1. http://i.imgur.com/bB8FeUm.jpg
   
2. /u/purebredginger Went through a few of your posts/comments (not stalking I swear!) And you're incredibly funny xp honest!
   
3. http://i.imgur.com/XY3uJb2.jpg
   
4. http://amzn.com/B00IED4U38
   
5. Detroit is the largest city on the United States-Canada border
   
6. How about 50? http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/06/over-50-mouthwatering-nutella-recipes/
   
7. http://i.imgur.com/x2HtOWb.jpg
   
8. I think this is the only place I can go and jump into an interesting conversation without being rejected immediately or bashed for my opinion...on the internet this is....refreshing :) RAOA means having a calm and welcoming environment to me.
   
9. Love me some Pokemon! http://amzn.com/B00GWYNIWK
   
10. The Detroit Lions are going to win the Super Bowl!!!
    
11. http://i.imgur.com/HHZYiXW.jpg
    
12. I love to Paint on my bedroom walls :)
    
13. I can play the Intro on my guitar http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM8bTdBs-cw
    
14. http://i.imgur.com/KCawg4s.jpg
    
15. http://i.imgur.com/GdpG1DF.jpg
    
16. /u/MMAphreak21 I don't really like any sort of sports, but you seem to know your stuff when it comes to MMA and Wrestling and I think that's really neat!
    
17. Me at the ocean for the very first time ever! Taking a picture of my bf taking a picture of me....oops http://i.imgur.com/HC9metV.jpg
    
18. I know nothing about quilting, but this looked neat! http://amzn.com/1607054213
    
19. /u/tandem7 Awesome person to chat with :) had a short conversation whilst entering the wonderful world of Wizard Merriment and Mischief going about RAOA recently
    
20. The city is also sometimes referred to as "Fort Liquordale" because of its beaches, bars, nightclubs, and history as a spring break location for tens of thousands of college students.....sounds fun!
    
21. http://i.imgur.com/XOXmRmf.jpg
    
22. Kirk Lazarus: "I don't read the script. The script reads me." Super funny movie xp
    
23. I too enjoy a good ice cream cake, and one year my dad bought me the biggest ice cream cake I've ever seen from Dairy Queen. It was oreo and vanilla and had layers of hot fudge and cookie crumbles in-between the layers....Best Birthday cake EVER!!!
    
24. http://i.imgur.com/Z9fuoCi.jpg
    
25. http://i.imgur.com/CeqgDeD.jpg?1
    
    No true fiasco ever began as a quest for mere adequacy.

I'm probably too late, but some ideas!

The mug is a cute idea, I love these "Surprise Mugs"

We don't know which country you or she is from, but it might be nice to get hers something small from her country (or something from your country that's super distinct if she's very excited about living there).

For instance, if she is from Germany, you could get her some Hanuta -- I know when I moved away from home, it was very comforting to get reminders from there.

Or if she's from Belgium, Stroopwafels might be nice to go with tea! Just something small that represents her home.

As for relaxation items (which seems to me to be one of your best options seeing as your ultimate goal is to help her relax, right?), I have a few:

Gong for her desk at work?

A zen "Desktop Garden?"

A Buddha Board for work?

A little desktop fountain?

A diffuser for at home (SUPER relaxing, but you'd also need essential oils)?

Or even a necklace diffuser?

Hi! My favorite oils I use daily are Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Peppermint. I think those are the best ones because of their versatility. Lavender is an antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal, and so much more and it smells amazing. It literally has 100 uses, if not more. Eucalyptus is an anti-inflammatory, decongestant, antibacterial too! I love to drop some in the shower and breathe it in with steam, same with peppermint oil too! Peppermint oil is antimicrobial, and its amazing to use with a carrier oil like oilve oil, and rub sore muscles with it. You can also out it on your feet to help relieve symptoms of a cold, and lower a fever naturally!
As for a diffuser, I don't actually have one, but the one I really want to get is
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PMNE73Q/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_fD09ub14RE6DD

Or

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GLO7M00/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_qE09ub0PQ682K

I have heard really great things about those two, and I love NOW oils, they are decently priced and they have such a great line :) so if you are thinking of getting into essential oils I reccomend NOW and their diffusers :)

