
This blog post was inspired by an atricle by Sheramy Tsai from Epoch Health!
Hey there, coffee addicts! We need to have a serious talk about that magical elixir we all depend on for an energy boost throughout the day. Don't worry, we're not here to tell you to give up your beloved cup of joe. Instead, let's dig deeper into the science behind coffee and uncover some secrets about its true effects on our energy levels.
Contrary to popular belief, that steaming cup of coffee doesn't actually generate additional energy. It's like a sneaky borrower, cleverly stealing from our future selves. You see, caffeine doesn't work by creating a surge of energy; it simply conceals the symptoms of fatigue. By inhibiting brain chemicals responsible for indicating tiredness, we are merely postponing the inevitable feeling of exhaustion. We may feel momentarily invigorated but at a cost.
While this temporary energy boost can be appealing, it's crucial to understand the energy we experience post-coffee is essentially "borrowed" from later in the day. So, how can we avoid that dreaded afternoon crash and cultivate genuine, sustainable energy and vitality? Fear not, for we have some tips to help you regain control of your energy levels!
1. Embrace Natural Alertness: Instead of relying solely on caffeine, try incorporating natural methods to boost your alertness. Take short breaks and indulge in a little physical activity to awaken your senses. Even a brisk walk or a quick stretch can work wonders in reviving your mind and body. Finding the right time for that first cup of coffee could be the key to enhanced alertness, thanks to our body's natural cortisol rhythm. Our cortisol levels naturally peak in the first hour after waking, helping us start our day alert and ready!
2. Enhance Sleep Quality: A good night's sleep is the foundation of lasting energy. Prioritize quality shut-eye by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, creating a peaceful sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or aromatherapy. Additionally, delaying morning coffee is key to maintaining a healthy body rhythm. It allows your body to balance cortisol, providing steady day-long energy. Aligining caffeine intake with your nautual alertness cycle reduces the need for afternoon caffeine boosts.
3. Balance Blood Glucose Levels: Instead of reaching for that extra shot of espresso, focus on maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Opt for balanced meals and snacks that include a mixture of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. This will provide a steady release of energy throughout the day, preventing sharp spikes and crashes. A recent study highlights the significant effect of morning coffee timing on blood sugar regulation, especially after a night of poor sleep! Put simply, our blood sugar control is impaired when the first thing our bodies come in contact with is coffee, expecially after a night of disrupted sleep.
4. Improve Digestive Well-being: A healthy gut correlates to overall wellness, including energy levels. Incorporate probiotics, fiber-rich foods, and hydration into your diet to support digestion and ensure vital nutrients are absorbed effectively. A happy gut means a happy, energetic you! Morning coffee timing can significantly affect digestive health, and delaying it until after breakfast offers benefits. A primary advantage is the lowered risk of acid reflux, often experienced by coffee drinkers. Coffee stimulates gastric acid production therefore, consuming it on an empty stomach can lead to increased tummy irritation!
Spicing up that first cup
Now, here's a secret weapon to spice up your daily dose of caffeine. Young Living's Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil, with its warm and inviting aroma, can transform an ordinary cup of coffee into a delightfully aromatic experience. Not only does it add a delicious twist to your brew, but cinnamon bark is also known to support healthy digestion and circulation. So, sip your way to energy while pampering your taste buds!
If you're interested in trying out Young Living's Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil or exploring other natural lifestyle solutions, head over to garyrathbun.com. There, you can order high-quality essential oils and save 24% off retail prices. It's time to embrace a healthier, more energized you!

Remember, laughter is the best way to start your day. So, share this article with your fellow coffee enthusiasts and embark on a journey to reclaim your energy without relying solely on borrowed vitality. Let's awaken our true potential and enjoy a life filled with genuine, sustained energy!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Introduction:
Nocturia, a common medical condition affecting adults, can significantly impact our sleep and overall health. The constant urge to use the bathroom at night affects the quality and duration of sleep, leading to fatigue, decreased productivity, and potential health issues. In this blog, we'll delve into the concept of nocturia, and its effects on our well-being, and provide you with four practical tips to curb those nightly bathroom trips. Additionally, we'll introduce you to a natural solution, Young Living's Sleepessence, that can help support a blissful night's rest.
