Tag: Essential Oils

Essential Oils, Self-Discovery

Gratitude: The Practice That Turns Ordinary Days Into Extraordinary Ones

Beyond Possibilities

There’s something magical that happens when you pause—just for a moment—and breathe in gratitude. The world doesn’t change instantly… but you do. The edges soften. The noise quiets. Your heart opens just a little wider. And suddenly, the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

When you pair this daily practice with the gentle support of doTERRA’s pure tested-grade essential oils, that magic becomes even more tangible. Aromatic molecules meet mindful intention, and together they create openings for joy, peace, clarity, and presence.

This month, I’ve been leaning deeply into this pairing—gratitude + aroma—and I’m excited to share these simple, soul-nourishing practices with you.

Why Gratitude + Aroma Work So Beautifully Together

Gratitude anchors you. Essential oils activate your senses. Together, they shift your emotional state in seconds. While journaling or speaking gratitude aloud engages the mind, aromatic blending communicates directly with the limbic system—your emotional command center—helping the heart and body catch up with what your mind already knows:

There is beauty here.
There is blessing here.
There is enough.
You are enough.

Aromatic Companions for a Grateful Heart

Below are some of my favorite doTERRA blends and single oils for building or deepening your gratitude practice—each one supporting the heart, mind, and breath in a different, beautiful way.

✨ Citrus Bliss® — The Joy Igniter

There’s a reason we instinctively smile when we smell citrus. Citrus Bliss blends wild orange, lemon, grapefruit, mandarin, bergamot, tangerine, and vanilla—inviting a burst of sunshine into your day.

Use it when:
You want to feel brighter, lighter, or inspired. Add a drop to your palms, inhale deeply, and speak three things you’re grateful for aloud.

Why:
Citrus oils have uplifting and energizing aromatic properties that support emotional rejuvenation and promote positive feelings (doTERRA, 2023a).

✨ Balance® — The Grounding Blend

Balance feels like stepping onto soft earth after a long day. Spruce, frankincense, blue tansy, ho wood, and osmanthus work together to create a calming, steadying aroma.

Use it when:
Your mind is racing, your emotions feel scattered, or you want to reconnect with the present moment.

Why:
Tree oils contain grounding aromatic constituents that can help the mind and body experience greater calm and stability (doTERRA, 2023b).

✨ Frankincense — The Heart Opener

Frankincense has long been known as the “oil of truth,” and for good reason. Its rich, resinous aroma encourages deeper breathing and a fuller sense of connection—both inward and upward.

Use it when:
You’re journaling, reflecting, praying, or giving thanks for something tender or powerful.

Why:
Frankincense’s centering and focusing aromatic compounds support emotional balance and deeper reflection (Buckle, 2015).

✨ Spikenard — The Deep-Rooted Stillness Oil

Spikenard carries an ancient, grounding aroma—earthy, warm, and quietly powerful. It invites you to slow everything down and listen beneath the noise.

Use it when:
You crave deeper stillness, spiritual grounding, or a moment to reconnect with your inner wisdom.

Why:
Spikenard’s soothing aromatic profile is traditionally used to promote relaxation, calm, and emotional centering (doTERRA, 2023c).

✨ Helichrysum — The Emotional Renewal Oil

Known as the “Everlasting” or “Immortelle” flower, Helichrysum encourages emotional resilience. It’s gentle, comforting, and incredibly supportive when gratitude feels just out of reach.

Use it when:
You’re healing, releasing emotional patterns, or wanting a fresh, hopeful mindset.

Why:
Helichrysum’s aromatic compounds have long been associated with renewal, comfort, and emotional support (doTERRA, 2023d).

✨ Lime — The Bright-Hearted Encourager

Lime’s vibrant, lively aroma brings clarity and forward motion. It’s perfect for mornings or moments when you want to cultivate optimism.

Use it when:
You’re setting intentions, starting your day, or need a little spark of energy.

Why:
Citrus oils like lime offer uplifting and energizing aromatic benefits that help cultivate positive emotional states (doTERRA, 2023e).

✨ Beautiful® Body Mist — The Worthiness Whisper

With Bergamot, Lime, Frankincense, and Osmanthus, Beautiful® is the blend that reminds you of your own inner light. The body mist turns gratitude into a whole-body, sensory experience.

Use it when:
You want to feel grounded in your body, uplifted in your mindset, or wrapped in a moment of self-worth.

Why:
Beautiful® was crafted to evoke feelings of radiance, courage, and self-compassion, promoting emotional wellbeing through its bright yet grounding aromatic blend (doTERRA, 2023f).

✨ Harvest Spice® — The Cozy Gratitude Blend

Warm, nostalgic, and deeply comforting, Harvest Spice® brings feelings of connection and belonging. It’s gratitude in aromatic form.

Use it when:
You’re cultivating family connection, celebrating blessings, or creating a cozy environment for reflection.

Why:
Spice oils have warming and uplifting qualities that promote comfort, joy, and togetherness (doTERRA, 2023g).

✨ Wild Orange — The Spark of Joy

Wild Orange is the essence of optimism. Its sweet, bright aroma makes gratitude feel effortless.

Use it when:
You want to amplify joy, reset your mood, or add brightness to your gratitude journal or diffuser practice.

Why:
Wild Orange’s energizing and mood-enhancing aromatic compounds inspire feelings of joy, creativity, and positivity (doTERRA, 2023h).

