Essential Oils and the Signs

Recently, I was introduced to Essential Oils at a library community event. There, I was given the opportunity to learn about the history, production, and usage of essential oils and their benefits in supporting health. I'm rather obsessed, in all honesty. In order to merge my two passions: astrology and essential oils, I am going to create a guide for those who wish to find oils to support attributes of the various zodiac signs!

Each sign is associated with a part of the body, as well as specific emotional attributes, so I've put together a presentation of oils that promote health for each of these variants.  I've included a link at the bottom of this post if you're interested in acquiring these oils for yourself. These oils are sourced through Young Living. I only obtain my essential oils through YL because of their Seed to Seal promise, guaranteeing the purity of their oils. YL is the ONLY brand I trust to use for myself and my home; it's the only source I recommend.

Aries - The Head

Peppermint

Applying to the head and neck or diffusing Peppermint oil uplifts the spirit while reigniting the mind and senses. It's a great pick-me-up to any dragging day. Goes excellent with any Aries who is on the go! Great for post-exercise massage, mixed with a carrier oil. I like to add the Vitality version to my water bottle each morning to refresh my spirit and my breath throughout the day.

Additional oils to try: Brain Power, Clarity, Peppermint Vitality, Eucalyptus Globulus, Eucalyptus Blue

Taurus - The Neck & Throat

EndoFlex Vitality

When applied directly over the throat in the morning, you can expect your day to start with energy and clarity. I personally apply this daily to support my energy levels. It's an excellent way for a slow moving Taurus to start the day off right! This dietary oil blend can be mixed with a morning beverage, promoting overall wellness and balance!

Additional oils to try: Thieves, Eucalyptus Radiata, Tea Tree, Oregano, ImmuPower

Gemini - The Arms, Hands, & Shoulders

Cool Azul

For a light aromatic experience and cooling sensation that is excellent post-physical exertion, Cool Azul takes the cake. Excellent when massaged onto desired areas with a carrier oil! This will get your day back on track with its grounding, peaceful aroma.

Additional oils to try: Wintergreen, PanAway, Aroma Siez, Relieve It, Vetiver, Helichrysum, Myrrh

Cancer - The Chest & Breasts

Clary Sage

Clary Sage provides an aroma that calms and relaxes. Excellent to diffuse while meditating or to apply on tense spots on the body with a carrier oil.

Additional oils to try: SclarEssence Vitality, Lady Sclareol, Dragon Time, EndoFlex Vitality, Frankincense

Leo - The Back & Heart

Peace and Calming

Leos are often on the go, but when they're home it's time to relax! When inviting people over, they want to be the best hosts and completely welcoming. Peace and Calming oil promotes these feelings and is lovely for the whole family, another value that Leos can't live without! My Leo mom enjoys this in the diffuser at night.

Additional oils to try: Rosemary Vitality, Ylang Ylang, Thyme Vitality, Mandarin, Aroma Life, Valor, Stress Away

Virgo - The Nervous System & Stomach

DiGize Vitality

DiGize is the number one meal companion oil! It can be added to a dish, diluted in water, or taken in a vegetable capsule. This will enhance the impact of any meal. The fennel seed oil found in this blend was used as an after meal delicacy in Ancient Egypt! I use this every evening in my water at dinnertime.

Additional oils to try: Peppermint Vitality, Trauma Life, Lavender Vitality, Valerian, Patchouli, Valor, Fennel Vitality, Ginger Vitality, Carrot Seed Vitality, Tea Tree, Thieves Vitality

Libra - The Lower Back & Bottom

Oola Balance

As the name implies, this oil helps to balance emotions, thoughts, and health, allowing further focus and peace of mind. Be sure to check-out Oola's tea blends and books on finding balance.

Additional oils to try: Myrrh, Helichrysum, Cypress, PanAway, Stress Away

Scorpio - The Bladder & Genitals

Light the Fire

I think this speaks for itself.

Additional oils to try: Fennel Vitality, Rose, Myrrh, Valerian, Lavender, Melrose, Thieves, Tea Tree, Cypress

Sagittarius - The Thighs, Hips, & Liver

Carrot Seed Vitality

Carrot Seed oil, like the plant from which it derives, promotes general health and well-being. Excellent pairing with nutrient rich foods to take your wellness to new level! This is also an excellent oil to support healthy skin.

