Summer’s in the Air

Our sense of smell is one of the most powerful of our senses. It is closely linked to our memory and our emotions. It can be both inviting as well as over-powering and impact the way we perceive the world around us. (see FifthSense) With summer comes all kinds of activities that we don’t usually enjoy year-round, that are associated with the outdoors, vacations, food, family, and fun. And with all of those comes memories that are often associated with certain smells. One of my other favorite summer smells is that of rain on a hot day as it hits the grass, trees, and asphalt. It always makes me pause and take a deep breath – and that is always a good thing, to pause and breathe. Another summer favorite smell is a good barbeque as it brings up memories of times with my grandparents, outdoors with grilled meat, fresh corn on the cob, and fresh tomatoes and green beans from my grandfather’s garden. 

Studies have indicated that smell accounts for more than 75% of the impact a flavor has on us. I came across a list of my favorite foods and realized they immediately took me to memories of connections with family and friends. From my childhood there is tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches which are still my “go-to” comfort food. The smells of holiday foods stir up visions of family gatherings that span generations and pass on traditions. One such recipe in our family is Papa’s Sweet Potato/Banana/Macadamia nut casserole (it is almost like dessert) and has become a favorite of even our extended family. 

Another tradition that has developed in our family is Sunday Dinner. It began about 15 years ago as our calabash niece came all the way from Maryland to Hawaii to attend college. We promised her parents we would keep a close eye on her, that our home was her home, and that at least one good meal (away from dorm food) would be provided on Sundays. Her visits often included various college roommates and friends for whom our door was always open. Sunday Dinner became the norm with an open invitation to family and friends both near and far, or who may be visiting which means sometimes it is four of us and others up to forty. Most times my husband would set up the grill so one of the staples is grilled chicken, rice, and salad (oh, and Sundays always include dessert!) As our family began to grow with daughter-in-laws and grandchildren, each has identified some of their Sunday favorites as comfort food such as Dad’s beef stew or chili. Do you have a comfort food that stirs up fond memories? With all this talk of comfort food, tonight might be a tomato soup and grilled cheese dinner.

Then there are the summer fruit and floral scents that seem so much more pungent. They are uplifting and rejuvenating. However, sometimes access to those scents and smells aren’t in our everyday environment so how do we create those memories and emotions in our confined spaces? Using aromatherapy is a wonderful way to bring that to life. Diffusing your favorite essential oils to invoke memories, reduce stress, and uplift our spirits can be very beneficial. Scents like orange, lime, and grapefruit are the ones that I most often have in my diffuser.

Learn more about essential oils.

******************************

The Power of Our Senses

One of my favorite creative writers is SARK, and in her book, A Creative Companion, she shares a wonderful meditation from Spinning Inward by Maureen Murdock, called The House of Perception. This exercise takes you on a journey with all SIX of your senses – sight, smell, taste, touch, hearing, and that 6th sense – your intuitive, reflective one – to create clarity. I would love to hear from you about your experience with this process.

*****************************

Hydrate Your Way to a Healthier Day

Drinking more water is an important, integral part of daily healthy living. It contributes to your overall health from top to bottom. And the good news, it’s easy to start and stay hydrated.

Our bodies are made up of roughly 60% of water. But that doesn’t mean we need to drink 60% of our body weight in water every day. Most experts recommend living by the 8×8 rule: eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day. That comes to about 2 liters, or half a gallon – plenty of H2O to do the trick. Keep in mind that the 8×8 rule is a general guideline. As with most health initiatives, it’s important to remember that we’re all unique, so your needs may vary. 

Click here to learn more about the importance of staying hydrated – especially during the hot summer months.

And kick up your hydration and wake up your brain even more with Axio, the smart energy, nootropic brain food drink. Improves mental and physical energy, reduces brain fog and fatigue.* Gluten free, non GMO, and all natural sweeteners. 

And, here is a great summer treat to keep you cool…

INGREDIENTS TO THE BIOHACKER DELIGHT SLUSHY

(* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)

***************************

Under a Full Moon and a Guiding Star

Coming in August! Behind every book lies a world of inspiration and countless hours of dedication. Throughout the writing process of ‘Under A Full Moon and A Guiding Star,’ I immersed myself in research, reflection, and personal experiences. The pages came alive with stories, insights, and practices aimed at nurturing your well-being. I can’t wait for you to experience it! 

LiveAlohaLiveWell

***********************

Invite your friends to subscribe to find their path to wellness.

You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn