Showing yourself some care and kindness can be an essential part of your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Based on the therapeutic benefits of aromatic plants, Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy that could be an amazing addition to your self care routine.
Using the essential oils derived from plants, flowers, herbs and trees to assist your body's natural healing abilities, Aromatherapy can calm the mind, encourage you to relax, promote a restful sleep or motivate and energise you, depending on which oils you use.
Aromas can have a powerful effect on our limbic system including the amygdala and hippocampus which relate to memory, emotions and can even influence hormonal responses.
There are so many essential oils to choose from, each with their own unique properties and aromas..
I have chosen 5 of my favourite oils to support emotional wellbeing.
Geranium
Geranium essential oil holds a wonderful reputation as an essential oil that is well suited to women. It is supportive to the reproductive system, menstrual cycle and during the course of the menopause. By regulating the hormonal system, it may bring the mind back into balance and reduce stress. It has a beautiful distinctive rosy-floral aroma, that can be sweet and heady. (Precaution - Avoid in pregnancy)
Bergamot
A gently uplifting oil with a light, delicate and refreshing aroma, reminiscent of oranges and lemons with a floral hint. Bergamots cooling and refreshing qualities seem to allay feelings of anger and frustration. A lovely essential oil to use in a diffuser.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a deeply grounding oil that is often used during times of meditation. A relaxing oil with a woody, sweet, lingering aroma. May help to instill feelings of calm and inner peace. A wonderful choice if dealing with stress or low self esteem.
Ylang Ylang
With its floral, sweet, slightly fruity aroma, Ylang Ylang regulates adrenaline flow and relaxes the nervous system, bringing about feelings of joy. Helpful when dealing with stress and anxiety. A beautiful oil to use in a diffuser to focus on happiness and gratitude. (Precaution - Avoid in pregnancy).
Mandarin
Mandarin is a mild essential oil that can be used on children (in smaller doses). Gently uplifting with a
delicate, sweet and tangy aroma. It has a refreshing quality that may ease feelings of worry. When blended with other citrus oils, Mandarin can also have a beneficial effect on PMT. A wonderful oil to use during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy, for a strengthening and revitalising effect.
How to use Essential Oils At Home...
Diffuser - Fill diffuser with water then add 3-4 drops of your chosen essential oil.
Bath - Add 6-8 drops of your chosen essential oil to 30mls of an emulsifier (such as aloe vera gel or https://www.aromantic.co.uk/pages/search-results-page?q=emulsifan.). Add to a filled bath and mix thoroughly.