Boost your Bottom Line With Aromatherapy! – Part II

Aromatherapy, is easy to implement in all your spa treatments. Try these following ideas to enhance your facials, massages, manicures, pedicures and all your spa  treatments. Not only will the use of Aromatherapy address more of the needs of your clients it will also feel absolutely divine and set you and your spa apart from the others.

What are the Benefits of Aromatherapy in Spa Treatments?

• Immediate relaxation
• Address conditions hard to reach at other levels, for instance emotional conditions that may underlie a physical symptom
• Increases guest loyalty, scents access the deep parts of the subconscious where a great deal of decision making is done
• Stimulates feelings of euphoria and happiness

 Easy Ways to Implement Aromatherapy in Your Spa Treatments

• Use an Aromatherapy burner or diffuser in your treatment room
• Use an Aromatherapy mist during any of your treatments
• Use Aromatherapy massage oil in any of your treatments

I have outlined some steps I have personally used and tested that use Essential Oils in spa treatments. They have always produced the WOW factor and bring clients back again and again.

STEP 1 – Have your room prepared – your Aromatherapy burner or diffuser should have your favorite Essential Oil or Essential Oil blend, remember, you are the one in that treatment room all day, so think about yourself, your guest will enjoy your choice.

STEP 2 – Create a relaxing Aromatherapy Mist to set the stage for relaxation.

Have you noticed how some guests can’t stop talking as they come into your room? Maybe they are afraid of losing their control, with this mist you can gently let them know that they can relax and trust in your caring hands.

Here is the recipe:

• 1 oz Bottle with Mist Sprayer
• Fill it with distilled water
• Add 5 drops of  each these calming Essential Oils
• You can blend up to 5 calming oils
  • Lavender
  • Palo Santo
  • Mandarin
• Before the treatment begins ask your client to close their eyes, breathe deeply and enjoy the mist.  Point the nozzle upwards so that the product falls on their face as a gentle rainforest mist.

STEP 3 – While they are facing upwards either during a massage, body treatments or while they have a mask on, use an eye pillow. First wrap the pillow with a tissue and put one drop of lavender or mandarin on the side of the pillow that won’t touch the face.  This calming scent will disconnect them and send them to nirvana.

STEP 4 – Combine some Essential Oils with a carrier oil so that you can massage their legs while you do a pedicure. You can also use the blend during a facial to massage your client’s arms, décolletage and hands while they have on a mask. Also use the blend as the oil for an Aromatherapy massage.

For a full body massage you will need 3 tablespoons carrier oil and up to a total of 10 drops of Essential Oil.

For a leg massage use 1 teaspoon carrier oil  and 2 or 3 drops of Essential Oil..

For hands, arms and décolletage massage use 1 tablespoon carrier oil to 4 drops Essential Oil.

Please remember that One Size Does Not Fit All – Don’t use just lavender, eucalyptus or peppermint. Be creative, and remember that your guests like to feel special and that you have listened to them and addressed their needs.

How to Customize your Spa Treatment

Always ask your client: How are you feeling TODAY?

Addressing the answer to this question will set you and your spa apart from the crowd and give all of your treatments that special customization.

When you have asked the critical question “How Are You Feeling TODAY?”, here are some Essential Oils you can use to address their needs they tell you in their answer.

Under the weather? 
Use some Eucalyptus – Ravensara – Tea Tree – these are antibacterial, antiseptic and can help boost their immune system

Sore Muscles? 
Peppermint, Rosemary, Pine – to improve circulation and for pain relief

Stress levels getting too high? 
Palo Santo, Frankincense, Bergamot – to help them be calmer and more relaxed

In need of emotional balance? 
Clary Sage – Ylang Ylang – Litsea Cubeba – perfect for those who are sad, suffer from depression and are going through hard times in their lives

Sluggish, trying to lose some weight? 
Fennel, Grapefruit, Cedarwood – to help move the lymph, help decongest and break down deposits of fat and water in the cells 

Tired all the time?
Rosemary, Peppermint, Pine, Cardamom – as a tonic to  their adrenal glands, great for guests who need to keep going after treatment

Need some feminine balance?
Geranium, Clary Sage, Rose, Jasmine – for those women days, if they suffer from PMS tell them to come every month for a relaxing treatment.  You can apply a thin layer of these oils diluted in carrier oil and cover with a hot towel. Can you imagine the feeling of relief?

And lastly:

STEP 5 - Help them use Essential Oils at home. Give them a couple of oils to start with, not only will they feel better but those who live and work with your guests will also notice the difference. Your word of mouth marketing is at work!

Call Aromandina at (678) 897-4869 or go to www.aromandina.com to order your Essential Oils today and start using them in your spa treatments!

 Related Articles:

Aromatherapy Use in The Spa Environment 
Four Steps To A Successful Spa Session
Massage Treatment For Pain Relief With Aromatherapy 
Women’s Joy – Massage Treatment 
Massage Treatment for Adrenal Support 
Massage Treatment for Anxiety and Stress Relief with Aromatherapy

© 2012, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC

This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

You don’t have to be a professional massage therapist to express your love to your baby through your touch. A leisurely massage is a perfect way to spend some quality time with your little one, especially after baths or at bedtime.

Benefits of massage for babies

Babies love the warm and reassuring touch of an adult caregiver and research has shown that babies who receive more human contact grow up to be more confident and secure individuals.  Massage also creates a strong bond between parent and child because your child gets undivided attention from you.  As your baby grows into a toddler, a child and then a teenager, a regular massage routine will help him develop a healthy self-image.

On the physiological front, massages can increase lung capacity, thus enhancing oxygen supply to cells, it is said that massage also boosts the immune system. For active little babies who do so much every day, massages are a fun way to assist the growing process. If your baby is tired or hyperactive, a soothing massage will calm down the nervous system and help him relax. A gentle tummy rub will stimulate baby’s digestive system and alleviate problems such as colic, flatulence, constipation or diarrhea.

Aromatherapy massage techniques for babies

It is natural for parents to touch, stroke and cuddle their babies which makes the process of massaging all the more easy. Put a few drops of the selected massage oil blend of onto warm hands and spread it across your palms.  Then carry out the following movements:

Feet and Legs: Apply firm yet gentle upward strokes on the outside of the legs (towards baby’s hips) without applying too much pressure on the delicate bones and joints. Rub some oil on the underside of the feet to warm them up.

Tummy: Soft, circular movements across the abdomen aid digestion and are relaxing for your baby.

Scalp and forehead: Babies often have trouble sleeping even when they are very tired. Use your fingers to apply gentle circular strokes across the scalp, temples and forehead. Your baby will slowly calm down and drift off to sleep. If your baby is not very distracted, you can try doing this with your free hand while breastfeeding.

Back: Start at your baby’s buttock with your hands in a triangle shape.  Perform gently strokes moving up baby’s back. Massage shoulders and return gently down the sides of baby’s back.  Repeat three times.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your massage time:

• If time is a problem, you may give your baby “mini massages” throughout the day – massage the tummy at one time and do the back at another. Diaper changes are a good opportunity to rub those tiny legs that have been kicking around all day. You can encourage this habit by keeping small bottles of massage oil handy in different areas of your home.

• While massaging your baby, be sure to maintain a complete and consistent contact between your hands and your child’s body. This will comfort your baby and encourage a bond of trust between you and him.

• It is important that you maintain a positive state of mind as you can easily transfer negative feelings like anger, frustration and nervousness to your baby. Leave all your worries behind and lose yourself in the moments. If your baby is not in the mood for a massage, don’t force him – you can always try another time! With a little practice and patience, you will soon figure out what works best for your baby.

Which oil is best for baby massage?

Here are some ideas for you:

After Bath Calming Oil: Combine 30ml (1 oz) Carrier Oil with 5 drops of Sleep Time Essential Oil and use it after an evening bath, just before tucking your baby in bed.

Tummy Taming Oil: Introduction of solid and semi-solid foods can sometimes cause flatulence and indigestion in babies. Mix 30 ml (1 oz) Carrier Oil with 3 drops of Mandarin and 3 drops of Marjoram essential oils and massage the tummy area with circular movements several times a day. To provide more comfort, apply a warm towel on the abdomen after the massage to provide quicker relief. This blend is also very helpful for colicky babies.

Anti-Cold and Anti-Congestion Oil: Mix 30 ml (1 oz) Carrier Oil with 5 drops of Immune Support Essential Oil and massage baby’s feet, chest and back to relieve a stuffy nose and chest congestion. The blend also enhances the body’s natural immunity and prepares it to fight infections more effectively.

Cradle Cap Clearing Oil: A blend of 30 ml (1 oz) Carrier Oil, 3 drops of Cedarwood oil and 3 drops of Lavender oil is very effective against cradle cap. Massage your baby’s scalp with this blend several times a day.

Quick Healing Oil: As babies learn to crawl and explore their surroundings, minor injuries become an everyday thing. You can keep a quick-fix handy for bumps and bruises by mixing 30ml (1 oz) Carrier Oil with 3 drops Helychrisum  Essential Oil, 3 drops Frankincense Essential Oil and 3 drops Lavender Essential Oil, Apply liberally on the affected area.

By using these customized aromatherapy blends, you too can gift good health and happiness to your precious little one. After all, few things can replace the goodness of nature!

Read also:

How to keep your carpet clean with essential oils

References: Aromatherapy for the Healthy Child by Valerie Ann Worwood

Aromatherapy for Babies and Children by Shirley and Penny Price

© 2012, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

Since ages, humans have tapped into nature’s abundant resources to nurture their children and help them stay healthy. Aromatherapy is a modern, yet simple extension of this concept as it captures nature’s goodness and healing power in tiny bottles. Aromatherapy for babies is gaining popularity because it is completely non-invasive, does not involve subjecting your little one to harsh medicines and the best of all – your baby will love the pleasant and soothing fragrances.

When it comes to using essential oils for babies, many parents have concerns regarding safety and side effects of aromatherapy. As a professional aromatherapist with 17 years of experience and a mother of a very healthy teenager, I can confidently vouch for the safety of aromatherapy for babies. Ever since my son was born, I have used only essential oils to handle common conditions that kids encounter. I am proud to say that in the fifteen years of his life, my son hasn’t had any condition that didn’t resolve with essential oils.

My sister had a beautiful baby in April last year and I have been very fortunate to take care of him every Saturday.  It is an absolute joy to have him at our home on weekends, watch him grow, learn and in turn, learn a little from him. I use this bonding time to treat my nephew to the benefits of essential oils, just as I did with my son. My personal experiences have inspired me to write this article and share useful tips not only to address common ailments, but to help parents enhance their babies’ general wellbeing with the use of nature’s essential oils.

Aromatherapy for Restful Sleep

Most new parents would give their eyes and teeth for something that would help their baby sleep soundly so that they can grab a few moments of peace for themselves. I gave my sister a special blend of Lavender, Mandarin, Marjoram and Palo Santo – she just puts a couple of drops on a cotton pad and places it on one corner of my nephew’s bed, under the sheets.  The baby has been sleeping through the night since he was eight weeks old!

Aromatherapy for Boosting Immunity

Some essential oils like Lavender and Tea Tree are believed to stimulate the production of T-cells (immune cells) and strengthen the body’s immune system.  Mix 1 drop of Tea Tree and 1 drop of Lavender essential oils with ½ teaspoon of unscented shower gel and add it to bath water. This recipe, when used on a daily basis, will help your child ward off disease-causing organisms as he learns to explore the world around him.

Aromatherapy Baths for Babies

When you do not have the time for an elaborate massage, a few drops of essential oils added to your baby’s bath water will do just fine. Here’s how you can make your baby’s bathing ritual more pleasant and enriching:

Fill the bath with warm water and add the chosen oil or blend. Do not use more than 3 drops of essential oils for babies under the age of 1 year.

To make the oils disperse adequately in water, first mix them with ½ tsp salt or a fragrance-free shampoo/ body wash.

