The Beginnings

I thought it would only be fitting for my first post to share how and why I began this blog and where 'Essentially Rae' comes from.

My name is Rachel, or Rae, and I've wanted to start a blog for some time now. I love creating, writing, sharing and connecting with others. So it makes sense to do this through a blog. Over the last few years, I have been looking for inspiration and ideas on living a natural, low-toxic and low-waste lifestyle whilst also being able to use great make-up, have a gorgeous smelling home and use effective skincare products. In my hunt for this balance, I have learnt so much and I wanted to share my journey with you.

So, here we are! Essentially Rae. Essentially because I hope to connect with what is essentially and fundamentally important to me. Rae because, well, that's me!

I hope to make this space helpful to other people who really want to make gradual changes in their life towards a low-waste and low-tox lifestyle AND still enjoy things like smelling good, skincare and a beautifully clean home. It does not have to be a compromise! Nor, do you have to suddenly give up things you love and preach to others about a particular lifestyle. Every journey is different, gradual and a compromise. My aim has always been to find a sustainable balance of reducing household waste and the toxic chemicals we use in our home. It has taken years to incorporate all of these changes, doing it little by little is the way that worked for me, as I've been able to maintain these choices.

For me, it is important to be open and honest about why I began switching over to a natural low-waste lifestyle. Along with being generally environmentally conscious and aware, I have experience anxiety and depression over the last few years as well as an ongoing diagnosis for endometriosis. In my research, to support all of these things, particularly my hormones, one of the main things I discovered was the negative impact synthetic fragrances have on our bodies and hormones. A quick google will reinforce this. So I am here now and honestly absolutely love having more natural remedies and supports to turn to alongside other necessary mainstream options.

So, if you're looking for a place to discover tips on living life consciously and well, then you're in the right place. I love make-up and beauty as well as all things interiors, home and cleaning! I am clearly not an expert or medical professional but, I can share from my own experiences the things that have worked for me.

I hope you'll stick around!

Rachel x