Essential Oils
There are many ways in which we can relax during our ‘down time’, and one of my favorites is by way of aromatherapy massage. As a child I attended ballet school, which eventually led me into yoga, and meditation. From that point it was an easy ‘side-step’ into aromatherapy and the world of essential oils.
Over the last few years I’ve been attending classes as a means of learning more about how to blend the oils, which one’s work best depending upon the ailment or need, and so on. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the learning process, and though my knowledge is still at a basic level, it’s helped me to appreciate just how much good a professional aromatherapist can do for their individual clients.
Ways To Enjoy Aromatherapy Oils
Though I don’t want to come across as some kind of alternative therapy nut, I do believe that there are multifaceted benefits related to aromatherapy, and I believe that much of that rests upon just how relaxing a session can be. There are different ways in which you can utilize essential oils, and they are:
- massage
- inhalation
- bathing
- creams
- compresses
As a regular ‘devotee’, I have worked my way through each method, particularly bathing and making use of creams. There are a variety of essential oils that you can buy ready-blended and use at home, or creams and lotions that contain different oils. It may well be that you’re inadvertently using oils during your bating routine. Ever bought a peppermint soap or shower gel?
Do you use tea-tree shampoos or creams? Peppermint is used to revive and invigorate, whereas tea-tree is used for it’s natural cleansing and healing properties.
For the uninitiated, there are quite a few highly popular oils, many of which you will have heard of:
- sandalwood
- ylang ylang
- rosemary
- jasmine
- cedarwood
- lavender
- chamomile
One that every one will recognize is patchouli. Who hasn’t?! Patchouli is, of course, viewed as the ‘hippy oil’, and has long been accepted as a
scent used by folks that are lovers of ‘peace and goodwill’ to all. However, it also possesses not insignificant healing prope
rties, and is widely used to ease anxiousness and calm the nerves.
From the above list I keep sandalwood, lavender and rosemary stocked up at home. My favorite is sandalwood. Oddly, I first came across it when I was in an upstate Louis Vuitton store. It was ever so slightly present in the air and it turned out that it was used as a fragra
nce to counteract the smell cast from all the leather goods in and around the store. I loved it, asked a store assistant what the smell was and immediately went out and bought a small bottle for one of my oil diffusers.
How To Use Essential Oils
Aromatherapy oils and essential oils are one and the same. You don’t need to be an expert in their uses to enjoy their benefits. There are many stores, both online and high-street, that stock different essential oil products. For those of you that are unsure, best to stick with something ‘ready-made’, such as candles, bath oils and personal hygiene products.
You could also try buying an oil diffuser, and adding a few drops of your favorite oil. Diffusers deliver a slightly stronger scent than you’d get from an aromatherapy candle, and a small bottle of oil will last longer than the average candle.
Overall, incorporating oils into your life doesn’t have to be an expense you can’t afford. Many of the products are affordable – you can pick up diffusers for less than $10, and bottles of oil start at around $3. There’s a wide range of products on the market, from candles and soaps to shampoos and lotions, so you don’t need to fork out for an aromatherapy massage session every other week like I do.
For health and/or relaxation purposes you can try any of the following methods at home:
- add three or four drops of oil to a humidifier – don’t go mad though, as too much oil can damage a humidifier
- bathe in an ‘oil’ bath. Add a few drops to your bathwater, and simply soak up the goodness. Great for aches, pains and de-stressing
- compresses – add a few drops of oil (around 8 to 10) into 4 fluid ounces of hot water, then soak a small cotton cloth and apply the cloth to your forehead, wherever you have aches or pains, bruising or swelling.
Of course using oil with any of the above methods means that you’ll need to know which oils to use for what ailment but a good book or a trusted website will be packed with all the right information. The bottom line is that aromatherapy and essential oils are excellent, affordable ways in which we can apply simple, and safe remedial measures in order to promote a healthier, more relaxed lifestyle. And, if you can afford an aromatherapy message – go for it. You won’t find yourself disappointed!