This weekend is my annual time to retreat into my thoughts for a focused period of time. After years of refining this practice, I've come up with how time spent seems to work for me:

20% --- 2006 lessons learned and where I've been. what seemed to surface the most and was i happy with the outcomes?
30% --- 2007 dream sketching... making a personal and professional collage, for those more visually inclined, like me! amazing what great things i manifested this year. it works and it's fun!
40% --- 2007 mind mapping, charting out a course of intentions for the year; writing it down really helped clarify what i value most and it set a course to where i'd like to be. for me, i'm careful to not write or say "goals"... since things in our life change so should your course. so don't be hard on yourself when things don't go as you planned, that's why i call it charting a course, it's simply a guide to keep you on focus to where your happiness meter is leading you ;-)
10% --- refine my personal mission statement. if you don't have one, it's a great practice on helping you to get clear on where your internal guidance system is leading you to. write it down and get clear with yourself!

so change around your percentages that work for you, but don't spend too much time on the past... think of 2007 as a clear slate with thoughts of a more energized, balanced and healthier you.

Oh and one of those silly but very important reminder to... Breathe and breathe deeply throughout the day, aaahhhhh.

Did you know...

Did you know....

1. that you can purchase e-Mail Gift Certificates at my store now? It's available in increments of $50 for anyone passionate about pampering!
2. that you can be one of the firsts to sign up for Glow! , our monthly e-newsletter coming out next month? Sign up and you're eligible to win a spa product. Lucky winner will be announced in January 2007.
   
3. we have new articles for your health and wellness in our store site
4. that we're having a HUGE SALE on Olivella bath & body line
5. that FREE shipping on Aromastick bamboo reed diffusers will be expiring soon, a couple more weeks left. 1 large Woods in stock remaining.
   
6. our most popular comfort essential, the seafoam green neck wrap, has a slight fabric change to an equally beautiful orchid print.
   
7. that you can now tell your friends about de-stress essentials via the "send page to a friend" link on our homepage and blog.
8. that you can receive 10% off Featured Product on my blog!
9. that you can subscribe to receive my blog posts so you don't have to miss a word I say!
10. Did you know that we've partnered with The Spiritual Cinema Circle to help bring you movies that inspire and transform your life.

If you have any questions about any of this, love to hear from you! email me at maria@destressessentials.com. thanks for reading.... maria

New contributing writer!

I'm so thrilled to have Melissa Mellott founder of Spa Defined as a contributing writer for De-Stress Essentials and Glow! our monthly newsletter due out next month.

Spa Defined is Santa Barbara's only spa web directory where you'll find personal reviews and photographic tours showing the beauty and uniqueness of each spa. It is the ultimate guide for finding the ultimate spa experience.

In Melissa's search for relaxation and stress relief, she indulged in spa health throughout Santa Barbara and the surrounding areas. Her experiences as a consumer have led her to become a spa connoisseur.

She is also a contributing writer and spa reviewer for Santa Barbara Fitness Magazine, Spas of America and Santa Barbara.com. Melissa is a licensed esthetician and also earned her Master's degree at Azusa Pacific University.

Check out what she has to say on balance, fitness, alternative healing, indulging in spa treamtments, even men and spas.

Check out her website too for a Guide on Spa Etiquette.

Welcome and thank you for your contributions Melissa!

for bodycare minimalists: the ONE keeper!

I'm a coconut oil fanatic now after I tried Organic Fiji's Certified Organic Coconut Oil. It's so rare to find a moisturizer more effective than what's in this bottle. If you're a bath and body minimalist, coconut oil should be the ONE keeper.

Even massage therapists I have talked to love coconut oil for massage. It melts on contact with the skin, leaves a protective barrier on the skin, has a slight lathering ability, and easily washes out of towels.

Don't judge the coconut oil by the bottle it's in. The packaging might not be so attractive so you must trust me on the quality inside... it's ooh lala yummy on my chappy skin.

Multi-functional uses:
Skin moisturizer
Growing itchy baby bellies
Massage Oil
Deep Hair Conditioner
Anti-frizz for hair
Body Firmer
Hand moisturizer
Nail & cuticle moisturizer
Face moisturizer
Face complexion cream or product
Fragrance
And cooking too!

A friend bought several bottles and she loves the smaller 2-3 oz bottles for traveling. That's her travel beauty regimine. The larger bottles stay at home. Comes in lots of tropical scents or unscented Organic Fiji Coconut Oil.

*organic virgin coconut oil solidifies under 76 degreesF. Place sealed container in warm water to liquefy or just let it melt on your warm skin!

Huge Olivella Sale!

Italian bodycare with 100% virgin olive oil... on Sale!

Check it out... buy in sets
or view the complete Olivella Bath and Body line at De-Stress Essentials.

"The All Natural Mediterranean Diet for Our Skin"

surf's up

Just got back from an invigorating post holiday bike ride to balance out all the holiday food from yesterday!

I rode to the ocean bluffs nearby my home and made it to the cliff side after huffing and puffing, even after walking my bike up the hill. I'm so embarassed to even admit that but mtn biking was not a sport of choice for me, until today. So while resting on the bluff's edge, I sat for about an hour watching a surfer float on his board. Just enjoying the scenery of the Channel Islands, the big waves and the surfer, I was just in awe of all the natural beauty around me... and how lucky I feel to have that moment. Just as I was about to leave, the surfer got up, balanced and rode the wave. I felt so HAPPY for him that I clapped even though he couldn't hear me. I thought about how much courage he must have mustered up to ride that wave. I got back on my bike with a jolt of inspiration from that one surfer that I told myself I will ride the rocky hills - up and down - one day soon, after I muster enough strength and courage myself, just like the surfer got up and rode the wave.

It's a good time to remind you to shake things up a little, do something out of your ordinary life routine and make things a little interesting. It might just get you to that next level you've always wanted to go in your life. One little step at a time....

