Most of us have struggled at some point with insomnia.  Whether you're a new mom or dad whose sleep has been interrupted by a crying baby, or a woman starting menopause, or a college student stressing about exams and can't shut your mind off to get some sleep, then this article is for you.  There are many steps you can take to naturally get better sleep every night without the use of medications that can be addicting. 

1. Homeopathic oils with Natural Healing Oils. This complex blend is applied on temples prior to going to be bed to induce relaxation.  It can help relax your body and mind to make getting to sleep easier as well as staying asleep.
2. Relax with a lavender bath bomb and wellness balms from LATHER. LATHER offers multiple sleep inducing products such as tea and lotions. 
3. Combine the power of melatonin and CBD oil with Joy Organics. Joy Organics offers zero-THC CBD oil combined with the effective natural herb melatonin. The end result? An amazing night sleep!  I've found CBD oil really helps when I'm struggling with insomnia.
4. Meditation is a great way to relax your mind and ease into sleep. I recommend the free Insight App available on Android and Apple.  Their Yoga Nidra options are highly effective.
5. No caffeine after lunch. Caffeine stays in your system for at least 6 hours and some people are more sensitive than others.
6. Stick to a sleep schedule even during the weekend. This also means avoiding naps during the day.
7. Skip the night cap. I am sorry to report that unfortunately alcohol disrupts your sleep.
8. Avoid large meals and liquids before you hit the sheets so you don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.
9. Keep it cool and dark. A dark and cool room is ideal for falling and staying asleep.
10. Avoid screens in the evening a couple hours before bed, and if you can't, wear blue light blocking glasses like these.

I've been hearing a lot about hair mineral analysis lately, especially while trying to heal from Lyme Disease, and really wanted to get one done to find out if I'm deficient in any minerals and/or toxic in heavy metals.  A lot of people are, and this can lead to health issues.  

This sample results page show what they test for, and how the results will be displayed.  It shows the elements, whether or not they are toxic or potentially toxic, and whether your results are in normal range or out of range.  They test over 60 minerals and toxic metals.  The results are straight forward and easy to read.  I like how they use the different colors to help visually show what is out of range.  Once they received my sample, it didn't take long to get the results.  I'd highly recommend this company.  To read more about them and the Hair Mineral Analysis, you can check out their website here.  Ordering is easy as well, you simply order online and your starter kit will be on it's way.  

I'd love to hear comments below - has anyone done a Hair Mineral Analysis and what was your experience with it?  

In an attempt to get cleaner air in our home due to previous water/mold damage that has since been remediated, we have been trying out different air purifiers in different rooms of the house.  Two of my kids have really bad allergies, and wake up every morning with stuffy noses and dark circles under their eyes.  For this reason, we tried out the Airfree P3000 in their room.  After about 24 hours, it smelled really fresh in their room.  After a couple days their allergies were much improved.  

There are many benefits to this machine over others, one being it emits NO ozone.  Ozone can be a lung irritant and over time can even cause irreversible damage.  After finding out about this, I really wanted to find a purifier that did not omit ozone for the kid's room.  Even if it meets the standard for ozone emission, it can still be generating some, which can accumulate over time.  Airfree also does not require any replacement filters.  This is because it eliminates allergens by heating the core to a high temperature that destroys and allergens, bacteria, viruses, dander, tobacco and even ozone.  ​

It's operation is silent, so it won't interfere with sleep.  It has a simple, elegant design that will fit in with any decor.  The 3000 that we have is black, and they have a P1000 that is white.  It cleans the air in rooms up to 650 square feet.  Overall we are very pleased with this purifier and feel it works extremely well at eliminating allergens in the air.  There is no smell when plugged in (as we have noticed with a few other purifiers we have tried) and this is probably in large part due to the fact that it does not generate any ozone.  I would highly recommend this product to anyone dealing with allergies or mold issues in the home.