Gratitude Diffuser Blends

If you want to elevate your gratitude practice even more, consider creating a gratitude “atmosphere” in your home or workspace. Diffusing blends with citrus, woods, spices, and resins can shift your emotional state before you ever pick up a pen or whisper a thank-you. These aromas bring warmth, expansion, and presence into the air around you—making gratitude feel more natural, accessible, and embodied.

A Simple Daily Gratitude Ritual

Try this practice for a week and notice the shift:

  1. Choose your oil. Pick the one your heart needs today: Joy, grounding, stillness, renewal, or brightness.
  2. Breathe it in. One deep inhale with your hand over your heart.
  3. Speak or write one thing you’re grateful for today.
  4. Close with a grounding exhale.
  5. Carry the aroma—and the gratitude—with you.

Five steps. One minute. A completely different day.

When Ordinary Becomes Extraordinary

Here’s what I’ve learned after years of helping others reconnect with themselves:

Gratitude doesn’t ignore the hard things.
It simply helps you remember the good things, too.

And essential oils don’t fix your life.
But they can shift your energy, soften your breath, and help your heart receive what your mind already knows:

There is still wonder.
There is still goodness.
There is still so much to be grateful for.

Whether you’re, starting a journal practice, a pro at gratitude, or simply pausing to appreciate what’s right in front of you, know this:

Every single breath of gratitude opens the door to an extraordinary life.
One moment… one aroma… one blessing at a time.

Gratitude JournalDownload

References (APA 7)

Buckle, J. (2015). Clinical aromatherapy: Essential oils in healthcare (3rd ed.). Elsevier.

doTERRA. (2023a). Citrus Bliss® essential oil blend. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023b). Balance® grounding blend. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023c). Spikenard essential oil. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023d). Helichrysum essential oil. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023e). Lime essential oil. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023f). Beautiful® body mist. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023g). Harvest Spice® essential oil blend. https://www.doterra.com
doTERRA. (2023h). Wild Orange essential oil. https://www.doterra.com

Essential Oils, Healing Journey, Health

Celebrate Without Compromise Tradition and Flavor!

Beyond Possibilities

Simple ways to savor the season—joyfully and comfortably

The holidays bring moments of laughter, light, and connection. Yet they can also bring a few challenges—too much sugar, a bit of stress, and that “I overdid it” feeling after another round of celebrations.

This guide is here to help you celebrate without compromise—to enjoy every flavor, every gathering, and every memory while still feeling vibrant, balanced, and at ease. Whether you joined our class or simply discovered this resource, you’ll find practical tips, essential oil support, and smart habits to help you stay energized through the entire season.

🍽️ Eat, Enjoy, and Feel Amazing

Food connects us—it’s how we gather, share, and celebrate. The goal isn’t restriction, it’s intention.

Try these simple approaches to keep your body happy while you enjoy the festivities:

  • Start with balance. Begin meals with something nourishing like protein or fiber to keep blood sugar steady.
  • Hydrate often. Add a drop of Lemon or Grapefruit essential oil to your water for a refreshing, cleansing boost.
  • Mindful indulgence. Savor every bite. Pause, breathe, and let your senses experience the joy of what’s on your plate.

You’ll also find that a few smart swaps go a long way:

  • Sparkling water + a drop of Wild Orange instead of soda or mixers.
  • Yogurt-based dips with herbs and a hint of Lemon oil instead of heavy creams.
  • Essential oil–infused dark chocolate treats instead of overly sweet desserts.

🌿 Essential Oils for Digestive and Emotional Balance

Essential oils and targeted supplements can offer powerful support for both the body and mind during the holidays. Try incorporating these into your daily routine to help keep energy and digestion on track:

  • DigestZen®: Roll on the abdomen after large meals or add a drop to water to support digestion and comfort.
  • Peppermint: Breathe deeply before gatherings for a clear, refreshed mind—or take internally for digestive support.
  • Lemon: Brightens mood and supports natural cleansing pathways.
  • Citrus Bliss® or Holiday Joy®: Diffuse for an instant mood lift and festive atmosphere.

And for extra metabolic and digestive balance this season, explore these powerful additions from doTERRA’s MetaPWR™ System and TerraZyme:

  • MetaPWR Assist:
    This innovative supplement supports healthy glucose metabolism and helps promote balanced energy throughout the day. Taken with your largest meal, it helps moderate post-meal glucose spikes—perfect for keeping your energy and focus steady through holiday feasts and festivities.
  • MetaPWR Softgels:
    A convenient way to experience the benefits of the MetaPWR Metabolic Blend, these softgels help curb cravings, support metabolic health, and assist in maintaining a healthy weight. They’re an easy addition to your daily routine to help you feel your best—no matter what’s on the menu.
  • doTERRA TerraZyme is safe and effective and can be taken with every meal. It includes the doTERRA tummy tamer blend of peppermint, ginger, and caraway seed extracts to promote gastrointestinal comfort. The tummy tamer blend is especially helpful for those needing targeted digestive health, such as with protein, fat, and carbohydrate intolerances (like lactose).*

Together, these natural tools work in harmony to support both digestive comfort and emotional well-being, so you can enjoy every moment without compromise.