Happy Holidays

Muse and I would like to wish you a very merry holiday. Have fun and be safe. We're kicking back in Santa Barbara but I'll return to blogging on Tuesday after a short holiday break. Ahhhhh.....

video Friday

Laughter is very good medicine! Deepak on the Comedy Central on his new book, Life After Death: The Burden of Proof.He also reminds us that "exfoliation is recreation" so remember to exfoliate to regenerate those skin cells!

happy winter solstice

As i slip in to my winter solstice ritual pretty soon, i wanted to leave these thoughts from Mother Teresa. Gratitude to YOU for making this first year in business an elightening one! ~ Maria

• People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered; Forgive them anyway.

• If you are kind, People may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway.

• If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway.

• If you are honest and frank, People may cheat you; Be honest and frank anyway.

• What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway.

• If you find serenity and happiness, They may be jealous; Be happy anyway.

• The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway.

• Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway.

• You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God; It was never between you and them anyway.

- Mother Teresa

locations of visitors to spahhh talk

Technology continues to fascinate me so I just wanted to share with you where my blog visitors live -- all over the world in fact. Click on this link to see; you'll be taken to ClustrMaps.

Even my birthplace, Manila, is respresented in the map... people needing some spahhh talk time... great, I understand how hectic it can get in that big city!

Waiting for a friendly visit from Hawaii or Fiji. Anyone, anyone.... perhaps giving 6 degress of separation a try?

Spahhh Talk ClustrMaps can also be found on blog main page, bottom right.

send comments, questions, feedback my way
maria@destressessentials.com

holiday store hours

hello de-stress divas! our holiday schedule is as follows....

Any orders placed after 12p (pst) tomorrow, thursday december 21st will ship wednesday, december 27. During this time our store will remain open however shipping will be postponed until after the holidays so that we may enjoy good tidings and cheer.

We appreciate your understanding and we hope your holidays are safe and full of jolly!

Blissfully yours,
Maria

winter solstice rituals

winter solstice which is tomorrow marks the beginning of winter and the shortest day and longest night of the year. so for me as the sun goes down this means an annual ritual of remembering and appreciating the year that is ending, letting go of the not so good stuff in the year and then setting an intention for the new year ahead.

how will you observe or celebrate winter solstice? some ideas... sharing a candlelight dinner with friends or simply observing the sunrise and sunet, turning off the lights after sunset and lighting candles or fireplace to truly experience this longer night.

so instead of resisting this day, accept (reflect) and celebrate (the direction) of your new year ahead!

feeding your soul

It's the final dash to finish the holiday shopping, plan the travels, the get-togethers and everything else we do to try to make each holiday special. For most of us, after all the gifts are wrapped and the errands completed, it's maybe, just maybe we think about ourselves.

Stop now and think about yourself to all busy overachieving women out there! Calendar out some time if you need to you renew your energy and re-charge for the new year ahead.

Here's what you can do to feed your soul:
light a candle, read a spirtual book from an author that resonates with you (email me if you'd like suggestions maria@destressessentials.com), practice some restorative yoga and go deep into meditation.

After this quiet celebration of your spirit, you'll feel renewed and refreshed, the natural way.

Holiday Glow Tips

Mixing and Mingling is so much more fun when you're glowing so I came up with these tips so you'll radiate in and out beauty!

• Drink lots of water
• Exfoliate in the shower
  
• Gently steam face using dried herbs
• See the good in others
• Love yourself!
  

the Spiritual Cinema Circle Buzz

Click here for information! You'll be taken to the Spiritual Cinema Circle website.

"The Spiritual Cinema Circle provides a great service if you want to evolve and be entertained."
- Deepak Chopra, M.D., bestselling author of The 7 Spiritual Laws of Success

New partnership with Spiritual Cinema Circle!

Today is a great day. I'm very excited to let you know that we've just partnered with Spirtual Cinema Circle to do our little part to help raise the vibration of the planet!

If you haven't seen the film, The Secret, I highly recommend it! AND would love to hear your thoughts on how it has improved your life. Send me a message at maria@destressessentials.com



Spritual Cinema Circle is offering a free month of membership to get you started receiving those hard to find films. Click here to be taken to their website.

maintaining your youthful spirit

each time muse takes me on a walk i'm reminded how important it is to maintain my youthful spirit. every morning she wakes up with a freshness about her; she sees the world like it was the first time.

i feel joy watching her roll in the grass, playing chase with the birds, smelling the flowers... even the spring in her step, it's all with such freshness! bright eyed and happy tailed muse definitely inspires MY youthful spirit!

maintain your youthfulness by practicing seeing things as if it was your first time.

merriest of holidays!

Aromastick stock update

Our most popular calming Woods scent is calming people all over the US -- from CA, MI, NY, TX, MD, VA, IL, WA, OR, AZ, LA, DC, GA, CO, MN and NC

Woodstock update:

1 large 16 oz Woods scent left in holiday stock
2 medium 8 oz Woods left in holiday stock
all scents IN STOCK of 4 oz atomizer/reed diffuser

Aromasticks ship same day Mon - Sat
Ships USPS priority mail from CA (2-3 days depending on location), no extra shipping charge.

Free shipping specials through January
Aromastick Bamboo Reed Diffuser

Peace...
Charming Gardenia ~ Calming Woods ~ Soothing Nursery

Energy...
Invigorating Citrus ~ Uplifting Floral

beating the blahs

i'm glad that i'm not an expert on the blahs but on the days i do feel it, like today, i've learned to recognize it, listen to what my body is telling me and even sometimes wait the feeling out.

today, i hear "move it" to help me create energy so i can be fueled by more uplifting energy. ah, makes sense to me. my exercise schedule was pushed away this week by commitments so hence this lackluster day.

if you experience lackluster days especially during this busy holiday and shorter sometimes gloomy days, make an attempt at improving your state of mind whether that means being still or going for that brisk walk, writing in your journal, listening to music or even escaping for a movie. try these intervention ideas and see what inspires you.

view blah times as an opportunity to slow down and listen to your inner self; listen to what your spirit says!

i'm off with muse to brighten my blahs with an inspiring walk to the beach.

know that this too shall pass...

i welcome your comments and feedback, email me at maria@destressessentials.com

aromatherapy for your computer... coming soon!

i am so excited to be offering aromatherapy mousepad and keyboard wrist rests.... coming soon in sublime fabrics and 3 stimulating or relaxing scents. colors: black, red/gold, dark purple.

ergonomic aromatherapy made by our neighbors in santa rosa valley, ca, can help alleviate pain from a common workplace injury - (rsi) repetitive stress illness due to improper positioning of the forearms, wrists and hands while keyboarding. use of ergonomic wrist rests will help you keyboarding more comfortably.

i'm using the rests right as i type in asian inspired satin red and gold in stimulating herbs as i blissfully type away. beautifully decorates my industrial looking computer set up too.

i welcome your email with any questions, comments, or to be notified of when this product will be available in our store. i can be reached at maria@destressentials.com.