No true fiasco ever began as a quest for mere adequacy

1. Heart
   
   
2. /u/purebredginger YO YOU'RE AWESOME
   
   
3. Donnie Darko <3
   
   
4. Home fragrance oil.
   
   
5. Detroit has the most registered bowlers in the United States.
   
   
6. Nutella lava cookie cups!
   
   
7. :D
   
   
8. It means positivity to me. This place is overwhelmingly positive and it makes my pessimistic soul feel better!
   
   
9. Bath and Body Works's Moonlight Path body spray makes my nose happy.
   
   
10. The Detroit Lions are going to win the super bowl.
    
    
11. Awww. :3
    
    
12. I like cats.
    
    
13. Enter Sandman.
    
    
14. This will forever be the cutest cat picture.
    
    
15. Pretty flower! And yes, this is my picture!
    
    
16. /u/MMAphreak21, you're a cool dude.
    
    
17. Ocean.
    
    
18. A book on quilting.
    
    
19. /u/tandem7 thank you!
    
    
20. Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” for its extensive system of waterways, including the New River, Intracoastal Waterway and a large number of canals.
    
    
21. He looks so normal in this picture.
    
    
22. "I don't read the script. The script reads me."
    
    
23. On my thirteenth, I sacrificed a furby.
    
    
24. Mmmm.....
    
    
25. Weeeee
    
    Thanks for the contest!

a co-worker said she loved Viva La Juicy and trying to find a more budget friendly option I tried her out on Soft by Al-Rehab . It's very cheap and maybe not an impressive gift, but my co-worker loved in. In fact, all my co-workers (it was starbucks, so young, female) loved it so as a parting gift from that job I got a 6-pack off amazon for less than $20 to distribute. It comes as a 6ml oil roller ball, and it IS quite strong, since it's an oil you can just use a very little and it stays closer to the skin and just exudes as sort of a delicate, sweet warmth.

I have dry/sensitive skin and I’d love to have a 100% vegan/cruelty free skincare routine, however it’s been hard to find products that work for me. I have purchased and tried many many products and the ones that have really worked, and I use daily are:

1.- Cleanser: Yes to Cucumber Daily Gentle Cleanser - I’ve been using this cleanser for more than a year and it has been great. It does not leave my face itchy or dry after washing it, which all other soaps did.

2.- Toner: Rosewater & Glycerin from Heritage Store - It has only three ingredients and leaves my skin hydrated, fresh, soft.

3.- Moisturizing Oil: Rosehip Oil from Aura Cacia - I use this for extra moisturizing in the a reas of my face that are extra dry and under my eyes.

The best part of these products besides being vegan/cruelty free is that they are all less than $10!

The rest of the products I use (serum and moisturizing cream) are from Dr Jart+ and are not vegan/cruelty free. I would LOVE to find some that work for me though!

Put a few ethernet taps in every room, including the garage and bathrooms. Place an outlet above the kitchen cabinets so you can plug in any light strips of your choice. Put lights in the kitchen cabinets, so that you can turn them on by a smart switch.

For the garage door opener, this is what I use: https://www.bestbuy.com/site/insignia-wi-fi-garage-door-controller-for-apple-homekit-white/5933701.p?skuId=5933701

I've had the Schlage Sense for two years and it works great. The batteries really last a year.

Look into buy the Aqara hub on AliExpress: https://old.reddit.com/r/HomeKit/comments/9aooch/indepth_review_aqara_hub/

Once you buy the hub, the door and window sensors are cheaper than any other Homekit sensors and are faster: https://old.reddit.com/r/HomeKit/comments/9tu8z1/video_aqara_door_window_sensor_with_chris_young/

They have a curtian controller that's also good: https://www.reddit.com/r/homeautomation/comments/amw7zi/great_experience_with_xiaomi_aqara_for_homekit/

For shades, Ikea will be releasing their product in April. Lutron Serena shades are also great.

For dimmer switches, look into the iDevices dimmer switches: https://www.amazon.com/iDevices-Dimmer-Switch-Required-HomeKit/dp/B0743Q7VCL/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2W1OBJ5WJ8QR3&keywords=idevices+dimmer&qid=1549862263&s=gateway&sprefix=idevice%2Caps%2C217&sr=8-4

They are more expensive than most other homekit dimmers, but are very reliable. They also go on sale often.

There is a Homekit diffuser that's really nice: https://www.amazon.com/VOCOlinc-Essential-Ultrasonic-Adjustable-FlowerBud/dp/B07HMPY7RX/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1?keywords=vocolinc+diffuser&qid=1549862496&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmrnull


Use website Camelcamelcamel to keep track of price drops.

