Nature-Inspired Spring Cleaning!
First things first, take a deep breath.
Let's purify your indoor air! With many of us staying at home now, personally and professionally, you may be surprised to know there is a 'quiet health risk' in staying cooped up inside. It's not just about our mental health, with the pressures of the schedule/routine changes. It's your indoor air supply effecting your physical well being.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states: "Indoor air contains deadly contaminants and pollutants." In a word (well, three words): breathing stale air. It often contains: chemicals, mold spores, germs, allergens, residue particles from things such as building supplies (wood, paints, stains), and chemical cleaners. This can be harmful to your overall health! Actions to take to limit your internal exposure:
Get outside daily (if you are able) to get exposure to some fresh air.
Reports have shown that viruses (including COVID-19) can be rid with alcohol and hydrogen peroxide based cleaners (www.mercola.com reference). This is good news! Clean your environment with natural-based cleaners (versus chemical-based). I use vinegar, alcohol and/or hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners mixed with essential oils of tea tree, lemon, clove, eucalyptus, & grapefruit. For more details & recipes, check out Clean Green & Minimalism: https://www.etsy.com/listing/594923784/clean-green-minimalism-instant-download
Help move the air in your home with a fan, dehumidifier, or open your windows!
Purify the air with a diffuser and pure essential oils. These oils offer anti-microbial and anti-viral properties. Some of my favorites: Mint- https://anandaessentialoils.com/product/peppermint-india-essential-oil/ Tea Tree- https://anandaessentialoils.com/product/tea-tree-essential-oil/ Lemon- https://anandaessentialoils.com/product/lemon-essential-oil/ Eucalyptus- https://anandaessentialoils.com/product/eucalyptus-narrow-leaf-essential-oil/
Finally, take a steam shower with essential oils. I do this very simply. I run a hot shower, place about 5- 10 drops of pure essential oil around the perimeter of my shower. As I stand in the shower, I deeply inhale the therapeutic aromas of the oils. Peppermint, ravensara, eucalyptus are my favorites for their respiratory support properties!
Do you have a natural cleaning formula or action you take to bask in nature's wonders and support your health during this time?
In Grace,
Cara