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Leonard Fish 5075 Rushton Acres Court West Valley City, Utah 84120 USA
Black spruce is a hardy evergreen that thrives in cool uplands, along streams, and at the edges of swamps. Traditionally, Native Americans used black spruce for its skin-nourishing properties and incorporated it into spiritual healing and cleansing rituals. Its wood and needles were often boiled to create tonics or steam baths, believed to promote overall well-being. The fresh, grounding scent of black spruce essential oil has made it a valuable tool for both physical and emotional healing, with its use continuing in modern herbal and aromatherapy practices.
In modern use, black spruce essential oil is widely recognized for its ability to support respiratory health. Diffusing 3-4 drops can help promote easy breathing, making it useful for seasonal changes or congestion. It is also beneficial for skincare—when blended with fractionated coconut oil or added to a favorite skin product, it provides soothing relief for dryness and irritation. Black spruce is also an excellent oil for relaxation; combining 1-2 drops with Roman Chamomile essential oil and a carrier oil makes for a calming massage blend that can ease tension and promote rest. Additionally, when paired with frankincense in a diffuser, black spruce helps freshen the air and improve concentration, making it a popular choice for both home and workplace environments.
Among these uses, black spruce essential oil is gaining attention for its potential role in supporting adrenal health and reducing stress-related fatigue. The oil contains bornyl acetate, a compound known for its calming effects, which mayhelp reduce feelings of burnout and support the body’s natural stress response. While many aromatherapy practitioners advocate for its benefits in stress relief, scientific studies on black spruce specifically for adrenal support remain limited. However, its grounding properties make it a widely used oil for promoting emotional balance. Whether for skincare, respiratory support, or relaxation, black spruce essential oil remains a versatile and grounding choice in natural wellness, though further research may provide deeper insights into its full range of benefits.
John Kensington, a wealthy businessman in 19th-century London, spent decades amassing a fortune. He owned textile mills, invested in railways, and lived in a grand estate. But in his relentless pursuit of wealth, he neglected his well-being—working long hours, surviving on rich but unhealthy meals, and avoiding rest. At 55, he was diagnosed with severe heart disease. His doctor told him, “All your gold cannot buy back your health.” Forced into retirement, John sought cures in European spas, hiring the best physicians, but nothing restored his youth or energy. One day, he visited an old friend, a modest farmer named Samuel, who lived simply but was strong and full of life. As they sat in the countryside, John realized that Samuel, though poor in riches, had something far more valuable—good health. That day, John uttered, “I would trade all my wealth to feel as you do.” But time had run out, proving the truth of the old proverb: good health is above wealth.
When I was nine or ten, I went fishing with my dad and older brother. I loved spending time with my dad because he was always busy, and these moments were rare and cherished. We spent the day together by the water, laughing and bonding. I can still remember the excitement of reeling in three or four good-sized fish. I felt so proud of what we’d caught—until the next part.
When it was time to gut the fish, my dad and brother handled the task while I stood off to the side, horrified. Watching them clean the fish was absolutely disgusting to me, and it took away some of the magic of the day. Things didn’t improve when we got home. My mom cooked up the fish, filling the entire house with the smell of fried fish. We sat down as a family to eat, but I struggled to enjoy the meal. No matter how carefully I picked through my portion, I always seemed to miss a bone. The fishy taste and lingering smell made the experience worse. From that day on, I decided: I don’t like catching or eating fish.
This simple rule—”don’t eat the fish”—has stayed with me ever since. It’s a personal rule rooted in a negative experience, but it’s one that works for me. For others, though, it would seem ridiculous. Many people love fishing and enjoy fresh fish, but my rule is shaped by my personal history, just as others’ habits and rules are shaped by theirs.
How often do we follow rules without questioning them? Many of the things we do are based on negative experiences, traditions, or habits passed down from others without us fully understanding why. For instance, I’m reminded of a story about Mary, who was preparing a ham for dinner. One of her children asked, “Why do you cut off the end of the ham before putting it in the pan?” Mary replied, “That’s how my mom always did it.” Curious, Mary called her mother to ask why. Her mom laughed and said, “I only did that because my pans were too small to fit the whole ham.”