Go to the Homenetworking subreddit: https://old.reddit.com/r/HomeNetworking/ and get advice on the best router for your needs and the best way to hook it up.

Ooh, my time to shine! Swimming hair care expert here- swim 6x a week for ~90 minutes a session in chlorinated pools and still maintain shiny gorgeous locks. Do the following and you'll be good:

• wet hair before you put cap on. Completely soak it to saturate the hair follicle.
  
• after swimming rinse well, apply conditioner when you shower and rinse out, then lightly apply and leave in this stuff - to entire length of hair, concentrating a bit more at the ends
  
  
• on weekends or when you have time, apply castor oil to roots and jojoba oil to middle and ends, leave on for 30 minutes and rinse out. Personally I like to put this on and let it soak while I hit up the eucalyptus steam room, cold plunge ice bath pool and then the dry cedar sauna. Pro Tip: grab a plastic bag if your pool provides them for you to store wet swimsuits in, and wrap that around the top of your head after putting on oil while you hit the sauna/steam- boom, instant hot oil treatment! :)
  
• air dry as often as possible, blowdry as infrequently as possible
  
• detangle GENTLY using mainly your fingers and not brushing tangles out harshly with brush to decrease breakage
  
• when you tie hair back do so loosely, not tight
  
• wait a few days between shampoos, use dry shampoo to soak up oil if necessary
  
• get your thyroid checked and have PCP run regular lab work to make sure nothing else is underlying cause

N=1, but as someone with MDD (that is year round but gets worse in the winter), I've found that bright light is extremely helpful for my mood and sleep (questionable delayed sleep phase disorder), especially in the winter. This is, of course, in addition to meds + normal well-being regimen. Last winter (MS1 year) was the first winter I used the light, and I felt as if I had more energy throughout the winter.

I try to use it for ~30 minutes in the morning, but will admit that getting into a routine can be difficult, and I do occasionally miss a day, though I am more vigilant about it during the winter months. I am not a morning person, so setting aside 30 minutes sometimes just doesn't happen. Not quite sure what I'll do on my surgery rotation, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.

I bought a light off Amazon that was advertised as being 10,000 Lux, which is the brightness that I saw was being used in studies/recommended on UpToDate. Here's the one I bought: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU9MMPI/ref=emc_b_5_t Granted, I have no way of measuring the brightness, but it was the highest-rated light within my price range I saw, and I've been happy with it so far. I'm happy to answer any questions!

Hi! First time succulent person, here is my current setup! https://imgur.com/a/ojPSZsX

I have a big pile of assorted mystery succulents that I propagated in February in a planter on my desk. I have this random light therapy lamp that I received as a gift that I've hung up above my plants to supplement the light and I'm actually unsure if it's as effective as it needs to be as it seems like some of my succulents are getting a little leggy, especially the large rosette in the middle.

If someone could let me know if this lamp works, or if I should look for another, that would be great! I've done some reading and things point to 'yes' but i want to make sure.

Link to lamp: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075H39NDL/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Info: "10,000 LUX, 3 LEVEL BRIGHTNESS, FULL-SPECTRUM, WHITE LIGHT, UV FREE | The 5500K color temperature is the color of the noonday sun. This full-spectrum light offers a wider range of colors of the visible spectrum."

Reverse Osmosis

TLDR: Has anyone gone from tap-water to Reverse Osmosis and noticed a major difference?

I just bought a RO system a few days ago, which has not arrived yet. Water locally is quite terrible, between 150-450ppm (yes, seen it that bad) & it smells/tasted bad all year. I suspect there's a lot of chlorine in the water too.

I suspect the chlorine, and chloramine is killing off beneficial bacteria & the high PPM may be partially locking out some nutrients. Worst case, I just have really clean water to drink!

Humidity

TLDR: Has anyone increased the humidity in an indoor grow, or greenhouse and seen positive results?

I suspect the humidity in my grow tent is way too low. I don't know the exact RH, I'm fairly certain it's below 20%, especially in the winter. Some of the plants also 'drink' water at an incredible rate, of more than a gallon-per-week.

I understand humidity can also encourage fungus, but I haven't had that problem since I did a better job sealing the top of my hydro-buckets & improving air-circulation.