✨ Stay Energized and Grounded

The key to thriving through the holidays is balance—supporting your energy without burning out. Here are a few small habits that make a big difference:

  • Morning reset: Begin your day with warm water and a drop of Lemon essential oil. Roll Balance® on your feet and the back of your neck to not only ground but support emotional balance.
  • Move gently: Take a short walk or stretch after meals to support digestion and energy flow.
  • Rest intentionally: Diffuse Adaptiv® or Shinrin-Yoku in the evening to unwind and promote restful sleep.
  • Breathe deeply: A few slow, intentional breaths with your favorite calming oil can bring you back to the present moment anytime.

💃 Move to Support Digestion

Movement is one of the most natural ways to support digestion, balance blood sugar, and lift your mood—especially after those rich holiday meals. You don’t need a full workout to make a difference; even small, intentional movement helps your body process and use nutrients more effectively.

Try incorporating some of these gentle movement practices throughout your day:

  • Walk it out: A 10–15 minute walk after meals encourages healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar.
  • Twist and stretch: Gentle yoga twists or standing side bends can stimulate digestive organs and ease bloating.
  • Dance in the kitchen: Turn on your favorite playlist and move with joy while cooking or cleaning up—it’s good for body and soul!
  • Breathe and sway: Slow, mindful breathing with light movement keeps energy flowing and tension low.

Pair your movement with essential oils like Deep Blue® for soothing muscles or Motivate® for an energizing boost.
When your body moves, your energy flows—and that flow supports both digestion and emotional balance.

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💛 Celebrate the Moments That Matter

Remember—the holidays aren’t about perfection, they’re about presence. When you care for your body and emotions, you create more space for genuine connection, laughter, and gratitude.

Let this season be one of joy, nourishment, and mindful celebration. With small, intentional choices, you can truly celebrate without compromise.

🥂 Continue the Celebration

Before you dive into the recipes below, consider how essential oils and supplements can naturally complement your meals.

  • Enjoy your MetaPWR Assist capsule with your main course to help support balanced energy and digestion.
  • Add a drop of Lemon, Wild Orange, or Peppermint essential oil to your water, mocktails, or treats for bright, natural flavor.
  • Keep DigestZen and MetaPWR Softgels handy for gentle, daily support that keeps you feeling your best.

These small, mindful additions make a big difference—helping your body stay aligned while you enjoy every delicious moment.

Let this season be one of joy, nourishment, and mindful celebration. With small, intentional choices, you can truly celebrate without compromise.

🍽️ Recipes

doTERRA On Guard® Pumpkin Smoothie

Are you someone who goes crazy for pumpkin-flavored treats as soon as the first day of fall hits? If so, you’ll definitely want to try this essential oil recipe that combines the delectable taste of pumpkin pie with the doTERRA On Guard Protective Blend for the ultimate autumn treat. This doTERRA On Guard Pumpkin Smoothie is a simple way to get your pumpkin fix, while enjoying the immune-supporting benefits of doTERRA On Guard.*

Cinnamon Apple Chips

As you can tell, Cinnamon Bark oil is a favorite for fall essential oil recipes because of its distinct smell and taste that radiates the essence of the season. If you are looking for more ways to use Cinnamon essential oil this fall, try these Cinnamon Apple Chips with doTERRA essential oils. You’ll soon find that this sweet snack offers a guilt-free alternative to a bag of potato chips.

Glazed Spicy Sweet Potatoes

The colors and flavors of fall are in full swing with this essential oil recipe. The perfect companion for ham, turkey, stuffing, or any traditional fall foods, these potatoes offer a sweet and spicy flavor that pairs well with anything savory. Using Cinnamon Bark and Ginger oil, these Glazed Spicey Sweet Potatoes provide a hearty, filling side dish for any autumn meal that everyone at the table is sure to love.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 teaspoons ground allspice
  • 8 drops doTERRA Cinnamon Bark essential oil
  • 5 drops doTERRA Ginger essential oil
  • 2 pounds orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick slices Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place ¼ cup of cream into small bowl, sprinkle with gelatin. Let stand to soften (about 10 minutes).
  2. While gelatin is softening, pour remaining cream and ½-cup sugar into a 2-quart saucepan; place over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Pour into a large bowl.
  3. Add yogurt, softened gelatin/cream mixture, and Wild Orange oil; whisk until well blended and smooth.
  4. Divide between 8 martini or juice glasses and chill for several hours or overnight, until set.
  5. Once panna cotta is set, place ¼ cup of orange juice in small dish and sprinkle unflavored gelatin over the top.
  6. Set aside to soften for about 5 minutes.
  7. Heat remaining orange juice in a microwave safe dish until it begins to simmer, about 45–60 seconds.
  8. Scrape softened gelatin mixture into hot orange juice and stir until gelatin is dissolved. Set aside to cool at room temperature; divide between each of the panna cotta glasses to create an even layer on top.
  9. Refrigerate until orange gelee is set.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Take advantage of fall produce with this delicious soup. Filled with vegetables and rich seasoning from Rosemary, Spanish Sage, and Black Pepper essential oils, you’ll not only love the taste, but the smell it brings into your home too.

