovering new things. Little did I anticipate that embarking on a solo trip around the world - something I initially hesitated to do - would not only satisfy my wanderlust, but also trigger an unexpected and profound inner change.
This change led me to the current journey I am on. The journey to myself, to my new career, to new opportunities, to more time and financial freedom and to more travel and discovering new things throughout the year 😉
At least that's what I dream about. And I've been working on it for a few years now. I have already achieved parts of it 😊. E.g. I can work from home or remote most of the time and sometimes I use this freedom to work from another country for a while. I became self-employed, something I couldn't have imagined before because it would have meant far too much uncertainty. I already earn enough that I could theoretically travel a few months a year, but currently only to cheap countries. That means I still have a few things to work on.
I wasn’t always this “adventurous.” I grew up on a farm in a small village in Upper Austria, where I learned to work (hard) and live a decent life. My goal after school was to have a “safe” job and work until I got married and have my first child at about 26 years old. Well… I think the “universe” had different plans for me. And it took me around 40 years to find out 😉.
I was lucky enough to have a boyfriend at that time who was studying in Vienna. When I was around 24, I followed him to our Austrian capital and began studying economics there. After that, my marketing career began. First in an advertising agency and then for about 10 years in various marketing positions for various luxury cosmetics companies.
While my career was progressing quite well, I felt like something was missing in my life. (And it wasn't because I hadn't been in a relationship in a while) I thought back and forth about what I could do differently, what I could do for myself to be happier. Should I change jobs? Which job would fulfill me more? Or should I take a break and travel for a while since this has been my dream for a long time? Can I just quit my “safe” job to travel for a few weeks and then potentially have an uncertain professional future? Or should I dare to travel for long periods of time so that quitting the job is at least worth it?
Maybe you know the feeling that you would like to do something but don't have the courage? So I slowly started doing some coaching and therapy to figure out who I am and what I want.
After much thought and the certainty that my current job could no longer fulfill me, I gathered all my courage and decided to make my dream come true. I booked my trip around the world for 11 months starting in August 2017.
(Okay...just to let you know: About a year before I started this trip, I took my first short "trial solo trip" to Barcelona, as I had never traveled alone before and was very afraid of feeling alone and of not meeting new people at all. But luckily it worked out really well.)
When I finally started, I was REALLY sure that this would just be a break from work to travel and explore new countries and not - as you often hear from others who go on a long journey - to "find myself". I was sure that I would come back and - just like before - find another job and continue my marketing career until I could retire. But what I wasn't at all sure about was whether I would enjoy traveling alone and whether I would actually meet a lot of new people, as "experienced world travelers" always predict or write in their blogs.
Little did I know what was really going to happen 😉.
I pre-planned a “soft start” to my solo trip with a guided group tour from Vancouver through the Rocky Mountains to Vancouver Island, Whistler Mountain and back to Vancouver. I saw breathtaking mountain landscapes with glaciers, beautiful lakes, long, quiet beaches, whales, bears, cute little villages, a bustling modern city and much more. And it felt really easy to meet new people on this “solo trip”. Of course it was easy because I was on the same bus with the same 20 people for 14 days.
After Canada, I did a three-day stop in Portland alone. I thought it would be just as easy to meet people as it was on my tour because I stayed in a hostel. And all my friends who had traveled like this before had told me that it was easier if I went to hostels. Maybe they traveled in a time when there were no smartphones, tablets and laptops? 😉 Everyone in the hostel was just looking at their phones or typing on their laptops and didn't talk much to each other. So I just walked around alone, which was fine after these intense 14 days.
After a stopover in San Francisco to meet an Austrian friend for a few days, I was supposed to fly to Mexico City to meet another friend (this time a Mexican) and continue the trip in a relaxed manner in a new country. On September 19, 2017 - two days before my scheduled flight - a powerful earthquake occurred in the Mexican state of Puebla, about 75 miles from Mexico City, causing extensive damage and resulting in numerous deaths. I was so grateful I hadn't been there yet. So I decided to change my flight to Cancun and start alone in a new country. I was excited to see what awaited me in Latin America. I knew the standards (hostels, food, cleanliness, security…) would be different. How would I feel? Would it be dangerous? And the most important question: Would the real adventure now begin, all alone with myself.
