58 Game-Changing Exercises That’ll Transform Your Thighs

58 Game-Changing Exercises That’ll Transform Your Thighs

If you've been aching for lean legs and toned inner thighs, this is for you. A collection of nearly 60 muscle-sculpting moves to work all areas of the thighs (and more!) will be more than enough to get you well on your way to those gorgeous gams you've been envisioning. Beginners should create a sequence of the moves below and complete three sets of 10-15 reps. Those at advanced levels should create a sequence of the moves below and complete each move as many times as possible for 60 seconds.

1. Plank Jack:

This exercise adds a whole new level of heat to your traditional plank!

For more instructions, click here.

2. Plié Squat into Side Kick:

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This twist on the squat will make your whole body burn! Keep your core engaged to stay balanced. Click here for details.

3. Side to Side Speed Plank:

You will really feel the burn with this variation! Focus on keeping your back straight — and don't forget to breathe! Click here for a closer look.

4. Step-Up:

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You will feel this move all through your legs! Just make sure to keep your shoulders back as you step to maintain good posture. For further instructions, click here.

5. Donkey Kick Plank:

If you really want to target those abs and glutes, then this is the perfect move for you! If you need more instructions, just click here.

6. Side Leg Lift:

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The incorporation of a resistance band into this move will really work those muscles! Remember to keep your hips aligned, one over the other, as you lay on your side. Click here for more details.

7. Inverted V Plank:

If you are looking for stronger core and calf muscles, then look no further! Just make sure you do not round your back as you hold the position. For directions, click here.

8. Reverse Lunge with Front Kick:

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Just a couple reps of this exercise will make those thighs burn, so remember to pace yourself! For more detailed directions, click here.

9. Inch Worm:

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The slower you go, the more you'll feel this move in your abs! You can even hold the plank position for a couple seconds before returning to the starting position for an extra burn. Click here for instructions.

10. Crossover Lunge:

This exercise targets your thighs, glutes and abs for a compound move that is sure to bring on the sweat! For further instructions, click here.

11. Dumbbell Deadlift:

(Photo: POPSUGAR.com)

Deadlifts are notorious for their ability to work those hamstrings and quads! Be sure to keep your back straight as you bend to avoid injury! Click here for more details.

12. Lunge and Lift With Bicep Curl:

The knee lifts in this exercise really engage your core, so make sure you keep those abs tight as you lift! If you need some pointers, click here!

13. Boat Crunch:

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You will be shocked by how much this move will make those legs ache! Be sure to keep your tummy tucked in as you stretch your legs out. Click here for more details.

14. Split Lunge with Bicep Curl:

By keeping your foot propped up, you will really hit those hamstrings and glutes! Stay as upright as possible as you lunge to engage those core muscles. Click here for more information.

15. Squat Step with Resistance Band:

The resistance band will help you target the outside of those thighs! Keep your head and shoulders back as you squat to maintain a strong posture. If you need more information, just click here!

16. Thigh Sweep:

Brace yourself: You are really going to feel the burn in your thighs and glutes with this exercise! Make sure you keep your knees from bending as you swing your leg. For more information, click here.

17. Goblet Squat:

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Not only will these squats hit those thighs, but you also get a great shoulder exercise with the kettlebells! Just make sure to keep your back straight as you squat to avoid any injuries. Click here for more details.

18. Squat Press with Resistance Band:

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This is also a great way to target your shoulders while working those thighs and glutes. Keep your arms completely straight as you lift the resistance band for the best results! Need some help? Click here!

19. Plank Tuck Twist:

This move takes the plank to a whole new level! With this exercise, you've got to balance, tuck that tummy, and keep those arms as strong as possible. For further instructions, click here.

20. Kneeling Side Crunch:

This is the perfect exercise if you are looking to target your obliques. Try not to slouch as you lift that leg, though! If you need more information, go ahead and click here.

21. Ab Roll Up:

This exercise will hit all areas of your abs! Just be sure to get enough momentum as you roll forward and up into your jump. For more directions, click here.

22. Ab Clap:

Make sure that you remember to keep breathing throughout this exercise! If you are looking for an additional challenge, try strapping on some light ankle weights. Click here for more information.

23. Plié Squat with Calf Raise:

Get those quads nice and strong with this simple exercise! If you need some clarification, just click here.

24. Kickback Pulse:

This exercise will really target those inner thighs and glutes. Just make sure you keep those hips in one place as you kick back your leg! For further instructions, click here.