Let them choose. Blissertificates now available by paypal!

We've got the solution! If you were ever unsure if your friend would enjoy the whipped body butter or the breeze coconut oil the most or scented versus unscented, you can now purchase a gift certificate via paypal and let them choose.

They're NOW available through paypal's safe and secure site.

Go to the De-Stress Essentials homepage and look for the button "Buy a Gift Certificate" at top of page.

how your transactions are safeguarded...
you'll know your transactions are secure because we've created encrypted buttons throughout our website and one on the blog which means you won't see an email link; you're taken directly to paypal to purchase the gift certificate. This encryption secures your item's price and other details from being altered by a third party.

holiday gift idea for the very feminine woman

here's a fantastic gift idea for the woman who's not afraid to ooze femininity... a unique perfume oil by sharon bolton.

i'm talking not in looks but in nature... who oozes feminity in her confident manner, the way she talks and the way she moves. the perfect compliment for this oozy woman is this intoxicating perfume oil by sharon bolton, a local santa barbara perfumer. in 3 scents Luv-Soul-Truth, in a compact roll. when i ooze my feminine style, i choose luv, tucked away dicreetly in my purse... i fall in love with myself over and over!

Also available in rich luxuriously scented lotions and body wash packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

The body wash is enriched with Shea Butter and White Tea leaving skin feeling moisturized and revitalized... creates a rich, refreshing lather for the shower as well as plenty of BUBBLES for the bath.

OUT OF STOCK update - nesti dante

Greetings....

Quick stock update: Temporarily OUT OF STOCK of the Fruit Collection kit by Nesti Dante Soap. Email us at us if you'd like to be notified of availability.

We are working on stocking up on a similar item however, the Floral Soap kit collection. Another update soon.

celebrating oneness

feeling fresh from a joyful day at a celebration of oneness event held this past weekend in pasadena, ca. i left the center feeling lifted, in the spiritual sense... that all things are possible and within our reach.

in between the elevate film and music festivals, i got a chance to participate in such empowering workshops, all very inspiring but one stood out the most. after the arianna huffington workshop, i stayed for her sister's (Agapi's) workshop on fearlessness. my brain mind was telling me to turn back to elevate where it seemed so much easier to sit and listen to be uplifted by music or a film, but my wonderful heart mind told me to stay, take that chance and grow. thankfully again my heart mind led me in the feel good direction.

we started the workshop dancing around the room, arms flailing in all directions, shoes off. free, i felt so free! then we were asked to freeze and look to the person near us. from that point on we were asked to share our fears with this person and other intimate information to help us through our fears. I shared mine with Sandra and vice versa. was very scary to tell a person I just met my fears. that fear on top of my existing fears was enough to make me grab my shoes and run! But, immediatley i felt comfortable with her; her calmness and lightness about her inspired me to share and talk from my heart. Sandra and I had made a deep connection sitting on that stage. Still gives me chills, the good kind. If you're reading this Sandra, thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I know we have exchanged emails but where ever our journey leads us, i can bet we were in that workshop for a reason. Bless you.

A Celebration of Oneness

I truly believe that events take place in our lives for a reason and that people we meet touch our life for a reason, whether it be the person sitting next to you on the bus, the waitress serving you or the guy at the ticket counter handing you the stub. our lives are filled with these little connections. for yourself today, try making the conscious effort to think about, as you go through your day, the people you come in contact with. has this interaction affected or changed you? how? if anything, this contact might just make you more aware that these people, the little contacts throughout the day, are no different than you... that we are all ONE in our hearts, minds and bodies. blessings to you.

More and more men want...

relaxation and serenity

Being human, it's simply a basic need. We withdraw for relaxation and come back revitalized. More men like women are seeking out relaxation and serenity. Reading los of articles on relaxation and wellness, the latest hot topic is the male and spa'ing. They are hungry for peace in this fast paced world. Thankfully these modern men are developing their yin for finding a place for cleansing and healing for both body and soul, getting in touch with their spiritual side.

If you're a male and reading this, I salute you! If you're a female reading this and know of a male in your life who could use some retreat time, I salute you! You are respecting the need for male space.

So here's some men straight talk in helping to create a home relaxation sanctuary. No fuss, no frills gift guide:

• Body Wrap in masculine colors and soft wide corduroy.
• Foot Cozy also in masculine colors and soft wide corduroy, to fit most men's large feet.
• Music to feed the soul and reduce stress
  
• Organic Body care... simple healthy ingredients
  
• Woods Aromastick, sandalwood, cedar, and musk
  

In celebration of Bodhi Day

Today we celebrate Bodhi Day... Buddha's Awakening, by offering 10% off Buddha Nose!

When placing your order you must put BodhiDay06 in the comments section to receive a 10% refund on your total Buddha Nose order. Good for one week only, through December 15.

Bodhi Day background: Buddha's Enlightenment. "Among Buddhists, this holiday celebrates Buddha's attaining understanding of the truth of existence, freeing himself from all human suffering, and finding perfect happiness."

Like the Buddha, we should be reminded to find time to calm our hearts and minds and allow ourselves to clearly reflect the true nature of (our) life.