Understanding Nocturia:
Nocturia refers to the frequent need to use the bathroom at night, disrupting our sleep cycles. This condition affects a significant number of adults, and while it may be often brushed aside as an annoyance, its impact on our health is worth addressing. By interrupting our sleep patterns, nocturia can contribute to fatigue, mood swings, decreased cognitive function, compromised immune system, and an overall decline in well-being.
Tips to Curb Nocturia:
1. Hydration Management: Limit your fluid intake a few hours before bedtime. While staying properly hydrated is essential, reducing liquid consumption closer to bedtime can help minimize the need to visit the bathroom frequently during the night.
2. Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly can promote better sleep patterns. Opt for foods and beverages that are bladder-friendly, such as caffeine-free and alcohol-free options, and include regular exercise in your routine to improve overall bladder control.
3. Evening Routine and Sleep Environment: Establish a soothing evening routine before bed, including relaxation techniques such as meditation or reading. Create a comfortable sleeping environment by adjusting room temperature, investing in a supportive mattress, and using blackout curtains to promote uninterrupted sleep.
4. Bladder Training: Gradually extend the time between bathroom visits during the day, consciously delaying urination by a few minutes each time. This practice helps to retrain the bladder and regulate its urges throughout the night.
Introducing Young Living Sleepessence:
Young Living's Sleepessence is a well-crafted supplement designed to support a tranquil and restful sleep by combining essential oils with sleep-enhancing properties. This unique blend includes Lavender, Vetiver, RutaVaLa, Valerian, and Ruta Graveolens essential oils. These oils work together synergistically to calm the mind, relax the body, and promote a deeper, more refreshing sleep.
Benefits of Sleepessence:
- Supports natural melatonin levels, helping regulate sleep-wake cycles.
- Promotes a calm and relaxed state of mind, reducing anxiety and stress.
- Encourages a restful and rejuvenating sleep.
- May aid in balancing hormones, an essential aspect of overall sleep quality.

Obtaining Young Living Sleepessence:
Visit garyrathbun.com to purchase Sleepessence and experience the benefits of restful sleep. As a Young Living Brand Partner, you can obtain this premium sleep support supplement at a discounted price of 24% off retail prices. Enhance your overall well-being by incorporating Sleepessence into your nighttime routine and say goodbye to nocturia's disruptions.
Conclusion:
Nocturia can take a toll on our health, particularly due to interrupted sleep patterns. By implementing a few lifestyle changes, such as managing hydration, adopting healthier habits, maintaining a calming evening routine, and bladder training, you can minimize nighttime bathroom trips. Young Living's Sleepessence offers a natural solution to support deep and rejuvenating sleep. Visit garyrathbun.com to purchase Sleepessence and enjoy a blissful night's rest. Take charge of your sleep health and wake up energized, ready to embrace each day to the fullest.

Introduction:
As temperatures drop and holiday shopping kicks into high gear, it's time to talk about the many chemicals that might lurk in the clothes filling your gift bags. In today's fast-paced world, we rely on convenient and low-maintenance clothing options that promise stain, water, weather, or wrinkle resistance. However, these seemingly harmless features may conceal a dark side. Many garments treated with these properties contain "forever chemicals," which pose serious health risks. In this article, we will explore what these chemicals are, the hazards they present, and how you can avoid them.
What are "Forever Chemicals"?
"Forever chemicals" refer to a group of synthetic compounds known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemical compounds are utilized in the production of various consumer products, including garments, due to their exceptional durability and resistance to stains and liquid absorption.
Health Hazards:
Unfortunately, the use of PFAS in garments is not without consequences. These chemicals have been linked to several health hazards, including:
1. Prolonged Exposure: Forever chemicals persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body over time, leading to prolonged exposure. This accumulation has been associated with adverse health effects.
2. Hormone Disruption: PFAS compounds can interfere with the normal functioning of hormones, potentially leading to reproductive issues, developmental problems, and disruptions in the endocrine system.