• For colds and congestion, use 2-3 drops of Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil.
• For tummy troubles, use a drop each of German Chamomile and Mandarin essential oils.
• To help your baby sleep better, mix a drop each of Lavender and Mandarin essential oils.
•  If your baby is often restless and irritable, use 2-3 drops of Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood essential oils to help calm your baby and make him cheerful.
• Clary Sage and Frankincense essential oils are great for an evening bath, just before tucking your little angel in bed. These oils are rejuvenating in nature and can help relieve tired muscles.

© 2012, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

Boost Your Bottom Line!

Why Use Essential Oils in Your Spa?

I gave recently gave a talk at the National Aesthetic Spa Network event in Florida where I shared with them some tips to boost their bottom line in our current recession economy.

According to the Global Spa Report here are the top 5 reasons people visit a spa:

1. 88%  – Relaxation / Stress Management
2. 59% – Hair / Nails / Waxing Maintenance
3. 47%  – Improve Appearance
4. 37% – Skin Care
5. 22% – Pain Management

It is very important to note that Relaxation and Stress Management still remain the primary reason consumers visit spas.

What Does Aromatherapy have to do with this?

Aromatherapy may not be what draws a customer to your spa, but it may very well be what keeps them coming back! One of the best noticeable results of Aromatherapy is in the areas of Relaxation and Stress Management.

First, what is Aromatherapy?  The term aroma + therapy, leads us to think that Aromatherapy is the therapy of aromas and if that were true, then Aromatherapy would be therapy using anything that smells good, which is not the case. Aromatherapy is a Holistic Therapy that uses plant’s Essential Oils to balance the mind, body and emotions. Maybe a more appropriate term should be Essential Oil Therapy.

I love Gabriel Mojay’s, definition of Aromatherapy: “Aromatherapy can be defined as the controlled use of Essential Oils to maintain and promote physical, psychological and spiritual wellbeing”. His definition sums up all the benefits of Aromatherapy and addresses the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs that draw people to a spa.

Remember:

People recall smells with a 65% accuracy after a year, while the visual recall of photos sinks to about 50% after only three months.
What do you think your guests are going to remember a year after they have visited your spa?

The Benefits of Aromatherapy that Address the Top Reasons People Visit Spas!

1. Essential oils such as Lavender, Marjoram, Mandarin and Palo Santo have relaxing properties; they can help people who suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, insomnia, etc.
2. You can add anti fungal essential oils like Niaouli and Tea Tree to your manicure and pedicure treatments to prevent fungus and to make nails stronger.
3. People not only want to improve their appearance but want to feel good about themselves.  Essential oils with a floral scent such as Geranium, Clary Sage, Ylang Ylang, Rose and Jasmine are said to boost your self-esteem and help you feel better about your body image.
4. Did you know that Essential Oils can improve the texture of your skin?  When you do a facial massage you can add 1 drop of Frankincense + 1 Lavender + 1 drop Helychrisum to your facial oil or lotion as a great way to restore tissue, prevent damage, scavenge free radicals and improve the general texture of the skin.
5. Peppermint,  Ginger and Palo Santo Essential Oils can improve circulation and relieve symptoms of acute and chronic pain, because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Mix 2 drops of each with a teaspoon carrier oil and massage sore areas.

How You can Implement Aromatherapy in Your Spa

Use Aromatherapy burners, I like to use electric burners because they are easier to handle, you don’t have to be concerned about the flame of the candle and you can have one in each treatment room, and a couple of them on the reception area.

The advantages of having an aromatherapy burner are many, among them:

• Essential Oils are antiseptic, and this is very important especially in the cold and flu season – useful oils for this purpose are eucalyptus, rosemary, ravensara and bergamot.
• You want your therapists and your front desk staff to be focused and alert, Essential Oils of cardamom, peppermint,  and rosemary provide a beautiful welcoming scent to your guests and at the same time helps your staff feel energized and ready to work.
• Makes everybody smile – This will always be the case with all the essential oils, but if it’s a rainy or a winter day, you  may want to use citrus Essential Oils as they nourish the heart and release feelings of euphoria.