This story illustrates how much of what we do is based on what’s been handed down to us. We often follow practices or traditions without stopping to ask if they still make sense or serve us well. When it comes to our health, this is especially true. Many of us, when we get sick, instinctively reach for over-the-counter pain relievers or other medications because that’s what we were taught to do. It’s what we’ve seen and experienced, so we repeat it.
But now we know better. With every man-made drug, there are potential side effects—some minor, others dangerous and harmful to our health. Thankfully, there’s another option. I’ve discovered the power of essential oils, which offer natural, effective solutions without the dangerous side effects of synthetic drugs.
Essential oils have transformed the way I approach my health. These powerful, plant-based remedies have been studied for their healing properties, and I’ve experienced their benefits firsthand. Whether I’m dealing with a headache, a cold, or simply trying to stay well, essential oils are my first line of defense. They’re not just effective—they’re also a reminder that sometimes the best solutions are the simplest and most natural ones.
My fishing story might seem unrelated to essential oils at first, but they’re both about learning from our experiences. That day on the lake taught me a lot—not just about fish, but about how personal experiences shape our choices. Just as I chose not to eat fish based on my childhood, I’ve now chosen essential oils as a healthier alternative for my well-being. It’s a choice rooted in knowledge, growth, and a desire for something better. And like fishing with my dad and brother, it’s a journey I’m grateful for, even if it didn’t start out perfectly.
The phrase “Rest and Be Thankful” is often linked to William Wordsworth, the great Romantic poet, but its roots run deeper in British and Scottish history. It became widely known due to the Rest and Be Thankful Pass in Scotland, a breathtaking spot along the A83 road in Argyll and Bute. In the 18th century, British soldiers built a military road through the rugged Highlands after the Jacobite uprisings, and the climb was so demanding that, upon reaching the summit, weary travelers would pause, rest, and express gratitude. The phrase was even engraved on a stone marker, serving as a timeless reminder that even in life’s most challenging journeys, one should stop, breathe, and appreciate the moment.
Although Wordsworth did not originate the phrase, he deeply embraced its sentiment in his writings and poetry. He found solace and renewal in nature, often encouraging his readers to pause, reflect, and find beauty in the world around them. His poem Tintern Abbey echoes this philosophy, describing how time spent in nature becomes a source of peace, healing, and cherished memories. Wordsworth believed that spiritual rest and gratitude were essential, and his poetry invites us to step away from the busyness of life and immerse ourselves in the stillness and wisdom of the natural world.
Today, “Rest and Be Thankful” remains a powerful call to pause and appreciate life’s journey, whether in moments of joy or hardship. Whether inspired by a Scottish landscape, Wordsworth’s poetic reflections, or the simple need for rest in a fast-paced world, the phrase reminds us to embrace gratitude and find renewal in stillness. It speaks to the universal human need for both physical and spiritual rest, reminding us that even the hardest climbs deserve a moment of reflection and thankfulness at the top.
Excerpt from Tintern Abbey
(Lines 142–159)
“Therefore let the moon Shine on thee in thy solitary walk; And let the misty mountain-winds be free To blow against thee: and, in after years, When these wild ecstasies shall be matured Into a sober pleasure; when thy mind Shall be a mansion for all lovely forms, Thy memory be as a dwelling-place For all sweet sounds and harmonies; oh! then, If solitude, or fear, or pain, or grief Should be thy portion, with what healing thoughts Of tender joy wilt thou remember me, And these my exhortations! Nor, perchance— If I should be where I no more can hear Thy voice, nor catch from thy wild eyes these gleams Of past existence—wilt thou then forget That on the banks of this delightful stream We stood together.”
I remember a kind couple, John and Nome Mackaleash, who loved my parents and enjoyed spending time with our family. They had big hearts and a genuine desire to help. They often brought us new clothes from a business they owned, showing their thoughtfulness in ways we deeply appreciated. One visit stands out in my memory: my sister Rachel was participating in a fundraiser, selling boxes of M&M candies for a dollar each—a significant amount of money in the 1980s. Without hesitation, John pulled out twenty dollars and bought the entire case of candy. Then, in an act of pure generosity, he gave each of us our own box.
Fast forward 20 years, and now it was my turn as a parent. My children were doing school fundraisers, but my reaction was the opposite of John’s. I completely discouraged them from participating. I’d say, “I’ll give you a dollar if you don’t do that fundraiser.” I was downright unpleasant to anyone who came to my door selling something.
