As more attention has been given to our need to address our mental health, the world has risen to the challenge with unprecedented pressure. Could it be that one of the more powerful solutions to help us feel our best is one we’ve had with us all along? The study of aromatherapy and the expanded use of essential oils continues to provide us with a wide variety of appealing and natural mental health solutions.
Essential oils are becoming known for more than just helping us to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Advanced science is helping to test for contamination and adulteration, resulting in the purest therapeutic grades. Universities have released protocols for sensory training to help people get their sense of smell back after certain infections. Responsible sourcing and acceptable safety and usage information also make quality essential oils readily available.
Getting Started with Essential Oils
Learning some of the common benefits of certain oils, their aromas, and their topical applications can give you a head start in choosing the right products. Many of these safe and pure essential oils can be used aromatically, topically, and sometimes internally.
If you are using essential oils topically, it’s a good idea to put them into a roller bottle with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. The carrier oil often helps hold oils to the skin that might usually evaporate quickly. Roller bottles are also a convenient way to keep oils with you as you move around, ensuring you’ll have them when you really need them.
Another easy way to get started with essential oils is to ensure you have a high-quality ultrasonic diffuser. Diffusers sometimes use water to help lift the oils in the air and can often run for one, two, or more hours. An advantage of a diffuser is that you don’t have to have the oils touching your skin. These are airborne—you simply breathe them in while the diffuser is running.
Blends are a powerful tool for getting the most out of your essential oils. Much like the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, essential oil blends can enhance one significant ingredient with another. Consider how the following blends might help someone dealing with common negative emotions:
- Reassuring Blend—Florals and Mints: A fragrant and positive reminder that you don’t have to be perfect to find peace.
- Suggested essential oils: Clary Sage, Frankincense Labdanum, Lavender, Marjoram, Spearmint, Vetiver, and Ylang Ylang.
- Encouragement Blend—Mints and Citrus: Unleash your creative powers and find the courage that comes from believing in yourself.
- Suggested essential oils: Basil, Clementine, Coriander, Melissa, Peppermint, Rosemary, Vanilla, and Yuzu.
- Uplifting Blend—Citrus and Spices: A cheerful boost of happiness and positivity when you’re feeling down to brighten any moment of your day.
- Suggested essential oils: Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, Lemon Myrtle, Nutmeg, Star Anise, Vanilla, Wild Orange, and Zdravetz.
- Inspirational Blend—Spices, Herbs, and Grasses: Helps rekindle excitement in your life.
- Suggested essential oils: Cardamom, Cinnamon, Damiana, Clove, Ginger, Jasmine Sandalwood, and Vanilla.
- Renewing Blend—Herbs, Grasses, and Trees: To help you discover the liberating action of forgiving, forgetting, and moving on.
- Suggested essential oils: Arborvitae, Bergamot, Citronella, Juniper Berry, Myrrh, Nootka Tree, Spruce, and Thyme.
- Comforting Blend—Trees and Florals: To help you close the door on sadness and take your first steps on a hopeful path toward emotional healing.
- Suggested essential oils: Amyris, Frankincense, Labdanum, Osmanthus, Patchouli, Rose, Sandalwood, and Ylang Ylang.
Aromatherapy is the use of fragrances to manage emotions and enhance feelings of well-being. Scientific study of aromatherapy’s influence on emotion confirms what people of the world have known for centuries: The delicate and complex aromatic compounds of pure essential oils can be used effectively to help balance our emotions and brighten our mood.
Susie Bagwell is a certified massage therapist, Blue Diamond dōTERRA Wellness Advocate, AromaTouch application instructor, and former owner of Mässusie Spa. Her 20+ years of experience have helped her become an expert in the use of essential oils, and she shares that knowledge with hospitals, medical offices, and wellness events. Work with her remotely or attend a class at her Fort Myers, FL, Training Center.
To schedule a wellness consultation, call or text 586.604.3500 or visit: www.iloveoils.com.