Additional oils to try: German Chamomile, Celery Seed Vitality, JuvaCleanse Vitality, GLF Vitality

Capricorn - The Knees, Joints, & Bones

Wintergreen

Not only is the name appropriate for these Winter babies, but also the oil is excellent to support Capricorn health and overall well-being. The aroma is invigorating, which can propel one forward while working. This oil makes a phenomenal additive to lotions, especially those intended to be applied after physical activity.

Additional oils to try: PanAway, Aroma Siez, Cool Azul, SclarEssence Vitality, Idaho Blue Spruce

Aquarius - The Circulatory System & Lower Legs

Helichrysum

This oil promotes focus and concentration with its sweet aroma. It's excellent for times of thought. It also is great for applying to wrinkles, to reduce the signs of aging. Aquarians are notorious for early signs of aging. This oil is only farmed in its native land of Croatia!

Additional oils to try: Cypress, PanAway, Aroma Life, EndoFlex Vitality

Pisces - The Feet

Idaho Blue Spruce

The feet are home to many pathways to the body's vitality. Applying oils directly to certain areas of the feet is often the best way to reap the benefits of the various oils. This oil is highly exclusive and creates a lovely aroma. Accessing this scent can facilitate an elevated state of relaxation.

Additional oils to try: Egyptian Gold, PanAway, Frankincense, Myrrh, Patchouli, Vetiver, Wintergreen, Sacred Sandalwood

For additional information about oils and their uses, I highly suggest reading Essential Oils Pocket Reference.

If you're interested in ordering trustworthy, natural Essential Oils, please click here. Shop as a member by selecting a Starter Kit in order to receive a 24% discount on every order, access to a treasure trove of member benefits, and join a community of fellow oil-lovers, who will support you on your individual wellness journey!

Some Cool Hairdos

My roommate at college is really good at styling hair, considering she's never been trained.  She taught herself pretty much everything she knows about styling hair.  Last semester, before going to a series of parties and events, I was lucky enough to have her do my hair.  Below are some pictures of what she came up with for my rather long hair.

Hairstyle 1

Hairstyle 2

Hairstyle 3

Hairstyle 3

Hairstyle 4

The third hairstyle also consisted of a long braid laying over my left shoulder.  There was one other hairstyle that was awesome this past semester, but for some reason we forgot to get a picture of it specifically.  It was two braids wrapped into two buns stuck to my head.  I wore my hair like that for Halloween because I was a bumblebee!

When I was in high school, I can remember it being a rare occasion to see someone in braids.  Upon observing high school students now, or at least over Winter break, it would seem that braids have become a regular hairstyle.  I would assume this is because of the Hunger Games, as that was where I got my inspiration of course.

Just An Update About Things to Come

I apologize for not making very many posts anymore.  College has been keeping me very busy, so time to create innovative topics for my blog is limited.  I did however finish reading the fourth book in "A Song of Ice and Fire" series (aka "Game of Thrones") over Winter break.  Currently, I am about half-way through the fifth book; but this will take me a while now that classes have once again begun.  After I've finished the fifth book, I will write a review on the fourth and fifth book combined.  I've also been busy (at least mentally) in preparing new fictional character analysis to add to my work-in-progress post about the astrological signs of fictional characters.  Also, I intend to talk about first semester this academic year as well as the start of my second semester and the declaration of my major sometime soon.  If there are any astrological topics that you would like to be discussed on my blog, please leave a comment!

Almost Hell Week

Hell Week at Bryn Mawr begins at sundown on Wednesday.  I believe it ends at sundown next Wednesday.  Hell Week is a sort of "kind" hazing that is meant to welcome the new students to the Bryn Mawr community.  It's supposed to stand for a time where we (freshwomen, transfers) get to act uninhibited because no outsiders are allowed on campus (excluding Haverford and Swarthmore students while they're in class).