25. Glute Bridge:

Glute Bridges are a great way to hit those glutes and core muscles! Keep pushing your hips toward the ceiling throughout the exercise to keep those abs engaged. Click here for more details.

26. Tip Toe Squats:

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With just a couple reps of these babies, you will really be able to feel the burn in your calves! Keep your back as straight as possible as you squat down. Click here for directions.

27. Tripod Push-up:

Crank up the heat — and your heart rate — with this fantastic full-body move! The leg lift targets your glutes, thighs, and calves, while the push-up hits your chest, back, and arms! Click here for full instructions.

28. Pistol Squat:

This advanced variation on the squat is sure to whip your booty into shape. Just remember that posture is the most important part — work your way up to the full butt-to-floor squat! Click here for more details.

29. Walking Lunge with Dumbbells:

The deeper you sink into the lunge, the more you will feel the burn! For a modification, try ditching the dumbbells and put your hands on your hips instead. Click here for more instructions.

30. Lunge to Single Leg Deadlift:

This move is all about balance, so it may take a couple tries to really get the hang of it! Just be sure to move nice and slow so you don't tip over. For more detailed instructions, just click here.

31. Crossover Step Up:

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This is a great exercise if you are looking for a way to target your calves and outer thighs. If you need an extra challenge, try throwing in a dumbbell curl when you step up! Click here if you need more information.

32. Figure 8 Squat with Kettlebell:

This move will kick your whole body into gear! Make sure you take your time so you can really feel the burn as you squat down. If the kettlebell is too much, go ahead and ditch it or grab a lighter weight! For more instructions, click here.

33. Side Lunge Row:

This compound exercise targets your delts, lats, and thighs for a move that is sure to make you sweat! As you lift the dumbbell, make sure you allow your wrists to flex naturally to avoid injury. Click here for further instructions.

34. Scorpion Twist:

This move will not only increase your flexibility, but it will also hit those ever-elusive core muscles, thighs, and glutes. Don't be surprised if you feel your back crack a little! If you need more instructions, just click here.

35. Weighted Leg Circles:

They might not seem like much, but these ankle weight circles are sure to have you sweating in no time! Just be sure to keep your hips parallel to each other and completely still as you complete your leg circles. For more information, click here.

36. Reverse Lunge Twist with Medicine Ball:

These twists are difficult enough on their own, but throw in a weighted ball and you will feel those abs flexing! Not to mention, your thighs will be on fire after just a couple reps. If you need more details on how to do this exercise, just click here.

37. Knee Strikes:

This move will give you an exhilarating burst of energy! As you keep your core muscles engaged, just pretend like you're grabbing and kneeing someone in the gut. The more power you put into this move, the more you will feel it! For helpful guidelines, just click here!

38. Reverse Plank with Leg Raise:

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Talk about a full-body workout! This exercise will hit your shoulders, triceps, core muscles, butt, and legs, and you will definitely feel the burn. Keep your hips lifted towards the ceiling the whole time in order to avoid injuring your wrists and shoulders. For more information, click here!

39. Knee Crossover Kick:

This exercises targets your inner thighs and glutes, and in just a few reps you will really feel the burn! Make sure you keep your hands directly under your shoulders for the optimum position. If you need an extra challenge, just stick a dumbbell behind your knee! Click here for more details.

40. Side Leg Lift on Stability Ball:

The stability ball may not be as stable as it sounds! Engage your core muscles in order to stay balanced as you slowly raise your leg. If you keep your hips still, you will be able to feel the burn in your glutes and legs in no time! For more information, click here.

41. Hamstring Ball Tuck:

Who knew that all you needed to really make those hamstrings work was a stability ball? You will be shocked by how much your legs burn after just a couple tucks! Keep that booty off the floor the whole time to really engage those core muscles. Click here for a more in-depth description!

42. Scissor Legs:

Make sure you keep your lower back on the floor as you scissor your legs. It will help engage those core muscles, and you will feel the burn from the waist down! If you need more information, just click here.

43. Side Step with Crossed Resistance Band:

In order to keep your balance as you step up, clench those core muscles. You will feel the burn in your core and legs in no time! For more information, click here.

44. Step-Up with Bicep Curl:

This move gives you the opportunity to work those thighs and your shoulders! Be sure to keep those arms as straight as possible as you lift them over your head. For more details on this exercise, click here!

