Traveling is downright addictive, and I've got a serious case of wanderlust. One of my favourite things in the world is stepping off an airplane and smelling the air in a new place for the first time. It's never the nicest smelling air I'll come across on the trip, but it's my first impression, and if we're being honest, anything is nice after hours of recycled airplane air.

Anyhow, in an attempt to assuage my wanderlust, I've devised five world travel inspired scent blends to use in my Saje Aroma Cloud ultrasonic diffuser. They're inspired by cities and landscapes from all over the world—some I've visited and some I'm still just dreaming of. I hope you enjoy them as much as I am.

Ultrasonic nebulizers are my favourite way to diffuse essential oils because they're heat free and therefore don't damage the essential oils at all. Saje's ultrasonic nebulizers are also negative ionizers. Negative ions are oxygen atoms charged with an extra electron, and for such a small sounding difference, there's some great benefits. They occur naturally out in nature, around bodies of water and after thunderstorms. They clear the air of contaminants and odours, and leave you feeling refreshed and generally good. A negative ionizer like Saje's ultrasonic nebulizer is a great way to get the benefits of negative ions without having a lake in your bedroom ;) 

Once you combine great essential oils with negative ions and the gentle, burbling mist that floats out of the Aroma Cloud, you've got a recipe for relaxation and well-being. I'm loving running mine in the hours before I go to sleep, and as I go to sleep. I find the burbling to be quite soothing, and I love choosing where my nose thinks it's falling asleep. Mountain meadow? Or perhaps Thailand? Hmm. 

Before you get started with your blends I would recommend you do the mixing in a small vial or bottle (I used these) and not in the diffuser. This allows for a better melding of the scents—plus, some of the essential oils I've chosen are quite viscous, and blending them with thinner oils reduces the chances they'll clog your diffuser. And, when I say "toothpick swirl", what I want you to do is dip a toothpick in the essential oil, and then swirl it into the rest of the essential oil blend. It's a way to get just a hint of otherwise overpowering essential oils.

Blue Mountains

• 2 drops labdanum essential oil
• 10 drops eucalyptus globulus essential oil
• 1 drop tea tree essential oil
• 1 drop honey myrtle essential oil
• 1 toothpick swirl cade essential oil

I fell in love with the Australian Blue Mountains while I was living in Penrith, NSA on a university exchange (along with the rest of Australia, of course). Coming from the foothills of one of the most majestic mountain ranges in the world (I'm only a little biased, I swear), the Blue Mountains are rather petite in comparison, but no less beautiful. They're giant plateaus blanketed in gum trees, with winding pathways, sheer sandstone cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and never-ending vistas over blue-tinged valleys.

This blend started with the no-brainers; essential oils from Australian plants and trees. The most prominent is Eucalyptus Globulus, with hints of tea tree and honey myrtle. Together they create a fresh, camphoraceous scent blend that is also a powerful antiseptic and antibacterial, helping to cleanse the air. I've topped those three oils off with some labdanum, for deep notes of dry sunshine, and just a touch of smokey cade, for a bush fire burning off in the distance. The final blend is fresh and clean, with a hint of warmth—perfect for relaxing to while you plan your next vacation. 

French Countryside

• 3 drops labdanum essential oil
• 3 drops michelia alba leaf essential oil
• 3 drops rosemary essential oil
• 3 drops litsea cubeba essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil

My love of French lavender and French food ensured France would make my list of world travel scent blends. This blend smells like a bike ride down a country road in France. There's a base of warm sunshine and hay from the labdanum, blended with balancing rosemary, calming lavender, and bright litsea cubeba from the fields you're rolling past. The whole thing is tied together with uplifting michelia alba leaf to add a hint of exotic mystery—how very French of me.

London Fog

• 2 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops bergamot essential oil
• 3 drops benzoin essential oil
• 5 drops palmarosa essential oil
• 1 toothpick swirl rose absolute

This blend doesn't smell strictly of a London street on a foggy day. Instead, this blend is inspired by the famous tea latté and an English rose garden. Palmarosa and benzoin essential oils form the sweet base of the blend. Palmarosa smells a bit like tea, and is a fantastic antiviral and antibacterial oil, while benzoin imparts a deep, warm vanilla note. Bergamot adds the characteristic Earl Grey note to the blend, and lemon brightens the mix. A small hint of rose ties it all together. The resulting blend is sweet, warm and mysterious, and is brilliant if you've got a cold thanks to its antibacterial and uplifting qualities.

Thai Market

• 6 drops ginger root essential oil
• 5 drops lemongrass essential oil
• 6 drops lime essential oil
• 3 drops nerolina essential oil
• 1 drop honey myrtle essential oil
• 2 drops labdanum essential oil 

I haven't been to Thailand yet, but I love their food, and that's where this blend takes its inspiration from. Warming ginger, antiseptic lemongrass, and uplifting lime formed an obvious base from their prevalence in Thai cuisine. From there I added labdanum for warmth and sunshine, and brightened the entire blend with nerolina and honey myrtle. The final blend is distinctly Thai, but not easy to pin down. It's perfect if you've got a cough thanks to its antibacterial and antiviral properties. 

Silk Road

• 2 drops benzoin essential oil
• 1 toothpick swirl myrrh essential oil
• 3 drops cardamom essential oil
• 3 drops frankincense essential oil
• 3 drops nutmeg essential oil
• 3 drops clove bud essential oil
• 5 drops black pepper essential oil
• 4 drops ginger root essential oil
• 2 drops cinnamon bark essential oil

Sarah came up with the name for this blend, and I just love it. I'd been thinking of a middle eastern spice market, and Silk Road just ties that together brilliantly with wonderfully exotic imagery. This deep, mysterious blend of spicy essential oils is utterly beguiling. Hints of scents you recognize, like clove and cinnamon, are blended with new, more elusive scents like frankincense and myrrh. Each time you smell it you'll pick out a different note or two, from the warmth of the ginger, to the dry spiciness of the black pepper, to the deep sticky sweetness of the benzoin. The blend is stimulating, cleansing, and intriguing—guaranteed to spark wanderlust.

Congratulations on the commitment you’ve made to run 21.1km! You’ve taken the time to register; train and some of you have traveled a great distance to be in Vancouver.

You’ve earned the right to have an awesome experience and a smooth recovery so we’d like to offer some 100% natural suggestions for pre and post-race care!

Scroll to the bottom of this post to find out how you can win a $500 shopping spree! 

Pre-Race 

This physical accomplishment can place hefty demands on both your body and mind. It’s important to take the time to give yourself extra love and support your body naturally. 

• Don’t just train physically; train mentally.

Take the time to breathe. Inserting meditation and yoga into your training will make your experience both calmer and more enjoyable.

Before the big race, spend 10 minutes meditating and taking deep, meaningful breaths. When we are tense in our minds, even with excitement, the whole body tenses. When there is tension, there is resistance and resistance will slow you down. 

Saje’s Pain Release and Stress Release will calm inflammation and relax tense muscles. Peppermint Halo cools while stimulating blood flow, preventing tension and headaches ensuring that when you are ready to run, you are functioning at optimum! 

• Fuel your body sufficiently.

While we all have different dietary needs and choices, how you fuel your body has a direct effect on how you perform. Know what you need to be properly fuelled: speak to experts, listen to your body and choose natural, organic and clean foods. 

• Hydrate, but leave out sugar-filled sports drinks.

Proper hydration is imperative for many physical functions in the body. When you run such a distance, it’s important to maintain a balance of minerals in the body too. Opt for coconut water over other sugar-filled sports drinks.

• De-stress, rest & avoid caffeine.

Stick to your training routine and don’t add any unnecessary strain to your body. 

