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Simmer&Stir Blog – Natural Scents & Botanical Recipes
Welcome to the Simmer&Stir blog, where scent meets slow living. Here, you’ll find a fragrant mix of simmer pot recipes, herbal blends, and natural home fragrance ideas to bring calm and comfort to your space. I also share simple, thoughtful recipes —perfect for cooking or gifting. From seasonal potpourri and cocktail-inspired botanicals to cosy kitchen creations, it’s all about making your home feel warm, welcoming, and wonderfully scented—one stir at a time.


Zesty Lemon Pepper Seasoning Blend: A Fresh, Homemade Gift Idea for the Holidays
Make your own lemon pepper seasoning with dried zest and cracked pepper. A bright, aromatic DIY spice blend that’s perfect for everyday cooking and Christmas gifts.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Foraging Hawthorn Berries: A Guide to Identification and Use
Learn how to forage hawthorn berries safely. Identify ripe haws, discover their folklore, and make simple recipes like syrup, tea, and simmer pots.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Create a Balanced Lifestyle Through Awareness
Discover how a balanced lifestyle can enhance mindful living. Explore practical tips to maintain a balanced lifestyle every day.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Simple Practices to Bring Awareness to Your Daily Routine
Discover mindfulness with these tips. Embrace mindfulness in your routine and enjoy the benefits of mindfulness every day.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Practical Ways to Bring Mindfulness into Your Daily Routine
Discover mindfulness with these simple tips. Learn how mindfulness can transform your daily habits and improve your well-being.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Homemade Pumpkin Spice Creamer: A Taste of Autumn in Your Coffee
Indulge in autumn with our Homemade Pumpkin Spice Creamer. Discover how to make a creamy, fragrant Homemade Pumpkin Spice Creamer at home.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Transform Your Space with Natural Aromas
Enhance your home with natural aromas. Learn how natural aromas can create a fresh and inviting atmosphere in your space.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Spiced Chai Bath Salts: A Cosy Treat for Cold Days
Discover the cosy comfort of Spiced Chai Bath Salts. Perfect for cold days, these bath salts blend warming spices for a soothing soak.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Pinecone Fire Starters: Natural, Fragrant & Perfect for Gifting
Discover how to make DIY Pinecone Fire Starters that are natural, fragrant, and perfect for gifting. Learn to craft unique DIY Pinecone Fire Starters.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Make Incense Cones at Home: Easy Natural Recipes & Tips
Discover how to make incense cones at home with easy recipes & tips. Learn how to make incense cones at home using natural ingredients today!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Hand of Fatima Wax Tablet for Protection and Natural Home Fragrance
Discover the power of the Hand of Fatima Wax Tablet for protection and natural home fragrance. Enhance your space with this symbolic wax charm.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Moulding Magic: How to Make Herbal Beeswax Candles by Hand
Discover the art of slow living with "How to Make Herbal Beeswax Candles by Hand." Craft beautiful, aromatic candles with ease and creativity.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Transforming Your Space with Natural and Inviting Scents
Explore natural scents for your home. Natural scents can create a calming and inviting space with botanical-inspired fragrances.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Simple Practices to Cultivate Mindfulness Every Day
Discover mindfulness tips for everyday life. Embrace mindfulness with simple practices to enhance your daily routine and well-being.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


DIY Highlighter Sticks for a Natural Summer Glow
Create your own DIY Highlighter Sticks for a natural summer glow. Easy, eco-friendly, and customizable, these DIY Highlighter Sticks are perfect for any occasion.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Essential Oils for Clear Skin: What Works and What to Avoid
Discover the best essential oils for clear skin, including tea tree, lavender, and rosehip oil. Learn which oils suit your skin type and what to avoid.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Herbal Tinctures: 10 Best Herbs and Their Benefits for Sleep, Anxiety, Detox and More
Discover the Best DIY Herbal Tinctures for sleep, anxiety, and detox. Learn how to make the Best DIY Herbal Tinctures at home with our guide.
Astrid van Essen
5 min read


Natural Ways to Remove Damp Smell: Vinegar Cleaning Tips That Work
Discover how to Remove Damp Smell Naturally with vinegar cleaning tips. Transform your home with these simple, natural solutions to Remove Damp Smell Naturally.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Safflower Secrets: Tea, Skincare & Home Uses for This Underrated Herb
Discover the versatile world of Safflower in tea, skincare, and home uses. Discover how safflower can enhance your natural beauty and wellness routine.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Cute Travel Essentials: Mini Epsom Salt Potpourri with Essential Oils
Discover the ultimate travel essential: Mini Epsom Salt Potpourri. Perfect for freshening up on-the-go, this Mini Epsom Salt Potpourri is a must-have!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read
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