45. Flutter Kicks:

Lower abs can be almost impossible to hit but lucky for you, flutter kicks are one of the best ways to target those lower muscles! Just make sure to keep your back as straight as you can while you kick your feet. For more directions, click here.

46. Fire Hydrant:

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Be sure to keep those hands directly under your shoulders as you lift your leg slowly. Try not to overextend your leg as you lift, and stop when you are parallel with your hip. For further directions, click here.

47. Bench Squat:

This squat will really crank up the heat! It's you versus gravity in this exercise, so make sure you squat slowly and concentrate on keeping your weight in your heels. Click here for more information on how to do this move.

48. Weighted Jumping Jack:

Bored of all those traditional jumping jacks? Why not give this weighted variation a shot? You will feel the burn in your thighs and shoulders in no time! Click here to see how it's done!

49. Burpee:

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While the burpee is one of the most dreaded exercises out there, it is also one of the most effective! So set aside your hesitation, and embrace the sweat!

50. Wood Chopper with Medicine Ball:

Talk about targeting those obliques! This exercise will have your heart rate up in no time. As you lift the medicine ball, make sure you are thrusting from legs rather than your back. For more information, click here.

51. Wall Sit:

Just because you get to sit, doesn't mean this exercise is going to be relaxing! As you lean against the wall, with your legs bent at a 90-degree angle, make sure your entire back is in contact. For an added challenge, go ahead and stretch one leg straight out! For details, click here.

52. Sumo Squat with Bicep Curl:

This is a great compound move that will target your inner thighs and your biceps! Remember to keep your weight as far back in your heels as you can so that you are able to really sit back into that squat. For more instructions, click here.

53. Standing Fire Hydrant with Squishy Ball:

This variation on the fire hydrant will really crank up the heat! Focus on moving slowly as you clasp the training ball behind your knee. By squeezing your leg around the ball, you will also hit those glutes! Click here for more information.

54. Ball Slams:

This move requires strength and coordination! Keep your eyes on the ball as you raise out of the squat and toss it into the air. Modify this move by simply holding the ball over your head as you rise to a standing position. It may target the upper back, but you thighs will burn soon after trying these! For more detailed instructions, click here.

55. Power Squat:

(Photo: Shutterstock.com)

Be prepared to really feel the burn in your quads with this exercise! Keeping your hands tucked behind your head should help you stay balanced as you squat down. For a modification, try a more shallow squat, and simply come to a standing position, rather than jumping. Click here for more details.

56. Reverse Lunge:

In order to maintain the best possible posture for this exercise, make sure that your torso remains upright as you step back, and make sure that your weight settles into your back toes. For a more detailed description, click here!

57. Front Kick with Dumbbells:

Stand as straight as you can as you kick one leg out at a time, locking the knee. This will help to engage those core muscles, and create a stronger foundation to stand on! Click here for more instructions.

58. Weighted Donkey Kick:

Original article and pictures take media.womanista.com site

52 Do-It-Yourself Natural Cleaners

52 Do-It-Yourself Natural Cleaners

The alternative to conventional household cleaners is far simpler and cheaper than you probably imagine. With just a few all-natural staples you can quickly and easily make your own green cleaners.

Baking soda and vinegar are basically your best friends here, offering an astonishing range of applications across the whole house with antibacterial qualities to boot. Some people even clean from top to bottom using only these two stars.

But others (including me) aren’t huge fans of vinegar’s strong smell, even though it does dissipate rather quickly. That’s where fresh herbs, citrus fruit or peel infusions and essential oils come in. A few drops here and there and that pungent vinegary smell is promptly replaced with a fresh, all-natural perfume.

Other products you’ll want to keep in your all-natural cleaning arsenal include olive oil, castile soap, hot water and hydrogen peroxide. And quick word on that last one: despite its nasty-sounding name, hydrogen peroxide is simply water with an extra oxygen molecule that makes for a totally natural and super powerful sanitizer.

Armed with these few staples you’ll be able to make almost every cleaner listed below, plus a myriad others!

For the BATHROOM:

1. Homemade shower cleaner – baking soda, castile soap and essential oils combine to make this all-natural shower scrub.

2. Green clean the grout in your bathroom – a how-to walking you through three eco-friendly options to remove even the most stubborn grout grime.

3. Non-toxic bathtub cleaner – combine a little liquid soap, baking soda and essential oils to make a cleaner that can be stored for up to a year.

