Even though it’s only about 5 centimeters in length, the human nose can detect one trillion different scents and is often overlooked as a vehicle for healing and relaxation. Using plant materials, aromatic plant oils, and other aroma compounds, aromatherapy is designed to improve mental and physical well-being through our sense of smell. According to the Canadian Federation of Aromatherapists’ (CFA) website, “Several ancient civilizations (Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian) have used Aromatherapy for their physical and mental well-being.” Its application, combined with calming music and a serene atmosphere, can help relieve stress. Timbercreek Communities wants to help you destress with 5 ways to enhance your work week with aromatherapy.
Massage
The CFA recommends that essential and plant oils in their concentrated form do not contact the skin. Properly diluted however, they can be safely applied and used in direct, swedish style and reflexology massage. Aroma + massage = heaven. Learn more here.
Inhalation, vapourization, deodorizing
Aromatherapy combined with deep breathing can be very calming for the respiratory and nervous system. Vapourizing essential oils in your home or office can have a peaceful and stress reducing effect, and leave behind a delicate scent. Not sure which oils to use? Check out New Directions Aromatics’ most popular essential oils and buy some at wholesale prices.
Full body and foot baths
Always be careful to properly dilute aromatherapy oils. A great way to do so, and to enjoy them to the fullest, is to add them to a bath in the same way you would add bubbles or epsom salts. If you don’t have time to take a bath, or don’t have a bath in your apartment (only a shower), go small and add them to a basin in small amounts to enjoy a relaxing foot soak. We recommend using a high quality peppermint essential oil in your foot bath.
Compresses
While ice is the most common go-to for sprains and swelling, an aromatherapy compress can be beneficial for minor skin irritations, joint traumas, and fatigued muscles. Sandalwood essential oil is a great oil to incorporate in a compress for sore or swollen muscles and joints as it fights inflammation.
Meditation
Scent and meditation go hand in hand. We’re all familiar with the popular combination of meditation and incense. If you meditate, consider adding in a few aromatherapy tactics for full relaxation. For example, you could try meditating in an aromatherapy bath, or recline in your bedroom while you vapourize your favourite scents and apply a relaxing compress to your sore muscles. Get creative, you’ll be more at peace in no time. If you’re just looking to destress and feel zen, Cedarwood essential oil is considered grounding and a perfect match for meditation.
We know you work hard and need to destress at the end of a long day. We hope these 5 ways to get through the work week with aromatherapy will help you feel more relaxed and revitalized.
For more information on Timbercreek Communities across Canada, please visit our website.