Before I even knew what aromatherapy was, I had an affinity for smell. I loved nice-smelling things. If I wanted to get myself a treat, more often than not it would be something like perfume or a candle. Beautiful scents are just so comforting!
When I started dabbling in aromatherapy, I just burned essential oil blends. I had no idea that you could use them on the skin. It wasn’t until I was training to be an aromatherapist that I realised how the therapeutic properties of essential oils can support the whole body.
There’s the physical level of using aromatherapy to clear the skin or boost the immune system. There’s also the energetic level of using aromatherapy to bring about calm, peace and mental wellbeing. That was exciting for me as someone who is a trained Bio Energy therapist and Reiki Master.
If you’re in those beginning stages of exploring aromatherapy, let me explain what essential oils actually do and how you can make them part of your self-care routine.
What are essential oils and how do they work
On the simplest level, essential oils are plant extracts with natural therapeutic properties. Some of them you might be familiar with. You can guess that lavender essential oil comes from the lavender plant. Others not so much. Frankincense essential oil comes from the bark of the Boswellia tree. These natural oils have been used historically to support physical and mental wellness.
On a physical level, they can be cooling, cleansing and replenishing for the skin. They can also help calm our stress response and nervous system. This is because when they are breathed in, the particles influence the limbic system in the brain. It’s here that the bodily responses connected to stress, such as blood pressure and heart rate, can be dialled down to help us rest or turned on to help us focus.
To enhance the scientific effects of essential oils even further, be intentional about how you apply essential oils. This is why we have aromatherapy massages. We’re not applying the oils as quickly as possible. We are taking a moment to pause, reset and send loving energy to the body. Try it. You’ll feel the difference!
Using essential oils in this way carries you through the good times and the difficult times. Aromatherapy comes into its own in whole-person support.
My favourite essential oils and their effects
Different essential oils have different therapeutic properties so you can vary the aromatherapy experience you create. As examples, here are a couple of my favourites.
Vetiver – This oil comes from the roots of the plant. So by nature, it’s a very grounding oil. It takes you out of your head and into your body during times of stress, uncertainty and emotional distress. It’s got a woody smell which is why I usually combine it with other oils to create a more pleasant aroma.
Geranium – On the other hand, as a floral oil, this has a beautiful scent. But that’s not all! Geranium balances your hormones, your skin and your mental wellbeing.
Cypress – This oil is close to my heart. It supported me during the crossroads in my life when I was deciding whether to stay in my job or start my own business. I craved it at the time because that’s what my body needed to carry me through the change.
Whatever essential oils you are drawn to, make sure to use a professional blend. These natural oils are surprisingly strong so you need to be careful. Professionals know what strength levels and combinations are safe.
How do you use them in aromatherapy practices
Adding essential oils to a diffuser is a great starting point. To make the most of their physical, mental and energetic benefits, I recommend using a topical product that fits into your self-care routine. Infusing essential oils in skincare and bodycare products looks after the skin and body while releasing soothing aromas. Plus, you’re more likely to use them regularly which gives you the best results. Here are some different ways you can integrate aromatherapy into your life.
Meditation and mindfulness
Essential oils can be a quick pause in your day. With our aromatherapy rollerballs, you’re free to apply an essential oil blend at any point in the day to help you find balance and mindfulness. If you have the time, turn it into a meditation, letting the aromas calm and focus the mind.
Sleep routine
Aromatherapy scents can anchor your sleep routine, prompting the mind and body to relax and switch off. The more you do it, the more you build the connection that when you smell that specific scent, it’s time to sleep. We have a rollerball and pillow mist to support your sleep routine.
Skincare
Essential oils can do wonders for your skin. Why not improve your skincare while looking after your wellbeing at the same time? We’ve created formulations for daily skincare staples including a moisturising balm, facial serum, cleansing oil and after-shave balm.
Bath/shower routine
Having a bath or shower is a great way to switch off. Essential oils enhance that. Add a relaxing blend to your bath to fill the room with soothing scents. Follow up with body oil, hand cream and foot cream to relax your muscles and wrap yourself in calm.
There are so many ways to use essential oils. Find the way that slots into your existing routine and it will quickly become a centring anchor that helps you face every day with a little more calm, balance and peace. Browse our shop of essential oil infused products here and take the next step in your aromatherapy journey.