Category Archives: Uncategorized

The Movies we Shared

Some of my earliest memories as a kid are watching movies on television with my mom. When I was five, I was watching an old black-and-white movie on our old black-and-white TV. It was a scary movie for me as a five-year-old. I remember hearing the scary music and knowing I would soon see the scary man, then being frightened by the near miss of the fast-speeding car. Around the time our family moved into the new house my dad built, our TV died and it was not replaced.

When I was in first grade, the teacher said anyone needing extra help reading should watch Sesame Street. I was able to go over to a kid in my class’s house to watch this show for extra help. From the time I was about five to twelve, our TV watching stopped. My mom said she was not going to have her kids grow up to be TV idiots. During this time, our home was filled with other activities instead, and our days were busy and loud in different ways.

During those same years, my mom saw an ad in the newspaper that read, “Anyone that is not exposed to watching TV, please let us do a test to see what images affect your emotions.” This was for kids ages eight to twelve and paid ten dollars for the child’s time. My mom responded to the ad. I remember being hooked up to electrodes while we watched short movie clips to see how we reacted. We walked out of the University of Utah ten dollars richer, and my brother and I thought that was amazing.

Then something wonderful happened. My dad was a Salad Master salesman, and he won a black-and-white TV. It felt magical. My parents were very strict about TV viewing, so we didn’t get to watch much. There were Friday night movies that we got to watch as a family. We didn’t get to watch TV on Sundays. Instead, we were told to play a game with a sibling, read a book, or make a treat for the family to eat.

On rare occasions, after a lot of pleading, we were able to watch The Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston or The Wizard of Oz. When summer came, Mom said if we hurried really fast and did our chores, we could watch The Big Money Movie or Dialing for Dollars. During these shows, they would give away money if you were called and knew how much money had been collected. It wasn’t much, usually about fifty dollars, but sometimes as much as three hundred. We watched old black-and-white movies, lots of westerns, adventure movies, and sometimes mysteries. During commercials, we watched the money total and hoped we would get called. I think we won fifty dollars once. Two shows my mom would never say no to were The Andy Griffith Show and I Love Lucy. She loved to laugh, and these shows had good values and were funny.

Years later, when I was in ninth grade, we got a color TV. I remember seeing The Wizard of Oz for the first time in color, and we all thought it was amazing. Popcorn and watching old movies were synonymous, going hand in hand. When I was nineteen, I was at a friend’s house watching Leave It to Beaver for the first time. When you don’t have a TV, you miss out on some of the shows other kids grow up with. After my dad died, I went over to my mom’s place every Thursday, and we watched old movies together and old black-and-white TV shows like Gunsmoke or Ironside. Looking back on this part of my life really makes me smile with fondness.

Looking back now, I realize it wasn’t really about television at all. It was about time, attention, and being together. Our house was anything but quiet, full of noise, movement, and life, yet those moments of watching together created a shared pause. My dad loved good movies too, but he was busy working to take care of his family. He had a great laugh, and I can still hear his laughter during the funny moments. My mom’s laughter, the popcorn, the firm rules, and later those Thursday nights after my dad passed all blended into something lasting. Those simple hours in front of a screen became moments of connection, comfort, and love, and they remain some of the warmest memories I carry with me today.

Health Proverb

Jean-Martin Charcot might have said it with a straight face, but the idea still makes me smile. If symptoms are really cries from suffering organs, then your stomach is apparently very dramatic, your head prefers to shout during meetings, and your back waits until bedtime to file its complaint. The body, it turns out, is not subtle at all. It doesn’t send polite memos or gentle reminders. It bangs on the door, raises its voice, and insists on being heard until you finally stop, listen, and maybe give it a glass of water, a stretch, or a decent night’s sleep.

Essential Oil Diffuser Blends: Grapefruit

Grapefruit diffuser blends are loved for their bright, sparkling aroma that instantly uplifts the mood. With its sweet yet tangy citrus notes, grapefruit pairs beautifully with peppermint or spearmint to create an energizing, refreshing environment. Blended with floral oils like geranium or lavender, it softens into a cheerful yet calming fragrance that supports relaxation without losing its lively spark. Many enjoy grapefruit blends for starting the day with positivity and lightness.

When combined with grounding oils such as frankincense or cedarwood, grapefruit develops a richer character that balances energy with focus. Mixed with other citrus oils like lemon or bergamot, it enhances the sense of freshness and joy, turning an ordinary room into a vibrant space. Whether you want a burst of morning energy, a mood lift in the afternoon, or a gentle pick-me-up in the evening, grapefruit diffuser blends create an atmosphere that feels both bright and balanced.