Call Aromandina at (678) 897-4869 or go to www.aromandina.com to order your Essential Oils today and start using them in your spa!

In Part II we will provide some great ideas to implement the use of Essential Oils in every treatment.

© 2012, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

Visiting my family is one of the reasons I love to go to my country, Ecuador. The other one is the joy of visiting so many interesting places and learning about the richness of that country.

I import 4 essential oils from Ecuador –  Cardamom, Ginger, Palo Santo and Eucalyptus Globulus (unrectified).  My clients always rave about the difference in the smell and strength of these oils.  The reason is that Ecuador is home to unique Andean herbs that possess potent therapeutic properties and are sourced from indigenous communities. The oils are harvested in an organic and environmentally sustainable manner and are thus free of pesticides and harmful chemicals.

Ecuador is a country rich in natural resources. All year long, the sun shines for twelve hours a day, bathing the plants and the earth in its light.  The Equator line crosses this country with high mountains up to 20.000 feet above sea level and lush rainforests.

Due to the unique environmental factors, the  herbs and spices of Ecuador develop a distinctive therapeutic quality. Most of the people of Ecuador are poor with farming as their main source of livelihood. Harvesting these plants and distilling the oil gives families the opportunity to make a fair wage and build the economy of their village.

I would love to share some pictures with you, I know you’ll enjoy them and will want to come with me to visit this paradise.

There is indeed a lot that a whiff of essential oils can do for your love life. From spiking up libidos to rekindling dormant passions, aromatherapy has been used across centuries and civilizations to nurture the inner romantic. The enchanting Cleopatra probably knew what she was doing when she doused herself and the sails of her ship in Rose essence when she set out to seduce Mark Anthony. Even ancient Romans and Egyptians counted on aromatic baths to make lovemaking more erotic and enjoyable.

Traditions have gradually given way to scientific research and today, we know that olfactory stimuli have a direct effect on the brain’s limbic system, which controls our emotions, moods and sexual drive. This factual piece of information pretty much forms the basis of the billion-dollar perfume industry!

Aromatherapy for Self-Love

It is a well known fact that individuals who make for great lovers are ones who are brimming with positivity, passion and self-confidence.  Essential oils work in multiple ways to affect your mood and heighten desire –  they may stimulate,  sedate or help with physical and emotional factors such as vaginal dryness, body image issues and stress that hamper sexual desire. Wearing certain scents can help people feel more self-assured and cheerful, which reflects in their stance and draws people towards them.

If you are the kind that needs a little push to shed inhibitions and express yourself, the sensuous and euphoric scent of Patchouli Essential Oil can help you come out of your shell and release pent-up emotions. Ylang Ylang, on the other hand, can help warm up your mood when you feel frigid or insecure. The oil also helps dispel negative emotions like jealousy and envy.

Aromatherapy for Relationships  

If you feel that a lack of communication and clarity is coming in the way of your romance, the intoxicating scent of Clary Sage can help relieve the buildup of tensions and foster a deeper connection between partners. The oil is also an effective tonic for the female reproductive system as it helps balance out feminine hormones. Similarly, the warm and spicy nature of Cardamom helps clear thoughts and stimulates sexual appetite.

Setting the Stage for Romance

When it comes to love and romance, it helps to invest a little effort in setting up a conducive ambience. “Warming” scents such as Ginger, Cardamom and Cedarwood work perfectly when you want to make your space cozy and inviting.
Ginger is especially helpful during cold winter months when depression and lethargy are more likely to set in. The invigorating aroma of this oil works at a physiological level to improve circulation, relieve aches and boost energy levels.

To introduce an element of fun and playfulness to your lovemaking, try out light, citrusy scents like Mandarin, Grapefruit and Lemon – these are known to enhance emotional wellbeing and infuse positivity in relationships.