4. Clean your bathtub with a grapefruit and salt – clean thick grime and dirt rings from your shower area with this incredibly simple scrub.

5. Non-toxic sink and tub scrub – a gentle baking soda and natural soap combination that will leave your bathroom sparkling clean.

6. Homemade toilet cleaner – three simple cleaning formulas including a tea tree bowl scrub and a heavy-duty lavender-lemon scrub.

7. Non-toxic citrus floor cleaner – a simple 4-ingredient cleaner that can also be used on counter tops.

8. Budget no-streak glass cleaner – harness the streak-busting power of cornstarch and spend as little as 33 cents per 2 ½ cups.

9. Homemade air freshener spray – a little alcohol, water and essential oils combine to make a powerful air freshener that stores for one month.

10. The magic trick that hides all evidence of a #2 – this amusingly written piece on toilet smells tells you how to hide all evidence of a … well, you know.

11. Peppermint foaming hand soap – keep your hands clean with this fresh-smelling and super easy hand soap.

For the KITCHEN:

12. For your microwave – easily remove baked-on crud using just baking soda, white vinegar, water and a special technique.

13. No-rinse green refrigerator cleaner – vinegar, hot water and lavender essential oil will cut through grease, disinfect and leave a clean, natural scent.

14. Clean the stove – a surprisingly simple method using only hot water.

15. Homemade oven cleaner – another easy oven cleaning option using baking soda and white vinegar.

16. Make burnt pans shine again – halve scrubbing time with a little help from vinegar, baking soda and water.

17. Clean tarnished silverware – this DIY, which uses just aluminum foil, baking soda and water, is almost miraculously easy.

18. Natural stainless steel sink cleaner – clean and deodorize your sink and even solve mild clogging issues with this easy technique.

19. Green drain cleaner – unblock smelly drains using just baking soda, vinegar and hot water.

20. Homemade dishwasher detergent – a tried and true recipe for squeaky-clean dishes and glassware.

21. Make your own dishwasher tabs – a 5-ingredient recipe set in ice cube trays to make easy-to-use tabs.

22. Reusable peppermint kitchen wipes – a great way to recycle old clothes while harnessing the antibacterial power of peppermint essential oil.

23. Two-ingredient kitchen cabinet gunk remover – fight oil with oil for unblemished surfaces and cupboards.

For the LIVING ROOM:

24. DIY television and computer screen cleaner – just white vinegar and distilled water are needed for this streak-free cleaner.

25. Homemade dusting spray – a little natural soap, essential oil and water will have your surfaces spick and span in no time.

26. Remove spots and stains from upholstery – six green cleans for tough stains like red wine and coffee, including one method utilizing an egg yolk.

27. Make your own furniture polish – add shine to your furniture with just lemon, olive oil and vinegar.

28. Super-cheap leather cleaner – vinegar and olive oil combine to make an affordable cleaner and conditioner for leather seats and sofas.

29. Make your own wood polish – bring a lemony-fresh scent to your home with this simple furniture protector.

30. Carpet stain remover – an all-natural spot remover, perfect for when food goes flying.

31. Deep clean your carpets – if you can afford to hire a steam cleaner, you can professionally clean your own carpets without using any chemicals.

32. Clean wooden floors with tea – use the tannic acid in tea to smooth over scratches and bring out the natural shine of wood floors.

For the LAUNDRY:

33. Pre-wash laundry stain and spot remover – mix up a batch of this all-natural spray and keep on hand to squirt on stubborn stains before washing.

34. Remove pungent smells from laundry naturally – use baking soda to eradicate a range of smells, from smoke and sweat to baby spit-up.

35. Natural laundry soap or liquid detergent – a low-sudsing cleaner suitable for top or front loaders that can easily be made into a powder or liquid.

36. Homemade laundry detergent for cloth diapers – this special formula avoids castile soap, which can build up and cause diapers to repel moisture.

37. Get great smelling laundry without softener – five ideas for adding a natural scent to your freshly washed laundry.

38. Scented vinegar rinse – use fresh plants like lavender, mint, basil, chamomile or thyme in this fabric softener alternative.

39. Homemade bleach alternative – a 4-ingredient mix that will brighten whites and is also safe to use on colors.

40. Natural sheet and fabric softener – just add a cup of baking soda to your washing machine for naturally soft clothes and linen.

41. Make your own wool dryer balls – reduce wrinkles and soften your clothes while saving electricity with these DIY dryer balls.