One day, while listening to an audiobook, I heard the speaker say, “Be generous with your money, and it will come back to you tenfold.” Something about that message resonated with me. I decided to change my ways. I started being more open and generous, buying from every child who came to my door. It reminded me of John’s incredible generosity and the example he set for me all those years ago.
This shift in mindset also made me realize how giving can create a ripple effect. I even hired neighborhood kids to clean up rotten apples in my front yard and rewarded each of them with a crisp two-dollar bill. Seeing their smiles made me realize that generosity isn’t just about money—it’s about creating moments of joy and encouragement for others.
This perspective ties perfectly into my love for essential oils. Generosity isn’t just about giving money or gifts; it’s about sharing things that have positively impacted your life. For me, essential oils have been life-changing. I use them daily, appreciating their ability to promote better health without harmful side effects. When I experience the benefits of an oil—whether it’s improved focus, better sleep, or relief from discomfort—I feel compelled to share it with others.
I believe essential oils represent the same spirit of generosity that John and Nome demonstrated. They offer people hope and an alternative path to better health. Generosity, whether it’s giving time, money, or a small bottle of essential oil, creates a harvest far greater than we can imagine. Every time I share an oil, I’m reminded of the beauty in giving: it transforms lives—mine and others’—and fosters a deeper connection to those around me.
The lesson is clear: generous giving of ourselves, whether through kindness, encouragement, or something as simple as sharing essential oils, leads to a generous harvest of joy, hope, and connection. And just like John’s act of kindness with those boxes of candy, it’s the small, thoughtful gestures that often make the biggest difference.
Essential oils can be a natural way to boost energy and increase alertness throughout the day. One of the best ways to start your morning is by adding a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil to the shower floor. As the steam rises, it carries the invigorating aroma of the oils, helping to wake up the senses and provide a refreshing start to the day. This method is especially useful for those who struggle with grogginess in the morning or need an extra push to feel energized.
For a portable energy boost, creating a DIY roll-on blend can be an effective solution. Mixing wild orange, peppermint, and lemon essential oils with a carrier oil in a roller bottle makes it easy to apply to pulse points such as the wrists, neck, or temples. This blend provides an uplifting and revitalizing scent that can be used throughout the day. Another quick method to regain energy is inhalation—simply rub peppermint oil in the palms, cup hands over the nose, and take deep breaths. This technique is particularly useful for afternoon slumps, helping to increase focus and refresh the mind.
Another lesser-known but effective method for boosting energy is using essential oils with a cold compress. Soaking a washcloth in cold water infused with peppermint or rosemary oil, then wringing it out and applying it to the back of the neck, provides a refreshing and cooling effect. This technique can help reduce fatigue, regulate body temperature on hot days, and provide instant invigoration. Incorporating these methods into a daily routine can naturally enhance energy levels and improve overall well-being.
Essential oils can create a warming sensation on the skin, but it’s important to remember that everyone experiences this feeling differently. What may feel mildly warm to one person could feel hot or even irritating to another. When using essential oils classified as “warm,” caution should be taken, especially for those with sensitive skin. If an oil accidentally gets into the eyes or mucous membranes, it can cause discomfort or a burning sensation. Always use proper dilution methods to prevent adverse reactions.
The 50/50 rule is a helpful guideline when using warm essential oils. This means mixing equal parts (5 drops) of a warm essential oil with a carrier oil (5 drops) before applying it to the skin. Proper dilution helps reduce the risk of irritation while still allowing the oil’s therapeutic benefits to take effect. Some warm oils, like peppermint, may feel cooling initially but can have a warming after-effect, while others, like black pepper or ginger, provide steady warmth upon application. For internal use, extra caution is needed, as some warm oils may cause discomfort if not properly diluted.
In addition to their warming properties, these essential oils offer a variety of benefits. Oils like basil, cardamom, and clary sage can support digestion, while eucalyptus and rosemary may help open airways for clearer breathing. Other oils such as ginger and wintergreen are commonly used to ease muscle tension and support circulation. Understanding how warm oils interact with the body allows for more effective and comfortable use in aromatherapy, skincare, and wellness routines.