Aromatherapy as a Natural Aphrodisiac

Essential oils are believed to balance the body’s chakras (energy centers) and activate the sacral chakra, and is responsible for sexual function. Jasmine Essential Oil is a rare and exotic oil that is also revered as a powerful aphrodisiac. The sharp flowery scent helps fight feelings of listlessness, frigidity and inadequacy while freeing the mind of anxiety and nervousness. Women often experience a significant dip in sexual drive during and after pregnancy. Jasmine is effective in reviving the lost confidence and helps new mothers feel better about themselves and their bodies.

Any talk of love and romance is rather incomplete without a mention of Rose, which has come to symbolize the emotion and everything associated with it. The gentle, comforting scent of Rose essential oil invokes feelings of sensuousness and makes women feel more self-assured about their feminine beauty.

 How to Use Essential Oils?

There are several ways in which you can use aromatic oils to add spice to your romantic interludes:

• Use a traditional aromatherapy burner or plug in an electric diffuser for an instant pick-me-up.
• If you wish to take things a notch higher, spice up your evening by offering your partner a sensual aromatherapy massage with a blend of essential oils. The intimate body contact will not only facilitate the flow of sexual energy but will also relieve stress, boost circulation and induce a state of relaxation. Mix 1 drop of Patchouli essential oil, 3 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil and 2 drops of  Orange essential oil in any carrier oil to concoct your own love potion. Be sure to massage the ankles, feet and hands as these are sensitive areas that can heighten sexual arousal. If a massage sounds like too much work, slip into a warm aromatic bath infused with sea salts and a blend of essential oils with your partner.
• You may also sprinkle a few drops of your chosen essential oil on your bed linen and soak in the fragrance as you revel in your special moments.

Did you know the olfactory nerves that allow you to smell, directly connect to the limbic region of your brain where emotions and memory are stored? Neurologist Alan Hirsch's research has proven that certain scents are shown to have a powerful effect on our emotions.

That is why pleasant smells trigger good feelings and also why Essential Oils are so effective and beneficial for changing your mood.

Wouldn’t it be great to be in charge of our emotions rather than being at their whim? Well, with the help of Essential Oils we can do exactly that. Think of Essential Oils as nature’s emotional healers.

WHAT ESSENTIAL OIL DO I USE and FOR WHAT?

Below are just a few examples. Stay tuned for more to come.

Anxiety, hyperactivity and restlessness: Palo Santo essential oil.

• Fear, anger, and depression: Bergamot essential oil.
• Eliminate congestion during cold and flus Immune Support Essential Oil Blend, or Ravensara essential oil.
• Enhance a romantic mood and ease inhibitions Ylang Ylang and Clary Sage.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS?

A Nebulizer Diffuser is the best. It diffuses the molecules of the Essential Oils into the air without heat so the molecules are not broken down. This gives you the most beneficial results.

So get yourself some essential oils and a diffuser today and enjoy the benefits for the rest of your life!

© 2011, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

I don’t know why it has become the tradition to put sugar candies in Christmas stockings. How about we change that tradition and use our Christmas stockings to promote our families health and well-being?  

Not only is it better for everyone, it is special, unique and personal. Children absolutely love Essential Oils. They will be so happy to receive Aromatherapy that is just for them.

Here are some stocking stuffers I came up with for my nieces and nephews that might give you some gift ideas.

Andrea 16:

Chocolate Rose Perfume, so unique and exquisite, but not overbearing, brings a deep sense of relaxation and that feeling of being beautiful that comes with knowing you are loved.

Mateo 15:

SERENO Body Mist, to help him calm down when his hormones are up.

Paula 14:

EXULTO Body Mist, to help her always be in a good mood.

Martina 13:

Lavender Essential Oil, because that’s her favorite scent.

Danny 10:

Citrus Delight, because he is sweet and creative.

Bernie and Joaquin 10:

VIGOR Body Mist to help them be focused at school and refreshed when they do sports.

For Stocking Stuffers I usually choose Aromatherapy items where the person receiving the gift can use it daily, carry it with them in their purse, backpack or brief case and where it is unique to them and their needs.

