Dog Days

It's the Dog Days people. Let me tell you, i'm feeling it.

Looking over my mood charts (detailed logs I've kept for about 2 years now, documenting my mood swings, medications, sleeping habits, etc.), i'm noticing that just about this time every year i hit a funk. i get lazy during the days and end up living curiously similar to a vampire. i sleep until the early afternoon, laze about until sunset and then suddenly come to life, accomplishing a fair amount. But then it comes 10 pm rather quickly (that's when i'm supposed to take my medications) and i'm wide awake. Then i don't take my meds until 3 am, when i'm finally feeling sleepy. Then i doze off at 4 or 5 only to start the whole damn cycle again.

i was beginning to really beat myself up about it, especially since i had trained myself to be an early riser (though returning to the night shift at the Café sabotaged that quite nicely). Now, after reviewing my mood charts, i'm realizing that it's simply my freaky-deaky brain reacting to the hottest part of the year.

It's 4 am as i'm writing this. Oh yes, people, i'm feeling the dog days. But the question, is what kind of dog breed am I?

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Balsam Fir Essential Oil

While some people question the efficacy of herbal supplements for pets, I'm a firm believer. Balsam Fir (Idaho) is a conifer oil distilled in northern Idaho that has a refreshing and uplifting scent. Used in massage, it has a soothing effect on muscle and body discomfort associated with exercise. It has anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties and is useful for sinus infections, fatigue, arthritis and muscular pain. Balsam's fragrant influence is grounding, stimulating to the mind and relaxing to the body.

Balsam is great for massage when diluted 50/50 with a carrier oil such as grapeseed oil. It is very relaxing and helps to take away the aches and pains. My horse, Cassie, normally shows lots of interest in the Balsam when I offer it to her after a training session.

I make sure all of the oils I use are 100% therapeutic grade - so you know they are pure and without any additives. I won't use any other brand on myself, my family or my horses.