If you are looking for a product to help in your battle with chronic Lyme disease, I'd like to share with you about my experience with Results RNA Ultimate Lyme Support.  Chances are, if you're anything like me, you are researching and trying to find the best approach to battle this debilitating disease.  I decided from the start that I wanted to fight naturally without the use of antibiotics because of the gut damage and bacterial resistance it can cause.  So basically, I've been using herbs and now have added in Results RNA products.  Once I added in the sprays, I really did start to notice an improvement for the good.

Any form of treatment will take time, but I really think this gave me a boost that my body needed.  The sprays are really easy to take, you just spray 6 sprays in your mouth twice a day.  The Silver (ACS200) works as a natural antibiotic against Lyme and other co-infections (that I'm pretty sure I have as well).  All of the sprays work synergistically to optimize your body's natural immune response to help build you up and fight off the pathogens.  It also helps to decrease inflammation and neutralize oxidative stress. 

Since I started treatment in January, I have gone from 32 symptoms to 6, so that right there is proof that natural treatments can work.  I'm still working on those last 6 symptoms, and hope to be in remission soon.  I really think Results RNA is helping boost my immune system to get me there along with the herbs, and I would really recommend them to anyone battling Lyme Disease.

I plan to continue using Results RNA beyond the initial 2 month supply because of the positive changes I've seen.  I will update this post in a few months on my continued progress, so continue to check back!

Today I want to share about my experience with the Air Oasis Air Purifier 3000G3.  We have had some water damage in our home in the past, and so have wondered if mold may be contributing to my kids allergies as well as my Lyme becoming chronic and causing so many problems, as often times the two go hand in hand.  I researched to find one of the best air purifiers, and came across the Air Oasis.

I can really tell a difference in the air quality since we started using the Air Oasis 3000G3 Purifier.  It just smells fresher, and did from the first day we plugged it in.  There is no assembly necessary, you just unpack it, plug it in and turn it on.  

The technology behind it kills bacteria, viruses, allergens (like mold, pollen, dander and dust mites) and reduces odors and VOCs up to 99% in the air and on surfaces.  With 3 kids, this really will come in handy when cold/flu season starts up.  As far as allergies, I can really tell a difference in my kid's allergies especially.  They are no longer waking up with stuffy noses and dark circles under their eyes.  Even with Zyrtec daily, we just couldn't seem to get their allergies under control before.  This alone is worth getting one of these purifiers!

The design is simple, and it doesn't take up too much space so can fit in with basically any set up.  We have it in our living room, but you can also get a smaller one for bedrooms.  I am really loving ours, and highly recommend you look in to these devices if you have ever had any mold issues in your home, or if you or your family struggle with allergies.   It gives such a peace of mind to know our family is breathing in clean, pure air.  To read more about the company you can check out their About page here, and also check out their Blog here for some really helpful articles.

I have done a lot of research in trying to come up with different ways to attack my chronic lyme disease, and an important factor that needs to be considered in any treatment of chronic illness is detox.  As you are killing off pathogens, the body needs to be able to detox, or get rid of, what you've killed off.  Sweating is one of the best ways to detox.  Traditional saunas, however, can be very uncomfortable with the high heat levels and humidity.  That's when I came across a Far Infrared Sauna, and found that Health and Med makes a Far Infrared Sauna Blanket!  

It's is so convenient to be able to have it at home and not have to go anywhere.  When it came in the mail, I had to set it up and try it right away.  I was amazed at how good it felt, and not at all uncomfortable like I had imagined it might be.  By about 15 minutes I was already sweating.

Setting it up was simple, you just connect the cords to the bottom of the blanket, plug into an outlet, and it's ready to go.  You select the setting for each zone (1, 2 and 3), and then push start, so simple!  I'm already noticing decreased joint pain and mobility, likely due to decrease in inflammation.  I also just feel overall better.  It's like my body had a lot it needed to get rid of but wasn't sweating enough on it's own.  Also, I've been having issues with waking up in the night with anxiety, which I've read can be due to an overtaxed liver.  This has also decreased, since FIR can help assist the liver with detox.

