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Wellbeing Blog

Stepping Out of "Mum Mode"

Reflection on Stillness, Meditation & Essential Oils by Hollie

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"A little while ago, I attended a beautiful meditation retreat at Tara International Kadampa Retreat Centre and spent some much needed time reflecting on what it truly means to enjoy stillness. As a mum to a near two year old toddler and having never spent a night away from my son before, stepping away was a huge hurdle. Learning to "switch off" felt like a challenge at times, especially when hit with sudden bouts of anxiety while my brain was so used to being on high alert. There were moments of "mum guilt" but I knew I needed this to be the best version I can be for my son. 

Thankfully, it turned out to be such a tranquil place to be. I met some truly lovely people, and sharing our experiences together made the whole journey feel special and supportive.

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To help anchor the retreat, I brought a couple of my favourite daily rollers along with me, Clarity Roller, I used this mainly during meditation sessions. The blend of Rosemary and Peppermint was a game changer for keeping my mind sharp, focused, and alert without feeling restless and sleepy. 

Unwind Roller, this was pure magic during long walks outdoors under the stunning giant sequoias and other trees. Being surrounded by nature really brought out the rich Sandalwood notes. Whenever those bouts of anxiety or panicky feelings crept in, a quick swipe of Unwind helped ground and soothe me, one of the many incredible benefits of Sandalwood and Jasmine working together.

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That retreat gave me the push I needed to bring that calm home. Since returning, integrating just 10 minutes a day of meditation into my daily routine has helped immensely. Stepping away allowed me to truly recharge my batteries, and I came home feeling so refreshed, with a whole new level of appreciation and love for my little boy. Taking that time for myself didn't just help me, it made me a more present, grateful mum.

 

The time away was a powerful reminder that whether you're in a quiet retreat space or navigating a busy day with a toddler, taking a moment to be still and take in the natural essential oil scents can completely shift your state of mind."

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Essential Oils during Pregnancy 

Please always follow your own health advice for using essential oils during pregnancy, this is just a bit of friendly information from Hollie during her pregnancy.  
 

"I personally didn't use any essential oils in the first trimester because they can be quite potent and powerful. I then slowly started to introduce them in the second trimester, using Clarity Roll On, which contains Peppermint, that was great for helping those nauseous feelings and the Rosemary really aided in lifting brain fog, yes baby brain has definitely been a thing for me! The Lemongrass was uplifting, great for getting a good yoga practice in and helped going on walks.

Now I'm using essential oils regularly in the third trimester. Uplifting Roll On has been a favourite of mine! I love rolling it onto my bump, the coconut oil is moisturising and it contains Bergamot, Bitter Orange, Geranium and Neroli. Geranium has hormone balancing properties which help balance those hormone changes. Helping to feel more happy, they say happy mum, happy baby! Pregnancy can bring on restless legs in the evening, so I like to spray some Night Night Pillow Spray in the bedroom and on the pillow, the Lavender and Chamomile are so lovely for helping to feel calm and relaxed and get a really good nights sleep." 
 

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When it comes to feeling radiant all year round, inner health is just as important as what we put onto our skin.

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Sunny Sweetcorn Chowder Recipe 

Holl-istics Sweetcorn Chowder
Holl-istics Sweetcorn Chowder

Sweetcorn is rich in folate as well, also known as vitamin B9. This nutrient is essential for the wellbeing of our body.
You can add some oat milk for more creaminess once blended but the potato does this job for you. 

Directions 

  1. Simply peel the potato and chop into small chunks, chop onion and then add to a deep saucepan with the olive oil.

  2. Cook for a couple of mins, then add the sweetcorn followed by the stock with water, mix together.

  3. Leave to simmer until the potato has cooked, then let cool slightly and add to a blender.

  4. Pour back into a saucepan and serve with black pepper or a dash of light soya sauce. Add salt and pepper if needed. 

Ingredients 

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  • 1 large potato, peeled

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 500kg sweetcorn, frozen or tinned

  • 500ml vegetable stock

  • Dash of olive oil

  • Salt and pepper if desired 

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Makes around 4 portions
(any left overs freeze well)


Takes around 20-25 mins

Fresh Dandelion Tea Recipe

Picked straight from the garden,       Dandelion tea is really good for         digestion, helps stimulate your appetite and aids in detoxing the kidneys. 

Directions
 

  1. Carefully pick a bunch of dandelions
     

  2. Rinse under cold water to get rid of any dirt
     

  3. Carefully cut the flower heads off the stem 
     

  4. Add to a pot of boiling water and let sit for 2 mins, to let the water and flowers mix together.
     

  5. Simply pour through a tea strainer, enjoy with a a dash of honey or syrup. Enjoy!

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Holl-istics Dandelion Tea Recipe

      Ingredients
 

  • Bunch of Dandelions

  • Vegan friendly Honey or Syrup

  • Hot Water

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Makes 1 large tea pot, serves two
Takes around 15 mins

Holl-istics Dandelion tea recipe
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