Ingredients:

  • 3-pound butternut squash
  • Olive oil 1 large yellow onion
  • 1 large carrot
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Rosemary essential oil
  • Ginger essential oil
  • Spanish Sage essential oil
  • Black Pepper essential oil
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Garnish: Sour cream and roasted squash seeds

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Slice the squash in half lengthwise and remove its seeds and membrane.
  3. Place the squash on a baking dish—cut side facing up—brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the outer layers of the onion and quarter. Clean and rough chop the carrot, setting aside.
  5. After the squash has roasted, brush the onion and carrot with olive oil and place in the baking dish with the squash. Continue cooking for 20 minutes. (If the squash needs to be cooked more, remove the onion and carrot and return the squash into the oven until tender. Take out of the oven and let cool.)
  6. Scoop out the squash flesh and transfer to a blender along with the onion, carrot, and minced garlic, blending on high until smooth. Pour the mixture into a stock pot and slowly incorporate the maple syrup, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and salt. Simmer over medium heat.
  7. Add one drop of Ginger and Black Pepper essential oils.
  8. Dip two toothpicks into your bottles of Rosemary and Spanish Sage and insert the toothpicks into the soup, stirring.
  9. Add additional essential oils and salt to taste. Caution: A little essential oil goes a long way, especially with recipes. Add deliberately.
  10. Pour the soup into bowls and top with roasted squash seeds and sour cream.

Mini Pumpkin Pies

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pureed pumpkin
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup egg whites
  • ½ cup milk of choice
  • 3 teaspoon melted butter or coconut oil
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 drops Clove oil
  • 2 drops Ginger oil
  • 3 drops Cassia or Cinnamon Bark oil
  • 1 uncooked pie crust

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
  2. Take pie crust and cut out circles to fit inside greased muffin tin. Don’t roll the dough out too thin or else the pie will fall apart after its cooked.
  3. In a blender or food processor, blend all ingredients until smooth.
  4. Evenly divide the pie filling into pie crust.
  5. Bake for 30–45 minutes or until crust lightly browns and when a toothpick inserted into the pies come out clean.
  6. Let sit for 10 minutes, or until cool. Gently remove from pan and refrigerate.

Tip: If you want to make a whole pie rather than mini pies, this recipe will make one medium sized pie.

Peppermint Chocolates

Submitted by: Mandi Felici, Virginia

Ingredients

1 ½ cup organic coconut oil

¼ cup raw honey

3 drops Peppermint oil

1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 candy cane, crushed

Instructions

  1. Whip solid coconut oil, raw honey, and Peppermint essential oil together with hand mixer. The whipped filling should be white and fluffy when complete.
  2. Refrigerate whipped filling for about five minutes.
  3. Use a small scoop or measuring spoon to make small mounds of mint filling. Press down with spoon or finger to make a flat shape.
  4. Place each piece on sheet of parchment paper on top of cookie sheet. Return mints to freezer until ready to coat with chocolate.
  5. In small saucepan or double boiler, gently melt chocolate chips over low heat.
  6. Take mints out of freezer. Use fork to dip each piece in melted chocolate. Place on top of cooling rack.
  7. For holiday fun, sprinkle with crushed candy cane immediately after coating.
  8. Put chocolates back in freezer to cool until hardened. Serve chocolates immediately or store in refrigerator until you are ready to eat them.

Tip: Use a cool spoon to shape whipped filling to reduce sticking. 

Cinnamon Apple Cake

Enjoy this vegan apple cake with breakfast or as a dessert.  This healthy alternative to traditional sugary teacakes has a nice autumn flavor and goes well with a warm mug of apple cider. 

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ cup raw sugar
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup walnuts
  • 2 small apples, grated
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 drop Cinnamon Bark oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Lightly coat cake tin with olive oil.
  2. Juice orange in bowl and set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, ground cinnamon, and baking powder. Set aside.
  4. Grate the apples. Set aside.
  5. In a large bowl, add sugar, olive oil, and Cinnamon Bark oil. Mix together using a handheld or free-standing mixer.
  6. Add the flour mix and the orange juice to a bowl with sugar and oil alternatively and keep mixing.
  7. Add the apples and the walnuts and fold in gently with a spoon until just combined.
  8. Pour the mixture into baking dish and bake for 45 minutes (or until a toothpick can be inserted and removed clean). Slice and enjoy.

Tip: The mixture will look a little dry until after the apples are added. This cake is best right out of the oven, but is good for a week.

Spiced Apple Crisp

Wild Orange Fruit Dip and OnGuard Apples

Chocolate Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin Butterscotch Streusel Muffins

Star Anise Wild Orange Shortbread Cookies

Easy Peppermint Bark

Chocolate Orange Cheese Ball

Gluten Free Pumpkin Cheesecake

Chocolate SuperMint Christmas Crunch 

Compound Butter with Essential Oils

Easy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin Squares

Sweet Potato Casserole

Italian Bread Dip

doTERRA Favorite Essential Oil Recipes for Fall

Using Spice Oils

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Essential Oils, Health

Discover the Gentle Power of Castor Oil + Essential Oils

Beyond Possibilities

doTERRA’s new CPTG®, Organic, Hexane-Free Castor Oil brings a time-tested natural ingredient into modern self-care. Grounded research shows its core fatty acid, ricinoleic acid, influences smooth-muscle receptors responsible for castor oil’s traditional laxative use (Tunaru et al., 2012). Topically, it’s a thick, nurturing emollient that seals moisture and slows evaporation of essential oils (CIR Expert Panel, 2007).