Some of the benefits of using a Far Infrared Sauna include: detox, relaxation, pain relief, improved circulation, weight loss, skin purification, improves heart function and stress relief along with much more.

Another important thing to look for if you're going to purchase an infrared sauna, is that's it's low EMF like this one.  I also like how it doesn't take up a lot of room like traditional saunas, so it's easy to store between use.  

​Overall, this is an amazing product that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a good detox method, which can be of great benefit even if you don't have a chronic illness.

NuLeaf Naturals provides high grade organic full spectrum CBD oil.  They have 6 different sizes (see below) and strengths to fit your personal need.  The best part - since it does not contain THC, it is legal in all 50 states.  

​I tried the 240 mg CBD oil.  It has somewhat of an herbal/earthy taste, but not unpleasant.  I could honestly feel my symptoms lessen within 20 minutes of taking it.  With Lyme disease, I have constant muscle spasms, cramps, joint pain and stiffness, headaches, anxiety and insomnia.  This oil is helping with all of these symptoms.  I cannot recommend CBD oil high enough, and if you do try it you will find it's important to get it from a high quality/reputable site.  There are definitely brands out there that are not of this quality.

The company was founded in 2014 and NuLeaf Naturals wellness products are derived from specially bred therapeutic hemp (Cannabis Sativa) plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado, USA.  I love how all their products are lab tested, organic and have no additives, so you know the quality you are getting is good.  

Some people complain they don't like the taste of CBD oil, but I don't find it bad.  It's more of an earthy taste.  I place the drops under my tongue for faster absorption.  The taste is really not bad to me.

While the dosage can vary depending on the person, I started with 5 drops 2 times a day (5 in the morning and 5 at night before bed), and that has seemed to be the perfect amount for me.  However it is advised to start slow to see how you personally react.  Some people it seems to knock them out and others it gives them energy.  It doesn't really do either of those to me, just mostly takes pain away (which was the goal!). 

I highly recommend this brand, and if you want to give it a try, check them out here.  Plus, all Mommy of 2 Embracing Life readers can use promo code MOMMY15 to get 15% off their order!

Has anyone else had any experience with CBD oil?  I'd love to hear in the comments below!

I have been doing a lot of research in regards to the benefits that PEMF can offer, especially in those battling chronic Lyme Disease.  First of all, let me explain a little about what PEMF Therapy is.

PEMF is short for Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields and these pulses help to improve cellular metabolic function.  We all contain electromagnetic energy that's generated by electrical activity that takes place on a cellular level. When this is disrupted, it can cause illness or disease.  PEMF's can help to balance the electromagnetic fields within cells.  I won't get into all the technicalities, but listed below are some of the benefits that can be achieved from PEMF treatment:
​

• Detoxify cells
• Increase blood circulation and oxygen flow
• Detox and increase the flow of lymphatic fluid
• Raise cellular energy
• Re-charge cells
• Decrease inflammation
• Decrease pain / helps in pain management
• Increase healing
• Nerve regeneration
• Stimulate immune system function
• and much more

Even if you don't have Lyme Disease, there are still SO many things you can use this device for.  If you're sore after working out at the gym, the Oska Pulse can help!  If you have tendonitis, arthritis, a pulled muscle, stiff neck, etc. the Oska Pulse can help!  

As far as the device goes, there are no side effects and you can use it as long and often as you want.  However, it is recommended that those with a pacemaker or any magnetic implanted device not use the Oska Pulse (or any PEMF device for that matter).  It is also recommended to drink plenty of water to maximize benefits.  They offer a 30 day money back guarantee, so there's no harm in giving it a try to see if it will work for you!

For more information on the Oska Pulse, visit their website here.  Plus, right now they are offering my readers $55 off their purchase if you use code MOMMY10 at checkout.  Or simply use the link here. 

I would love to hear from you all - has anyone tried the Oska Pulse or another PEMF device?  What has your experience been?  