Most people choose a Heller from the Sophomore class who compiles a schedule for you encompassing the week.  You do the tasks on the schedule.  There are also a few traditions that go with Hell Week:  Duck Pond Run, Erdman Performances, Plenary, the Shipley Dance, and Goodhart Performances.

Luckily, Hell Week falls during the deepest week of Winter and over Valentine's Day.  I've compiled Valentine's Day cards for my friends and my Customs Group.  They are Snoopy themed and have lollipops attached.

Packing For College

These lists are based off of the things I'm bringing to college and things I've thought of that may be useful.

The Basic Necessities:
- Comforter
- Pillow
- Pillow Case
- Sheets
- Bath Towel
- Wash Rag
- Dental Floss
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Hair Brush/Comb/Pick
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Soap
- Meds/First Aid - Personal, Neosporin, Rubbing Alcohol, Band-aids, Advil/Tylenol, Pepto-Bismol, Tums, Chapstick
- Detergent
- Clothing (at least a week's worth and good for the climate you are going to school in)
- Shower Shoes
- Alarm Clock!

Suggested Extras:
- Extra Blanket
- Toothbrush Holder
- Deodorant
- Razor and Blades
- Tweezers
- Nail Clippers
- Q-tips/Cottonballs
- Shower Bag/Rack
- Air Freshener
- Trash Can
- Beach Towel
- Rug
- Mug (microwavable)
- Plate (microwavable)
- Utensils
- Bowl (microwavable)
- Dishwashing Liquid
- Fabric Softener
- Laundry Basket/Bag
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Can Opener
- Microwave
- Mini Fridge
- TV/DVD Player
- Laptop Computer
- Microsoft Word
- Dish Towels
- Paper Towels
- Tissues
- White Board/Bulletin Board
- Desk Calendar
- Personal Schedule Book
- Printer
- Headphones/Earbuds
- Bathing Suit
- Curtains
- Shoe Rack/Hanger
- Drying Rack
- Umbrella/Rainboots
- Cell Phone
- Toilet Paper

School Supplies:
- Highlighters
- Sticky Notes
- Notecards
- Pencils
- Pens
- Pencil Sharpener
- Folders/Binders
- Notebook Paper
- Erasers
- Backpack

More Specific Stuff That I Am Taking:
- Contacts
- Contact Solution
- Contact Case
- Glasses/Case
- Recycling Bin
- Personal Bed Fan
- Desk Lamp
- Bottled Water
- Large Quantities of Non-Perishable Snacks
- Reusable/Microwavable Food Container
- Small Storage Container w/Drawers
- Large Storage Container w/Drawers

Now I have some suggestions about purchasing these items.  DO NOT bring your sheets, blankets, towels, etc. from home; buy new ones if possible for two reasons.  The first reason is that you don't want to have to lug these things back and forth on breaks.  The second reason is that you don't want to look silly.  I'm sorry, but appearances do often matter to most people.  Most people will be buying new things or making sure that what they bring matches.  This rule applies to your everyday toiletries as well.  Buy a new tooth brush, deodorant, shampoo, etc. so that you don't forget them when you come home on breaks.

In regards to school supplies, don't stock up on too many things at first because you never know what you'll actually need until you get your class syllabus/talk to your professor.  You shouldn't need too much stuff unless you have a really special kind of class.

I highly suggest purchasing a laptop and printer if you can because it will save a lot of stress and prevent a lot of devastating results due to procrastination.  I also suggest having a reusable water bottle with a filter for when you're thirsty at night after your dining hall has closed; Brita has these.

You shouldn't have to buy too many new clothes unless you're going to college in a different climate.  Regardless of where you go, I suggest having a winter coat, a bathing suit, and rainboots.  You never know what you may decide to do on a whim.  If you're going to a rainy climate, buy QUALITY rainboots!  Often, the cute kind you find at Target and the likes aren't properly sealed and either leak or begin to tear quickly.  I suggest L.L. Bean's rainboots:  Women's Wellies; they also come in a smaller height and you can also buy inserts for the Wintertime so that they can serve as snow shoes as well.  L.L. Bean also has a lifetime guarantee of quality.