3. Negative Environmental Impact: These chemicals do not break down easily in nature and have been found to contaminate water sources, soil, and wildlife. The prolonged environmental impact contributes to long-lasting pollution.
How to Avoid Forever Chemicals in Garments:
1. Choose Organic and Natural Fabrics: Opt for garments made from organic cotton, hemp, or linen. These materials are typically free from chemical treatments and provide a safer alternative.
2. Research Brands and Certification: Look for clothing brands committed to sustainability and transparency. Check if they have certifications like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®, which ensure that products are free from harmful substances.
3. Wash with Care: While not a foolproof solution, washing garments before use can help remove some chemicals. Additionally, consider using plant-based detergents and avoiding fabric softeners that may contain harmful additives.
4. Support Responsible Manufacturers: Choose brands that are committed to reducing their environmental impact and avoiding the use of "forever chemicals" in their production processes. Such manufacturers may often highlight their efforts to protect customers and the planet.
Conclusion:
Though the promise of stain resistance and durability in clothing is appealing, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with "forever chemicals" found in these garments. By making informed choices, supporting responsible brands, and advocating for safer practices, we can protect ourselves and the environment from these harmful substances.
Remember, your health and well-being should never be compromised for convenience or fashion.

Christmas is a time of giving. But how often do you include yourself in that? My guess is not very often! Many of us spend our time, effort, and money on planning the perfect holiday for our families, yet rarely do we stop and think about what we actually want and need during this often stressful time of year!
The holiday season can be a rollercoaster ride of stress, family drama, and endless to-do lists. But guess what? You deserve some spoiling amidst the chaos! And what better way to do it than with a sprinkle of Young Living magic? So dust off your crown and let's dive into a comical guide on how to spoil yourself during these festive times.
1. Olfactory Delight with Young Living
Let's start with the basics, shall we? Young Living's essential oils are like your secret weapon for indulgence. Whether you're desperately seeking relaxation or trying to escape Uncle Bob's bad jokes, here are a few ways to spoil yourself:
- The Soothing Bath Time: Fill your tub with warm water, add a few drops of Young Living's Lavender essential oil, close your eyes, and let the calm wash over you. Bonus points if you play relaxation music or meditative sounds.
- Pillow Party: Spritz your pillow with a mix of Young Living's SleepyItime essential oil blend, and let it lull you into a peaceful slumber. Sweet dreams guaranteed!
- Spa Vibes: Create your at-home spa experience with a diffuser filled with Young Living's Stress Away essential oil blend. It's like having a luxurious spa day, minus the hefty price tag.
2. Jungle Escape for the Mind:
Take a break once in a while from the holiday frenzy and let your mind wander into the lush greenery of a jungle retreat. Young Living's essential oils have got your back!
- Forest Bathing: Take a leisurely walk amidst nature and breathe in the refreshing scent of Young Living's Northern Lights Black Spruce essential oil. It'll transport you to a serene forest, far away from the holiday madness.
- Zen Den Moments: Create a cozy corner in your home using Young Living's Peace & Calming essential oil blend. It amplifies relaxation, perfect for reading a book or having some much-needed alone time.
3. Spoil Your Taste Buds:
Self-love also means treating your taste buds to deliciousness. While Young Living doesn't make food, they do offer essential oils that can elevate your culinary adventures.
- Flavorful Feasts: Add a drop or two of Young Living's Vitality line of essential oils like Lemon, Basil, or Peppermint to your culinary creations. They'll infuse your dishes with an impressive twist, leaving your taste buds dancing in excitement.
4. Non-Young Living Spoils:
While we love Young Living, we're not ones to limit ourselves. Here are a few non-Young Living spoils to add to your list:
- Netflix Binges: Settle into your favorite blanket, whip up a cozy cup of hot cocoa, and embark on a Netflix marathon of feel-good movies or binge-worthy series.
- Books and Bubble Baths: Escape reality with a good book and a bubble bath. Choose stories that whisk you away from the holiday buzz and into alternate worlds.
- Laugh Therapy: They say laughter is the best medicine, so indulge in some comedy! Watch hilarious videos, read jokes, or gather your loved ones for a game night full of laughter and joy.