Evidence snapshot:
A controlled clinical study in elderly adults demonstrated that abdominal castor oil packs eased constipation discomfort (Arslan & Eser, 2011), while an exploratory dermatology trial found castor oil cream brightened under-eye skin tone (Parvizi et al., 2024). These early data hint at localized benefits, though large-scale trials are still pending.

What about “detox”?
Experts emphasize that castor oil does not remove systemic toxins; the liver and kidneys already perform that task. However, mindful rituals such as gentle abdominal packs may enhance relaxation and circulation — supportive, not curative (MD Anderson, 2023).

Why choose organic and hexane-free?
Cold-press extraction avoids chemical solvents like hexane, aligning with cleaner environmental and consumer-safety practices (Cravotto et al., 2022; EUFIC, 2025). doTERRA’s sourcing ensures a solvent-free, USDA-certified organic product designed for safe topical blending (doTERRA, 2025).

How to use it safely

  • Patch-test every new blend.
  • Apply small amounts — a few drops per area.
  • Use packs two or three times per week at most.
  • Avoid internal use or use during pregnancy unless advised by a clinician (Alookaran, 2024).
doTERRA 5 Ways to Use Castor Oil

Favorite DIY Ideas

  1. Night-Time Skin Treatment — 3 drops Castor Oil + 1 drop Frankincense.
  2. Scalp Support Mask — ½ tsp Castor Oil + ½ tsp Jojoba + Rosemary & Peppermint.
  3. Hormone Comfort Pack — Castor Oil + Clary Sage & Geranium; warm compress 30 min.

“Science gives us confidence; ritual gives us rhythm. Together they create empowered wellness.”

Castor Oil-Personal Care-eBook-US-English-PDF-8.5 × 11-v2Download

References

Alookaran, J. (2024). Castor Oil. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557815/

Arslan, G. G., & Eser, I. (2011). An examination of the effect of castor oil packs on constipation in the elderly. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 17(1), 58–62. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.04.004

Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2007). Final report on the safety assessment of Ricinus communis (castor) seed oil and related ingredients. International Journal of Toxicology, 26(Suppl 3), 31–77. https://doi.org/10.1080/10915810701663150

Cravotto, G., et al. (2022). Towards substitution of hexane as extraction solvent of food products and ingredients with no regrets. Foods, 11(21), 3412. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11213412

European Food Information Council (EUFIC). (2025, May 5). Is hexane in food a cause for concern? https://www.eufic.org/en/food-production/article/is-hexane-in-food-a-cause-for-concern

MD Anderson Cancer Center. (2023, October 19). What to know about castor oil health claims. https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/what-to-know-about-castor-oil-health-claims.h00-159622590.html

Parvizi, M. M., Saki, N., Samimi, S., Radanfer, R., Shahrizi, M. M., & Zarshenas, M. M. (2024). Efficacy of castor oil cream in treating infraorbital hyperpigmentation: An exploratory single-arm clinical trial. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 23(3), 911–917. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16056

Tunaru, S., Althoff, T. F., Nüsing, R. M., Diener, M., & Offermanns, S. (2012). Castor oil induces laxation and uterus contraction via ricinoleic acid activating prostaglandin EP3 receptors. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 109(23), 9179–9184. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1201627109

doTERRA. (2025). Meet Castor Oil and 5 Ways to Use Castor Oil. https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog

Essential Oils, Healing Journey, Health

Harnessing Harmony: The Emotional & Physical Essence of AromaTouch® Oils

Beyond Possibilities

In the delicate interplay between touch and scent lies a profound pathway to healing. The AromaTouch® Technique weaves together essential oils and touch in a choreography that envelops body, mind, and spirit. Let’s explore the emotional and physical resonance of each oil—and discover the scientific foundations behind why AromaTouch® touches so deeply.

The Oils: Emotional Resonance and Physical Support*

  • Lavender: A familiar friend in aromatherapy, lavender soothes the nervous system and invites calm. Its gentle floral notes ease emotional turbulence and support restful ease.
  • Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia): Known for its purifying and cleansing qualities, tea tree oil supports healthy immune function and brings clarity—both to the environment and the spirit.
  • Peppermint: With a refreshing, invigorating presence, peppermint awakens the senses, helps soothe occasional digestive or muscular tension, and anchors mind and body in alert groundedness.
  • Balance®: Created from Spruce, Ho Wood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, and Blue Chamomile, Balance promotes emotional grounding and stability. Physically, its calming effects help relax the body while emotionally it encourages harmony, connectedness, and tranquility—an anchor when life feels unsettled.
  • On Guard®: A fusion of Wild Orange, Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary, On Guard is renowned for its immune-supportive properties. It shields and fortifies the body while emotionally creating a sense of strength, safety, and resilience against life’s stressors.
  • Wild Orange: The sweet, citrus brightness of Wild Orange uplifts mood, sparks creativity, and invites joy. Physically, it supports healthy immune function and energy, while emotionally it fosters abundance, optimism, and playful lightness—balancing the heavier moments of life.
  • AromaTouch®: A proprietary fusion—often including Idaho Blue Spruce, Marjoram, Lavender, Cypress, and Peppermint—crafted to shepherd relaxation, ease stress, and foster emotional equilibrium.
  • Deep Blue®: With Wintergreen, Camphor, Peppermint, Ylang Ylang, Helichrysum, Blue Tansy, Blue Chamomile, and Osmanthus, Deep Blue is formulated to comfort and cool. Physically, it supports muscles and joints after activity, while emotionally it offers relief from carrying heavy burdens, easing tension, and encouraging a sense of resilience and renewal.