For some, the pressure to achieve can be very stressful and this stress may be disrupting your sleep pattern. Stimulants such as caffeine and sugar should be limited or completely eliminated the day before the race. Finish eating dinner at least 2 hours before you go to bed. Saje’s Sleep Well remedy can help your body relax and fall into a deep slumber.

• Warm-Up & gentle pre-race stretching

Of course, taking the time to properly warm up helps to prevent injury. We also think it’s a great opportunity to scan your body, give extra attention to areas that are stiff, and to allow your heart rate to stabilize before the exertion of the race. 

Post-Race Tips

• Smile & celebrate your accomplishment!

We are social creatures and the camaraderie of connecting with others in a common celebration creates a sense of community and that’s what this is all about! 

• Cool down & STRETCH.

Yet another great reason to practice yoga! As you start to cool down, your muscles begin to tighten up.

Although it may be tempting, do not sit down immediately after the race. Gentle movement such as slow walking and yoga will help elongate and stretch your muscles while calming your mind. 

Deeper breathing will also help to safely stabilize your heart rate. To release deeper tension, yin yoga is a style that will nourish your tissues, ligaments and tendons.

• Rehydrate & refuel.

Again, reach for that coconut water! During your run your body’s cooling system, perspiration, has caused you to lose some fluids and important minerals that help keep you hydrated, such as potassium. A fresh juice is a healthy and quick way to replenish nutrients in the body. Be sure to also eat something with lots of carbohydrates. 

• Continue your post-race care at home.

A massage 2 hours after the race will be a huge support to your recovery.  If that’s not possible, try soaking your legs in cool or cold water 2 hours after your race. 

Don’t underestimate the power of a 30-minute bath! Add Après Sport Bath Salts to relax and heal your muscles, calm and unwind your body and prepare for a deeper quality of sleep than you’ve ever experienced. Much healing occurs while you are resting so a deep sleep is very important.

• Other Saje products that will aid in your recovery include:

Peppermint Halo for tension, headaches and cooling, Pain Release to stretch, reduce inflammation and relieve pain, Arnica Rescue Acute Injury Ointment for injuries and Restoral for abrasions, blisters and chafing. 

Above all, as you recover, the best and simplest tip we can give you is: listen to your body.

If you feel pain, provide relief.
If you are thirsty, drink more water.
If your muscles are stiff, stretch them.
And if you crave a glass of (organic) wine to celebrate this incredible achievement, cheers and congratulations! 

Win a $500 shopping spree

Running or attending in support of a runner? Tag your posts and photos with #SeaSajeSweat for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree!

Good luck runners! Saje will be there for you at the finish line.

We're excited to announce our new store locations opening this Fall! Visit us when we open our doors and be sure to mark our Grand Opening Parties in your calendars, we'll have eats, excellent beats, and you'll get the chance to shop with co-founders Kate Ross LeBlanc and Jean-Pierre LeBlanc.

• SQUARE ONE, Mississauga: opens on Monday, September 15th 
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours  |  Leave a Review  |  Meet Our Ontario Team
  Grand Opening Party: Thursday, September 18th from 5:00pm - 9:00pm
• POLO PARK, Winnipeg: opens on Thursday, October 9th 
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours 
  Grand Opening Party: Thursday, October 16th from 5:00pm - 9:00pm 
• VAUGHAN MILLS: opens on Thursday, October, 23rd
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours  |  Meet Our Ontario Team
  Grand Opening Party: Thursday, October 23rd from 5:00pm - 9:00pm 
• PARK ROYAL VILLAGE, West Vancouver: Coming this Fall
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours 
• UPTOWN TORONTO, 2636 Yonge Street: Coming this Fall
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours  
• MIDTOWN PLAZA, Saskatoon: Coming this Fall
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours  
• CHINOOK CENTRE, Calgary: Coming this Fall
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours   
• 399 QUEEN STREET WEST, Toronto: Coming this Winter
  Get Directions  |  View Store Hours  

Get Ready to Feel Better

Join us at any above Grand Opening party to receive this special offer:

Buy 1 - Enjoy 10% off
Buy 2 - Enjoy 20% off
Buy 3 - Enjoy 30% off

Valid at grand opening location only. Valid on grand opening day only. Excludes electronics.

» View store hours

Is having a stress-free hotel room with healthy air even a remote possibility?

Of course it is! 

Whether you are traveling for leisure or business, you can make your trip more pleasurable by taking a few easy steps that will enhance your overall wellness, naturally!

Traveling is stressful, because it’s a change from our daily routine and environment. Even when that change is positive, it still takes its toll on our bodies, minds, and emotions.  I rely heavily on my Saje products when I travel and they more than deliver on a healthier, better smelling adventure for me, every time! 

1. First, I NEVER travel without my Pocket Pharmacy.  It contains just about everything I need for first aid, immune boosting, stress, pain, digestion and comfort, no matter what time zone I’m in.  Those 5 little roll-on remedies have helped not just me, but others I meet along the way too!  One helpful tip is to apply Immune to the tip of my nostrils, especially where there is air conditioning, to prevent me from breathing in bacteria and germs.

2. Rarely do I travel without some pure, undiluted lavender essential oil.  When I arrive at my hotel room, whether I’m staying at a B&B or at the Hyatt, I lift up the sheets and allow a few drops to fall onto the mattress.  The pure undiluted oil does not stain and as a natural insect repellant, it deters any unwelcome critters from sharing the bed with me.  As an added bonus, lavender is an incredible sleep aid! 

3. I try to pack lightly but I always leave room for my nebulizer and one or two diffuser blends.  It may seem like an extravagant item to bring along but I’m speaking from experience: it is so worth it!  As lovely as a hotel room may look, it’s often what we can’t see that can compromise our wellness.  By sending those negative ions and antibacterial and antiviral essential oils into our temporary living spaces, we can ensure that the air we breathe in is supporting both our respiratory and our immune systems, rather than harming them. I recommend traveling with Rainforest and Unwind.

4. Again, it’s so often what we can’t see that causes us to feel unwell.  I like to bring a little bottle of Immune Spray with me as well.  It’s meant for face and body but I also spritz some on the curtains and bed linens and on the fixtures in the bathroom.  Sometimes when I travel, I like to take a bath.  By spritzing the tub with my Immune Spray, I gain that extra bit of comfort to do so!

5. When traveling through different time zones, it can be challenging to unwind at the end of the day.  If you’re wide-awake with noisy neighbours, it can be really difficult to fall asleep UNLESS you’ve brought along Sleep Well!  Containing valerian, this powerful sleep aid will transform your tossing, turning and restlessness into a deep and peaceful slumber, setting you up for success and perfect health the next day.

I encourage you to sample these options to discover what works best for you, with the intention of keeping all your future hotel rooms healthy and stress-free!

We are excited to announce the first members of our Eastern Canada team; Lauren, Shelley and Orielle!

These ladies recently joined the Saje team in Vancouver in support of the SeaWheeze half-marathon and had a blast learning about Saje in our communities and how excited our teams and customers are about Saje expanding to Ontario!

With their passion for wellness and for people, our Eastern Canada team will be spreading the Saje love all throughout Ontario beginning this fall with our Square One store in Mississauga.

These ladies could not be more thrilled to bring wellness to Ontario and beyond and we look forward to hearing more about their Saje journey as it unfolds! 

» Discover where our new stores will be located
» Join us at our Grand Opening Parties
» Sign up for our Newsletter
» View our career opportunities!

Learn More About Our Team

What's your #1 favourite product and why?

"Stress Release is my favourite product (so far).

The blend is absolutely essential on days where I am in my head a lot; I find the blend grounds me and brings me back to my centre. Not to mention, the scent is absolutely intoxicating." - Orielle

If you had to give your customers one piece of advice, what would it be?