Bodhi Balm directions: use as often as needed. And like the Buddha, find a tree to sit under and... peace out!

living in balance

Ahhhh balance. So my un-typical week went like this... de-stress essenials TLC, boutique show, ladies who launch meeting, connecting with a friend and her baby, more meetings, visited a lavender farm, secured new products, attended Linked Foundation opening reception, played the piano, hiked to the beach with muse, read some, wrote some, cleaned office, practiced yoga, and took holiday decorations out of storage. Whew... now, that is my idea of a successful week of balance, things that filled my spirit. Success this week. Now, working on a balanced upcoming week.

Here are my 5 keys to balance:

1. Being in touch with my feelings, with my inner wisdom.
   
2. Play
   
3. Simplify
   
4. Nurture body
   
5. Restful sleep
   

Think of each day as a journey through life that defines exactly who we are. To create a life of balance prioritize what is important to you. Decide what you want and ahhhh release the rest!
(photo by Fern Carbonell. Photo is of me at the Green Festival in Washington, DC in October showcasing a book on BALANCE!)

Aromas for Living Holiday Open House

A wonderful "neighbor" of ours is having an open house and we'd like to spread the love and invite you to attend if you're in the area.

Aromas for Living Holiday Open House
Sunday-Wednesday, December 3-6
10:00am - 8:00pm

13545 Nightsky Dr
Santa Rosa Valley, CA


Browse website to preview gifts Aromas For Living
Join our friends for shopping, lavender lemonade and holiday cheer!

quote of the day

i love quotes and this one seemed to resonate with me as we let go of another november in our lives... here is a quote that inpsires me to be a better person.

"from time to time, to remind ourselves to relax, to be peaceful, we may wish to set aside some time for a retreat, a day of mindfulness, when we walk slowly, smile, drink tea with a friend, and enjoy being together as if we are the happiest people on earth." -thich nhat hanh

about unscented Organaic Fiji coconut oil

Sometimes a customers' use of a product, prompts us to share others about their experiences and improve our store too so we'd like to share a quick note about UNSCENTED Organic Fiji coconut oil. If you choose to use this wonderful product in Unscented, don't be surprised with the buttery sugar cookie scent, as our customer with sensitivity to scented products described it to me.

That SCENT comes from the meat of the coconut, from the Fijian Islands, that is extracted using a process called a cold press technique and through this process the oil is able to retain its natural healing properties. So while there are no scents added, there will be the scent from mother nature!

It's THAT pure and you'll LOVE it. Once the oil seeps into the skin you should find the coconut "scent" slowly dissipate, though of course this changes from person to person.

During checkout you will see (tomorrow) an option that will change from Fragrance-free to Unscented. Just a light change in terminology but we think a more accurate one.

• The benefits of coconut oil are limitless... The deep moisturizing properties of Coconut Oil rapidly hydrate, condition and shield the skin from moisture loss.
• It is rare to find a moisturizer more effective than Certified Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil in its purest form is one of the most natural ways to moisturize and treat dry and irritated skin and can even be used as an intensive treatment for damaged hair. Rich in vitamins and anti oxidants, Coconut Oil is a true gift from nature. Oh, and another benefit.... you can cook with it too!
  

Organic Fiji Coconut Oil

organic fiji inventory

Just a quick stock update on our popular organic fiji bodycare line:

We now have IN STOCK* the following scents:

• bar soap - cucumber melon, tuberose, raspberry
• 12 oz. lotion - lemongrass tangerine, fragrance-free
• 2 oz lotion - cucumber melon
• 12 oz coconut oil - lemongrass tangerine, pineapple coconut
  
• 2 oz coconut oil - cucumber melon

currently OUT of STOCK*, but available mid-Dec:
Lemongrass Tangerine Sugar Polish
Coconut Sugar Polish

If you'd like to be notified when they'll be back on our shelves, send us your email.

*store reflects these changes

organic fiji body scrub

the spirit of organic fiji video

cyber monday

greetings de-stress divas and devos!

it's been a whirlwind day at de-stress providing stress-free shopping experiences, as humanely possible. as i rest my head tonight, i will give delight to the fact that in our heart of hearts we hope we did accomplish just that.

A customer wrote me today regarding product damage that occured during shipping. We did our best to rectify the situation and here is what she said.

"Your approach to customer service is wonderful. Thank you again for your superb customer service -- you have gained a new repeat customer with your willingness to go the extra mile in resolving my problem."

bravo bravo to my customer. it takes time to give feedback, especially when it's a pleasant one so i thank you for being who you are.

well, we have officially kicked off the holidays with cyber monday, the monday after thanksgiving. somebody out there thought that name sounded good so it seemed to have stuck. I love facts and Wikipedia so I looked the term up. Here's what it says about Cyber Monday. According to BizRate Research 2006 eHoliday Mood Study, "77% of online retailers said their sales increased substantially last year on this Monday". And that is great news for us online retailers and great news for you the savvy online shopper.

Take a couple of deep breaths, say ahhh, stay in your pj's, put on your warm fuzzy slippers, turn on the holiday music, make your hot cocoa, light your soy candle, turn on your computer and start clicking away! Ahhh, stress free.

Our Cyber Specials

Share your thoughts, your inspirations and comments to me at maria@destressessentials.com.

when life gets hectic

with all this talk about sales and shopping i wanted to make sure we're also feeding our souls (myself included!).

when life gets hectic... be sure to create that spiritual space for yourself. just as flowers and plants need space to grow and flourish, so do we. nothing soothes my spirit more than sitting outside taking in the natural beauty. i'm grateful for being able to do that year-round living in santa barbara. a quick jaunt to the beach with muse gives me tons of tranquility for the week. the sound of the water never fails to carry my troubles away. even living on the east coast during the winter months meandering along the serene potomac gave me a sense of peace.

find your spiritual space and reflect on all that you have to be grateful for. share if you'd like too. wishing you safe travels and many many more blissful moments. thank you for coming into my space today.

truly grateful for you,
maria

Holiday Bash

It's a HOLIDAY BASH going on at De-Stress!
We'll be updatiing our pages frequently so check back for new specials.