Together, this curated union supports dual flows: emotional de-stress and physical ease—like a river yielding gently to clear its course.

The Gift of Touch: A Bridge Between Soul and Cells

The sensation of touch is more than a sensory input—it is a fundamental human necessity, a nourishing conduit between inner and outer worlds. A sweeping meta-analysis of 137 studies (12,966 individuals) confirms that touch interventions yield medium-sized benefits for both physical and mental health. They significantly reduce pain, depression, anxiety, and even regulate stress markers like cortisol, across age groups from newborns to adults (Packheiser et al., 2024) Nature. Notably, touch from another person often offers greater mental health benefits than object-based contact—though even weighted blankets or friendly robots can meaningfully support well-being The Guardian.

This “gift of touch” calms the nervous system, deepens emotional connection, and helps create alignment between mind, body, and spirit. It is both a soothing whisper to frazzled nerves and a grounding hand in times of internal turbulence.

The Science: Why AromaTouch® Touches Deeper

1. Precision of Application

Unlike random diffusion, AromaTouch® oils are applied topically along specific meridians and points—spine, shoulders, feet—enhancing absorption and guiding their influence toward the nervous and circulatory systems PMC.

2. Touch as Therapeutic Medium

The technique’s structured massage supports autonomic balance, helping shift the body from a stressed sympathetic state into restorative parasympathetic rhythms. This carries measurable benefits—lowered cortisol, reduced blood pressure, and a palpable sense of ease PMC.

3. Synergy of Oils and Touch

Studies on AromaTouch® demonstrate that combining precise essential oils with intentional touch amplifies therapeutic outcomes—more profound stress relief and overall well-being than either touch or oils alone PMC.

Living the AromaTouch® Experience

Emotional Flourish
Lavender’s calm, Peppermint’s clarity, Marjoram’s release—they mingle to guide us from tension-holder into gentle presence. Each inhalation is a step toward emotional alignment.

Physical Ease
AromaTouch®, Deep Blue® soothes, Peppermint refreshes—all carried through touch into tense tissue, inviting release.

Nervous System Balance
Intentional strokes offer a passage from overwhelm to tranquility, a reset woven through scent and skilled touch.

Nature-Aligned Healing
Crafted with CPTG® purity standards, the oils resonate with integrity, honoring both environmental respect and holistic wellness.

Purchase Aromatouch training kit

A Whisper of Possibility

The AromaTouch® Technique doesn’t demand transformation—but invites a soft return to harmony. Lavender cradles anxious thoughts. Peppermint sparks clarity. Marjoram calms the body. Cypress roots the spirit. All guided by kind touch, validated by science, and enriched by human connection.

May each AromaTouch® experience be a poetic pause—a gentle reminder that possibility blooms when intention meets nature.

AromaTouch® Science and More

AromaTouch Hand Technique Study
Science Behind the AromaTouch Technique® Oils
Practicing the AromaTouch Technique
doTERRA AromaTouch Study
AromaTouch Technique® Movements

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References (APA 7)

Essential Emotions 13th Edition (2024). Essential Emotions. https://essentialemotions.com/ ISBN 979 8 9913569 0 9

‌Essential Oils Pure and Natural | doTERRA Essential Oils. (2017, March 24). Doterra.com. https://doterra.com/

Packheiser, J., Hartmann, H., Fredriksen, K., Gazzola, V., Michon, F., & Keysers, C. (2024). The physical and mental health benefits of touch interventions: A systematic review and multivariate meta-analysis. Nature Human Behaviour, 8, 1088–1107. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-024-01841-8

Toshniwal P. P. (2024, April 9). The healing power of touch: Study finds moderate health benefits across ages. News-Medical.

Total Wellness Publishing. (2023). The essential life : a simple guide to living the wellness lifestyle. Total Wellness Publishing. ISBN 9 781737 692461

Smith, M. C. (2023). A Unitary Theory of Healing Through Touch. [Review]. Indian Journal of Integrative Medicine.

Energy Healing, Essential Oils, Healing Journey, Health, Self-Discovery

Achieve Victory Over Vices: Overcoming Addictions with Essential Oils, Mindfulness, and Emotional Healing

Beyond Possibilities

We’ve all had that “just one more” moment—just one more cookie, one more cup of coffee, one more scroll through social media. While some habits are harmless in moderation, others can snowball into patterns that steal our time, health, and peace of mind. Whether it’s sugar, soda, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, gaming, gambling, or even hours lost in the glow of your phone, the good news is this: you are not powerless.

Through a powerful blend of mindfulness practices, essential oils, and emotional energy work, you can reclaim control and create the freedom you crave.

Understanding the Pull of Addiction

Addiction—whether to substances or behaviors—alters brain chemistry, rewiring our reward system to crave the “hit” of dopamine and other feel-good chemicals (Volkow et al., 2016). While substance addictions like alcohol, nicotine, or sugar involve a physical dependence, behavioral addictions—such as gaming, gambling, or compulsive scrolling—can be just as consuming. The underlying mechanism is the same: repeated exposure to a stimulus that triggers pleasure leads to stronger cravings and weakened self-control (Pine Rest, 2023).