"Try to surround your days with intention. Devote at least one moment each day to your own personal wellness." - Orielle

What do you love most about working at Saje?

"The focus on wellness, and the trust the company has in its employees. I feel Saje allows each and every member of the team to grow in his/her own unique way, and the faith that the company puts in its team members' growth is unique and awesome." - Orielle

Get ready to feel better Eastern Canada!

I love summer, all the nice weather and the plans with friends and family, so much to do all the time.  But just like coming back from a holiday, it can be a bit exhausting and feel good getting back into your daily routine in the fall.  Couple that with the season change over and that wonderful autumn smell with fresh, cool and crisp days, it's a time that I look forward to even though I am sad to see summer go.  All that being said, it can also feel a bit like a New Years resolution list, with lots of good intentions to start fresh and be organized but a bit daunting to actually do.  Below are some tips to help you with the transition. 

First off, you may ask what my credentials are on this topic?  Well, my husband has lovingly given me a my 'superhero' name, prepared woman, (yes the most lame superhero name ever).  My day job as a Senior Business Analyst has me managing projects, re-structuring business processes and implementing new technologies, and the name of the game is organization.  I am pretty much the queen of lists and scheduling, both of which work very well for getting back into a routine.  Therefore, for anyone who struggles with motivation (so, um, everyone at some point or another), I will share some of my tricks that help me stay on track and fit many things into a busy day.

• 1. You Guessed it, make lists.  When it seems overwhelming to think about everything, write it down.  Write out your schedule and hang it on the fridge.  You may only have to look at it for the first week, but the act of writing it and planning it and having it as a reference should you need it just makes everything seem more attainable.  And yes I do do this for my husband as well.  Only if he wants it though! (insert disclaimer here: I will not be responsible for any martial problems that may arise). In all seriousness, we both understand that relationships mean cooperation, and we both understand that we need to divide and conquer.  We are both working full time, have a son and a household to run therefore he finds it quite helpful to know what tasks are his in a week and then our conversations never need to revolve around the 'to do' list, we just know what we have agreed on and we do it.
• 2. Tidy as you go and declutter.  Your space can either cause stress or ease it, and too much stuff and messy spaces can cause tension and therefore negative energy.  They can make you feel unmotivated and overwhelmed and that is when the mental excuses start, which makes following any sort of routine nearly impossible.  It can be challenging, but if a declutter and organizing is needed, schedule a day to take care of it, one room at a time.  It's worth the effort. 
• 3. Schedule your cleaning days. Necessary mundane tasks are much more bearable when they are  incorporated into your routine. Having a cleaner is by far the best option, but if you are like us and are watching the budget then you have to suck it up and do it.  I know on Saturdays, my day off, what my chores are and I do them. My husband knows on Mondays, his day off, what his chores are and he does them.  It only takes us an hour and a half out of the entire day because there is never a build up that requires a big clean, and then our day off together as a family is not spent doing chores.  Find what works for you and schedule it in, that's all. 
• 4. Make your bed.  It sounds strange but I read a year ago that this is a behaviour of motivated and successful people so I started doing it, and it works.   It literally takes 2 minutes every morning (yes I admit, my grandma, who was in the Navy and was a stickler for no wrinkles on bed sheets would be ashamed), and it is a great way to start the day whether you are at home with the kids or going off to work.  It is also a great way to end the day, it's nice to come home to or be at home with, and relaxing to crawl into a made bed.  It is a simple thing and truly is motivating. 
• 5. Don't turn on the TV unless it's to watch something specific. Unless it's part of your down time, don't bother watching the TV.  It's a sure fire way to kill motivation.  It can be hard to break this habit, we cut back on channels and it was a blessing in this regard. (Note: facebook and web surfing is like TV, you can easily kill an hour but much of the time there is really nothing on...see number 7 for my solution for trying to keep that one under wraps).
• 6. Have at least one free day and leave time for yourself. Nothing kills a routine faster than feeling like your life is full of nothing but stuff that needs to get done. 
• 7. Create a bedtime routine.  It doesn't have to be extravagant but for me this includes filling my Saje Nebulizer with immune oil, using relaxing herbal face cream, spraying lavender on my pillow and here is the tough one...no smartphones! 
• 8. Don't go overboard.  You don't want to be a clean freak, to stress about minutia and have no fun or sense of spontaneity.  I have been guilty of going overboard on lists and schedules, that is for sure.  It happened recently upon my return to work from maternity leave, I got myself so worked up thinking about how busy my routine was going to be I went over and over it until finally I realized that I just needed to relax and let it happen. 

In the end nobody is perfect, we all have days where we just want to break the routine, and that is okay, the goal is to be in a routine that you can break!  It's much like dieting, just because you cave and have a chocolate bar doesn't mean the whole day needs to be a write off (I keep telling myself...)  Just accept it and move on.  Above all be kind to yourself. Routines bring us comfort and familiarity.  There is a reason why babies and children thrive on routine, it's simply in our nature...and magic is nature unimpeded.

You know that feeling where you can’t fall asleep because you’re too worried or anxious or excited about the next day, and then you get even more worried and anxious and excited because you’re losing sleep thinking about it? Well, just imagine that you’re a kid again and it’s the night before the first day of school. The butterflies in your tummy are flying around ferociously and your parents are getting frustrated with you because you won’t fall asleep. Parents sometimes forget how stressful going back to school can be so why not allow your kids (or your inner-kid) enjoy a relaxing mini-spa? Here are some ideas to help create a spa-like environment that the whole family can enjoy.

In the evening:

• Play calming, soothing, down-tempo music. Even if you can’t find anything in your music collection you’re bound to find a spa-like playlist online.
• Prepare an herbal tea such as chamomile and sweeten it with a touch of honey.
• Run a hot bath with relaxing lavender. Or change it up and drop in a Tranquility Bath Swish with lavender, marjoram, ylang ylang, Roman chamomile and orange oils. The Epsom salts in the swish will also help relax tight muscles.
• After the bath, rub the bottoms of feet with Sleep Well. The combination of lavender, orange, green mandarin, vetiver, marjoram, Roman chamomile, blue chamomile, valerian, jasmine and neroli oils will help calm and sooth. Valerian is a known sedative with an unpleasant smell but in this blend its funkiness takes a back-seat and applied to the feet it won’t overwhelm little noses.
• Spritz Fairy Mist onto pillows. The chamomile, calendula, petigrain, marjoram, lavender, geranium and vetiver are also soothing and pleasant and will further help create a sense of calm and comfort. The packaging has little glittery sparkles which make bedtime more fun and whimsical.
• Read a favourite bedtime story. 

Continue with the spa theme in the morning by:

• Diffusing a few drops of Stress Release blend throughout the house to keep the whole family feeling calm and collected. The blend of vetiver, geranium, sage and myrtle is fresh and green smelling like a lush forest. It will make you and your family take nice deep breaths to counter-act short shallow breathing brought on by stress.
• For the morning commute you can either put the Stress Release Roll-on onto pulse points or diffuse the drops in a car diffuser.
• For teens and older students send them off to school with the At Your Desk Kit. Its long slender zippered case comes filled with three little roll-ons: Stress Release, Quick Study and Eater’s Digest. These blends will come in handy for the new high school or university student by reducing tension, stimulating mental alertness and soothing stomach complaints. It’s the perfect portable mini-spa that will carry them through the year.

Adopting a mini-spa routine into your family’s busy schedules will help give them a few more hours of restful sleep, free from the worries that fuel their nervous back-to-school butterflies.