Essential Oils in the Bible

“And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon each row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, even an offering made by fire unto the Lord.”
— Leviticus 24:7

Frankincense held a sacred role in Israel’s worship, not merely for its fragrance but for what it represented. The instruction to place pure frankincense on the bread of the Presence was deeply symbolic—its aroma rising like prayer, connecting worshippers to God. The scent of burning resin was more than pleasant; it was an offering of devotion and remembrance, a way of setting apart holy things as belonging to the Lord.

Historically, frankincense was harvested from the Boswellia tree and considered among the most precious resins of the ancient world. It was imported across desert trade routes and often reserved for temples and royal courts. In biblical times, its costliness highlighted the value of devotion and reverence. Today, frankincense essential oil is still treasured for its calming and centering qualities, reminding us of how its sacred use in the Bible linked daily life with worship and reverence before God.

Top Essential Oil Leader

Salvatore Battaglia is an Australian aromatherapist and author, best known for writing The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. First published in 1995, the book has since gone through several editions and is widely used in professional training and education. It contains detailed essential oil profiles, therapeutic applications, historical background, and safety guidelines that remain standard references for students and practitioners.

He is the founder of Perfect Potion, an Australian company established in the early 1990s. The business produces essential oils, natural skincare, and aromatherapy products for retail and professional use. Perfect Potion has become recognized for emphasizing holistic health, sustainable production, and environmentally responsible practices that align with Battaglia’s interest in natural wellness.

Battaglia has been a consistent advocate for sustainable and ethical sourcing of essential oils within the international industry. His work through Perfect Potion, along with his writing and speaking, has drawn attention to the importance of fair trade, transparency in supply chains, and ecologically conscious methods of harvesting. These priorities are reflected in the company’s partnerships and policies.

In addition to his role as an entrepreneur, Battaglia has remained active as a lecturer and educator in aromatherapy. He has spoken at conferences, workshops, and professional training gatherings both in Australia and overseas. His lectures often combine practical therapeutic information with references to available research, providing reliable resources for students, practitioners, and interested members of the community.

His career demonstrates a combination of authorship, entrepreneurship, and education in aromatherapy. Through his books, company, and teaching activities, Battaglia has contributed to awareness of professional standards and ethical approaches to the use of essential oils. While others have also advanced the field, his steady involvement for more than three decades has established him as a recognized figure in modern aromatherapy.

How to Use Essential Oils: Cumin

Cumin essential oil, distilled from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, carries a warm, spicy, and slightly earthy aroma that has been valued for thousands of years. Native to the Mediterranean and parts of the Middle East, cumin has been used both as a culinary spice and a traditional remedy. In essential oil form, it is often appreciated for its digestive support and its ability to bring depth and richness to blends. Diffused in small amounts, cumin’s strong scent can create a grounding and comforting atmosphere.

Beyond its culinary heritage, cumin essential oil is sometimes used to help promote relaxation after heavy meals or to ease occasional feelings of tension. When blended with citrus oils such as orange or lemon, it takes on a brighter, more refreshing quality, balancing its deep, spicy base. Properly diluted, cumin oil may also be added to massage blends to help comfort muscles and joints, though its potency means it is used sparingly. Its distinct aroma makes it a bold addition to both diffuser recipes and wellness routines.

Did You Know? Cumin seeds have been discovered in ancient Egyptian pyramids, showing they were treasured as far back as 2000 B.C. The seeds were used in cooking, medicine, and even as part of the mummification process. Cumin is also mentioned in the Bible—in Isaiah 28:25–27, it is noted as one of the spices carefully sown and harvested by farmers. Today, India produces the majority of the world’s cumin, highlighting its continued importance in both global cuisine and cultural traditions.

Essential Oil Diffuser Blends: Geranium

Geranium diffuser blends carry a fragrance that feels both comforting and inspiring, wrapping the room in a sweet floral scent with a hint of fresh herbs. This oil is known for balancing emotions, easing tension, and lifting the spirit on a cloudy day. Blended with calming oils like lavender or chamomile, it softens stress and encourages peace. With grounding partners such as cedarwood or frankincense, geranium creates a steady, focused atmosphere.

When paired with citrus oils like orange or lemon, geranium brings a burst of brightness that clears away heaviness and refreshes the air. In romantic mixes, it blends smoothly with jasmine or ylang ylang, adding warmth and connection. Many describe its aroma as heart-lifting and joyful, turning simple moments into special ones. Whether for rest, energy, or cheer, geranium blends make the air feel alive and welcoming.