I purchased one of these yesterday (also not arrived), and depending on results, it may be inside or outside (but near) the grow tent.

Your thoughts/experiences?

edit: I'm primarily growing peppers, herbs, and asparagus. Asparagus is doing great. Pepper plants are very healthy, plenty of flowers, little-to-no fruit. Herbs (basil, mint, etc) doing just fine.

Hey all!

Issue: Acne

Skin type: Sensitive/dry

Current routine:

Morning:

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Mattifying Toner
It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Moisturizing Cream
Hada Labo UV Creamy Gel SPF 50

Evening:
Castor Oil + Sweet Almond Oil (a la http://www.theoilcleansingmethod.com) 3-4 nights a week, the CeraVe Hydrating cleanser on the non-OCM nights
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion on OCM nights, CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin on non-OCM nights

Occasionally used:
ReShape+ Dark Spot Corrector Cream
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

Length: I've been using this routine for roughly a month, the newest things I've added are the It Cosmetics moisturizer and the OCM. I know with the OCM they say your skin gets worse before it can get better and to do it consistently for 3 weeks for results but I feel like I've done it that long and my cheeks and around my mouth are still red and bumpy.

Other facts: I'm in the process of decreasing the amount of fast food and greasy food I eat, which is a lot right now but hopefully soon will be none. I think that will clear up my skin a little bit but I feel like poor diet isn't the only thing causing this. With the routine I currently have the bumps on my face tend to go away for a day or two but the redness persists and then the actual bumps return.

Location: Southern California

Any advice/suggestions are welcome; thank you for reading my post!

Edit: https://imgur.com/a/8bVpE, thought I attached a pic of each side of my face, whoops!

So you think adding black pepper to turmeric is just bullshit too. You speak of all this science you believe in but want to pick and choose I guess. All vanillin does apparently is make it not evaporate as fast, what is hard to understand here?

And plus I said more catnip studies need to be done, but catnip essential oil is safe for topical use, so really the only research needed is just larger studies of the effectiveness on mosquitoes.

I've shown you studies on how effective citronella, lemon eucalyptus and now catnip essential oil is on mosquitoes. The only downside for some is how long it lasts. This can easily be avoided by using a oil like coconut oil as the carrier, problem solved.

Plus like I said it works great for gnats as well, which is something DEET can't touch.

http://www.amazon.com/Eucalyptus-Therapeutic-Essential-Edens-Garden-/dp/B002RTVKOC/ref=sr_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1465101277&sr=8-7&keywords=lemon+eucalyptus+essential+oil

http://www.amazon.com/Now-Foods-Citronella-Oil-Ounce/dp/B000MGOZJ4/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1465101312&sr=1-4&keywords=citronella+essential+oil

So for about 11$ you can get 1oz and 10mL of essential oil and only need about 20-30 drops per 4oz spray bottle mixed with witch hazel (or coconut oil). 1 oz is about 500+ drops.

Plus if you read any of the reviews it shows how well it works for other people at repelling them.

I’m an elementary teacher and every year I’d get sick with bronchitis and then had to take antibiotics which I hated. But last year I decided to try something more natural so I bought three things.

• Air purifier for my classroom.
  
  
• Pei Pa Koa- it’s a Chinese cough medicine with natural herbs and products. Any time I feel my throat hurts or that a cough is coming I take it, and the next day I feel better.
  
  Pei Pa Koa - 10 Fl. Oz. ( 3 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002S56K40/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_b8OBCbKCKH2N7
  
  
• Respire Essential Oil - I put 4 drops of this in my humidifier when I go to bed, and the next day I can breath better, and it also helps with sore throat and coughing.
  
  

  1 Respiratory Essential Oil & Sinus Relief Blend - Supports Allergy Relief, Breathing, Congestion Relief, Respiratory Function - 100% Organic Therapeutic & Aromatherapy Grade - 15ml
  

  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012NZQD28/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3.OBCbS2PGET9
  
  Hope you’re feeling better!
  