The History of Perfumes

I am no stranger to perfumes, my mom loved them and my friends used to tell me our house smelled like cigarettes and perfume.  It's true, it did.  It may not sound too nice to some nowadays, I find cigarettes repulsive now, but in the 1980s it was home and it was a comforting smell for me regardless.  And I know perfume made her feel pretty.  She wasn't unique, I love smelling great and given the plethora of products on the market made to be long lasting and bold fragrances, the majority of people agree.  I was going to say, 'made her feel good', but the reality is that synthetic fragrance, or 'perfumes', don't actually make us feel good.  Many people don't realize that they are contributing to, or causing, headaches, skin irritations, respiratory problems and even hormonal and immune issues.   Lucky for us Saje has an exciting new product, blends that are made to be worn all day solely for the purpose of feeling pretty, and feeling good.

I stopped wearing perfumes a few years ago after watching a David Suzuki special and following up on his website, I actually stopped getting anything with 'parfum' or 'fragrance' in it, including shampoos, lotions, etc.  I had to stop wearing perfumes all together because I just couldn't find any replacements, this is why  I am so excited for these blends!  Saje natural perfumes are made with pure essential oils, they are formulated to be uplifting and supportive to immune system. Natural perfumes made up of essential oils actually help the immune system while synthetic perfumes depress it as the body has to work overtime to expel them.  It's true, natural won't last as long, but it will last all day, (6-8 hours).  A good rule of thumb for everyone is that nothing should last longer than 8 hours, as your body should process anything that is put on the skin, if it's still there the next day, that means it is not working with your body.  Don't forget, the skin is an integral part of a system, meaning constant input and output.  You want products to work with you.  Saje Co-Founder,  Jean-Pierre LeBlanc, is quoted as saying,       

“Perfumes should be like a whisper, not a yell.”

A good tip from Saje is to put it on pulse points like the wrist, so you get a pleasant hint, keeping in mind that the you won't smell yourself after 2-3 hours.  Just like when you own a dog, and you insist that your dog doesn't smell 'doggy' like others do, nose blindness is a real phenomenon. In other words, we become accustom to smell.

It is unfortunate that natural fragrances often get painted with the same brush as synthetic ones.  I recently had an experience in my rec centre yoga class that illustrated this misconception when I sprayed my Saje Yoga mat spray.  The lady beside me asked me to spray hers because she loved it, but the instructor promptly told me it was a scent free zone and to please refrain from wearing or using it again, as it was 'very strong'.  I of course apologized, telling her I had no idea it was a scent free zone (my experience is that yoga practice is enhanced by aromatherapy, so this was surprising), and I wouldn't use it again, but that if it was any consolation, it was pure essential oils, non toxic and very natural.  She told me it doesn't matter, that many people are very allergic. That is the equivalent of saying you are allergic to a piece of cedar wood, possible sure, but very rare.  In fact, they are powerful immune enhancers that fight allergies.  More worrisome are the plastic off gases from all the yoga mats.  But don't take my word for it, let's get to the science and history of fragrance.

Perfumes were originally essential oils but when they became popular companies started finding ways to make synthetic copies of the natural smells and added an animal fixative so they stayed on the skin longer.  Parfum is otherwise known as fragrance and it is “any mixture of fragrance ingredients used in a variety of cosmetics” (davidsuzuki.org).  This mixture may be made up of a combination of some 3000 chemicals, many of which have never been tested for toxicity, alone or in combination.  I could go on telling you about the plethora scientific research showing links to irritants, asthma, migraines, cancer, neurotoxicity, endocrine system (hormone) interference and immune suppressors, in addition to environmental impacts, but I just can't summarize it as well as this article by the David Suzuki Foundation.  I urge you, this is well worth the read.

5 Blends  |  5 Gems  |  5 Ways to Marvellous

Finally, I introduce to you Saje's 100% natural perfumes, read on to learn about these amazing blends that will not only have you smelling good, but FEELING good.

"After months spent curating the perfect blends, I’m elated to introduce to you our 100% natural perfume roll-ons! Each time you apply these luxurious perfumes, your skin will come into contact with beautiful properties of the gemstones through these unique roller bolls that make these blends extra-special..just like you. Select from 3 returning favourites: Goddess, Yoga and Tantra or 2 new blends: Ananda and Shanthi. Ingredients like neroli, jasmine and vanilla speak directly to the heart, each inspiring something different Accompanied by their own healing mantra, our perfumes remind you of what’s truly important each time you roll on its natural nectar." - Kate Ross LeBlanc, CEO & Co-Founder

• Tantra (returning fave)
  Gemstone: Jade
  loving & abundant
  Jade, a good luck stone to many, is known to bring both harmony and wisdom. It provides emotional relief by allowing us to connect with our truest, most authentic selves. Knowing ourselves more completely eliminates fear and opens us up to all forms of love, which allows us to become more generous and more abundant.
  

  healing mantra: i open my heart to pure, authentic love, and release all fear of vulnerability.  

• Goddess (returning fave)
  Gemstone: Rose Quartz
  fulfilled & heartfelt
  Rose Quartz, called the heart stone, inspires awareness for the love of beauty in yourself and others. it carries a soft feminine energy of compassion and peace, tenderness and healing, nourishment and comfort. speaking directly to the heart, it encourages feelings of personal fulfillment and contentment, allowing one the capacity to truly give and receive love from others.
  
  healing mantra: i relax into the gentle power of my feminine being and let all that is good flow through me. 

"Magic is nature unimpeded." ~Jane Roberts

The winter months are a time filled with rest and preparation for the coming spring season ahead. The weather is often cold, damp, or gray, with periods of rain or snow. The dominant element during this time is water, which has a tendency to aggravate most Kapha and Vata doshas. If you’re looking for a way to stay grounded in the midst of the storm (or blizzard), try these Ayurvedic rituals to help bring you back into equilibrium.

Rise and shine: With the dark skies that linger into the mid-day, it’s natural to want to sleep in until noon. Make sure to rise between 7 and 8AM, even if you stay in bed to meditate or practice Pranayama breathwork. This will help to calm your nerves and ease you into the day with a balanced mind.

Keep it toasty: Take a warm bath or shower before eating breakfast. This will bring heat into your body and provide stimulation to your organs. Massage sesame or olive oil into your damp skin for about 5-10 minutes to help expand the muscles and eliminate any toxins from the lymphatic system. A little self-love never hurt anyone! 

Spice it up: Our diets change drastically during the cold weather, mainly due to our climate and physical activity. It’s important to incorporate bitter, spicy, and pungent flavours such as turmeric, cayenne, fenugreek, cinnamon, and black pepper. We naturally gravitate towards heavier foods such as grains and meat; however, it’s crucial to avoid sluggish foods such as dairy and wheat that plummet our energy levels and slow down our digestive system. Try to utilize the beautiful root vegetables during the season such as sweet potatoes, yams and beets to help ground your energy to Mother Earth.

Brighten your day: Colour therapy can be a very powerful tool when used properly. If the sky is grey and gloomy, try wearing bright coloured clothing to help offset your environment. By wearing red, orange and yellow tones, this will help to balance and ground your body and align your bottom three chakras. Plus, who wants to wear black for a whole season anyways?! 

When in doubt, move it out: If your body is still feeling tired and sluggish, try practicing yoga asanas on a daily basis. This will help to keep your digestion flowing and alleviate any stiff muscles you may accumulate from shivering. If yoga isn’t your cup of tea, then try relaxing body work such as Tai Chi, swimming, or even meditation. It will allow your body to breathe and revel in the stillness of the beautiful winter season.

Despite most beliefs, winter is actually a time for building immunity, so ensure that you’re going to bed at a decent hour, taking time for yourself, and listening to your bodies needs as it prepares for the coming New Year! 

