Aromatherapy: The Perfect Tool for Relaxation
Aug, 18 2023Unlocking the Magic of Aromatherapy
All those who know me can attest to my love for two things - cats and relaxation! So, this might explain why I have such a deep passion for aromatherapy. The perfect tool for relaxation, aromatherapy is like a cat's purr for the senses - it's soothing, comforting and leaves you purring with satisfaction too. It doesn't matter if I am drafting lengthy blog posts or playing hot wheels with my boy Finn and the equally energetic Poppy, I always make sure I have the calm and therapeutic aroma of essential oils wafting around me.
Route to Relaxation: Understanding the Basics of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy isn't just about sniffing on good smells. Believe it or not, there's a science to it. Those little vials house numerous plant extracts, each with their curative powers. But these are not your common or garden plant extracts. Oh, no! These are potent jabs of relaxation, pure and unadulterated.
Now imagine rounding up your day by just sniffing away and inducing relaxation, something even the infamous catnip can't get my Maine Coon, Whiskers, to achieve.
Getting Started with Aromatherapy: Essentials to Stock Up
One of the best things about aromatherapy is that you don't need too many tools to start. The most vital elements you'll require are the essential oils themselves. Think about these as paint colors - mixing them correctly can create a breathtaking picture!
Though it could be very tempting to get all them and inhale deeply, it is better to slooow down. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your palette of essential oils. Prioritise what's needed depending on your requirement - lavender for relaxation, peppermint for a quick pick-me-up, rosemary for soothing the joints… the list goes on and on.
Mastering the Art of Blending Essential Oils
Would you put hot sauce on your chocolate pudding? No! Essential oils are similar. Some mix well to create an aromatic symphony while others... well, let's just say it could feel like you've stuck your nose in a three-day-old lunchbox! The key is to know which oil blends with what and to be adventurous in a sensible way. Be a mad scientist (minus the hair pulling and the maniacal laughter)!
How to Use Essential Oils: Employing Aromatherapy in Your Everyday Life
Question: Can essential oils be applied directly to the skin? Answer: No. You might as well stick your hand in a blender! Okay, that’s an exaggeration – but you get the idea. It's pertinent that substances as potent as essential oils be diluted with carrier oil, in a diffuser, or in your warm and inviting bath water. And if you are my wife, Eliza, you'd prefer the topically applied 'spot location' version to help her ease the stresses of the day.
You, Your Home and Aromatherapy: Creating the Perfect Atmosphere
Little did we know when we adopted Whiskers how attuned cats are to their sense of smell. And he loved standing near the diffuser - I am tempted to say, chill, as the scents wafted past him. Following this, our home has become an aromatherapy heaven, a place of peace and tranquillity. However, it isn't just our home. You can use these oils in your office, car, or even on a stressful train journey to conquer those anxieties.
A Cautionary Word: Aromatherapy Done Right
Aromatherapy is magical, miraculous and just mind-blowingly simple! But with all great powers comes great responsibility. As much as these tiny vials boast a sense of relaxation and relief, one must be cautious and use them judiciously. I would recommend a 'sniff and try small' approach - start little, observe the effects, be aware of any reactions, and always, always maintain a healthy respect for the power of nature contained within.
So folks, invest some time, open your hearts and nose, awaken your senses and let the magic of aromatherapy wash over you. I promise you won't look back after that.