For me, aromatherapy – or the use of plant-based essential oils – is the perfect complement to a yoga and meditation practice. There are many uses and ways to apply essential oils – direct application, consumption, infusions, inhalation, etc. Thanks to the wisdom and teaching of a very dear friend’s mom, I’ve learned bits and pieces about the safety and benefits of pure therapeutic grade essential oils.
Inhalation is the safest way to benefit from the properties in the plants that are distilled and made into concentrated oils. I diffuse oils in my home using filtered water and a few drops of essential oil in a diffuser, and it creates a pleasant aroma and subtle change in the energy and feel of a space. I also have been using inhalers for a few years, which are just cotton wicks with ~15 drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil to keep the scent longer. They can last up to a year, and are easy to travel with and not bother anyone around you with a smell they might not enjoy as much as you 🙂
For example, inhaling peppermint oil can help with clearing nasal congestion, breathing, tension headaches, and promotes a calming feeling. Lavender is wonderfully calming and relaxing, and can almost instantly allow the nervous system to relax. Sweet orange oil is uplifting and brightening, and citrus blends invoke feelings of happiness. Cedarwood is grounding and strengthening, and is fantastic when paired with bergamot and geranium – it can help with processing grief.
There is so much to learn about aromatherapy, and I definitely am not an expert, yet 😉 But I have learned that making blends for inhalers has been wonderfully beneficial and helped me greatly in times of distress or anxiety, especially when traveling or working in the field. They also have greatly enhanced my yoga and meditation practice, and were fantastic to have during the yoga teacher training and various meditation courses that I have sat.
I’m always happy to discuss the benefits of essential oils, and would love to hear from you about your favorites and their uses!
Narayani Yoga 