By the time we are about 25 years old, our skin begins to show the first signs of aging. Fine lines, dehydration and pigmentation may begin to appear more readily and by age 50 the collagen & elastin production, as well as our 28 day cell turnover cycle, begins to significantly slow down. Maturing skin is more delicate and requires extra care and protection to help prevent accelerated skin aging. Below are some recommendations on how to care for maturing skin to ensure you age gracefully and hopefully much slower!

Moisture is your best friend

Have you ever heard that oily skin ages better? It’s true! Why? Because the sebum that is produced provides a barrier against environmental factors such as pollution, wind, heat and cold, which can be harsh and even damaging for dry and dehydrated skin. Unfortunately as our skin matures it tends to become dry and dehydrated more frequently, leading our skin to become more vulnerable to external factors and unable to function as optimally as possible from the inside. Moisture rich oils, serums and daily moisturizers become a must to keep skin hydrated, supple and healthy.

{Rejuvenating skin serum and Restora Cream from Saje are great products to support mature skin}

Eye creams DO make a difference

Are you an eye cream skeptic? Here’s what you should know: Eye creams are beneficial at supporting the skin around the eye, they are formulated differently for the delicate, thin skin and contain ingredients which are better tolerated and able to penetrate properly. Your face cream may be too richly textured or contain ingredients which are not recommended or unable to absorb. Finding a good eye cream and using it consistently can help reduce premature aging and moisture loss around the eyes, which is typically where we see our first lines and wrinkles!

{Eye amaze eye cream by Saje can help moisturize, protect and reduce puffiness around the eyes}

It’s time to exfoliate

As we mature our regular 28 day cell turnover begins to slow down. By age 50 (approximately), our cell turnover has greatly declined to around 40-70 days. Time to take matters into your own hands and begin a weekly exfoliation! Exfoliating the skin once or twice a week will help reveal new and healthy skin cells and slough off the excess, which will provide better absorption of other products and overall better skin. But DO NOT over exfoliate, which can, in turn do the opposite and thin the skin making in more vulnerable and unable to repair itself. Exfoliation once or twice a week is plenty.

{Skin so clean mildly exfoliating cleanser by Saje (1-2 a week) or The Konjac Sponge with a gentle cleanser every day, is a great option to support healthy cell turnover} 

Protect the skin from prolonged Sun exposure

The sun feels amazing on the skin and is essential for Vitamin D production, but excess sun exposure will lead to damaged skin and accelerated skin aging. When you plan to be in the direct sun between the hours 12pm-5pm make sure you are protected. Use a natural sun filter (zinc or titanium), protective clothing and find shade to give your skin a break.

{Many natural oils provide a slight SPF protection, such as coconut and raspberry seed oil but may not be enough for prolonged exposure. Look for mineral based sunscreens to ensure optimal protection}

Don’t forget your body!

When we see the lines and spots appearing on our ever so exposed face, we can often forget about the bigger part of our skin, which is also aging-, our body! Skin on the body can become crepey, uneven in tone and texture, dry and sagging. To help support the skin on our body, the key is a combination of the above recommendations for face! Moisturize, exfoliate and protect- Moisturising daily, weekly exfoliation and protection from prolonged sun exposure will keep the skin on the body smooth, radiant and tighter- for longer. 

{Sunshine smoothie body scrub and Carrot body butter by Saje will keep skin smooth and hydrated}

As with all skincare, start from the inside- out! Ensure that you are sufficiently hydrated, eating a diet rich in antioxidants and exercising regularly. Keep positive and embrace the journey of aging, which has so much beauty.  

by Natasha Chudyk of BettyDish.ca

Have you ever had trouble falling asleep? I think it’s safe to say that we all have at some point.

When counting sheep isn’t working here are a few natural methods you can do to ease yourself into dreamland.

• 1. Have a bath just before bedtime. The heat rises the temperature in your body and gently leaves you feeling plum tuckered out. Have a nice long hot soak and by the time you get out, you’ll feel relaxed and tired. Adding epsom salts to your bath draws toxins out of your body and eases your muscles. I like Saje Wellness Bath Swish that you drop into your tub. It fizzes up, releasing a wonderful smelling essential oil blend. The best part? A little piece of paper floats to the top of your bath with an inspirational message on it, just for you! My favourite scents are Good Karma and Tantra.

• 2. Block out the light. Pull the blinds tight, turn off all glowing electronics, cell phones etc. Most importantly (especially if you live in a bright city like I do) put on an eye mask. They help block out the light and if you find the right pair for you, it will help put you to sleep too! My favourite eye mask is from Saje Wellness because it is filled with lavender which smells so lovely and relaxing. It’s also extremely soft and completely blocks out all the light.

• 3. When nothing seems to be working, Mr. Sandman just isn’t coming and you’re thinking about reaching for a toxic sleeping pill, try this all natural pill instead. Melatonin can be found at your local drug store. Make sure you buy the ‘natural melatonin’. Its a natural hormone that your body produces that eases you into rest and is also known to increase feelings of happiness. Saje also offers an array of Sleep Well products that will have you falling into a deep slumber, 100% naturally! So you can get a goods night sleep and wake up happy too. it’s a win-win!

• 4. Use essential oils. As a Certified Aromatherapist I use essential oils all day, every day – for so many different reasons. At bed time I rub a little blend on my wrists. It’s almost as if that smell is a trigger for bed time and I fall asleep almost right away. I use the yoga blend or the sleep well blend from Saje Wellness.

If you’re looking for a one stop shop to try a few different methods to ease yourself to sleep I recommend the Sleep Well Kit from Saje Wellness. It has everything you will need to help you get your beauty sleep.

The kit seen above (minus the bath salts because I used them right away), come with the best eye masks ever, the Sleep Well roll on and a Tranquility Mist for your face. $34.95 at Saje Wellness.

Nighty night!

By Marissa Young

Sometimes, you just need a little boost to help out in the bedroom (or anywhere else you’re doing it, for that matter!). Whether you’re tired after a long week at work, or simply not in the mind space to indulge in your sultry side, there are many ways to help bring balance with your seductive side.

Firstly, you may be asking, what on earth is an aphrodisiac?! Well, the term comes from the Greek Goddess, Aphrodite, who was the Goddess of love, beauty, pleasure, and procreation. She had many lovers, and created rivalry between other Gods who wanted to be with her. Essentially, she was the Angelina Jolie of her day. 

Aphrodisiacs come in many different forms, such as food, scents, music, behaviours, and so on. They help to increase your libido and create a chemical reaction in your brain that stimulates your endorphins. For now, we’re going to be focusing on 5 essential oils and their sexual healing properties (cue Marvin Gaye, please!). 

Sandalwood: This woodsy, earthy scent has been embraced by Buddhists and Hindus for its power to bring clarity and connection to the Divine; however, it also has strong sensual properties . It’s a masculine scent that mimics androtersones, aka human pheromones, and relieves tension and mental blocks which can cause impotence. The only downfall to this beautiful oil is that it can be quite expensive due to the depleted trees available in Asia and Australia. But, it will be more than worth it if you get your hands on some!

Ylang Ylang: This oil has a soft, flowery fragrance that has made it a romantic favourite. In Indonesian culture, it’s thrown on marriage beds to help couples (or newlyweds) relax after their wedding day. It can help to releasefeelings of anger, aggression or tension, and helps to restore equilibrium in the central nervous system. It has also been said to be used as a tonic to help overcome sexual difficulties. Ylang, ylang on!

Neroli: This vivacious, honey-citrus oil can not only give you a boost in energy, but also in the heart and sacral chakras. It was named after the Princess of Nerola, Italy in the early 18th century. She used it on everything she owned, including her gloves. Eventually, everyone in Italy began to follow suit and soon the streets began to smell of neroli. This oil is also great for fighting against bacterial infections, parasites, and anxiety.