  

Sure thing! Always happy to help others experience essential oils, they're life-changing. Here's a link to a good beginner set on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002RSMAD8/ref=mp_s_a_1_9_a_it?qid=1462922755&sr=8-9&keywords=eden%27s+garden+set

Let me know if you have more specific questions about individual oils or recipes/uses. :)

> So you think adding black pepper to turmeric is just bullshit too. You speak of all this science you believe in but want to pick and choose I guess

in the context that adding black pepper to turmeric makes food taste better? I don't think that is bullshit. I would think it is bullshit if you said that adding black pepper to turmeric cures a sore throat, cancer, helps the skins, and repels bugs. Though, if there are science backing up any one of those claims, then I would use it. And no, I don't pick and chose my science. I agree with you on lemon eucalyptus, but it was citronella/vanillin mix that science need more research for. (and in the study I provided it did say that vanillin extended the longevity of the repellent.)

> And plus I said more catnip studies need to be done, but catnip essential oil is safe for topical use, so really the only research needed is just larger studies of the effectiveness on mosquitoes.

On which I agree with you. I said it looks promising, but it still needs to be tested for human/animal safely. With new chemicals/substances/cures/etc, you never know how it reacts to human/animals. I simply said that many "cures for cancer" pop up and most never make it final product. Thus, Catnip may turn out to be a dud

> I've shown you studies on how effective citronella, lemon eucalyptus and now catnip essential oil is on mosquitoes. The only downside for some is how long it lasts. This can easily be avoided by using a oil like coconut oil as the carrier, problem solved.

Once again, I agree with you on lemon eucalyptus, but catnip and citronella need more research. Coconut oil (again, adding a new substances, I see) can be used as longevity extender since it is an unsaturated fatty acids (like you said slows evaporation). Again, they look promising as an alternative to DEET.

>Plus like I said it works great for gnats as well, which is something DEET can't touch.

......in a discussion about mosquito repellent.

> http://www.amazon.com/Eucalyptus-Therapeutic-Essential-Edens-Garden-/dp/B002RTVKOC/ref=sr_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1465101277&sr=8-7&keywords=lemon+eucalyptus+essential+oil

>http://www.amazon.com/Now-Foods-Citronella-Oil-Ounce/dp/B000MGOZJ4/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1465101312&sr=1-4&keywords=citronella+essential+oil

>So for about 11$ you can get 1oz and 10mL of essential oil and only need about 20-30 drops per 4oz spray bottle mixed with witch hazel (or coconut oil). 1 oz is about 500+ drops.
Plus if you read any of the reviews it shows how well it works for other people at repelling them.

People can claim anything they want about Citronella Oil or Lemon Eucalyptus and its effectiveness on insect repellent. Only with science, can we determine if those claims are true. Anecdotal evidence is worthless in science.

I think they talk about something like this. For the Edison bulbs you can check wayfair.com or etsy.com. They have beautiful stuff. Check this for etsy and this for wayfair.

Good luck ;)

Skin Type: combination/dehydrated maybe??/acne-prone | Country/Climate I'm in: hot/humid/sometimes dry | Top Skin Concern: large pores, oil control in T-zone, pit-like scars on temples

Current Routine/Products I'm Using (as of two days ago):

AM

Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash

Thayer's Witch Hazel - Alcohol-free in Cucumber

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner

Care Zone Doctor Solution A-cure Clarifying Emulsion

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++


PM

Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash

Thayer's Witch Hazel - Alcohol-free in Cucumber

Aura Cacia Organic Skin Care Oil - Restoring Rosehip Oil with Vitamin E (For spot treatment and thickening my eyebrows lmao)

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner

Care Zone Doctor Solution A-cure Clarifying Emulsion

Recently bought the Thayer's Witch Hazel to replace my previous toner (which was from the same Carezone Doctor's solution line) thinking it would be good since I like using watery toners with a cotton pad to wipe off oil after washing my face (dunno if that actually does anything). However, today I noticed my face was in a thin layer of oil, basically the same post-wash oily feeling as when I used to not use toner or anything and just suffered with a dry cracking face after washing. Not sure if this is what people who "broke out from Thayer's" also experienced except my skin just didn't break out?? Any speculation/experience with Thayer's will help!

Also, my Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence Rose Edition finally came in from Yesstyle! It looks really watery and you apply it with a cotton pad, so hopefully it can replace my Thayer's!

ok. i also have severe anxiety, probably due in large part to an extremely abusive and traumatic childhood. the only way to "cure" it, really, is to get therapy. i recently found a therapist who is willing to do sessions over skype for only $60/hour (and here is another one who does it for $90/hour). you may want to hit them up. but otherwise, the things that work for me are yoga (especially tantra, yin, and restorative yoga which incorporate a bit of meditation), also pranayama breathing exercises such as alternate nostril breathing and breath of joy work SO well. and as far as natural remedies go, passion flower extract works almost as well as xanax for me. it was recommended to me by a pharmacist in malaysia. i never had much luck with valerian. try these things and i think you will feel a lot better. feel free to PM me for more advice.

