Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants, fruits and flowers. From their divine smell to their wonderful healing properties, essential oils can help to lift your mood, calm you when you are stressed, boost your circulation if you are feeling chilly and help to relieve colds and flu.
If you are finding that the colder and darker days are having an impact on your mood then Grapefruit oil is a wonderful oil to use at this time of the year for its mind clearing and uplifting properties. Its anti-viral properties also make it very effective for colds and flu. If you are looking for a positive way to deal with stress, try taking an hour out for a deeply soothing massage to help you unwind. Chamomile oil is calming and relaxing on both mind and body. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help with pain relief and any skin irritations that can occur during the colder months, such as eczema. To boost circulation, Rosemary oil is very stimulating and can help with warming up cold hands and feet which can affect many of us during winter. It is also useful for stimulating memory and concentration so it can help you to feel more focused as a New Year begins.
Having an aromatherapy massage can be one of the most relaxing ways to benefit from essential oils. First the essential oils are blended into a carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed, then using a variety of different massage strokes they are massaged onto your skin, where they are absorbed and begin to work their healing properties.
Words: Rachel Briggs
Equilibrium Health Centre, 16 Station Street, Lewes, BN7 2DB
01273 470955
www.equilibrium-clinic.com