Patchouli: This strong, earthy scent has been around for centuries. Not only did the hippies in the 60’s use this oil as an aphrodisiac, but it was also used in India for incense and perfume blends. They still roll patchouli leaves into rugs and bedspreads when they ship them across the country (this is how you can tell they’re authentic!). Patchouli is a luxurious, sensual aroma which is used in Tantric practices, and is said to be the most powerful aphrodisiac for essential oils.

Vetiver: Vetiver was traditionally used as a skin healing agent and nerve tonic; however, over the years, people have found it to be quite the alluring scent. It has a smoky, woodsy aroma that is both powerful and effective. In energy work, it helps to balance the root chakra, cleanses the sacral chakra and aids in meditation practice. It alleviates any nerve disorders, which allows one to focus on the physical, sensuous aspects of lovemaking. Plus, the word “vetiver” sounds like “velvet”, and how can that not make you want to feel seductive?!

Saje has created a sensuous line of products expertly blended to include everything you need to stimulate your senses!

Enjoy, lovers, and may the embrace of these scents help you along your enchanting journey!

Essential oils are, well, essential for creating a healthy home. Their antibacterial properties are next to none and when combined with their source, plants, you won't find a healthier option for keeping your home clean and safe as well as fight colds and flu’s. Below are some of my must haves:

• 1)  I may sound like a broken record, but my absolute number one must have is a Saje nebulizer with Immune Diffuser Blend. Run it every night in everyone’s bedroom as well as in the living area when you are home.  It not only humidifies the air but also cleans and disinfects it.  Our entire family has witnessed its affects.
• 2)  Saje Natural Wellness 100% natural home fragrances.  They all smell great (I love Tree Scents), and work great in the bathroom or on cushions to get remove pet odours, but Safe Air has the added benefit of being an antibacterial powerhouse and it is a subtle and refreshing spray.
• 3)  Tea Tree Oil.  I love it for all sorts of reasons, but a recent one I found is for making dryer sheets. Take some cotton fabric and cut it into squares, such as an old pillow case.  Stack the squares in a seal-able jar/container.  Mix one cup of vinegar, white or apple cider, with 10 drops of tea tree oil. Pour the mixture over the stack of fabric and seal the jar.  Use one sheet per load then save them for re-use.  The mixture absorbs and neutralize odours. 
• 4)  Echinacea. The best little helper for raw, sore, and scratchy throats!
• 5)  Saje Safe Hands Lotion.  I'm not going to lie, it does have a strong smell, but it is powerful on germs and a quick and easy alternative to hand washing when you are in a rush or to use periodically throughout the day.  It acts as a hand sanitizer as well as a moisturizer, a combination that can't be beat by any chemical sanitizer.  If it is too strong for you, a great alternative is a lavender hand lotion.
• 6)  Saje Safe Hands Liquid Hand Soap.  Anyone who has had a baby knows how much hand washing goes on when you bring a newborn home and this was a wonderful and safe option when I had my son.  A great alternative for anyone who needs a refillable option for their family is any natural hand soap, with no perfumes or dyes, that has lemon or lavender essential oils.
• 7)  Lavender oil. I always endeavour to get a good, healthy, sleep and I use lavender oil mixed with water to spray our pillows before bed.  It is relaxing and a natural sedative.
• 8)  A healthy home consists of healthy inhabitants, for this I swear by oil of oregano.  Word of warning, it has a strong and lasting taste, therefore buy capsules or make them.  If you are feeling a cold/sore throat coming on, use this along with Saje's eucalyptus throat spray and a good old gargle with salt water.  This is a powerhouse combination.
• 9)  There is something I use in conjunction with the oils to create a healthy home and that is positive, healing, energy.  It sounds a little vague and magical, I know, but balancing and unblocking your chakras on a regular basis is essential to creating a healthy home.  I have recently started this practice, having dabbled with it in the past, and it has amazing effects. Would you believe me if said that it's possible for us to always be healthy?  That we are surrounded by healing energy?  It is not vague, it is real, it is a little magical, and it is definitely worth learning about. You don't need to be religious or spiritual, just open to the awe that is our universe.  If you are a science guy or gal, think 'spooky action at a distance' sort of stuff and accept that there is amazing stuff out there that is hard to explain but can be demonstrated under the right circumstances.
• 10) Last but not least, don't forget love.  Love is the foundation of a healthy home.  Mix in a little friendship and laughter and you will witness your health and vitality grow.

It's my hope that one or all of these tips helps you create and maintain your own healthy home, an endeavour that can often be overlooked in our busy lives but one that will repay itself tenfold, so stay committed and good luck!

“Magic is nature unimpeded” ~Jane Roberts

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kristin Newbigging, NKPR

416.365.3630 x 247

kristin@nkpr.net

Vancouver, BC (September 15, 2014) Recently ranked one of Canada’s Fastest-Growing

Companies by PROFIT, Saje Natural Wellness opened their first Ontario location in Mississauga’s premium shopping centre, Square One, on September 15th, 2014.

Uptown Toronto, Vaughan Mills and Queen Street West locations will open this holiday season with a total of eight new stores in top-tier centres across five provinces in 2014:

• Square One, Mississauga
• Uptown (2636 Yonge St.), Toronto
• Queen Street (399 Queen St. W.), Toronto
• Vaughan Mills, Vaughan
• Polo Park, Winnipeg
• Midtown Plaza, Saskatoon
• Chinook Centre, Calgary
• The Village at Park Royal, West Vancouver

 With an impressive portfolio growth of 60% and unprecedented sales boasting 57% comps; Saje is the #1 retailer in their category in top-tier centres in Canada. Saje plans to open 50 stores in Canada by 2018 and will open another 8-10 next year.

CEO Kate Ross-LeBlanc. “This expansion reflects the commitment and dedication of the

Saje team and the growing concern consumers have for their well-being, more and more people are turning to natural ways to address everyday ailments and stay healthy. We are absolutely thrilled to be bringing the Saje brand and shopping experience to so many new communities across Canada.”

With additional expansion planned across the GTA, South Western Ontario and Ottawa markets, Saje is seeking space between 700-1,200 square feet in top tier malls and high traffic street front locations across Canada with a focus on Ontario.

John Snable is responsible for mall opportunities and Josh Campbell, VP Retail, is responsible for high profile street-front locations. Contact johnsnable@sympatico.ca or josh@saje.ca for leasing inquiries.

About Saje Natural Wellness

Founded in 1991 co-founders Jean-Pierre LeBlanc and Kate Ross-LeBlanc are dedicated to connecting people to the healing power of plants through natural remedies and 100% natural products that help the body detoxify and rejuvenate. Passionate about wellness and rooted in community the Saje brand delivers quality, premium products and is committed to delivering the best in customer service and online shopping experience at saje.ca.

Media Contact:

Kristin Newbigging | Account Executive, NKPR | kristin@nkpr.net | 416.365.3630 x 247

Our most recent seminar series, “Dear Stress, Let’s Break Up” provided our guests with 5 simple strategies to overcome and eliminate stress. As reducing stress is at the heart of Saje co-founder Jean-Pierre's message of wellbeing to our communities, let's explore them. 

While stressors such as change and uncontrollable variables will never cease to exist, how we choose to react to them is up to us. What many of us don’t realize is that how we react is indeed, a choice. 

In his 15 store nation-wide tour, Jean-Pierre used the term “stresslessness” to describe his favourite state of being as he traveled across the country. He described his journey from one province to another, encouraging his audiences to seek out the root causes of stress, such as stimuli, compromised immune system, toxicity and disease, to name a few. 