The first night I was afraid to walk around alone as this tall white girl with blue eyes - obviously not belonging to this place. But this time it was a brilliant idea to stay in a cozy hostel. As my friends predicted, after a few minutes I was approached by another solo traveler. And the hostel staff also took great care of every new arrival. So I made friends easily and most of my fears disappeared. This experience was repeated in almost every new place I arrived. Sometimes I even met people who had similar plans and we continued traveling together for a while.
Of course, sometimes it was easier and sometimes more difficult, so I had to put in some effort myself to start conversations with new people. In this way, over time, I have learned to be more open to all types of people you meet without having any preconceived ideas. Because sometimes when I thought I probably wouldn't make friends in a place, those places were often the ones that ended up being the most fun.
I traveled for about 4 weeks through the eastern part of Mexico, a few days through Guatemala, 3 weeks through Costa Rica (where an Austrian friend followed me for a while), 4 weeks through Ecuador including the Galapagos (definitely one of my highlights within the 11 months ), 2 weeks in the Dominican Republic, 3 weeks in Peru (another one of my favorites) and a few days each through Bolivia (wonderful “Salar de Uyuni”!!) and Chile. From there I had my longest flight (about 13 hours across the Pacific Ocean) to New Zealand, with the plan to stay for 6 weeks, then travel to Australia for 2 months and spend the rest of the time in Southeast Asia.
When I left South America I was really sad. After arriving in New Zealand, I had the impression that there would only be bad and changeable weather, expensive hostels, expensive food and transport, as well as poor internet connections etc. - and so the “travel blues” overwhelmed me. After 6 months of traveling, it was the first time that I didn't like it that much. And it took about two weeks - during a journey through breathtaking volcanic landscapes to lush green forests on the edge of a river - before I realized again how blessed I was to have such adventures and to see this incredibly breathtaking world.
I started to love what I was doing again. I tried to explore as much as possible and traveled pretty quickly to see the whole country. I saw amazing landscapes and wonderful nature again. Still, I realized that sometimes it's less about how much you see and more about the people you meet along the way. And I realized that I often didn't take the time to meet locals or engage in deeper conversations with other travelers, instead rushing from one sight to the next. When I moved on to Australia, I decided to stay one month longer, travel slower, take more time, explore fewer places, and try to appreciate the people along the way more than the trip itself. I think that's how I finally ended up progressing from a vacationer into a real traveler.
In fact, when I moved on to Bali/Indonesia for the last month, I decided not to make any plans in advance at all and just go with the flow. I did a few hours of yoga, some massage treatments, a few scuba diving, a cooking class and so on... I rented a moped and rode it for the first time since I was 18. I discovered a few temples or waterfalls if I felt like it, or I just spent the day reading in a nice café.
Slowly I started thinking about what comes next. Not on my trip, but what will I do when I'm back in Vienna? And it's strange to say that. But a little research on a rainy afternoon in Ubud was the start of my later “new journey”, which would develop very slowly but steadily. By chance I found a competition where the aim was to win tickets to an event on the topic of sustainability. And since the first three participants were supposed to win tickets and I was 7 hours ahead of time, I won. With this competition and this event, I found my voluntary work in a co-working space in Vienna, which not only deals intensively with the promotion of sustainable social enterprises, but in which I also found a very international environment in my own city. And that was really important for me after 11 months abroad.
Why?
Because at the end of the trip I already noticed that I had changed more than I could have imagined at the beginning. But to be honest... I didn't really notice it until I got back. When you return to your old environment after so many new experiences and findings and realize that everything except yourself is almost exactly the same as it always was, I think it is impossible to simply pick up where you left off before the trip. So I had to search for something that perhaps has always been deep within me. My true self, my real visions, my dreams and my purpose - without listening to what society expects of me. And believe me, it is much more difficult to embark on this journey than a trip around the world. Especially if you wait 40 years to start.
If you would like to know more, just contact me. Not only do I love traveling, I also love talking about it 😊 And if you speak German, you can read my German blog, which I wrote during my trip around the world and which unfortunately ends around New Year 2018, although I didn't return before July 2018 😊. Apparently traveling became more important after some months than writing that blog: https://lucysworldview.wordpress.com/
Love what you read here?
| Hey, I'm Lucy! After my world trip in 2018, 'ENJOY LIFE RESPONSIBLY' became my motto. Be inspired as I share my adventures, my evolving worldview, and my journey to a more responsible and natural lifestyle. Find out how my life is connected to “Young Living Essential Oils”, why travel and oils are my two great passions and how I combine them. |