How to Use Essential Oils: Cinnamon Bark

Cinnamon Bark essential oil, distilled from the inner bark of the cinnamon tree, is treasured for its rich, spicy aroma that evokes warmth and comfort. Native to Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia, cinnamon has been valued for thousands of years in trade, medicine, and ritual. Its essential oil carries strong cleansing properties, making it popular in natural home sprays and cleaners. Diffused, its bold scent creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that can support a sense of energy and alertness.

Beyond its household uses, cinnamon bark oil has been studied for its powerful antimicrobial qualities, which are linked to its high cinnamaldehyde content. This makes it a favorite in DIY blends for supporting a healthy environment, especially during seasonal changes. A drop is sometimes used in recipes like spiced teas or baked goods for an extra kick of flavor, though it must be used sparingly because of its strength. In aromatherapy, its stimulating aroma can help awaken the senses and lift feelings of fatigue.

Did You Know? Cinnamon was once so prized that it was considered more valuable than gold in ancient trade. Arab traders kept its true source a secret for centuries, weaving myths that it was gathered from nests of giant birds to protect its rarity. Today, the “true” cinnamon most associated with high quality comes from Cinnamomum verum of Sri Lanka, while other species like Cinnamomum cassia are more widely available but have slightly different chemical compositions.

Top Essential Oil Leader: Patricia Davis

Patricia Davis: A Pioneer in Aromatherapy Education and Advocacy

Patricia Davis is a well-respected figure in the field of education and research, particularly in aromatherapy. She is best known for her book, Aromatherapy: An A-Z, which has become a widely used reference among practitioners. With years of experience in the study and application of essential oils, Davis played a key role in shaping modern aromatherapy practices. Her work focused not only on the benefits of essential oils but also on their safe and effective use, ensuring that both professionals and the general public could use them responsibly.

Davis’s interest in aromatherapy was driven by a passion for natural health and well-being. Throughout her career, she sought to bridge the gap between traditional herbal medicine and modern scientific research. By compiling detailed information on a wide range of essential oils, their properties, and their applications, she provided a reliable resource for practitioners, students, and enthusiasts. Her book remains one of the most trusted guides in the field, helping people make informed choices about essential oils.

One of Davis’s significant contributions was her emphasis on safety. At a time when essential oils were gaining popularity, misinformation was widespread, and many people used them without understanding their potential risks. Davis worked to educate the public on proper dilution methods, contraindications, and responsible usage. Her efforts helped establish guidelines that have since become standard in aromatherapy practice, preventing misuse and ensuring that essential oils are used in a way that promotes health rather than harm.

In addition to her writing, Davis was a strong advocate for public awareness of aromatherapy’s benefits. She conducted lectures, workshops, and training sessions to share her knowledge with both professionals and those new to the practice. By making complex scientific information accessible, she empowered individuals to incorporate essential oils into their daily lives safely and effectively. Her ability to communicate technical details in a clear and engaging manner made her an influential educator in the field.

Davis also played a role in fostering a more evidence-based approach to aromatherapy. She encouraged further research into the therapeutic effects of essential oils, advocating for scientific studies that could validate traditional knowledge. While much of aromatherapy was historically based on anecdotal evidence, Davis believed that integrating research-based findings would strengthen the field and increase its credibility within the medical and scientific communities.

Her contributions extended beyond her book. Davis collaborated with various organizations and practitioners to promote ethical sourcing and sustainability in the production of essential oils. She emphasized the importance of using high-quality, pure essential oils and warned against synthetic additives or low-quality products that could compromise the therapeutic effects. This advocacy helped set higher industry standards and encouraged responsible practices in the essential oil market.

Although much of Davis’s work was centered on essential oils, her broader impact was in holistic health education. She supported a balanced approach to wellness, integrating aromatherapy with other natural therapies such as massage, herbal medicine, and mindfulness practices. Her approach was holistic, recognizing that true well-being involves physical, emotional, and mental health. This perspective resonated with many practitioners and contributed to the growing acceptance of complementary and alternative medicine.

Patricia Davis resides in the Southwest of England, where she has dedicated many years to the practice and teaching of aromatherapy. Beyond her professional endeavors, she has authored several best-selling books, including Subtle Aromatherapy, A Change for the Better, and Astrological Aromatherapy. While specific details about her personal life remain private, her extensive work and publications reflect a deep commitment to holistic health and natural therapies.

Patricia Davis’s legacy continues to influence the field of aromatherapy today. Her dedication to education, research, and public awareness has left a lasting mark, ensuring that essential oils are used knowledgeably and safely. Aromatherapy: An A-Z remains a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners, a testament to her lifelong commitment to sharing accurate, well-researched information about the power of essential oils.