The encouraging news? Recovery isn’t always a straight road through clinical treatment alone. Many “natural recoverers” have kicked habits by building self-awareness, using supportive tools, and making intentional lifestyle changes (Harvard Health, 2012).

Mindfulness: The First Step Toward Freedom

Mindfulness helps you notice the urge before it turns into action. It strengthens the “pause button” between craving and choice. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, gratitude journaling, and mindful movement can regulate your nervous system, reduce stress, and reframe your relationship with urges (Garland et al., 2014).

Pair mindfulness with intentional self-care, and you start to rewire the brain toward healthier rewards.

Essential Oils: Nature’s Support System for Recovery*

Aromatherapy works through the olfactory system to influence mood, memory, and emotion—areas of the brain directly connected to craving and habit loops (American Addiction Centers, 2021). Essential oils can help manage withdrawal symptoms, regulate mood, and reinforce emotional stability during recovery (Avenues Recovery, 2024).

2. Choose According to Your Challenge:

Tobacco / nicotine: Black pepper, angelica, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, sweet orange, Roman chamomile (Avenues Recovery, 2024).

Alcohol withdrawal: Ginger, lemon, lavender, black pepper, geranium, fennel, grapefruit, mandarin, rosemary, Roman chamomile (Avenues Recovery, 2024).

Appetite, sugar, food cravings: Grapefruit oil helps suppress appetite and reduce withdrawal-related stress (Avenues Recovery, 2024).

Anxiety, mood regulation: Bergamot, lavender, lemon—promoting calm and uplifting states (Avenues Recovery, 2024).

Behavioral addictions:

  • To enhance self-control: Adaptiv, bergamot, Spanish sage, MetaPWR, pink pepper, manuka, Beautiful, HD Clear.
  • To help with distraction: InTune, Thinker, Abode, lemon, rosemary, Northern Escape, guaiacwood, litsea, Balance, Harvest Spice.
  • To enhance restful moments: Frankincense, myrrh, rose, Hawaiian sandalwood, cypress, Forgive, Frankincense, Integrity.
  • To energize: Lemon, rosemary, peppermint, spearmint, juniper, coffee, Fat-Free Body Oil, eucalyptus, inula, cinnamon, cedarwood, holy basil.
Shop doterra Essential OIls

The Missing Link: Clearing the Root Cause with Emotional Healing

Many addictions—whether physical or behavioral—stem from trapped emotions, unresolved trauma, and limiting beliefs. This is where The Emotion Code®, The Body Code™, and The Belief Code® from Discover Healing come in.

  • The Emotion Code® helps identify and release trapped emotions stored in the body that can drive addictive behaviors.
  • The Body Code™ addresses imbalances in the body—physical, emotional, and energetic—that contribute to cravings or compulsive patterns.
  • The Belief Code® targets and clears faulty beliefs that keep you feeling stuck, such as “I can’t change” or “I need this to cope” (Discover Healing, n.d.).

By combining these techniques with essential oils and mindfulness, you address the addiction from all angles—mind, body, and spirit.

Schedule a essention

Creating Your Victory Plan

  1. Identify your triggers. Keep a journal to notice when cravings strike.
  2. Choose your oils from the list above to match your biggest challenges.
  3. Practice mindfulness daily—even 5 minutes makes a difference.
  4. Release trapped emotions and limiting beliefs through Emotion Code, Body Code, and Belief Code sessions.
  5. Celebrate small wins and track your progress.

Overcoming addictions—big or small—is not about willpower alone. It’s about creating an environment and internal state that supports your success. With the right tools, the right mindset, and the right support, victory is within reach.

Week-by-Week Structure

Week 1: Foundations & Embodiment

  • Introductions & Goal Setting
  • Guided diaphragmatic breathing or slow-paced breathwork (just 5 minutes/day).
    • Evidence: Breathwork significantly reduces stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, improves heart-rate variability, and enhances parasympathetic activity. News-MedicalNature
  • Opening discussion: Triggers, hopes, and current habits.
  • Gentle movement: mindful walking or light yoga to start attuning to body-mind connection.

Week 2: Breath as Reset

  • Teach cyclic sighing (focus on the exhale) and ultra-brief breath counting exercises.
    • Evidence: These techniques improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote faster recovery from stress-induced cravings. PMC+1
  • Daily micro-practice: choose one—cyclic sighing or breath counting for 5 minutes.

Week 3: Mindfulness for Craving Resilience

  • Practice mindful pauses and urge surfing—observing cravings without reacting.
  • Short mindfulness audio exercise (~10 minutes) to help reduce alcohol or food intake. WIREDTIME

Week 4: Aromatherapy & Emotional Anchoring

  • Introduce lavender (for anxiety/sleep), citrus oils, rosemary, cinnamon—used via inhalation or diluted application.
    • Evidence: Lavender inhalation can reduce anxiety and improve sleep; other oils offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mood-regulating benefits. FrontiersPMC+1MDPIScienceDirect
  • Create a personalized “craving support blend” ritual.