For the avocado oil, I use the brand Olivado. You can usually find this one in the grocery store where all the regular cooking and olive oils are.

I like using the sweet almond oil the best from Aura Cacia. I believe this brand has an avocado oil also. This brand's oils are usually in the skin care aisle of the organic/natural section of grocery stores. If you can't find it there, the brand may also be at a local health food/organic store!

There has been some very promising studies done on the effectiveness of Passion Flower for anxiety. This brand available via Amazon has great reviews: https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Answer-PassionFlower-Vegetarian-Capsules/dp/B000I48M3A?th=1

> Which is your favorite?

Cedarwood and lemongrass right now. Those and copaiba with coconut oil for a carrier is what I'm using on my beard currently. I just ordered some Sandalwood and Jojoba oil, so we'll see how those go. I like cinnamon, rosemary, clary sage and orange combo around Xmas time.

In a couple months it's gonna all about the woodsy, citrus vibe. I've got lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, bergamot, spearmint and peppermint, tea tree and eucalyptus already. I'll play with those and see what combo I like. This is the set I originally bought that got me started.

I am a little obsessed with fragrance, but I always always go back to Soft by Al-Rehab. The sillage is pretty strong so a little goes a long way, but this is basically musky, lemony, vanilla. It's a very safe fragrance that I put a little on if I don't want to be offensive.

Hello lovlies! The dreaded Christmas is over, and it appears we all survived.

I feel so grateful for my husband lately. We had a quiet day just the two of us. We went for a long bike ride, grilled some steaks and ate all of the monkey bread. He lived the cologne and undies I got him. He got me a NOW oil diffuser which I absolutely love! Last night we had lavender going in the bedroom, and today, it's eucalyptus in the living room :)

Also, my pregnant SIL messaged me to tell her that my mother made Christmas a living hell for her. Eventhough she's pregnant less than a year after her wedding, and eventhough they're using one of our top baby names, I feel so bad for her, my mother can be so awful.

Anyway, onward and upward for all of us here, I suppose. At least as best we can.

Birth control can affect hair thickness/growth. But so can a number of other things, so if the change is significant I recommend checking in with your doctor.

Castor oil might help you combat it. This one is my favorite. I like to put some in a bowl, heat it up (helps your scalp absorb it), put it all over my scalp first and then get the rest of my hair with it aand throw a cap on for a few hours till I wash it out.

Keep in mind most mood lamps are anemic. So you are comparing to something that itself probably isn't effective. Some are rated at 10,000 lux at 6 inches. Many don't even provide complete specs so you just don't know. It's not practical to slap a mood lamp 6 inches in front of your face anyway.

The lamp I use is this. It's affordable, rated at 12", has been clinically proven, and easy to position above your eyes -- which we think is important. Also, the wavelength is important. It's blue light which is effective. Reds don't seem to have much of an effect. There is information on that specific lamp here as well as a ton of other info on how to effectively use mood lamps. All backed by research and cited.

As an aside, that site is probably the best site I'm aware of for info about sleep, mood disorder, anxiety, and general brain cooties. It's about bipolar but much of it applies to other mental health issues as well.

I bought 1 ounce of Aura Cacia Organic Argan Oil for ~$10 at Whole Foods! Love it! :)

I don't really trust medication for anxiety for many reasons including physical side effects. One thing I have noticed calms me down some are respiratory oils. What I do is dab some onto a cloth surgical mask. It looks a little weird in public so sometimes I'll just put it on a tissue and act like I have a runny nose. As soon as I get a good inhale, my body eases down a bit. But I have to keep breathing it in for constant results. So the best time it works is when I'm able to wear a mask without any weird looks. This especially works if you feel all messed up near your throat from anxiety.
www.amazon.com/Respiratory-Essential-Sinus-Relief-Blend/dp/B012NZQD28/

https://www.amazon.com/RoyAroma-Aromatherapy-Essential-Adjustable-Stainless/dp/B01LC9YK0I/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_194_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=WGH5R34WDC9P33H922FX&th=1

​

This is a great necklace. it comes with different pads for different oils. I wear it all the time and just pull it up to my nose when i need to take a deep breath and relax.