Make sure you find out what kind of appliances come with your Residence Hall; some colleges, like mine, may have a kitchen with varying appliances on each floor.  Other colleges may have appliances in each room.  Find out what your's has before you spend money on a Mini Fridge or a Microwave!

Defense Against the Dark Arts or French Class?

Other than taking exploratory level languages (French, Latin, and Spanish) in seventh grade, I have only taken French as another language other than English.  Since eighth grade, I have taken French I-IV and I am currently in French V (French IV and V are at an "Honors" level - or at least they say so at my school).


For exploratory French, French I, part of French II, part of French III, and part of French IV, we had the "original" French teacher who took a maternity leave and then became a guidance counselor for our school.  Before said teacher left on her maternity leave, she promised us that she would remain our teacher until we graduate.  False...sort of.


A little more than half-way of French II, we attained a long-term substitute who could not handle classroom behavior nor speak with an appropriate accent.  Fortunately, however, we managed to stay pretty much on task.  This sub remained our teacher until a little more than half-way through French III, when the original teacher returned to finish the year before becoming a guidance counselor.


The French teacher position was not successfully filled by the beginning of French IV and the new school year, so our original French teacher remained on for a few weeks, though we got very little complete.  Eventually, the position was filled by my school's first black teacher.  Apparently there was some racism going on at my school as well as some family obligations on his part, so he left to fulfill a family occupation after the loss of his father after Christmas break.  We soon gained a new teacher who after a few weeks and getting through the majority of The Little Prince, had the misfortune of getting in a severe car crash.  She was out of school for the rest of the year.  We had countless substitutes over the period of time it took to locate a long-term sub to finish out the school year.  Apparently, my school hired one woman who came for just two class periods and quit.  Then they hired another woman who was elderly and could barely speak English (she was not French, however).  We were able to at least speak French with this woman although we did not get through any new grammar.


The teacher who unfortunately got into a car accident returned this school year, but left unexpectedly at some point in February (we had just begun reading The Phantom of the Opera).  We were given no explanation, just a letter from the principal saying that she would no longer be teaching at our school.  We got through very little while our new teacher taught, but I would have much preferred knowing that there would be a consistent French teacher for the years to come.


After about a week and a half of substitutes and movies, we received a new sub (who will not be taking on the "long-term" role necessarily, because she is not certified in French though she can speak, read, and understand the language).  She is retired and quite eccentric, but what can you expect to get when the position is so notoriously cursed?


The irony of the situation is that our original teacher is now needing to create lesson plans and grade our work; she may truly be our French teacher until graduation, as she once promised.

The above picture portrays much of my free-time in French class last year....

(and yes, the picture is shown below on my blog)

Fun Stuff for Saint Valentine's Day

In my AP Literature class (my English class for Senior Year), we decided that we shall have a small Valentine's Day party tomorrow, in which we will exchange cheesy cards like we used to in Elementary School (since it is most likely our last opportunity to do so).  I almost purchased Barbie cards that come with little tattoos for this occasion, but my mom noticed some Tinkerbell ones that came with lollipops.  So, of course, I instead chose the Tinkerbell ones.

While preparing my cards this afternoon, I listened to "Love You Like a Love Song" by Selena Gomez ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgT_us6AsDg&ob=av2n ) and "You Da One" by Rihanna ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3HeLs8Yosw&ob=av2n ).  Although both songs aren't totes lovey-dovey, they are the current generation's (or at least my generation's) version of love songs. However, if you're looking for stereotypical love songs, try:  "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHyJTpDFgc8 or "All My Loving" by The Beatles:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWvurnpKjE4.

I think the most forgotten thing about Valentine's Day is that it is actually Saint Valentine's Day.  Because I didn't know the story of St. Valentine, I thought I would do some research and share it here on my blog.  I, of course, began with Wikipedia, but soon progressed to History.com.  So here's the story in summary:  Although there were a few Saint Valentines, the main legend is that some mean Roman emperor outlawed young men from being married because apparently they were better fighters in war.  So, Valentine (a Catholic priest) illegally married young men and women in secret.  He was discovered and then executed, being considered a martyr and eventually a Saint.  February 14th was probably chosen as the feast day because it fell around the same time in February as the pagan celebration of Lupercalia to help alleviate the need to celebrate the unChristian festival.  If you want more information go to:  http://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day.