3 PERFECT AROMATHERAPY STOCKING STUFFERS

Essential Oil Blends

Aromatherapy Perfume or Roll On

Personal Aromatherapy Essential Oil Blend (click here to read last article for a guide)

Aromatherapy Mists can be sprayed directly on the skin and face as a pick-me-up whenever our energy levels are low. They can refresh, rejuvenate and keep us healthy. They are inexpensive and pre-diluted. They are so useful and often overlooked as a vital part of the Aromatherapy arsenal.

Kids can take them to school and use them to help with their studies, like ALERTA Body Mist for helping them memorize or RESPIRO Immune Support to keep their immune system strong and healthy.

For a teenage girl an Aromatherapy perfume is perfect. It is small, easily fits in a purse or backpack and can be used daily to give her a sense of her beauty, poise and grace. It gives her that sense of being beautiful, feminine and special, and at the same time it helps her health and balances out her hormones. Chocolate Rose is a perfect choice.

I found it useful to just spend some time thinking about the people I wanted to give gifts. I wasn’t thinking about what to get them, just about them. As I did that I found certain Essential Oils would come into my mind that fit them as a person or could help them with an emotional challenge they were facing.

Here is the Aromandina product page. Just browse and take a look. Something perfect might pop off the page for that certain someone.

Are you unsure what Essential Oils would be best for a certain someone? Is someone you know going through some emotional challenges and you want to know what Essential Oils would help? Ask your question here and I will be sure to answer.

© 2011, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

If you are looking to give something personal and customized, there’s nothing better and easier than creating a ‘Customized Aromatherapy Body Oil’.

I received an email from a woman that participated in an Aromatherapy Workshop I gave a while back, who became a good friend of mine. As part of the workshop, I gave each participant a personal blend of Essential Oils. Here is an excerpt of the email.

Hi Cristina,

Do you remember the Aromatherapy workshop you gave …? You made a ‘Personal Essential Oil Blend’ for each participant …I use (mine) all the time, especially when I need to get centered …It seems to fit who I really am.

 I want to give ‘Personal Essential Oil Blends’, like the ones you gave us in the workshop, as gifts this year. Do you have any tips on how to choose a ‘Personal Blend’ for loved ones?

I thought my answer to this would be useful to everyone, especially as the Holiday Season is right around the corner.

So here is a step by step guide to create a ‘Personalized Aromatherapy Body Oil’.

1. Spend some quiet time just thinking about the person you are making the ‘Personal Blend’ for and set the intention to make them the perfect scent that is special to them.

2. After you have done that think about what part of the plant they remind you of? Not just how they look, but deep inside.

• Are they beautiful like a flower? Then choose feminine flowery essential oils like ROSE, JASMINE, GERANIUM, YLANG YLANG or YLANG YLANG to enhance their beauty, calm them when they are stressed and raise their self esteem.

• Are they grounded like a root or a tree? Then choose essential oils from roots and trees like PALO SANTO, CEDARWOOD or GINGER to provide stability, help them to be grounded and help them achieve their goals for the New Year.

• Are they clean and fresh like everlasting conifers? Then choose PINE, FIR, SPRUCE or ROSEMARY essential oils to help them be healthy, focused and full of energy.

• Or are they more sweet and fresh like citrus fruit? Any citrus fruit will do the trick in providing a fresh, relaxing and invigorating scent. You can choose SWEET ORANGE, LEMON or GRAPEFRUIT.

3. Once you choose the part of the plant they remind you of, think about the positive physical and emotional benefits that those essential oils provide.

5. I have found that usually a blend will have between 3 – 5 essential oils. One will stand out as dominant and there will be 2 – 4 essential oils as complementing aspects. Follow steps 2 and 3 to choose the complementing essential oils.

6. Hold the essential oils you have chosen in your hands, or if you don’t have the essential oils yet, write each one you choose on a separate piece of paper and put them in front of you. Continue thinking about your Loved-One with the intention of giving them the perfect blend that is special to them. As you do this, you might put one of the essential oils back or think of another one. When you feel finished and complete you are done.

7. Put a total of 60 drops of essential oil in our 4 oz carrier oil bottle. Use your intuition and sense of smell to get that perfect ratio of your chosen essential oils. A useful hint: citrus oils always add sweetness to a blend that can otherwise feel too strong or unappealing.