42. Use aluminum foil balls to keep clothes static free – an incredibly simple and frugal technique that can be reused over and over again.

For the TRASH (and more):

43. Naturally control insects in the kitchen – a list of natural and frugal ways to deal with pests including fruit flies and ants.

44. Natural fly spray – combine apple cider vinegar and citronella essential oil for a powerful spray to keep bugs at bay.

45. Tablet air fresheners for trash bins – easy-to-make tablets that eliminate garbage smells and last for one month.

46. Homemade garbage disposal refresher – made with lemon peel and baking soda, these little tabs will instantly cure a smelly garbage disposal.

ALL-PURPOSE CLEANERS:

47. Homemade citrus vinegar cleaner – a lemony-fresh smelling all-purpose cleaning concentrate that can be used for surfaces of every variety.

48. Simple lemon lavender cleaner – for those who don’t like the smell of vinegar, a naturally scented cleaner that’s great for using up lemon peel.

49. All-purpose cleaner – a 3-ingredient cleaner perfect for everything from streak-free mirrors to wiping out the cat litter box.

50. Miracle all-purpose cleaner – great for the kitchen, bathroom, stubborn stains and anything else, you’ll need baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.

51. Homemade disinfectant – a quick spray harnessing the germ-killing qualities of lemon and thyme essential oils.

52. Natural toy cleaner – vinegar and water combine to make a disinfecting solution for children’s toys and a little essential oil can be added for a fresh smell.

Next time you’re hunched over your cleaning, scrubbing like mad and inhaling all manner of store-bought cleaner fumes — spare a thought for this list. Because here you have enough natural cleaning products to try something new every week for an entire year, in every corner of your home.

You’ll soon find there’s almost nothing an all-natural cleaner can’t handle. Many recipes are surprisingly simple to make, and you’ll wonder why you ever forked out the money for expensive and harsh chemicals in the past.

So go on. Pop over to your pantry, pull out the baking soda and vinegar, and get green cleaning. Your family and your wallet will thank you and your house will smell fresh as a daisy – a real one.

Koren Helbig is an Australian who likes to live well without spending the earth. She and her sister, Alana, create simple and cheap vegetarian and vegan recipes for everyday people at She Makes Magic, plus offer tips on how to live a natural and ethical lifestyle.

Original article and pictures take moneysavingmom.com site

50 Ways to Reduce Technology Use in the New Year

50 Ways to Reduce Technology Use in the New Year

Like many families, you might be struggling with the balance of social media and technology time vs. family time. Our lives have come so over run with technology and social media, that before we know it we can find ourselves missing out on moments to bond, laugh, and enjoy life together. If you are resolving to use less technology and social media in 2015, take a look below at some helpful tips to get you started. You will find 50 Ways to Reduce Technology Use in the New Year so you can fill your time making memories!

50 Ways to Reduce Technology Use in the New Year

1. Get the whole family on board. Call a family meeting to discuss using less technology in the New Year and brainstorm ways to see this through.

2. Write down your vow to use less technology in the New Year. Post the memo on a mirror where you can see it daily and be reminded.

3. Create a vision board. On a poster board cut pictures out of magazines of all of the other non tech related activities you can and want to enjoy with your family.

4. Set a no-tech hour each day in your home. During that hour the no-tech rule must be observed. Plan a fun activity for the family to enjoy during this time.

5. Vow to not use technology such as your cell phones or iPads while driving. Instead talk to each other, listen to the radio, and play fun word games.

6. Make dinner time a no tech time. Put the phones away and enjoy conversing about your day.

7. Set computer time limits. Do this for the whole family and make sure everyone observes them.

8. Let children earn tech time. passes or tickets that give them TV, iPod, iPad, and other tech time.

9. Download timer apps that track the amount of time you spend on your device. This will help you see the amount of time you invest in it, and how you can use that time for other activities.

10. Find healthy alternatives to your tech gadgets. When you get the urge to surf the net or social media, go for a walk instead.

11. Enroll in some type of class. This way, you can learn a new skill instead of wasting time on your phone, computer, etc.

12. Get outdoors. When you are too busy hiking, skiing, skating, and camping you won't have any time or need to invest in your devices.

13. Set a great example for your children. If you stare at your devices all day, so will they. Instead, find other activities to enjoy and show them you can have fun without constant technology in your face.