Conclusion:
Taking care of yourself during the holiday season is essential, and Young Living's range of products can make it a fun and rejuvenating experience. So, go ahead and pamper yourself with a little Young Living magic, alongside these other delightful tips. You deserve it, queen (or king) of relaxation!

This post comes from the Young Living Australian Blog post from 12/6. If you would like to subscribe to the Young Living Australian Blog, visit: https://www.youngliving.com/blog/australia/11-ways-to-fill-your-home-with-christmas-spirit/
I am posting the blog in its entirety for your enjoyment.
The most wonderful time of the year is here! Time to turn up the Christmas music and add Christmas Spirit essential oil blend in all the diffusers! Soaking in the holiday spirit and spreading Christmas cheer is the best part of the season, so here are 11 ways you can bring the Christmas spirit into your home and share it with others.
O’ Christmas Tree
When decorating the tree, opt for a classic, home-for-the-holidays look. Get the whole family involved, go green, and save some cash with these festive DIY tips:
- String dried orange slices or popcorn to make a garland to hang around the tree.
- Add a couple of drops of Pine essential oil to the branches for an irresistibly cozy scent to make your fake tree smell just like a real one.
#YLTIP: Grab your empty oil bottles, remove the oil dropper, and gently press the bottles over each bulb on your twinkly lights.
Sugar Plums Danced in Their Heads
Drag a mattress or some sleeping bags in front of the tree for a snuggly sleepover with the kids, a Christmas movie date night, or even a fun night with the girls, and create some special memories!
It’s Beginning to Smell a Lot Like Christmas
Make your whole house smell like Santa’s workshop! When sprucing up for holiday guests, clean and create angelic aromas all at once.
- Put several drops of Christmas Spirit essential oil blend on a cotton ball and place it in the dirt tank of your vacuum. As you go over carpets and hardwood floors, the scent will fill every room.
- Make a no-fuss, totally green air freshener with 1 tablespoon witch hazel and 15-25 drops of essential oil in 200ml of water.
Dressed in Holiday Style
If your whole house isn’t decked out for Christmas, what are you doing?! Elevate your kitchen and bathrooms with Christmas Spirit™ Foaming Hand Soap.
Give It to Someone Special
While there is so much to be grateful for this time of year, there are so many who aren’t as fortunate this year. Try and volunteer at a school, deliver food to a homeless shelter, or donate to a charitable cause. Make giving back the reason for the season by serving your community.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Among all the gift-giving, selfless serving, and holiday fun, make sure to take a moment for yourself. Whether you’re able to sneak away for a silent night or get a jump start on a merry morning, a bath is the perfect present for you. Mix 5 drops of Christmas Spirit with ½ cup Epsom salt and add to a hot bath, or simply add a couple of drops of Peppermint to your shower floor to enjoy a spa-like morning.
Oh, What Yum
We love a good Aussie summer with a day well spent outdoors be sure to cool off with a classic festive mocktail!
- NingXia Red Sachet – 60ml
- 1 can of NingXia Zyng
- 1 drop of Cinnamon Bark
- 1 drop of Orange
Parties for Hosting
Nothing says it’s time to celebrate the season like watching your favorite Christmas movie! Invite some friends over, jump into matching pajamas, and get cozy with this diffuser blend.
- 3 drops Peace and Calming
- 2 drops Northern Lights, Black Spruce
- 3 drops Christmas Spirit
Voices Singing, “Let’s Be Jolly”
A wise person once said, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear.” We couldn’t agree more – although some might! Whether you’ve got perfect pitch or just like to listen, here are some magical music ideas for you:
- Head to a local Christmas concert.
- Create a playlist of traditional tunes and blast them all season long.
- Get the family together, host a Kids Christmas Musical, and have your kids perform a Christmas song to all – we promise you’ll leave with lots of laughter and memories cherished.
Merry and Bright
Make the most of every moment this season. Whether you plan a family vacation or stay in with a couple of Christmas movies and a BBQ, cherish each moment and surround yourself with those that matter most. PLUS, if you get stuck, you can always attempt our Gingerbread Cookies – it’ll be a delicious treat to enjoy the season with memories made.