Click over to our new Sales and Specials page and our What's New page.

Aromatherapy for the home makes a scentfully delicious gift!
Aromasticks
Soy candles

Body Treats
Olivella made with 100% virgin olive oil, it is the all natural mediterranean diet for our skin!

Buddha Nose Body Treats for a stress-free holiday

A quick shout out that Buddha Nose is now available at De-Stress!

After a long day, doesn't a warm bath set the stage for a peaceful, restorative night's sleep by signaling your body that it's time to rest. We encourage you to enhance your experience by indulging in our spa-inspired find, Buddha Nose Body Treat that will definitely nourish your body and spirit.

After a warm soak, I love to wrap myself in a comfy robe and a cozy foot mule for a truly soothing evening ritual. A soy candle fills my room with a calming scent of lavender to really take me to that blissful space.

Meditation Bath Salts Be still and breathe. Quiet the mind and concentrate on nothing.

Happy soaking!

style bakery's holiday gift guide features Luxurious Neck Wraps

Shop from the comfort of your home for a truly stress-free shopping experience AND shop Indie while you're at it!

We're offering 10% off ALL Comfort Essentials - neck wraps, eye pillows, body wraps and oh so cozy foot mules in this year's Style Bakery's huge Holiday Gift Guide. Find us in 50 under $50.

About our NECK WRAPS: Bliss in a bag. Drift into total relaxation with these luxurious neck wraps. The ultimate in relaxation and stress relief. Available in many pretty fabrics. Comes with eco-chic jute tote.

** When purchasing neck wraps or any comfort essentials you must use code: StyleHoliday06 in comments section; free shipping on orders over $100. Adjustment will take place after checkout.

You know what you want. Click here to be taken directly to Comfort Essentials.

Happy Shopping!

happy thanksgiving

At De-Stress Essentials we hope your Thanksgiving is stress-free, relaxing and full of reflection. And here is a beautiful medley of color therapy... just in case you need the mood booster!

where to find us: Holiday Boutique Dec 3rd

Click on an image for a closer look.

More NEW product news... LUXURY Soaps from Italy!

We're busy little bees at De-Stress. Just in time for the holidays... we're stocking our store with SOAP, 21 Luxury soaps from Italy!

Nesti Dante Luxurious soaps inspired by the beautiful region of Florence, made with enchanting perfumes from the hills of Tuscany.



They're beautifully packaged in elegant Florentine style paper.
** Makes a delightful HOLIDAY gift.

Shop the ENERGIZING & REFRESHING Fruit line (available for purchase now) and take a peek at the other luxurious soap lines (available for purchase 9/22-23).

Take me to the new luxury SOAPS

The FRUIT line combines the ENERGY of fresh fruit and the properties
of olive oil in six invigorating fragrances:

FIG & ALMOND MILK SOAP
CITRON & BERGAMOT SOAP
POMEGRANATE & BLACKCURRANT SOAP
RED GRAPES & BLUEBERRY SOAP
PURE OLIVE OIL SOAP
PEACH & LEMON SOAP

new scents just added to via botanica line

Exciting news Via Botanica pamering fans.

Just arrived! NEW SCENTS to expand the current Via Botanica bath and body line. You craved it, we've got it.

Whipped Body Butter/Hand and Body Lotion/Body Wash/Sugar Cane Scrub/Body Butter available in these scents
Vanilla Orange (most popular)
Lavender
Invigorating Mint
new flavors: Ginger Cream, Honey Almond

Ginger Cream - a warm and nurturing scent

Honey Almond - just a hint of warm honey that softens on your skin to the barest reminder of honey and almonds. Sweet and sexy, yet not overly fragranced.


Handemade Soap
new flavors: Vanilla, Ginger Cream, Honey Almond

New Product coming soon! Buddha Nose

We're really excited about this hip and tranquil addition to our store... Buddha Nose aromatic oils and plant remedies

Here's a sneak peak.

Bodhi Balm To relax, quiet the mind & peace out!
A unique balm to ease tension headaches, and aches and pains associated with stress.

Girl Balm To ease cramps and lighten moods
Hey Girlfriends! Need a belly balm to rub away aches and grouchy feelings associated with your cycle? Massage a fingertipfull of Girl Balm into your lower belly, as often as needed.

being beautiful naturally

maria's tips on being BEAUTIFUL, naturally

~ love your life and everything around you. the more you count your blessings, the more they will appear.

~ drink lots of water. being dehydrated can make you stressed, but pure fresh water both energizes and uplifts naturally.

~ no matter how stressed you are - exercise. it is the best anti-stress medicine ever! just 30 minutes of it can help you deal with anything.

~ laugh really loud whenever and as often as you can, it is very liberating!

~ eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day. rich in nutrients and skin-protective anti-oxidants, these are nature's beauty foods.

~ give hugs, lots of them. if you cannot find anyone, hug a tree ;-)

~ have massages: in addition to toning your muscles and relieving aches, being kneaded and squashed simply makes your body happy.

~ love your body and stop criticizing yourself. remember, you truly are a miracle of nature.

~ be really really genuinly nice to everyone. smiles are contagious. it's even known to boost your immune system!

de-stress /spa talk news

lots of wonderful new things happening at de-stress. i've added new links on spa talk and will be updating de-stress in the coming days with exciting new products, like buddha nose and nesti dante italian soaps and even a spa baby line. you'll notice another resource to help you nurture your mind body spirit at "today's daily om" link, an easier to navigate blog archive by topic and "quick look-up" links to help you get to what you're looking for faster. a newsletter is in the works (scheduled for winter 2006-07), a sales and specials page and exciting contests with prizes... all coming up.