Week 5: Movement

  • Gentle movement routines: yoga or mindful walking.
    • Evidence: Yoga supports mood regulation, sleep, anxiety reduction, and helps those in addiction recovery. Verywell Mind

Week 6: Emotional Healing & Reflection

  • Emotional check-in and journaling: exploring guilt, self-compassion, and recovery identity.
  • Introduce breathwork for emotional release (e.g., guided holotropic or expressive breathing).
    • Although preliminary, holotropic breathwork has shown potential in reducing anxiety and supporting addiction recovery. ResearchGate

Week 7: Integrative Daily Practices

  • Build a daily toolkit integrating breathwork, mindfulness, aromatherapy, movement, and supplements.
  • Small group sharing: which routines worked best and why.
  • Dedicated “re-entry” breath + oil ritual to counter cravings or stress.

Week 8: Maintenance & Moving Forward

  • Final reflections, personal recovery plans, community-sharing.
  • Resources for continued growth: local mindfulness groups, online breathwork guides, certified aromatherapists.
    • Emphasize ongoing support, whether through community, therapy, or peer groups.

Supporting Evidence Summary

PracticeBenefits Explained by Research
BreathworkReduces stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms; improves mood and craving resilience. News-MedicalPMC+2PMC+2Nature
MindfulnessEnhances emotional regulation, lowers craving and substance misuse risk. BioMed CentralHarvard HealthHealthWIREDJAMA NetworkU of U Health
Essential OilsAlleviate anxiety, improve sleep, modulate mood; antioxidant/anti-inflammatory effects. FrontiersScienceDirectPMC+1MDPI
Movement/YogaReduces depression, anxiety and enhances mental health—beneficial in addiction context. Verywell Mind

*⚠DISCLAIMER⚠ All media content created by Beyond Possibilities and the AromaVibe is intended for educational purposes only. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References

American Addiction Centers. (2021). Aromatherapy and addiction recovery. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/blog/aromatherapy-and-addiction-recovery

Avenues Recovery. (2024). Essential oils for addiction. https://www.avenuesrecovery.com/understanding-addiction/drug-rehab/essential-oils-for-addiction/

Discover Healing. (n.d.). The Emotion Code, The Body Code, and The Belief Code. https://discoverhealing.com/

Garland, E. L., Froeliger, B., & Howard, M. O. (2014). Mindfulness training targets neurocognitive mechanisms of addiction at the attention-appraisal-emotion interface. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 4, 173. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00173

Harvard Health. (2012). Natural recoverers: Kick addiction without help. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/natural-recoverers-kick-addiction-without-help-201202134236

Pine Rest. (2023). Behavioral addictions: Why do I keep doing this?. https://www.pinerest.org/newsroom/articles/behavioral-addictions-why-do-i-keep-doing-this/

Volkow, N. D., Koob, G. F., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Neurobiologic advances from the brain disease model of addiction. The New England Journal of Medicine, 374(4), 363–371. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra1511480

Breathwork

Nivethitha, L., Mooventhan, A., & Manjunath, N. K. (2016). Effects of various pranayama on cardiovascular and autonomic variables. Ancient Science of Life, 36(2), 72–77. https://doi.org/10.4103/asl.ASL_178_16

Zaccaro, A., Piarulli, A., Laurino, M., Garbella, E., Menicucci, D., Neri, B., & Gemignani, A. (2018). How breath-control can change your life: A systematic review on psycho-physiological correlates of slow breathing. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 12, 353. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2018.00353

Balban, M. Y., Morrissey, K., Cao, A., Arulpragasam, A. R., Prust, M. J., Krishnan, A., … & Spiegel, D. (2023). Breathing practices for affective regulation: Investigations into physiology, behavior, and mechanisms. Cell Reports Medicine, 4(1), 100897. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100897

Mindfulness

Bowen, S., Chawla, N., & Marlatt, G. A. (2011). Mindfulness-based relapse prevention for addictive behaviors: A clinician’s guide. Guilford Press.

Li, W., Howard, M. O., Garland, E. L., McGovern, P., & Lazar, M. (2017). Mindfulness treatment for substance misuse: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 75, 62–96. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2017.01.008

Tang, Y. Y., Hölzel, B. K., & Posner, M. I. (2015). The neuroscience of mindfulness meditation. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 16(4), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3916

Essential Oils / Aromatherapy

Perry, N., & Perry, E. (2006). Aromatherapy in the management of psychiatric disorders: Clinical and neuropharmacological perspectives. Central Nervous System Drugs, 20(4), 257–280. https://doi.org/10.2165/00023210-200620040-00001

Koulivand, P. H., Khaleghi Ghadiri, M., & Gorji, A. (2013). Lavender and the nervous system. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 681304. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/681304

Lakhan, S. E., & Vieira, K. F. (2010). Nutritional and herbal supplements for anxiety and anxiety-related disorders: Systematic review. Nutrition Journal, 9(1), 42. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-9-42

Movement / Yoga

Field, T. (2016). Yoga research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 24, 145–161. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.06.005

Sivaramakrishnan, D., Fitzsimons, C., Kelly, P., Ludwig, K., Mutrie, N., Saunders, D. H., & Baker, G. (2019). The effects of yoga compared to active and inactive controls on physical function and health-related quality of life in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 16, 33. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-019-0797-2

Holotropic / Expressive Breathwork

Brewerton, T. D., Eyerman, J. E., Cappetta, P., & Mithoefer, M. C. (2012). Long-term abstinence following holotropic breathwork as adjunctive treatment of substance use disorders and related psychiatric comorbidity. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(9), 795–802. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2011.0284