14. Start heading to the library as a family. You will find yourself too busy with all of the free materials available to you that you won't have time for your devices.

15. Track your tech time. For one day track the amount of time you spend on your phone, computer, etc. At the end of the day look at your total time. See where you could trim back and fill in the time with other activities.

16. Attend live events. Check out live concerts and games instead of just hearing about them on social media.

17. Make plans to meet up with friends. Instead of just interacting on social media, spend time with your friends in person.

18. Plant a real garden. Gardening in real life is much more rewarding than tending to a fake one on social media.

19. Get out and window shop. It will keep you active and beats surfing stores online anytime.

20. Cook with your family. Stop just “pinning” recipes online and instead try making some of them together as a family.

21. Turn your phone off at a certain point in the evening. Don't turn it on or check it until the next morning.

22. Cut back your cell phone plan. This way, you will force yourself into using it less.

23. Put chargers away each evening. This will let children know tech time is almost up.

24. Use games and other tech devices as a reward. You can reward children for getting involved in physical activities, educational activities, or for helping around the house.

25. Let friends and family know you are cutting back. Don't worry, they will find other ways to interact with you.

26. Write a letter. Try writing a letter to a friend instead of sending an email.

27. Buy greeting cards so you can send them on birthdays. They sure beat a social media birthday wish!

28. Keep a contacts book. You won't always have to consult your phone.

29. Invest in board games and card games. This will limit you from having to use your devices.

30. Leave your cell phone in the car when you meet friends for dinner or drinks. This way you can focus on them and the conversation.

31. Skip the internet for recipes. Browse through old cookbooks for some unique recipes.

32. Check your email only during set times. Instead of checking your email every 20 minutes give it a check every three hours. Set a routine of checking it at 9, noon, 3, and 6. You can then check it once more before bed at 9.

33. Stop downloading apps that are a distraction. Download only apps that are needed.

34. Pick up and read a newspaper. Don't just rely on social media for your news source.

35. Head to a real arcade. This is a fun activity you can enjoy with your family instead of playing online games.

36. Do a craft. Try creating some of the cool DIY ideas you “pinned” throughout the year.

37. Better yet, create a real bulletin board full of ideas you want to try. Attach paint swatches, magazine pictures, fabric samples, and more for inspiration.

38. Forget the memes. Have your own stand up comedy show in your own living room.

39. Call a friend to ask a question instead of sending a text. This is much more personal.

40. Don't rely on social media to send condolences. Instead send flowers, take over a meal, or send a card.

41. Share pictures by creating a hand held album. Print out all of the photos you have been storing on social media all these years.

42. Send out real invitations. Don't text them or use an online invite. It will be more personal.

43. Try unplugging entirely for a weekend. If it works, try it again in the future. If it doesn't, try for a day instead of a weekend.

44. Get involved in activities that force you to unplug. An example would be swimming or working out.

45. Take some time to play with the family pet. They don't care about technology so it is the perfect time to set it aside.

46. Host a game night. Play some trivia games with a friend or family instead of online varieties.

47. Encourage and support other family members as they attempt to unplug. Praise their efforts when you notice them.

48. Thank others when they offer you personal time and attention. Let them know you appreciate not just using social media.

49. Take a tech free vacation. Unplug, unwind, and relax without distractions.

50. Invest in a new camera. You won't have to always carry your phone around in order to get great pictures.

Let this year be the year you rely less on tech time and instead focus on family time! When you give these 50 tips a try, you will find that quality time with your family is right at your fingertips. All you need to do is a little shuffling and adjusting. Give them a try!

More New Year’s Resolution Ideas

50 Simple and Smart New Year’s Resolution Ideas

10 Tips for Sticking with Your New Year’s Resolutions

7 Ways to Plan Your New Year’s Resolutions

Making and Keeping Fitness Resolutions

How to Organize Your Time Better in the New Year

Original article and pictures take premeditatedleftovers.com site

50 Uses for Essential Oils (& the First 3 Things I Tried)

50 Uses for Essential Oils (& the First 3 Things I Tried)

Y’all, can we have a conversation here? Do you use essential oils?

*whispering* Do you actually believe they work??

I recently acquired a few of the most popular essential oils in order to do a review here on the blog for you fine readers.

Prior to this opportunity I had not had much experience (at all) with essential oils. I think I had an old bottle of lavender EO from the drugstore kicking around in the back of my cupboards because some blog somewhere told me to get some for xyz brilliant DIY project that I’ve now totally forgotten.

