The power of essential oils cannot be underestimated. These plant extracts can help with all sorts of conditions, and have been used for thousands of years. They act on all levels: physical, emotional and spiritual. Many essential oils have been used in practices like meditation because they evoke a deep calmness, conducive to inner reflection. Frankincense and myrrh are two traditional oils used in this way, and we know how valued they were and are in middle east culture. Spikenard has a very ancient history as well. It is said that Mary Magdelene washed Jesus's feet with this plant. Sage and palo santo are great for clearing negative energy. If you don't know palo santo, you should! It is derived from the fallen branches of a tree in South America that shamans in that part of the world use instead our our northern counterparts sage and sweetgrass. Cedarwood, patchouli and vetiver can also be used to ground and refine one's focus. If calming oils are needed, vetiver is a good choice here too. Chamomile and lavender are also great for a relaxed state of mind, (and preparation for a good night's sleep too!). Breathwork, an essential part of meditation, yoga and other practices, is also central to aromatherapy, so this is a perfect pairing.
Of course, meditation and inward reflection work can also help with stress relief and provide help with anxiety or insomnia. And guess what?! So can essential oils! In addition to lavender, ylang ylang, clary sage, jasmine, rose and neroli are wonderful additions to a blend. Some are precious oils, and therefore expensive (cost is dictated by the amount of plant material required to produce the essential oil), but you may choose to use a few drops as opposed to making it the bulk of your blend.
Please take the time to breathe, to be calm, and to meditate. You are worth it.
©2016 Heather Garrod is a Certified Aromatherapist and owner of Planet Botanix at 301 Bank near Somerset