Talk with your therapist and get a prescription if you want to write off the purchase or have insurance/FSA cover it, but something like this

Circadian Optics Lumos 2.0 Light Therapy Lamp | Ultra Bright 10,000 Lux Full Spectrum LED Light (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IU9MMPI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fik4Bb0AYAF62

This is the brand I buy and I've had great luck with it:

https://www.amazon.com/Lemongrass-Large-ounce-Best-Essential/dp/B00PHLPK1G/Boil&th=1

Their prices generally range from $10-13 for a 4oz bottle. I've got their tea tree, lemongrass, peppermint, cedarwood, and sage.

My simple, effective trick to keep zits down... Use moisturizer mixed with one drop of tea tree oil... use it on your face 2 times a day. Its almost always works, though my skin isn't that bad. Maybe it will help you out(: Also sleeping on a satin or silk pillow case may help.

Are you located in the US? You can get EO at pretty reasonable prices from Amazon: amazon.com/Lemongrass-Large-ounce-Best-Essential/dp/B00PHLPK1G

I've used this brand with good results.

Vocolinc Flower Bud is fun for a beginner it has both a light and a diffuser all for $50. I recommend it to people who are getting started.
Amazon link here

Mine is helping!

I’ve got this one

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PCN4UVU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wRD6Bb1SGDTX4

It depends on the dimension you need to be small. This one has a very small foot print on the desk, but is relatively tall (over 18" but under 24"): https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IU9MMPI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 It's what I have at work. It also folds down nicely for when you put it away.

I see Stridex in the red box for $3.59!

Edit: Also GlamGlow Bright Mud

Mint Julep Masque

Alpha Hydrox Souffle

Alpha Hydrox Intensive Serum

Aura Cacia Argan Oil

Alpha Hydrox Night Replenishing Cream

Alpha Hydrox Sheer Silk Moisturizer

Clinique Dramatically Different Gel

With Amazon prime's free shipping you could get this: http://www.amazon.com/100%25-Pure-Tree-Good-Natural/dp/B001063NY8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375584013&sr=8-1&keywords=pure+tea+oil

This one looks good

https://www.amazon.com/Circadian-Optics-Therapy-Spectrum-Minimalist/dp/B075H39NDL/ref=sxin_4_ac_d_rm?ac_md=0-0-bGlnaHQgdGhlcmFweQ%3D%3D-ac_d_rm&keywords=light+therapy&pd_rd_i=B075H39NDL&pd_rd_r=308e7ba5-33ac-49b4-9836-20953efcfc63&pd_rd_w=KMFnz&pd_rd_wg=yCcp4&pf_rd_p=6d29ef56-fc35-411a-8a8e-7114f01518f7&pf_rd_r=C7CXF0XN73GVA42J1HR7&psc=1&qid=1574208666

I like this one because it is above your eyes, but less well-reviewed than the above

https://www.amazon.com/Gooseneck-Daylight-Personal-Upgraded-Insomnia/dp/B07Y9YHDHF/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=light%2Btherapy%2Babove%2Beyes&qid=1574208790&sr=8-4&th=1

More expensive one

https://www.amazon.com/Carex-Day-Light-Classic-Bright-Therapy/dp/B00PCN4UVU/ref=sr_1_4?crid=ZHT467JNPWEA&keywords=carex+light+therapy+lamp&qid=1574208892&sprefix=carex+light%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-4

Not OP, but I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PCN4UVU/.

I've done the research. This is full spectrum and as good as it gets in the US.

Technically 10 - 15 minutes a day is all you need, but I just leave it on at my desk.

This citronella oil is only ($2.82 + $1.99S&H) and there is only 1 left in stock!

Thanks so much for the contest!

My sister-in-law has that exact closet organizer, it's really nice! From my wishlist it's a toss between tea tree oil and rechargeable batteries. It's surprising how much and how quickly I go through them. :/

I've been using a light therapy box for 30 minutes every morning at 8:30AM because I'm participating in a sleep study with Columbia University. After six weeks of that, I have to attribute a lot of improvements in mood and energy levels throughout the day to this light and maintaining a regular sleep schedule because of it. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PCN4UVU

Oooh I have always wanted one of those. I have tried one at a friend's house and never really got to buy one. Aromatherapy is really relaxing to me and uh FLAX. And for fabric any polka dots or anything lime green is preferred if not, totally ok :D

We will have to try this out this year.