Oh, and some peppermint oil because I experimented adding it to my Homemade Clay & Coconut Oil Toothpaste recipe. Other than that – I’m pretty much an essential oil newbie.

On Monday we talked all about how to combat the cold & flu season naturally with guest poster, Bre. She talked about a number of different natural methods for boosting our immunity. She especially talked up the essential oils and explained their awesome abilities to promote healing. (I was totally impressed.)

I, on the other hand, came into it slightly cynical. I don’t know why – I mean, I believe in natural remedies, but this just seemed so… hokey to me. “Some nice-smelling oil in a little bottle is going to treat actual medical issues??” I wondered incredulously. Surely they can’t do much more than scent my homemade cleaners or make my bath smell nice?

Boy was I ever wrong.

Snacking on a big ol’ hunk of humble pie as I write this.

So I’ve been reading and perusing articles on essential oils for a while now, especially as I’ve been dabbling with these oils myself.

Here’s a gigantic list of 50 of the ways I’ve found to use essential oils, and at the end I’ll share the 3 things I tried first as an essential oils newbie.

Spoiler alert: I’m a fan.

(Please Note: This is a general list meant to inspire you to look further. Please do some research on each oil and its official recommendations before actually using it for your family, taking into account age and proper dilution guidelines. Essential oils can be very powerful! Also – this list is certainly not exhaustive – these are just the things that have caught my eye that I think are really cool – you can consider it my ‘EO To-Do List’.)

50 Amazing Uses for Essential Oils

1. Lemon oil removes odors from laundry that you forgot in the washing machine. Throw a drop or two in when you re-wash. Not that I’ve ever actually forgotten a load… this is purely just a PSA for those forgetful types. Of course.

2. Eucalyptus for decongestion (in a humidifier, or a diffuser, or even a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head and breathing in the steam deeply).

3. A few drops of lavender into your hand cupped with hot water while standing in the shower can create a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere from the steam.

4. Try the same thing with citrus oil or peppermint oil for an invigorating, wake-me-up scent.

5. Diluted lavender rubbed into the soles of your kiddo’s feet before bed helps promote better sleep.

6. No need for those artificially fragranced baby bath soaps! Add 5 drops of lavender in the bath tub.

7. Lavender can calm down unruly sinus issues, defiant allergies and other respiratory issues. Just apply diluted on the back of your neck, chest, and between your eyes.

8. A few drops of lavender in a bowl of hot water makes a great foot bath for dry and cracked feet.

9. Add 2-3 drops of lavender to a 1/4 cup of oats. Mix in a couple tablespoons of hot water and it’s a luxurious face scrub.

10. How to Make Calendula Salve and Why You Should (uses lavender EO + dried herbs)

11. Add essential oils to your favourite DIY body care products. I’ve been wanting to try homemade body butter for ages, and some essential oils would be the perfect addition.

12. Add some essential oils to your homemade beeswax tea light candles for naturally scented candles.

13. A couple drops of melaleuca in a spoonful of coconut oil makes a great zit zapper. The anti-bacterial properties reduce the inflammation so it can heal quickly.

14. Make homemade Clay and Coconut Oil Toothpaste.

15. DIY All-Purpose Cleaner

16. Add a couple drops of your favourite scent to a jar of baking soda, poke holes in the lid (mason jars work great for this) and leave in the bathroom to absorb odors.

17. Sprinkle some of that baking soda mixture on the carpets, wait a few minutes, then vacuum it up to remove odours.

18. Lavender on a pillow helps promote a sounder sleep.

19. DIY Breathmints

20. Add lavender to your vinegar and water spray bottle for cleaning.

21. Feeling lethargic or in a brain fog? Peppermint has been known to improve blood circulation and awareness, leaving you with an energized, awake feeling.

22. Peppermint is a favourite for fresh relief from cramping, indigestion, and diarrhea. Skip the antacids and go with peppermint oil! (Pair it with this amazing natural remedy for acid reflux.)

23. Bath salt fizzies.

24. Heavily diluted clove oil for toothaches. (But not for babies!)

25. Heavily diluted oregano oil for achy joints.

26. Lemon oil for your DIY Disinfectant Cloth Wipes.

27. If you find a tick has decided to make your skin its home, just give that tick a nice bath of peppermint oil with a cotton swab. The tick will stop burrowing, remove its head and then he’s yours.