New links on spa talk

What's New / Up and Coming

• New Products - currently being udpated
• Boutique Shows - currently being updated
• Our Current Sales and Specials - coming soon
• Join our Newsletter - coming soon

perfectionism

as i sit typing away with muse by my side, i notice how she just takes things in stride, doing one thing, moving on and being happy in each moment. so that just brought me an aha moment about me versus perfectionism. that 'p' word is driving me to compulsive behavior with frustration as a side effect. did i really need to edit the copy 8 times? do i need to respond to every email? did i really need to make the image one pixel smaller then larger then smaller? did i really need to spend 3 hrs on one color decision? as my vow to strive for constant balance in my life, i'm gently reminded by muse to enjoy what i'm doing and leave the compulsion behind. my hope for you (and me!) is to set reasonable standards for ourselves. aim to be a healthy striver and enjoy the process as well as the outcome. it does lead to a more balanced life and a more genuine pleasure in the pursuit of excellence.

laugh your way to wellness

I'm always seeking out interesting articles on wellness. My sister knows this so she sends me articles and links on things she comes across. She sent a fun one last night about balance... laughing your way to wellness. It's a type of yoga called Okido. The purpose is to help you regain the connection to your life-force and create the basis for better health and spiritual happiness. I gave it a try this morning with muse. She can always make me laugh. She does this drop roll thing on me most mornings to play and wake me up to feed her. She seems to have the Okido practice mastered. So I giggled myself to bliss. Really lightened me up, ready for whatever comes my way today.

So time to open our minds and take a journey to find the inner child in you and laugh your way through the day. What a natural way to feel good!

If we couldn't laugh, we would all go insane.
- Jimmy Buffett

reasons why I home spa

By now it's probably no secret that I love pampering. It wasn't always in me... I actually shyed away from things that brought attention to myself. And even more so I shyed away from pricey spas. But now I might indulge only on occasion but home is where I'm most comfortable in integrating my spa routines.

I find the wonderful thing about getting older is becoming more in tune with our Self. That means, taking time out for us. Pampering should be as beneficial as reading a book, eating healthy and even walking your dog (shame on you if you're not!). It's up there with my peace, health, balance, my overall wellness.

As we head into the holidays be aware of how you're feeling and listen to what your body is telling you. What does it need? More TLC? A salt scrub perhaps? Make home spa'ing within your reach so that it's practical for you, your lifestyle and your wallet. I challenge you to get creative and use the ingredients in your cupboard right now. Take a look at Inside the Spa Pantry for creative practical home spa recipes.

I love this quote by Anais Nin "I go in to come out". It sums up why I take spa moments no matter how busy life gets. As the week goes by, I challenge you to just listen to your inner spa diva and give it the attention you deserve.

If you have a favorite recipe, I'm eager to hear about it to share with others.

Happy Spa'ing.

happy friday

You've been a busy bee all week now go buzzz off and reward the little bee in you. Do doing something super special for yourself.

Bee well.

many uses for the eye pillow

One of my favorite spa items I own is the eye pillow. It's also one of those items that can be easily tossed aside if it's out sight. To prevent this, I keep it visible on my side table ready to use, stored away in its jute bag.

I use it a few ways.

1- As an end to doing a few sun salutations at home, I end a yoga session with shavasana - deep relaxation - where I lie on my back with my lavendar filled eye pillow on and accept the aromatherapy. I am completely relaxed and my mind quiet and still.
Tip** for a more intense relaxation, microwave eye pillow for a few seconds. You will love the warm feeling.

2- I also bring my eye pillow to yoga class so I can look forward to relaxation even more... in a room full of other yogis. Laying there with my eye pillow I enjoy a total feeling of accomplishment after a solid seventy five minutes of practice!

3- Great for a quick power nap. The eye pillow completely blocks out the light so there are no visual distractions. It's designed to fit above the nose, so it's a comfortable fit.

4- I take it along when travelling. In unfamiliar hotel rooms, it takes longer for me to fall into my zzzz's. The pillow is the comfort.

5- I started toting my eye pillow to the beach recently. I put a cover on it though so muse won't get sand on it while she's digging to get cool. When Muse sees it, she knows it's my time. Muse relaxes quietly next to me.

TranquilT Treatment and Ayurveda

I was in Bethesda, MD last month when I heard about Tranquil Space, a hip lifestyle- focused Yoga studio. They had all these neat offerings aside from yoga so I eagerly signed up for 'ayurveda and thai yoga bodywork'. The best part of it was the ayurvedic (more on that below) consulatation. I learned what my particular dosha or body constitution was. Through a series of questions, Ann my bodyworker and ayurvedic expert, was able to conclude that I had dominant Vata elements -- space/ether and air elements. Not so suprising since travelling is not generous with balance, routine, and relaxation.

The consultation was followed by a thai yoga massage that was customized to balance my Vata. Ann also recommended I stay away from salads and cold food while travelling and eat warm solid foods to help stabilize my energy that is just all over the place!

The thai yoga bodywork combined massage, assisted yoga poses, acupressure, energy work, and meditation to unblock energy, relieve tension, and increase my body's natural ability to heal itself.

So what has this done for me? After leaving the session, the worries of traffic, work, where to be next -- all vanished. Vanished. I shed years. What this has also done for me is to remind myself to be more aware of what my body is telling me. I am stubborn so I ignore it when I should be doing opposite. We all could use a little reminder that we need to listen and to act wisely to what our body is telling us. We all have our unique quidance system. We just have to remember to tap into this free resource within each of us!

__________________________________
Here's what wikipedia has to say about Ayurveda. Click here to go to website.

Excerpt from Ayurveda workshop at Tranquil Space:
Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system of medicine and a sister science to yoga that seeks to improve one's emotional, energetic and physical well-being.