Becoming aware of what is in the way of being happy is the key to transforming a typically stressful life into a blissful life of “stresslessness.”

Here are Five Strategies for Breaking up with Stress:

#1: Restful Sleep

• Calm the mind, and make sure to get a good night’s rest.
• Saje remedies and diffuser blends such as Tranquility, Stress Release, Unwind and Snore No More are all useful tools if sleeplessness is a challenge. For insomnia, Sleep Well with Essential Oil of Valerian (yes, sounds like Valium) works wonders.
• Massage Oils and Bath Salts can help relax the body and mind – Stress Release and Tantra are two favourite.

#2: Movement every 20-30 minutes!  A sedentary lifestyle compresses the spine, interfering with optimal functioning of the Central Nervous System and proper circulation. The best way to remedy this is to get up and move!  Walk, dance, run, or stretch - choose what works well for you and your lifestyle.

#3: Prevention with Wholistic Remedies: become "friends with your blends" in the Pocket Pharmacy!

• Peppermint Halo on the trapezius to relieve tension.
• Immune for prevention, colds, flus and congestion.
• You are what you eat – Eater’s Digest for soothing digestion.
• Stress Release for sleep and “stresslessness.”
• Pain Release for inflammation and pain.  Combined with Peppermint Halo, it becomes a “Super Remedy.”

#4: Nutrition and Detox

• 100% Natural Deodorants instead of antiperspirants that contain aluminum.
• Body Scrubs to stimulate circulation and removal of toxins: Sunshine Smoothie is one of our three great scrubs, and is ideal to use on your face. 

#5: Healing Breath

• The Saje Breath: inhale deeply, hold for three seconds and slowly exhale. Add Stress Release to the back of your hand to amplify the effect.
• Use Mists to hydrate. Breathe in essential oils to create a sense of calm or to elevate mental focus and acuity. Run a Nebulizer with your favourite diffuser blend to combat the effects of free radicals, positive ions, toxins and stress.

By integrating one or more of these tips (the more tips incorporated, the better the results) into your daily regime, and by becoming aware of the root cause of what causes your stress will help you break up with stress. Our next post will delve more deeply into the origin of our stressors, and how we can use them as tools to transform our lives into one of blissful happiness. 

Here’s to your newfound “stresslessness!”

There is a direction that my life has been moving in lately, signs that point in one direction; a direction that I think if everyone took the time to open their eyes to see, they would find their lives pushing them towards it as well. It started with a friend telling me how reading The Magic by Rhonda Bryne was changing her life for the better. Soon after that a series of events led me to the School of Gypsy Arts, and a 21-day gratitude challenge; and finally, being offered this blog topic to write about. This direction is one of giving thanks, of looking for what you have to be thankful for until it becomes second nature; thus, it becomes obvious in every little situation. Even when you are feeling challenged, there is still room for an attitude of gratitude; and I promise that it will change your life.

 If you talk to anyone, you know what they mean when they say, “those people were too negative to be around”, “that didn't feel right”, “that is a positive, supportive environment.” On some level, we all understand and have experienced that when we discuss negative topics, more negative ideas seem to manifest themselves. We get stuck in the motions of anger and frustration. However, there is no need to fear - there is hope, because the same goes for positive thoughts!  From a spiritualist perspective, the explanation lies in the Universal Law. These are principles over 5000 years old that govern everything in the Universe.  There are two laws in particular that demonstrate how an attitude of gratitude actually works:

 1) Law of Mentalism: this law states that “All is Mind-the Universe is Mental.”  That everything we see and experience in our physical world has its origin in the invisible, mental realm.  Your mind is part of the Universal Mind - think 'resistance is futile' for all you Star Trek fans out there. Your reality is a manifestation of your mind.

 I have said many times that no matter what you believe, there is one fact that we can all agree on; that is, when we leave this life, we don't take anything physical or material with us. However, we may just be able to take what we think, feel and experience. Therefore it stands to reason that it is a worthy investment of our time to make those experiences be the best they can be. If our origins are in the mental realm, then we can see how an attitude of gratitude actually draws positive energy and experiences towards us. Which brings us to the next law:

 2) Law of Attraction: this law demonstrates that we create the things, events and people that come into our lives. Our thoughts, feelings, words and actions produce energies that in turn attract similar energies.

The bottom line is that when we give thanks, and feel deeply thankful for all our experiences, we create positive energy and thus attract it into our lives. Not only that, we attract more of everything into our lives.

On your journey to help change or maintain a positive thankful attitude, I suggest the following:

1) Create a healthy environment for yourself: This includes minimizing the amount of negative people that you interact with in your life. Be sure to eat well, get plenty of sleep and stay active. A healthy environment also means that the air you breathe must be healthy as well. A Saje nebulizer with a grounding diffuser blend like Gratitude or Om is a good place to start. For on-the-go wellness, Yoga Perfume is very grounding and a personal favourite of mine.

2) Start a gratitude journal: Write down what you are thankful for at the end of the day. If writing it down is a challenge, then just take a few moments before you go to bed and say it out loud, or in your head. Go through your entire day and challenge yourself to find what you are grateful for.

3) Take it to the next level with some type of group challenge: At a minimum, undertake this challenge with a friend. Sharing experiences with other people helps to put things into perspective. This relates to another Universal Law called the Law of Relativity. This law states that all is relative, and when we feel we have it bad, there is always someone who has it worse (so be thankful for your experiences). I have experienced this first hand, and I am inspired by what people can go through and still be truly thankful for.

An attitude of gratitude is perhaps the most important tool for those of us lucky enough to live in North America, because we live in a world of abundance. We've begun to lose touch with the more basic aspects of life. Getting over the desire to have everything has been a long, ongoing lesson for me; I want it all and I want it now. I know that I am not alone. This is the plague of the 'haves'; we must have it, whatever it is. But are we all happy? It doesn't appear so with the amount of pharmaceuticals used in North America to help people cope with life. Mental illness is of course more complicated than this, but the stress of keeping up is taking a toll on our society. I propose that an attitude of gratitude would serve us all well to improve our day-to-day lives. I know it is serving me well, and I trust in it.

We are taught at a young age that the magic word is please, however I would argue that it's actually, thank you.

Buying locally is a hot topic amongst conscious consumers. From the 100 – Mile Diet, to climate change, to the “buy local” and non-GMO movements, people are voting with their dollars and are doing so with great impact.

Awareness continues to grow, not only about the nutritional value of vine-ripened fruits and vegetables, but also on the importance and benefits of supporting our local farmers and on the carbon footprint of what we eat. Companies like SPUD include the distance food has traveled from “pasture to plate” on their invoices, and many restaurants are now growing their own herb and vegetable gardens; those that purchase their ingredients from local farms advertise this proudly.

The benefits of buying locally are multiple, and they include economic and environmental sustainability, elevated nutrition and wellness, and a greater sense of community. While some may argue that locally grown organic produce is more costly and therefore not accessible to all, there are some smart and economical ways to bypass higher costs. Educate yourself on what’s available where you live and you might even save a few dollars!  