CBD Oil has so many benefits, but the main reason I wanted to give it a try is for my chronic pain from muscle spasms/cramps that Lyme disease is giving me.  I've been researching a lot about Cannabis, and have been so excited to try the CBD Oil from 4CornersCannabis.  They offer a high quality Complete Spectrum CBD oil that is easy to take.  From the first dose I took, I noticed after about 20-30 minutes a significant decrease in pain.  I've read a lot of people say you need the THC as well, but this is not true, at least for me - the CBD oil really helps my muscle spasms especially.  With 3 young kids, I found myself laying in bed on my heating pad every chance I had (during naps, right when they went to bed), whereas now, I'm actually able to do things when they're sleeping.  My poor husband had been on dish washing duty for far too long.  I now feel like I can do my part.  This oil has already become life changing, and I hope it's just the beginning.  It has also really helped with my sleep.  I usually wake up quite a bit in the night, even with benadryl, but with this CBD oil I'm sleeping better WITHOUT the benadryl.  

I like how this oil is Complete Spectrum which is better when ingesting the oil as it's extracted using Organic Ethanol.  You can read more about the complete spectrum vs. full spectrum vs. isolated extractions here, but from my research I wanted to try a Complete Spectrum product, such as the one 4CornersCannabis offers as they are the most effective.  

In addition to the Oral Tincture (the one with the blue label above), they also carry Vape Liquid, Pedigree (for animals), and a Salve for topical use.

If you suffer from chronic pain or sleep issues, I would highly recommend you try this CBD oil.  It may not work for everyone, but I am having a very positive experience with it, and I know many others are as well.   Plus, there are many other conditions it helps with as well.  You can read about more of the benefits here.

If you'd like to give this CBD oil a try, you can order here.  Plus, right now if you use promo code MOMMY10 you will get 10% off! 

​I'd love to know, has anyone else tried CBD oil?  What has your experience been?

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

I have decided to blog about my journey with Lyme disease, first of all for my own record, but also so that maybe I can help someone else out there.  Help them to not feel alone, and hopefully to one day give hope- because I plan to fight until I'm better, and when I am, I will have given you all the steps you need to get there too.  And maybe some steps to NOT take, as I find what works and what doesn't.  And I know what works for one may not work for all - it's all about starting with SOMETHING, and then go from there, adding things that may help and stopping things that clearly don't.  Your body will tell you and guide you to what it needs.  And ultimately, God designed our bodies to heal.  We just need to rebuild our immune systems and provide it with what it needs to become strong again and fight the Lyme bacteria and co-infections.

After months of random symptoms, 4 specialists and no answers, I finally found out it was lyme disease causing my symptoms (which I had suspected from the beginning).  Because of finances, the antibiotic route isn't an option, but from the research I've done sometimes using natural remedies are best anyway as Lyme can be very resistant to antibiotics.  I will update this post as I go, so keep checking back, and I'd love your feedback and advice on things you may have found that have helped you on your journey to healing from Lyme Disease.  Also, I've linked to the specific products I'm taking since some have asked, so if you're interested you can find them easily.

The symptoms that I have include muscle spasms, muscle twitching, ocular migraines, trouble sleeping, anxiety, knuckles locking/clicking at night (more mild during the day), joint pain especially in hip and hands, tendon pain, swollen lymph nodes, back gets numb/tingly, tremors, dizzy and low blood pressure. 

The first supplements I started using were Monolaurin (from coconuts) and Biofibrin (enzymes).  After reading a lot and researching, Monolaurin has a lot of antiviral, antimicrobial benefits, and specifically can kill lyme bacteria.  The thing about Lyme though, is it likes to hide out in Biofilm where supplements you take cannot penetrate it to kill the lyme.  That's where the Biofibrin comes in that has enzymes that will break up the biofilm so the Monolaurin can do it's job.  I have worked my way up to 2 scoops a day of the Monolaurin, and am taking 1 a day of the Biofibrin right now.  Even at 2 scoops of the little pellets, this container is lasting a LONG time.  It sells for $49, but when you divide that out by how many months it lasts, it's definitely worth it.  I do feel like these products are helping.  I started out slow so did not have any herx reactions.  The Mololaurin also helps with viruses including the flu, so it's nice to know this flu season I'm well protected!

