Aromatherapy: a spiritual experience
For centuries cultures from all around the world have used aroma-therapeutic methods to aid and boost their spiritual practices? But why?! Does it truly work? Is there really some ancient secret to aromatherapy? With this blog post I hope to clear some of those questions and provide some enlightenment. As previously stated, aromatherapy is no secret. In fact we have historical data which proves that aromatherapy has been around for centuries used by countless civilizations found on every continent! That is a really expansive use of this historical concept. Aromatherapy's age and merit alone speaks for itself. But what exactly is aromatherapy and why has it been practiced by almost every ancestral culture?
Merrium-Webster defines aromatherapy as, “inhalation or bodily application (as by massage or internal application) of fragrant essential oils (as from flowers and fruits) for therapeutic purposes”. Very plainly aromatherapy is therapy via smelling and feeling. Through research and study we have found that essential oils can be both topical, ingested, or inhaled. It makes sense right? Smelling nice fragrances just makes you feel good inside. However it is a little more nuanced than that. We know that smells and taste are connected to our neural networks, now we have a science that concentrates on examining that connection. One of my core beliefs is that the spiritual and the scientific aren’t dichotomous! Thus both the scientific study of aromatherapy and the spiritual practice of aromatherapy are connected. I guess in other words, priests and shamans knew it worked, science just proved how it worked.
Because we know that certain natural fragrances help emote or give off intentions, vibrations, energy and emotions, we can strategically mix and apply those fragrances to advance and maximize their benefits. For example lavender is known for its ability to act as a relaxant and ease anxiety and restlessness. No wonder why it’s a very popular smell for many cosmetic products! There are countless plants and herbs used for their aroma-therapeutic and medicinal uses. Below is a brief list to get you started.
- Frankincense- Frankincense oil has been used for centuries as a medicinal relief for ailments of respiratory and digestive origin. Today, it's mainly used in aromatherapy in order to soothe the mind, focus the mind, boost energy, and promote rejuvenation
- Lavender- Lavender oil is an awesome calming agent and is helpful to relive anxiety and restlessness.
- Lemon- Lemon oil is a multifaceted essential oil. It helps with everything from skin irritation to digestion to circulation problems. It is a natural immunity booster and can even help reduce cellulite! Lemon oil helps to alleviate headaches and fever, and is a quick mood enhancer.
- Tea Tree- Tea Tree oil's healing properties are abundant. Not only is it a natural immune booster, but it also fights all three kinds of infection. It works to heal skin conditions, burns and cuts, and also works as an insecticide.
- Rosemary- Rosemary is widely known as a mental stimulant, the antidepressant properties of Rosemary oil make it ideal for enhanced memory, focus and overall brain performance.
- Rose oil- Rose oil is an ideal essential oil to have on hand. It helps with a number of illnesses and conditions, such as depression, anxiety and digestion issues. It is also helps with circulation, heart problems and respiratory conditions like asthma. It is a protector of the heart and is also good for your skin.
- Peppermint- Peppermint oil is a cooling agent that enhances mood, sharpens focus, combats irritation and redness, alleviates symptoms of congestion, and aids in digestion.
- Patchouli- Patchouli serves as a powerful skin care agent; it even promotes skin cell growth when applied directly to the skin. Patchouli helps to relieve anxiety, depression, fatigue, curb addiction, reduce cellulite and bloating.
- Jasmine- Jasmine has been known to ease depression and childbirth, in addition to enhance libido. great for respiratory problems, addiction issues, and reducing tension and stress.
- Vanilla- Vanilla is known to not only smell wonderful but ease depression and anxiety. Vanilla is also an aphrodisiac so it helps boost libido.
Now that you are aware of the many benefits provided by essential oils, you can strategically apply them to your daily life and routines. Whether you use frankincense oil to clear your mind before meditation or apply lavender oil before bed, these essential oils can enhance your life in a variety of ways!