• Ayurveda believes that we are part of everything (of the entire universe) and are therefore made up of the same ‘stuff’ as the universe, i.e. of the basic elements that the universe is made of; Ayurveda names ether/space; air; fire; water; earth
• in the human body these come together as 3 body constitutions (doshas): Vata – Pitta - Kapha

space/ether and air fire and water water and earth

Vata Pitta Kapha

• we all have all three of these energies in us, but not in the same amount; naturally one or two will predominate
• which energies are dominant will have to be taken into account when we look at how to help a person find optimal health;
• this also means we are unique and presents a different approach to the body and healing; it explains why not the same things are good for everybody and makes it possible to understand and treat the individual
• therefore, the way our constitution is made up will determine how we can find balance in our life; i.e. a person who has a lot of Pitta/fire and maybe also some water/Kapha in their life will not want to add more of these elements to their life, but will want to find a way of living (lifestyle routines, diet) that balance their constitution – then we can live in harmony with ourselves, live our life to the fullest (developing our full potential), live in harmony with Nature/the environment and reconnect with Purusha.
• Robert Svoboda: Every human being is a unique individual, full of idiosyncrasies and peculiarities. Your most precious possession, your life, is yours and yours alone, unlike that of any other human being past, present or future. Each human being is a unique manifestation of Mother Nature, the Creative Energy of the universe. Each possesses an indwelling fragment of the Universal Soul. The message of the Vedas is that each of us mist find our own path to a life lived to the fullest, for only by making the most of ourselves can we repay to Nature the debt we owe Her for giving us life. The universe needs you to add your mite to the vast collective tapestry we call human civilization. You can make your fullest contribution to life only when you are healthy and health alone enables you to enjoy your life to the fullest in return.

New! Sharon Bolton BODY WASH and LOTION

I'm happy to announce 2 new local products added to our existing Sharon Bolton line: luv, soul, truth BODY WASH and BODY LOTION, the Santa Barbara collection.

Intoxicating, ultimately feminine scents for every busy woman. Make your own discovery. Will it be Luv, Soul or Truth!?

Shall I dare say what perfume oil you can find in my purse...
Luv. But of course!

Not only are her scents uplifting but the woman behind the product is equally inspiring. View complete line here:
Sharon Bolton scents

**Gift idea** Essential oil perume for the ultra feminine woman.

Holiday Boutique show Dec 3rd mark your calendars

Let the Season Begin!
Mark your social and shopping calendars.

What: Holiday Boutique Show event
When: Sunday December 3rd, 12pm - 4pm
Where: Tone-Up Santa Barbara
36 W Calle Laureles (de la vina and state)
Santa Barbara

Join us for a day in celebration of creativity and shop early for a stress-free holiday, Santa Barbara style - fun, care-free!

This holiday's creative cast will include:
Yachtie-Girl, apparel for the boat and beyond
Bella Notte 2 - lingerie by Jean Babbe
Jan Winn Jewelry Designs
Alex Clothing - vintage bags and clothes
Dorothy Turk scarves
Teal Turk - hand designed T-shirts
Cathy Fletcher Baskets
Thomas Rhodes Jewelry
Alycia Rhodes - hand painted greeting cards
Karen Schoer - knit purses
Little Bumble - baby t's
Cindy & Mark DeAnda - Cookbook/CD sets
(and finally, me) Destress Essentials - soylicious candles, aromasticks, comfort essentials, bath & body

Social consciousness and support of entrepreneurship and creativity is an important value of De-Stress Essentials. A portion of our proceeds and all other fabulous vendors will be donated to The Unity Shoppe in Santa Barbara. On their website, they write: "If we help with "basic needs" we can prevent "homelessness and welfare dependency". No progress is possible without shelter, food and clothing. And we can't agree more.

Aaahhhh, back home in Santa Barbara

Back home from road travels from west coast to east coast (and back) with muse and husband. The challenging part is summing up trip highlights. None stands out more than another... it was an all around great trip.

I however gathered a deeper appreciation for ALL things around me... high-speed internet, our highway system, clean restrooms, changing landscapes, breathtaking scenery, diversity of the states, their rich history, family and the friendly people we met along the way. I am refreshed, with new perspectives!

One wonderful new thing I did for myself since I got back is writing in a journal what I'm gratful for that day. This allows me to focus on positive experiences. Takes only a few minutes before you lay your head to rest at night and you'll be amazed at how quickly your thoughts change.

Coming soon... highlights from the Inside Beauty Conference & Exhibit NYC / Green Festival Washington, DC.

Stress Relief Yoga - Final Relaxation

Learn the Strees Relief Yoga pose, "Final Relaxation".

Fall into your bliss

Fall in Virginia is spectacular this time of year. Just came back from a hike with muse in historical Bull Run. What music to my ears to hear the beautiful sounds of the rustling of crisp leaves under my feet... and her paws. As muse was prancing about on the trail, I experienced a brief magical moment standing beneath the trees. I was being showered by falling golden leaves! I'm sure it was a gentle (and beautiful) reminder of the importance of bliss in my life.

Fall is a perfect time of year to renew your spirit and find your bliss. Take some time this month to think about what stirs you up inside.

De-Stress muse

This thing called beauty

Seems every time I turn around, another article is written about beauty and anti-aging. Even Natural Health Magazine, which I really love, has pages and pages of beauty products and articles on looking younger. We're a society obsessed with looking young. I admit that I can get a little overboard with my moisturizers and lipsticks too. I'm here to remind you (and me!) that beauty is an inside-out job.

It's no coincidence that when I feel most beautiful is when I've learned something new, ate healthy, lent a helping hand, was less self-absorbed, read a great book, got active, laughed with a friend, or spent some time in nature.

I challenge you today to nourish your spirit. Do things that inspire you to feel beautiful. Get empowered. Get educated. Get healthy. Get active. I'm pretty sure you'll see less of a slavish dependence on glamour and gloss and more on that thing called inner beauty.

Ok so rapelling from a mountain might be a stretch. Learn something new this month, another language perhaps?... oui oui.

Girls Spa Day

A few weeks ago I had this self-indulgent idea for "Girls Spa Day" to serve a dual purpose of connecting with friends and pampering ourselves silly, but some were lacking in funds for such lavish professional spa treatments, nonetheless they loved the idea.