Then I read about the amazing antimicrobial properties of raw garlic.  So at least twice a day, I mince a garlic clove or two, let it sit for at least 10 minutes (this allows it time to produce allicin which is the beneficial compound), and then swallow it down with some almond milk.  (It is VERY strong, I can't chew it).   The first day I did this, I had a herx reaction, so I do think it will work for me with killing lyme.  I backed off for a few days, and then started back slowly with just 1 clove a day.  I have seen it in supplement form here, but am not sure if it would be as potent as eating the raw garlic or do as good of a job.  I need to research this more, because a pill would be much easier than crushing garlic twice a day.

I also take Tumeric twice a day for the inflammation in my knuckles.  I take Magnesium for the muscle spasms as well as calcium.  I take Zinc for immune system boosting properties.   At night, I take probiotics with Vitamin C and Echinacea.  The link is to the brand I'm currently taking, but usually when I run out I will switch brands to try to get different strains.

I have just started using Oska Pulse (PEMF therapy)- look for a review coming soon!

Beyond supplements, there is much more I'm doing.  I have drastically changed my diet and have completely eliminated gluten, dairy and as much sugar as possible.  I'm trying to eat a lot more vegetables as well as lean meats and healthy fats.

I'm not able to exercise much right now because of the pain and joint issues but hoping as I start improving I can add that in.  I do try to go for walks when I have the energy and pain levels are down.

Detox is a huge component of all this, because as you kill the bad bacteria, they release toxins that you must eliminate.  Right now I try every day to get a detox bath with epsom salt after using a dry brush all over my body to stimulate lymphatic drainage.  This also really helps with my muscle spasms and pain.  I also take activated charcoal 2 hours away from vitamins, supplements and herbs because if you take it too close to them, it will absorb them as well as toxins and you will not get the benefits of what you're taking.  

Parasites are a big issue for lots of people with Lyme and co-infections.  I've recently discovered it is advised to treat this FIRST before trying to combat Lyme because it can hinder treatment.  I found a parasite cleanse called Paraguard, and it is made from herbs that can be used alongside whatever other treatment you are using.  Let me just say without getting too graphic- this stuff WORKS!  I read that over 90% of people have parasites, so it's pretty much guaranteed you have them, but people with Lyme tend to have a higher parasitic load.  The parasites can actually contain the Lyme bacteria, so that's why if you don't get rid of them, the Lyme may keep hanging on.  I chose to use Paraguard because first of all it had some pretty impressive reviews, but also when researching the best herbs for a parasite cleanse, this one contains them all.  It will also kill parasites at all the different life cycles, which is what you want.  If you kill just the eggs, the adults will lay more.  If you kill just the adults, the eggs will eventually hatch, etc.  When you combine Fresh Green Black Walnut Hull, Fennel Seed, Quassia Wood, Pumpkin Seed, Wormwood Herb, Garlic Bulb, Clove Bud, Bayberry Root Bark, Fresh Garrya Herb, Peppermint Oil and Oregano Oil, you're coming at them from every possible angle to wipe them out.

I have just started adding in herbs from the Buhner Protocol and am excited to report I'm already noticing a decrease in symptoms.  So far, I'm taking Cat's Claw and Japanese Knotweed.   For information on the Buhner Protocol herbs, I've been referencing this site for amounts.  I'm starting slow and just adding in 1 herb at a time to make sure I don't have any weird reactions, and if I do, I'll know exactly what's causing it.  It's been encouraging, because I have actually not had any herx reactions but my symptoms are lessening somewhat.  The spasms are not constant and the joint pain is not as severe.  I am praying these herbs will be able to cure this nasty disease, because I have read a lot of people having success with them.  

​More to come soon, and I hope to pave the way for others coming behind me, this is an awful disease to have and I pray for all you other Lyme Disease sufferers - stay strong, we will beat this!