Here are 5 tips that you may find helpful, both for nutritious eating and for buying locally:

• 1. The first, best tip I can give you, if it’s possible, is to grow your own garden. This way, you know what you planted, how your plants were treated, and you can harvest when you are ready to eat so your food is at the peak of nutrition.  If you don’t have the space to grow your own garden, you could consider a plot in a community garden. 
• 2. Ask lots of questions. Even if your local grocer does not offer much local food/produce, your questions may be the catalyst that causes them to offer some locally produced food. The more questions you ask, the more connected you will feel to the food system.
• 3. Smaller and specialty stores will often support local farmers. Although it’s convenient to do all your shopping in one big place, you may be pleasantly surprised how many items are available through smaller stores.  As an added bonus, smaller stores have less stock, so they likely won’t have the variety of tempting goodies that aren’t so good for you!
• 4. Buy from local farmers, via your local Farmer’s Market or directly from their farm. Produce, dairy, honey and more can be found at Farmer’s Markets. Because many Farmer’s Markets are seasonal, the good news is that you’ll get foods that are in season, which many nutritionists will agree is not only harmonious for the planet, but for our bodies as well.  You could take this one step further and offer to work a few hours a week on a farm, in exchange for some produce. 
• 5. CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a seasonal share-purchase program that puts fresh produce into your fridge on a regular basis. CSA allows you to make an investment in both your wellness and in a local farm.  The funding from your investment allows local farmers to cover their expenses through harvesting and it guarantees a home for the food that they have so lovingly grown. 

Whether your motivation for buying locally is sustainability, support for local entrepreneurism, or nutrition, always be open to expanding what you know now.  Continually changing regulations around food production and terms such as “natural” and “organic” can be very confusing.  Like so many changes we choose to make in our lives for the sake of nutritious eating, awareness and education is key in helping us to make informed decisions that work well for ourselves, and our bodies. 

We could not be more thrilled to be joining the Ottawa community this month! Saje has been passionately spreading wellness across Ontario since last fall, and we are incredibly excited to be setting up roots in our nation’s capital.

Leading our amazing team at Rideau Centre are Shannon and Ariel who can’t wait to share the Saje love, and educate the Ottawa community on natural healing.

Learn More About Our Team

What is your #1 favourite product and why?

Peppermint Halo: As a migraine sufferer, I have tried many prescription medications, and never thought I would be able to find something so pure that works so well. This product packs a double punch; not only does it help with my migraines, but is also great to aid in muscle aches and pains. – Shannon

Pocket Pharmacy: this lovely easy-to-carry case contains our Top 5 remedies: Peppermint Halo, Immune, Eaters Digest, Stress Release, Pain Release. This is one of my favourite tools to promote wellness in the community. I always carry the Pocket Pharmacy with me in case someone happens to be in pain, or just needs an instant de-stressor...or in case that person is myself! – Ariel

If you had to give your customers one piece of advice, what would it be?

Simply to try the products and really see for themselves the amazing results they will get to improve their wellness. I would definitely recommend a pocket pharmacy and a nebulizer to start! – Shannon

Be open! Be open to explore, be open to share, and be open to who you'll meet at Saje! I often call Saje a wellness centre - we just happen to be in a mall. At Saje we connect, we play, we encourage, we empower, we solve, and we support...we are here to help you reach your wellness goals so be open to infinite possibilities! – Ariel

What do you love most about working at Saje?

I absolutely love the complete package! This is the greatest company I have ever worked for. I am treated like an individual, and not a number. There is tremendous support from upper management to part timers in the store, and everyone offers their help without any hesitation. Simply, AWESOME! -Shannon

Without hesitation: whom I meet. The Saje team from top to bottom are sincerely the most inspiring, quirky, and caring individuals I have been so blessed to meet. We support and bring out the best in each other. A typical workday at Saje looks like this: we challenge, we fight (with love!), we coach, and we dance; we celebrate, we grow, we "awesome", and we nourish. I sincerely see myself working long term for Saje, and the colleagues (FRIENDS!) I made within this network have solidified my career path. -Ariel

Our Ottawa location at Rideau Centre will officially be ready with open arms on Thursday, March 26th. We cant wait to see you there!

We are so excited for the launch of our new line of RemeTeas  - just like all other Saje products, these teas are all natural and specially formulated to help you feel better!

We went above and beyond to ensure that our teas met our standards for both quality and flavour. The RemeTea line is 100% natural, organic, GMO free and Fair Trade. There are no artificial flavours or sugars, so you can feel good about drinking tea that supports your best health. It was important to us for the teas to be offered in loose-leaf form, as this ensures that more of the antioxidants and natural oils that are contained within the tea leaves are available in a more concentrated form, aroma and flavour. For anyone who needs their tea to go, our RemeTea thermos is specially designed to keep your tea hot, while also containing a hidden filter for upside down steeping. Who wouldn’t want to cozy up to that?

Each tea in the RemeTea line is crafted to support your wellness needs:

• Eater’s Digest – Herbal Tea

Naturally caffeine free

Support healthy digestion with relieving peppermint and soothing licorice. Much like our popular Eater’s Digest roll-on remedy, licorice sooths digestion and gives the tea a naturally sweet flavour.

Key Ingredients: Licorice, Anise seed, Peppermint, Spearmint

• Immune – Herbal Tea

Naturally caffeine free

Stop a cold in its tracks - elevate your immune system and feel better faster with soothing ginger, and the boosting power of lemon. Your body will thank you for it.  

Key Ingredients: Ginger, Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Peel

• Energy – Green Tea

Naturally contains small amounts of caffeine

Invigorate and energize your day with revitalizing green tea and uplifting yerba maté. Green tea naturally contains small amounts of caffeine, so you can feel good about that mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Key Ingredients: Green Tea, Yerba Maté, Lemon Myrtle, Gingko Biloba, Eleuthero Root Ginseng

• Sleep Well – Herbal Tea

Naturally caffeine free

Have a good night’s rest with cozy rooibos and relaxing chamomile. Just like our popular Sleep Well remedy roll-on, this tea contains the sedative power of valerian root to ensure a peaceful slumber.

Key Ingredients: Rooibos, Chamomile, Valerian Root

• Super Detox – Herbal Tea

Naturally caffeine free

Purify naturally, and return to your best health with stimulating peppermint and rejuvenating lemon. Feel renewed and rewarded with every sip.    

Key Ingredients: Peppermint, Lemon Myrtle, Chili Pepper

Whether you’re looking for a remedial tea to aid an ailment, or just love including tea as a part of your daily wellness routine, we’ve got you covered. Happy steeping!

We are so excited for the opening of our third location in Edmonton at Kingsway Mall! We love our Edmonton community, and are thrilled to be sharing our love of 100% natural products.

We have an amazing team here at Kingsway Mall. Maggie, Katarina and Amanda share some of their must-have Saje Essentials, and their best tips for those interested in learning more about natural healing.

Learn More About Our Team

What is your #1 favourite product and why?

I love all the nebulizers, especially the AromaOm. The air quality in my home has improved drastically since having one running, and in turn so has my breathing. I can't imagine life without it! - Maggie

Peppermint Halo. It's my favourite product because I use it everyday, several times a day. I suffer from migraine headaches, so I love that I can apply it directly to my neck and shoulders. I love using the wand for scalp application for those tough migraines. - Katarina

Peppermint Halo. The aroma is so refreshing, and I love the soothing feeling it creates. It's a remedy for me that goes far beyond headaches. - Amanda

If you had to give customers one piece of advice, what would it be?

Just give it a shot! We love meeting new customers and encouraging them to try as many products while in the store. What do you have to lose? - Maggie

Give the products an honest try. What you put on your body goes into your body, and Saje stands by their 100% natural formulations. - Katarina

To sit in silence each day, even if it's for a short period of time. It'll create a great positive ripple effect for your whole day. - Amanda

What do you love most about working at Saje?

I absolutely love the team atmosphere, and how supportive everyone is; it's such a breath of fresh air! - Maggie

Saje's core values and culture, the support they provide for their employees and their commitment to 100% natural products. - Katarina

Their core values, and the dedication to the wellness of yourself and humanity as a whole. - Amanda

Our Kingsway Mall location is now officially open! Come stop by and say hello - we can't wait to see you!