8. Lastly, hold the finished ‘Customized Essential Oil Blend’ in your hand and write your Loved-One a note about how you choose this blend especially for them.

This is sure to be a memorable and special gift they will cherish.

Click here to see a list of the different single note Essential Oils you can use to make your special blends.

Please let us know your stories and experiences about blending. All our readers will thank you.

© 2011, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC

This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

The Holidays are just around the corner. It is a time for family togetherness, joy, contemplation, letting go of the old and embracing the new.

Although, spending time with family and friends, eating good food, drinking and giving gifts can be a wonderful experience, it is out of the normal routine and requires time, money and preparation.

All of that is on top of the regular work, kids, school and extra-curricular activities that make up our day. With all this stress staying healthy can also be a challenge.

For some of us family may be far away, or we don’t have much family, or there has been a long standing schism with a family member. The Holiday Season tends to heighten all of those family issues we haven’t dealt with. No doubt it can be a time of great joy and great stress.

  Here are 4 Reasons to Use Aromatherapy this Holiday Season:  

1. To STAY HEALTHY
2. To KEEP A JOYFUL THE HEART
3. To RELIEVE ANXIETY AND HOLIDAY STRESS
   
4. To OVERCOME THE HOLIDAY BLUES

WHAT ESSENTIAL OILS SHOULD I USE?

 For Your Health:

Ravensara and Ecuadorean Eucalyptus essential oils

Keep a bottle with you at all times. Just open, smell it and feel your sinuses open.

 For Family Gatherings:

Clary Sage and Geranium Essential Oils

Release endorphins, the happy hormones, and make your family gatherings joyous and FUN. When your guests walk in the door they might not know why, but they will feel welcome, relaxed and joyous.

For whenever you Feel Anxious:

SERENO BODY MIST

Keep it with you and spray on your face whenever you feel the need. Palo Santo, Lavender and Mandarin will bring back a sense of calm and peace. Spray it on your pillow at night for a deep restoring sleep.

For the Holiday Blues

Here are some specific essential oils that will alleviate these Holiday Blues, the emotional challenges that often come with the Holiday Season.

ROSE – heals the heart of deep wounds, the flower of Love and compassion.

JASMINE – makes you feel beautiful, comfortable with who you are, it melts away anxieties and relaxes you.

BERGAMOT – like Rose, Bergamot helps to heal the heart, it also cleanses the mind when it is congested with thoughts that don’t allow you to grow.

PALO SANTO – helps reconnect with your higher sense of being while at the same time helps you think with a sharp, rational and analytic mind.

FRANKINCENSE – heals old wounds, deep forgiveness, relieves a tight chest and alleviates that feeling of being overwhelmed with worries and restlessness.

 AROMATHERAPY IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE!

 Here are several very easy ways to incorporate Aromatherapy into your daily routine that can greatly alleviate these Holiday stresses. They have a beneficial physical and emotional effect.

 Use Aromatherapy in Your Daily Shower

Put 3 to 5 drops of Essential Oil on a washcloth.

Place the washcloth on your chest.

Allow the heat of the shower to release the vapors and breathe in deeply.

Use Aromatherapy in Your Daily Bath

Place 3-5 drops of Essential Oil in a couple of tablespoons of salt

As the bath water is running pour the mixture into the bath

Let the salt dissolve and soak for 15-20 minutes

Use Aromatherapy diluted in your carrier oil

Place 15 drops of the Essential Oil you need into 1oz. of body oil or lotion.

Rub it on your body after showering to moisturize your skin

Use an Aromatherapy Burner and Fill a Whole Room with the Pleasant Aroma

Place water and 3-5 drops of Essential Oil in the Aromatherapy Burner holder

Light a candle and place that under the cup filled with your Essential Oil drops

Let the vapors fill the room

What has worked for you? Share your stories and recommendations.

Here are some gift ideas for you:

Related Aromatherapy Articles:

Are you hosting a party? Enhance the atomsphere with essential oils

Holiday Gift List

Aromatherapy Gifts for Your Family

© 2011, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC

This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.