One could say that being short on cash does get the creative juices flowing. So, in order to pamper our inner divas we decided on a spa evening in someone's home (this time mine, minus the dog and husband!), complete with necessary pampering tools. I brought out all of my favorite spa products, like lotions, scrubs, facials, candles, music, pedi accessories, etcetera and everyone brought their robes and slippers. To top off the night, we enjoyed a glass of vino while giggling our worries and responsibilities away. The outcome... feeling connected in spirit and pampering ourselves to total bliss.

I would like to invite you to start your own traditions reconnecting with friends. We have now committed to spa night 3 times a year, alternating homes of course. It's something we can all look forward to in anticipation.

Portable Spa

I got this great idea of having a portable spa from my sister who travels alot.
Here's what I pack. Everyone's list will vary.

My Top 10 Portable Spa items include:
1) Green Tea soy candle in travel tin
2) Relaxing music
3) Eye Pillow
4) Yoga Mat
5) My favorite piece of fabric to lay items on
6) Small Buddha statue
7) Photo of muse, my dog sabrina
8) Spiritual uplifting book
9) Stones with personal meaning
10) Journal

The idea is to Establish Your Inner Altar wherever you are to balance work, family, and a home practice. Try carrying just a few essential altar items with you and see how you feel. Adjust as necessary. Be flexible with yourself on how you carry your inner altar. While travelling you might want to pack all items, while some days commuting to work you bring with you a few items - CD and your own thoughts in silence even. You could even create a visual presence on your desk at work to remind you to take a few minutes for an Om break each day. You might also want to carry a few of your favorite things while hiking too... the idea is to take your personal practice with you wherever you go. You get the idea.

Organic Fiji video

Click on this link to learn about Organic Fiji's roots.

Organic Fiji Video

My apologies - back to blogging

Many apologies to all of my De-Stress friends out there. Took a hiatus from blogging to give De-Stress some TLC before heading out on the road to the east coast. Must take muse with us so we decided to drive to NYC for a little business and alot of R&R. Our travels have taken us where I write from today, Bethesda, MD. Tomorrow, Virginia.

Had a chance though to take some deep deep breaths, relax and reflect among Fall's beautiful spirit. Ready to blog again. Sabrina, my muse who continues to provide me inspiration, sweetly sits by my side. So much to share with you!

I'll be posting exciting industry news in future blog posts (when I can get back close to functioning!) so click back when you can.

Stay well.

Just Arrived!

Summer is definitely here and so is our NEW aromastick scent in Invigorating Citrus. 16 oz.


I want one! Take me shopping now.

New Arrivals! Spa Soy Candles Summer Scents

Spa exclusives to bring into your home...

Try luxurious Spa Soy Candles in your home. Elegantly packaged to give as a gift too!

New Scents for the summer:

14 oz. candle in organza packaging: NEW Cucumber Melon and Crisp Cucumber

7.5 oz spa candle: NEW Aqua Fruits and Romantic Chypre, perfect for that new summer romance

I want to start shopping for Spa Soy candles now!

Santa Barbara Wellness Expo

De-Stress Essentials will have a booth at the Santa Barbara Wellness Expo event. Featuring Spa Exclusives: Spa Soy candles and Home Spa Luxurious Comfort Essentials.

Santa Barbara Wellness Expo
July 29, Saturday 12pm - 5pm

where:
Yoga Soup 28 Parker Way
go to mapquest for directions
$2 admission
catered by Spiritland Bistro

Mini Boutique Summer Sale

We'll be in Santa Barbara, CA for a mini-boutique show -- tomorrow night! Come join us if you're in the area.
Shop Spa Exclusive home spa products and more!

July 25, Tuesday 6pm - 9pm
Mini Boutique Summer Sale
Enjoy wine & great shopping

Where:
Tone-UP Santa Barbara 3006 De La Vina St.
go to mapquest for directions

Cell phone recycling campaign!

Answer the call and donate your used cell phones.

We've partnered with CollectiveGood, a company that focuses on funding charities through mobile pone recycling and helping the environment.

There will be several cell phone drop box locations thoughout Santa Barbara. We still need a few more locations, please let us know if you'd like to house a box through Labor Day, locally only. No work on your part. Great for companies. Contact me today. Not local? You can still help. Click on the link below to see how you can donate your phone.

maria@destressessentials.com
learn more here
beyond the store

De-Stress tip: Mindfulness

Mindfulness, the primary weapon against that 5-letter word (stress) is a kind of "meditation-lite" developed for people who found traditional meditation styles too difficult to practice.

Mindfulness is simply breathing deeply and noticing your surroundings. Sounds kind of new agey but the practice has shown to work in heart patients and is so easily learned.

Can lower blood pressure and heart rate, improve immune function, and ahhhhhh promote relaxation. Not a bad side effect to managing stress and finding the balance in your life.

Isn't that what we all contantly strive for -- finding balance.

De-Stress tip: Retreats

Go on a retreat.

Whether it be a spa retreat, health retreat, or spiritual retreat the idea is to tuck yourself away into silence. I'm sure if you do a google search for retreats plenty of choices near your home will spring up.

This week I went on a spiritual retreat to a beautiful serene place surrounded by trees tucked away at the foot of the mountains in California. Came back recharged with a more purposeful attitude to life. Appreciation. Gratitude.

I love what Thomas Merton said, "Solitude as necessity, a way to compassion." One of his strongest convictions was his insistence that solitude is "not a luxury but a necessity."

Even if you find that place under the tree, in your park, a special place to you, retreat there. The experience will lead you toward a calmer place.

I go in to come out.
Anais Nin

De-Stress :: Retreat :: Solitude :: Compassion

Pampered Papas

Father's Day is just around the corner. If you're looking for a gift a little more exciting than the traditional tie, consider a pampering treat for dad. Can't forget that father's need pampering too.

We've got the perfect pampering solution -- comfort essentials. Soothing herbal body wraps and herbal foot cozys!

They come in masculine colors and larger to fit men's size.

Get it now, in time for Father's day. Foot cozys and body wraps come in matching colors and fabrics. Hopefully your dad will take note of the matching body wrap and foot cozy you dutifully chose.
Men's essentials