AROMATHERAPY RECIPES FOR TOTAL MIND-BODY RELAXATION

IN ESSENCE...

• The power of natural scents and fragrances have long been accepted in the field of aromatherapy. The soothing aromas of certain essential oils can help ground and balance one's mental state and offer relief from stress or negative experiences.
• Aromatherapy techniques for relaxation include massage, inhalation, and establishing bathing self-care rituals.
• An aromatherapy massage makes use of the mind-body connection to impart a deep sense of peace and relaxation in the body, which in turn can help calm down a restless mind.
• The inhalation of essential oils with anxiolytic or sedative properties can help with stress or anxiety-related issues such as difficulty falling asleep. They can also be used to support prayer and meditative practices such as mindfulness.
• An aromatherapy bath uses scented oil blends to create a sacred personal space that helps the mind and body renew and recover from stress, worry, and fatigue.

Tisserand Institute, the ongoing pandemic may be contributing to new sources of stress, leading to issues such as health anxiety, chronic anxiety, or phobias. Read on to discover how aromatherapy principles and techniques can act as a useful resource for self-care and general relaxation when things get too overwhelming, and how this can be achieved with simple recipes.

wholesale carrier oils can often bring about a profound sense of relaxation and release us from day-to-day anxieties.

Contrary to popular belief, massage is a practice that does not need to be carried out solely by a partner or massage therapy practitioner. Self-massage, as a daily ritual, is an effective way of easing tension and achieving stillness by bringing one's attention back to the body and the present moment. Lying down in a comfortable position on a mat or reclining on a chair, use your fingers and flat, open palms to apply one of the blends below with long, gliding strokes to press down on muscles that feel tired or tight. This movement is known as 'Effleurage' in aromatherapy massage and helps slowly warm up and relax the muscles. Then, using your fingers and thumb, 'knead' any areas of tension with firm but comfortable pressure in slow and steady motion. The knuckles can also be used to perform this technique known as 'Petrissage', which further soothes the muscles and boosts circulation.

To help with tension headaches or migraines, gently massage the back of the neck, temples, scalp, and shoulder muscles. With very light tip-tapping motions of the fingertips and virtually no pressure, massage the cheeks, forehead, and the area between the eyes. This 'Feathering' technique can be done on other body regions as well, and is a wonderful way of gently shifting your attention towards the physical state of your body and away from internal anxieties.

Deep Relaxation Massage Blend

Calm & Comfort Massage Blend

Tranquility Massage Blend

Instructions for Massage Blend Recipes: In a glass container, pour in the carrier oil before adding the essential oils and Vitamin E liquid (if applicable). Mix the ingredients together by swirling the container. Warm a portion of this blend in between the palms of your hand before applying onto and massaging desired areas.

Safety for Massage Blend Recipes: A skin patch test prior to use is recommended, especially for those with sensitive skin. Avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 12 hours after using blends with Bergamot or Lemon Essential Oils.

Polysorbate 20. Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil can be substituted for Sweet Almond or Plum Kernel Carrier Oil.

Luxury Bubble Bath

Instructions: In a heatproof container, bring the water to a gentle boil and toss in the soap flakes or grated soap. Allow it to melt. In a separate container, pour in the carrier oil and Witch Hazel Distillate. Cap before shaking vigorously. Carefully pour the melted soap into the second container and shake thoroughly once more. This will form your bubble bath base. To use, add 3-4 drops each of Lavender and Rose Geranium essential oils to about a tablespoon of this base before adding to bathwater.

SOURCE: Adapted from The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood.

Citrus Foot Soak

Instructions: Fill a sizeable basin with warm water and add in the Dead Sea Salt. Once dissolved, add in the essential oils followed by the tea leaves or herbs (Peppermint or Rosemary are good choices). Soak your feet in the basin for 15-20 minutes.