E is for Essence

What is essence? Essence is the quality of something that determines its character. According to Dictionary.com, essence is the basic, real, and invariable nature of a thing or its significant individual feature or features. It is also a substance obtained from a plant, drug, or the like, by distillation, infusion, etc., and containing its characteristic properties in concentrated form.

When I think of the essence of a person, I think of key strengths that sets them apart from others and defines their character. It’s their spirit. Certain people in your lives may immediately come to mind. It is their core of who they are that they exude and stands out from others. Essence is their innate characteristics, and quality and substance of thoughts and actions. 

Think about who you are and the essence of you. What are the top 3-5 characteristics that best describe you as your authentic self? What are you doing to promote the authentic nature of who you are as you live your daily life? How can you embrace your essence and that of others and give thanks for the soul of who you or they are? How can you live in harmony with your essence?

When I think of the essence of nature, one of my favorite things to think of is essential oils. Essential oils come from plants and have so many bioactive compounds and antioxidants which can provide so many health benefits, relieve symptoms, address infection, or promote overall immunity and health. For Thanksgiving, the essential oils of orange, clove, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and ginger, particularly come to mind. I’ve been diffusing them this week in my home, and have already made my squash and added a few drops of food grade essential oils.

As you celebrate the holiday, cook, or enjoy the Thanksgiving meal, take time to notice the essence of each other and smell the essence of this holiday. Enjoy!