On Another Note (sort of):  I've had this Valentine's card for years that is absolutely stupid, but I've kept it for its dry humor.  It is not one that I've received, rather I bought it because I thought it was worth it.  I haven't yet had someone worthy of giving it to.

On Yet Another Note (sort of):  Here are some romantic movies to watch if you're bored:  The Princess Bride; Lost in Austen; Valentine's Day; Tristan and Isolde; Romancing the Stone; Casablanca; Titanic; Much Ado About Nothing; Leap Year; The Proposal; Made of Honor; Troy.

Early Valentine's Day Special

Fun "Fact":  It is fitting that February 14th, Valentine's Day, falls during Aquarius.  A match between two Aquarius people is the most compatible in the zodiac!  Also, Aquarius people are the most compatible with other signs of the zodiac.

Matches

The best match for Aries is Gemini.  Both signs are talkative and always lively.  They never bore each other.  Because both signs can be flighty with their love, a constant struggle to keep the other maintains a fiery, devoted relationship.  The best match for Taurus is Cancer.  Both signs have the same goals, enjoying a strong home life.  Taurus is strong enough to keep Cancer's weaknesses comforted. The best match for Gemini is also Aries.  The best match for Cancer is also Taurus.  The best match for Leo is Libra.  They enjoy the same artistic/cultural-driven hobbies and dominant Leo is able to easily take charge of the relationship.  They know how to flatter each other.  The best match for Virgo is Capricorn.  While Virgo seeks perfection, Capricorn has ambition.  They make a perfect couple when trying to get things done, which is a need for both.  They also both admire each other secretly, which keeps them together.  The best match for Libra is Aquarius.  Aquarius gives Libra the freedom it needs, yet is always there when decisions need to be made.  They also share values in socializing and romance.  The best match for Scorpio is Pisces.  The two signs compliment each other where it is needed, creating positive reactions, especially sexually.  The best match for Sagittarius is Aquarius.  Although Sagittarius is hard to tie down, Aquarius eventually succeeds at convincing Sagittarius that they should settle down together.  They are both willing to allow the other freedom.  They also share similar dispositions and personalities.  The best match for Capricorn is Pisces.  Pisces allows dominant Capricorn to do what Capricorn needs to do, while creating a loyal and affectionate bond that lasts.  The best match for Aquarius is Aquarius.  They are likely to never fight or disagree.  They are so involved with different things that they are apart enough to stay fresh to the other, which is perfect for them.  The best match for Pisces is also Scorpio.

Attraction

Attracting an Aries:

• truthfully compliment them
• start a conversation about any subject except meager small talk
• suggest that you should go out sometime, but don't directly ask them out

Attracting a Taurus:

• ask them out
• make them laugh
• cook a good meal for them or take them somewhere excellent to eat

Attracting a Gemini:

• be well versed on any specific topic and chat with them
• be honest
• don't act smug

Attracting a Cancer:

• choose something about them to compliment
• be sincere
• never insult them

Attracting a Leo:

• be as complimentary as possible, even if you aren't entirely sincere
• give them your full attention
• avoid being pretentious

Attracting a Virgo:

• impress them with a lot of knowledge in discussion
• avoid anything vulgar
• don't try to correct them or tell them you don't like something they've said

Attracting a Libra:

• compliment them truthfully (or mostly truthfully)
• express a strong opinion on a subject
• look your best

Attracting a Scorpio:

• don't be fake
• give them your full attention
• avoid arguments

Attracting a Sagittarius:

• ask them surfacey things about themselves
• don't criticize them if they don't follow-through on something
• don't make it seem like you're committed to them

Attracting a Capricorn:

• take the initiative
• listen to their opinions
• be on time

Attracting an Aquarius:

• never be very direct
• give them variety
• don't nag

Attracting a Pisces:

• don't talk about the same thing over and over again
• flatter them with compliments, especially in front of others
• talk about anything artistic

