One of my favorite healing modalities is aromatherapy.
The therapeutic, spiritual and cosmetic uses of aromatic oils date back to cultures in China, India, Persia and Egypt. Three thousand years ago, the Egyptians were utilizing plants for medicine, massage therapy, food preparation and mummification. The Sumerians and Babylonians used oils, incense and spiritual healing to expand consciousness.
When properly handled and distilled, the plant, root or flower is able to release their energy, and when inhaled, that energy stimulates our receptor cells in the olfactory part of our brain. This “impulse” travels to the “limbic system” which is linked to areas of the brain controlling reason, emotion, breathing, circulation, smell, hormone regulation and memory. The result is an effect on many systems of the body, stimulating or sedating emotions.
How Do I pick the Right Type of Essential Oil?
- Motivation: Cardamom, Ginger, Rosemary, Peppermint or Tea Tree
- Creativity: Clary Sage, Jasmine, Orange, Rose and Rosemary
- Balance & Harmony: Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Vetiver, Eucalyptus, Rose, Ylang Ylang or Roman Chamomile
How to Use Essential Oils
I like to use essential oils specially to shift energy and emotions. This is because how we feel about ourselves and what we are trying to accomplish can either help us achieve what we desire or greatly slow us down.
- Try choosing an oil by theme and use ones that resonate with you each day.
- Make sure the essential oils you purchase are therapeutic grade.
- If using on the body, two of the best carrier oils used to dilute are fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil.
- Place a couple of drops of an oil or blend on the hands, cup the hands over the nose and breathe deeply.
- For portable use, find a small quality plastic cup with lid and place one or two tissues with 5 to 10 drops of oil. Remove the lid and inhale as needed. If the lid stays on, this can be effective for around 14 days.
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