Creating a Healing Environment at Home
Working through grief takes time, prayer, and grace. It also takes mental clarity—something that’s hard to find when our bodies are burdened by toxins.
Every day, we’re surrounded by chemicals that may seem harmless but quietly add to our toxic load: synthetic fragrances, harsh cleaners, and products that promise “freshness” but leave behind unseen residue. When our bodies are constantly working to detoxify, it can leave us drained—physically and emotionally.
I’ve learned firsthand that grief recovery isn’t just emotional or spiritual; it’s physical too. Our bodies carry the weight of our emotions, and when they’re overwhelmed, everything feels harder. But when we remove unnecessary toxins, we lighten that load. Suddenly, there’s more space for peace, energy, and hope to take root.
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How Toxins Can Complicate Grief and Healing
Grief is already heavy. It drains our energy, fogs our thinking, and can leave us feeling like we’re moving through life in slow motion. But what if some of that heaviness isn’t just emotional? What if our bodies are also burdened by something physical—like the toxins in our home?
When we’re surrounded by harsh chemicals—cleaners, air fresheners, scented candles, personal care products—our bodies work overtime trying to process and eliminate them. Every spray, wipe, or wash adds to what’s called our toxic load. And for someone already walking through grief, that added burden can make healing even harder.
Our bodies and emotions are deeply connected. When our systems are overwhelmed, we can experience more fatigue, brain fog, irritability, sadness, and even physical pain. It can make grief feel heavier, depression more pronounced, and our energy almost nonexistent.
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Two years ago I started this blog because of a desire God had placed on my heart to minister to those who have experienced loss. But if I’m honest, I delayed starting it because I didn’t feel ready or qualified.
I was terrified that no one would read it.
I was afraid I would have nothing to say.
I didn’t feel like I was a very good writer.
All of these excuses are just that...excuses. They’re nothing more than delayed obedience. When God calls us to do something, He often does it to show His strength, not ours. When I finally stepped out in obedience, I was afraid, but God has always provided.
He gives me words when I have none.
He shows me the topics to write about.
He provides encouragement when I need it.
God has used this blog in my life to continue my healing journey, to help me share thoughts and feelings that you may relate to, and has allowed me to meet some amazing people and reconnect with others because of this space! I’m so thankful!
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Camping is one of my favorite things — the fresh air, the slower pace, the chance to unplug and spend time with family. Over the years, I’ve figured out what works for us and what doesn’t, and now I have a go-to list of things that I always bring to make our trips smoother, more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun.
These are some of my camping must-haves — the things I’ve come to rely on year after year:
🧼 Thieves Household Cleaner
This is my all-in-one cleaner for camping. I bring a small spray bottle of diluted Thieves Cleaner and use it to clean countertops, picnic tables, coolers, camper surfaces, and more. It smells great, works incredibly well, discourages bugs, and keeps things fresh and tidy.
🌿 Essential Oils
I never go camping without my oils! Here are a few I use the most:
- Digize – For tummy troubles. Whether it’s motion sickness or too many campfire snacks, this one always comes in handy.
- Peppermint & Clove – Great for cooling down and helping keep the bugs away.
- Citronella – A natural go-to for deterring insects. I use it in a spray bottle with peppermint, clove, rosemary and lemongrass to freshen the air in the tent or camper and discourage the bugs.
- Lavender – calming, soothing, great for after too much sun (dilute with a carrier oil).
My Favorite Camping Prep Tips
We’ve got a big camping trip coming up… and let’s be real: getting ready for camping often takes more energy than the trip itself! 😅 Cleaning up the camper after it’s been sitting in the yard all winter, meal prepping, digging out gear from every corner of the house, and packing all the things for everyone — it’s no small task. It takes a lot of energy and planning!
But despite all that, I love camping. My family has been camping for many, many years. Some of my favorite childhood memories are of my grandparents loading up all the grandkids and taking us camping — and that was no small feat! These days, I look forward to our annual trip all year long.
That said, I won’t sugarcoat it… camping is a lot of work!
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