Over the years, I’ve discovered some incredible tools that help me boost my mood and energy naturally, and I want to share them with you. These products have played a key role in my wellness routine, supporting me both mentally and physically.
Red Light Therapy
One of best investments I’ve made to increase my energy and help me stay positive is my red light therapy machine. I found that red light helps reduce inflammation and supports nerve cell health, which can be particularly beneficial for those of us with multiple sclerosis. Not only that, but red and near-infrared light help stimulate cellular energy, improve sleep, and support a balanced mood. I find that using it for just 10-15 minutes a day, usually in the morning, helps me feel more energized throughout the day. Usually, I turn it on while I meditate, and sometimes I even open my eyes because, supposedly, it helps with vision as well, according to Gary Brecka. After extensive research, I picked the Elite V2 model by Vellgus because it provides blue light therapy as well, which can repair sun damage, treat mild to moderate acne, and has anti-aging effects. Hopefully, soon I can make a bigger investment and purchase the VELLGUS Pro Full Body Red Light.
5-HTP: A Natural Serotonin Boost
5-HTP is a natural serotonin booster that helped me overcome postpartum struggles and get back to truly enjoying life. I first learned about this supplement in the book The Mood Cure by Julia Ross, M.A., where she recommended it to her patients. Since it's an all-natural supplement derived from an African plant, I felt comfortable giving it a try. When I mentioned it to my therapist, she told me that her friend always suggests it to patients before they consider an addictive prescription drug like Xanax.
I started with the lowest dose (50mg), but according to Dr. Ross, you can take up to 300mg per day. I noticed the effects within 15 minutes of taking it, so I never felt the need to increase my dose. I took it daily for two months, sometimes before bed since it also promotes better sleep. Although I haven't taken it in a while, it's still my go-to supplement when I find myself dealing with a stressful day.
If you have any questions about this (or any of the products I recommend), feel free to reach out—I love sharing my experiences, especially if they can help you feel better.
Essential Oils
Through my research, I’ve discovered just how powerful essential oils can be in supporting our health. They help with everything from fighting off viruses and easing random aches to balancing hormones. Surprisingly, some essential oils may even aid in weight loss!
I’ve recently started making my own blends and carry them with me everywhere, applying them to my wrists or temples a few times a day. For stress and fatigue, my go-to blend is Live, which includes Geranium, Lavender, Wild Orange, and Frankincense. If you want to create your own blend, I highly recommend Doterra, my trusted brand. If you're new to essential oils, their Healthy Start Kit is a great way to get familiar with their benefits. My home is also filled with diffusers in nearly every room, ensuring a continuous flow of soothing and supportive aromas. I’ll be posting a separate article soon to share my favorite oils—so stay tuned!
PS. Since my diagnosis and pregnancy, I’ve become extremely sensitive to perfumes—I can’t even walk down the detergent aisle in the supermarket. However, the scent of essential oils brings me peace and comfort, and unlike synthetic fragrances, I genuinely enjoy their natural, soothing aroma. Check out my other post, where I share DIY Non-Toxic Cleaning Recipes (using essential oils) at the end!
Epsom Salt baths & Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in nervous system function, and yet, most people are deficient. Low magnesium levels are linked to stress, irritability, and poor sleep. I personally love using magnesium before bed to promote relaxation and calmness. It’s a simple yet powerful way to support your mood naturally.
My bedtime supplement routine (every other day, as needed) includes Magnesium lycinate or Magnesium Caps along with Magnesium Citrate from NOW—a trusted brand known for its purity and effectiveness. These help boost my magnesium levels, while Magnesium Citrate also supports occasional constipation relief.
Note: Before adding any new supplement to your routine, including magnesium, it's always best to consult with your doctor to ensure it's the right choice for your individual health needs.
In addition to taking magnesium supplements, I also love using Epsom salt baths for relaxation and muscle recovery. Since Epsom salt is a form of magnesium, it helps ease tension, soothe sore muscles, and promote restful sleep. After a long day, your mind needs to unwind, and I can't think of a better way than soaking in a warm bath while listening to soothing music, a guided meditation, or your favorite audiobook. For an extra touch of relaxation, mix 2-3 drops of Lavender essential oil with your Epsom salt before adding it to the bathtub.
Stress release with Insight Timer
Meditation, mindfulness, and even breathwork were all new to me when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis back in 2019. I remember reading about it and trying it for the first time, finding it a waste of time. But because everyone who was healthy swore by it, I convinced myself to stick with it and just do it—sit still, quiet my mind by focusing on my breath, and call it meditation. That’s how I started. I wish I had known about an app like Insight Timer back then to guide me.
Here is a quick overview of the app and why it's one of my favorites: when you create an account, you get access to over 200,000 guided meditations FOR FREE. It’s not just a meditation app—it offers incredible content on stress reduction, sleep improvement, mindfulness practices, and more. Plus, it provides a range of resources, including yoga classes, mood tracking, and workshops. The premium version is $59.99/year and unlocks unlimited courses, including the Kundalini meditation course I’m currently taking.
And here’s a personal story about why I joined as a teacher. My therapist, who at this point knows me better than I know myself, recently asked me why I wasn’t on Insight Timer. She told me, 'You need to share your knowledge because the way you transformed your life will inspire others to do the same.' Taking it as a sign from the Universe, I applied. Now, I can’t wait to record more tracks once I master the tech side of creating high-quality recordings. 😉
Finally...The Best FREE Mood Booster
While supplements and tools are amazing, nothing replaces the power of getting outside. Sunlight naturally boosts vitamin D and serotonin, while fresh air and movement in nature enhance overall health. Whenever I feel off, a simple walk outdoors makes all the difference. Next time you’re outside, don’t rush to put on sunblock—let the sun do its job, providing its natural healing benefits.
Be sure to check out my other posts on non-toxic home and healthy choices for kids.
You can always find my favorite items, updated regularly, in my Amazon Storefront.
Don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to stay updated with new recommendations, and help me spread the word about the importance of what we bring into our homes and bodies—it truly matters! Together, we can create a healthier, more mindful way of living. 💛
In health and gratitude,
Agota