Basic Aromatherapy �?Choosing the Oils for You
Aromatherapy uses pure essential oils, to relax, balance and rejuvenate body, mind and spirit. It is both an art and a science. Aromatherapists artfully blend essential oils to produce new aromas.
Aromatherapy can improve quality of life on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. The idea is to find the scents that evoke positive feelings and emotions; and then to introduce those scents into our everyday lives to enhance well-being.
The results of aromatherapy are very individual. While there is general agreement about the actions of certain oils, no two persons are affected by the same essential oil in exactly the same way. Even the same person can be affected differently by the same oil depending on surroundings, time of day or mood. Taking time to experience scents is the best way to learn about and create a personal connection to essential oils. Try evaluating the aromas according to the following guidelines.
As you inhale an essential oil for the first time, describe the aroma: Is it sharp? Is it subtle? Is it balanced? Is it light or heavy? Is it warming or cooling? Is it sweet, spicy, woody, floral, fruity, etc.?
Now describe how you perceive the aroma: Do you like or dislike it? Do you associate the aroma with any personal experiences? What emotions do you have that are connected to these experiences? Does the aroma produce those emotions now? Does the aroma affect your awareness: does it rejuvenate, energize or relax?
Good Introductory Oils
* Lavender: Balancing, soothing, clarifying, normalizing
* Eucalyptus: Purifying, invigorating, balancing, cooling
* Peppermint: Revitalizing, refreshing, energizing, cooling
* Rosemary: Clarifying, warming, invigorating
* Ylang Ylang: Sensual, euphoric, romantic, alluring, exotic
* Sweet Orange: Cheering, refreshing, uplifting
* Bergamot: Uplifting, normalizing, confidence building
* Lemon: Energizing, uplifting, refreshing, strengthening
* Geranium: Uplifting, balancing, relaxing, normalizing
* Patchouli: Romantic, uplifting, soothing
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