28. Peppermint oil can act as a concentrated natural pain killer and muscle relaxant, especially with painful gums, teething or recent dental work.

29. Help ear infections.

30. Lavender in some coconut oil makes a great bug repellant. If you forget to go the prevention route, lavender soothes bites, itching and inflammation.

31. Wild orange oil to help fight fungus.

32. Make a sugar body scrub: brown sugar, olive oil, and a few drops of your favourite EO.

33. Make your own lip balm.

34. Freshen your mattress. Same method as #17.

35. Calm intense emotions or help anxiety/depression.

36. Add a few drops of lemon oil to your dishwasher soap container with each load. Your dishes will come out looking like new… spot-free!

37. Relieve cold and flu symptoms.

38. Make your own deodorant.

39. Homemade floor cleaner.

40. You don’t need to hunt down that “single use” stainless steel cleaner anymore. Multi-use lemon oil is great for cleaning stainless steel appliances. You’ll love the way stainless looks and smells!

41. How to Make Hand Sanitizer Naturally

42. Diffuses peppermint oil to activate the limbic function in your brain. The limbic function helps control things like emotions and long-term memory and is related to olfactory structures in your nose.

43. Lemon Mint Face Wash

44. Got a mind numbing headache? A few drops of diluted peppermint dabbed on your temples, neck and sinuses can quickly spring into action and chase that headache away!

45. Cutting boards can harbor bacteria in your kitchen. Rub them with coconut oil and lemon oil to get them clean.

46. Massage peppermint oil diluted on your abdomen to relieve a digestive issue. (Try this blend of oils for a powerful digestive remedy.)

47. Clean granite or porous stone. What is living in the pores of your natural stone counters or floors? Lemon oil cleans deeply, seeps into stone and leaves you with a “real fresh lemons” aroma, rather than that fake lemon chemical smell.

48. Lavender in coconut oil can give protection from the sun.

49. Lavender can help relieve allergy symptoms.

50. Lavender on a cold washcloth helps relieve puffy eyes.

And for the 3 Things I Tried First…

So, maybe you’re wondering how exactly I became a convert? I definitely haven’t tried all of these things yet… BUT now I want to. Know why? Because I’ve had a small taste of the powerful impact that essential oils can have.

1. Eucalyptus for congestion

When I have been congested and stuffy, the only, ONLY thing that has worked to help me breathe enough to sleep is the wondrous thing called eucalyptus oil. It is worth its weight in gold. Nope – scratch that – WAY more.

We bought a humidifier with a “medicine dispenser” in it where we put a few drops of oil. That worked great but when it broke, we decided to get a diffuser from Costco. I honestly don’t know what I’d do without it during times of congestion!

I figured: if eucalyptus oil can work *that* amazingly well, then surely there’s something to this whole EO thing. And that’s about as simple as it gets, really.

Most of these natural health ventures happen organically in our lives like that – we try something out and like it, and see the results for ourselves.

2. Peppermint for headaches

This one works amazingly well for minor headaches. Unfortunately, it didn’t work on my migraines, and I don’t want to pretend here that oils are a cure-all. They’re not. They’re just one piece of the puzzle in a complex myriad of factors for any health issue.

A bit of diluted peppermint oil on my temples *did* take away a minor headache, but when I had another one that didn’t respond to the oils I actually was thinking it was related to a yet-unknown food sensitivity. These things can be tough to pin down. I have heard a lot of success stories with peppermint and headaches, so it’s always what I will try first before moving on to something else (if necessary).

3. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca) for Diaper Rash

Lastly I tried some melaleuca (tea tree) oil mixed with coconut oil for Canaan’s diaper rash. It was a really bad sore that had a tough time healing, and was getting infected.

Two applications of the melaleuca/tea tree oil in a day, and the redness had disappeared and healing had begun. The same thing happened when I tried it on a pimple I had gotten at that time of the month. I was impressed.

[UPDATE: I had an absolutely incredible experience with Tea Tree Oil healing my badly infected finger. I shared about that here.]

Overall I’m totally thrilled with the results thus far. I’m convinced enough to think they’re actually worth my time and money, which is a tough feat!

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Nourishing The Home, but opinions are all mine.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or medical professional, and this post should not be taken as medical advice. Please do your own research. Material on this blog is provided for informational purposes only. It is general information that may not apply to you as an individual, and is not a substitute for your own doctor’s medical care or advice.

Original article and pictures take redandhoney.com site