The Perfect Date

The perfect date for an Aries is where there is a lot to do and there are many different distractions.  There should be nothing predictable.  Either a sporting event or improvisational theater are the best places to take an Aries.  The perfect date for a Taurus is a romantic dinner by candlelight where the food is superb and there are multiple courses.  A place where talking and getting to know one another is excellent.  The perfect date for a Gemini is a dinner in an upbeat environment where the food is good, but talking and laughing is better.  A hip new restaurant or bar are ideal.  The perfect date for a Cancer is an intimate dinner made by the Cancer at home or somewhere recognizable for the Cancer.  The perfect date for a Leo is somewhere where there is a cultural event taking place, whether that's a fancy new art exhibit or a festival around town.  Keep it exciting!  The perfect date for a Virgo is where you can do something productive, like making something practical, taking a hike, or trying out the newest vegan restaurant.  The perfect date for a Libra is something interactive, like miniature golfing or going to an amusement park.  The perfect date for a Scorpio is anything on the water, especially if it involves doing something.  Doing something productive and impressive is ideal, whether that's improving their physique by an exercising activity or integrating with important people that can increase their social status.  Bungee jumping or a networking event would work.  The perfect date for a Sagittarius is anything that isn't dull.  From a romantic candlelit dinner to skydiving, just about anything is comfortable to them.  If you want to get to know them, though, try the romantic dinner.  The perfect date for a Capricorn is anything as long as the couple stays together the whole time.  They don't want to get ditched because their date gets distracted.  But if the date can hold their attention on the Capricorn and truly tries their best, the Capricorn will be happy with either something small or something extravagant.  The perfect date for an Aquarius is something that is also productive for society.  This could be a day working in a soup kitchen; they don't require a "real" date as long as they receive true devotion from their partner when together.  The perfect date for Pisces is anything and everything romantic.  They want to be blown away on their date by something so romantic it could be from a movie.  Start with a candlelit dinner then go for a walk on the beach, etc.

Happy Valentine's Day!  <3

1:23 AM and Astrological Relationship Matches

As of this point, I have managed to add photos that I have taken, and one I haven't (May Day 2011) to my loverly new blog. I am quite tired, but since I'm on my Winter break, it doesn't matter as much. I have also posted three lists: Astrological Signs, Suggested Movies, and Suggested Books.

Below is a list of Astrological Relationship Matches (as I am extremely interested in Astrology from the personality perspective rather than the prediction perspective):

Perfect Matches (most beneficial to both signs involved):
Aries - Gemini
Aries - Pisces
Taurus - Virgo
Taurus - Capricorn
Leo - Libra
Leo - Sagittarius
Libra - Aquarius
Scorpio - Capricorn
Scorpio - Pisces
Sagittarius - Aquarius
Aquarius - Aquarius

*The Aquarius - Aquarius match is the absolute most compatible match in the zodiac.

Excellent Matches (most beneficial for the first listed, and okay for the second):
Gemini - Libra
Cancer - Taurus
Cancer - Scorpio
Virgo - Scorpio
Virgo - Capricorn
Libra - Sagittarius
Sagittarius - Aries
Aquarius - Gemini
Pisces - Cancer
Pisces - Capricorn

Compatible Matches (equally beneficial for both signs, however, they are not as compatible together as that of the Perfect Matches):
Aries - Leo
Aries - Aquarius
Taurus - Taurus
Taurus - Pisces
Leo - Leo
Virgo - Virgo
Libra - Libra

One-Sided Matches (benefical to the first, but not the second - likely to end badly):
Aries - Capricorn
Cancer - Leo

Terrible Matches (likely to end badly):
Aries - Cancer
Aries - Virgo
Aries - Scorpio
Taurus - Gemini
Taurus - Scorpio
Gemini - Cancer
Gemini - Virgo
Gemini - Scorpio
Cancer - Cancer
Cancer - Capricorn
Leo - Virgo
Leo - Scorpio
Leo - Aquarius
Virgo - Aquarius
Virgo - Pisces
Libra - Scorpio
Libra - Capricorn
Scorpio - Scorpio
Sagittarius - Pisces
Pisces - Pisces

*Pairs not listed at all are very unlikely to ever be made anyway due to too many differences.