Something like this will work?: https://www.amazon.com/Lemongrass-Large-ounce-Best-Essential/dp/B00PHLPK1G/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1485545028&sr=8-3&keywords=lemongrass%2Boil&th=1

Have you tried something like this?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075H39NDL/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1

Last Friday as a university student!

On a less happy note... I was hoping somebody might shed a little light on something for me. I was reading the oil guide posted today, and it specified that argan oil MUST smell nutty in order to be real. I've heard this before, but for whatever reason just decided to smell my own (here)... and it smells like nothing! I've seen others mention this brand before without it being dismissed a fake, but maybe somebody knows something that I don't?

I recommend this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IU9MMPI/

I was in the store about to buy one but eventually put it back because I couldn't stomach paying $120 for the large diffuser. You can find many copies on Amazon for a 1/5th of the price.

https://www.amazon.com/URPOWER-Aromatherapy-Essential-Humidifier-Waterless/dp/B0118QC1BA/ref=s9_simh_gw_g121_i3_r?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=0XXW8MZY8YSB6S2Y9AHA&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=a6aaf593-1ba4-4f4e-bdcc-0febe090b8ed&pf_rd_i=desktop#customerReviews

I talked with people who worked at store and they told me there is a lifetime warranty on the diffusers, even though it doesn't say anywhere on the website. This was in SF.

This can help I believe but people have mentioned HomeKit connection is glichy as in it often goes non-responsive

https://www.amazon.com/VOCOlinc-Essential-Ultrasonic-Adjustable-FlowerBud/dp/B07HMPY7RX

If you manage to see this in time, Amazon is having a lightning deal on this sun lamp. $33 if you have Prime. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075H39NDL/

It’s on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HMPY7RX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.dL1Bb00RN53Y

In stock November 2

Sorry to hear about your struggles. I use one of these steam inhalers with some essential oils. It really seems to help.

here’s an essential oil bracelet


essential oil necklace

Here is the desktop version of your link

Here you go

You can usually find the Aura Cacia oils at most "natural" supermarkets. It's usually around half the price of the Josie Maran.

I’ve been using Sky Organics. Sky Organics Castor Oil -Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Beginners-Aromatherapy-Therapeutic-Grade/dp/B002RSMAD8/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1467176925&sr=8-3&keywords=best+of+the+best+set+edens+garden

this is where i got my set from. only $40!

If you have seasonable variations in depression, maybe something like this can help?

https://www.amazon.com/Carex-Health-Brands-Day-Light-Classic/dp/B00PCN4UVU/ref=sr_1_12_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1473046010&sr=8-12&keywords=light+therapy

You might have Seasonal affective depression, which is a real issue in a place as gloomy as fall/winter stony brook

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You could try taking vitamin D, or purchasing a daylight lamp from amazon such as this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Circadian-Optics-Therapy-Spectrum-Adjustable/dp/B01IU9MMPI?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1

It’s so normal to feel defeated with SAD! You do all these things and it just still rears its ugly head.

I have had it for years and this year made the leap to spend the spring in a sunny place, because last year I was literally doing everything and still feeling the effects.

Drugs help.

Light Therapy helped me a lot.

I use this light: Carex Day-Light Classic Plus... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PCN4UVU?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Exercise helps a lot- I do HIIT.

Stress exacerbates SAD.

I really hope that you find some relief. It’s not your fault. You’re not doing life wrong. You have a disorder that is fucking things up.

Have you had a full blood panel done lately? Thyroid, dehydration, & low iron or vitamin D & B levels can all affect energy levels. The insomnia you describe can still happen if you are tired when you go to bed, it's hard to turn your brain off.

For just one week do the following:

• Drink 16 oz of water first thing in the morning, again at noon, and about 2 hours before bed in addition to drinking smaller glasses of water whenever you are thirsty and with every meal.
  
  
• Take some vitamin D & B12 supplements (if you are a menstruating woman, go ahead and take the iron too, but if you are a man, wait for a blood panel to tell your doctor if you are low or not)
  
  
• Get a SAD light, and sit under it for 15 minutes first thing in the mornings at the same time each day while you eat breakfast - I like this one
  
  That's what has helped me.