As we navigate our way through the current situation in the country, there’s a collective feeling of sadness and anxiety. To help you navigate this, we’re going to introduce you to aromatherapy today.
Usually, when you think of the term aromatherapy, candles and scented lotions come to mind but we’re going to take a deep dive into its benefits and uses. Clinic aromatherapy is a century-old technique that targets essential oils to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing and is more than just creating a welcoming ambiance. Hence to break it down for you, we spoke to Ankita Thadani, CEO and founder, Secret Alchemist to understand how it can really elevate mood and help you destress.
What Are The Benefits Of Aromatherapy?
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“Aromatherapy can be described as a comprehensive treatment system that aims to improve the health and general well-being of individuals. You can treat a wide variety of mental and physical problems with aromatherapy,” says Ankita.
From alleviating pain to improving focus and promoting restful sleep. Keep on scrolling to know the benefits of aromatherapy.
Helps In Reducing Pain
“Aromatherapy can reduce pain by contributing to the proper functioning of our organs. It awakens our senses, and helps in achieving a perfect balance between our body and mind,” explains Ankita.
So if you’re suffering from menstrual cramps, she suggests using a calming blend of clary sage, mandarin, and neroli oils to reduce some of the pain. It actually works!
To Strengthen The Immune System
Aromatic oils strengthen the immune system by cleansing and opening the energy channels. Thus, stimulating the circulation of energy in the nervous system. Ankita recommends using rose essential oil for this.
To Elevate Mood
There are many recipes in ancient Indian texts for the preparation and application of aromatic oils used for mood improvement. It is believed that the aromas we breathe have a significant impact on our body, emotions, and mind and help balance our doshas.
For Better Sleep
It can really reduce stress levels and help you sleep better. So, if the lockdown is adversely affecting your sleep cycle or the anxiety is keeping you up at night, we suggest trying out one of these oils. Even pillow mists do the same job of lulling you to sleep.
To De-Stress
According to Ankita, inhaling essential oils stimulate the olfactory system which is the part of the brain connected to smell. As the molecules reach the brain, they affect the limbic system, which is linked to emotions, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress, and hormone balance.
Different Ways To Try Aromatherapy
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Aromatherapy can be convenient, especially for busy people who need something quick. Here are some ways in which you can incorporate aromatherapy into your daily routine.
Light Candles
Lighting a candle is probably one of the simplest ways to fill your room with an aromatic fragrance. Candles and incense sticks create a soothing atmosphere and can act as a focal point for meditation. So, breathe in and breathe out, things will get better.
Use Oil-Diffusers
Aromatherapy diffusers take essential oils and evaporate them through the air. Diffusers are great because they spread the scent quite effectively. The battery-run ones can be safer than candles—no open fire involved.
Try A Roll-On
These are easy to carry and can act as an instant on-the-go mood-uplifter. Keep one in your bag permanently and apply it to your pulse points when needed.
Over-The-Counter Products
Aromatherapy body products are great because they create a long-lasting scent that follows you. You can rub lotion all over your skin, or dab a few drops of skin-safe essential oils on pulse points and enjoy the scent for hours.
Try A Soothing Body Massage
Aromatherapy combined with a full body massage carries greater benefits than either strategy by itself. If you’re lucky enough to have someone who will trade aromatherapy massages with you, this can be a wonderful way for stress relief.
For Meditation
Aromatherapy can enhance the relaxation benefits of meditation and provide a focal point while you’re meditating. So, when you want your mind to be more centered, try to meditate with incense sticks burning in the room, you may feel a whole lot better.
In-Shower Aromatherapy
Turn your shower into a mini aromatherapy spa by placing a couple of drops of your blend onto the shower floor. Ankita says that the hot water helps turn the essential oils into a steamy world of relaxation and you’ll have a wonderful start to the day.
Pro Tip: Essential oils are never applied directly to the skin. They must always be diluted with a carrier oil. For the face, essential oils can be mixed with vitamin E oils but it can be tricky for folks with acne-prone skin. So, we suggest adding aloe vera gel or cucumber gel to the mix.
Ready for relaxation o’clock?
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