The Holidays, although a great time for getting together with friends and family, can often be stressful. In addition, eating a diet of rich foods can upset our digestive systems. Fortunately, there is a natural therapy at hand to help! Aromatherapy can be used in a variety of ways during the Holidays which in turn leads to a happier and healthier you for the New Year. Here are a few ways (and scents) to help you through the Holiday season.
Aromatherapy Candles and Diffusers for the Holidays
Perhaps one of the most seasonal ways in which to use aromatherapy is either an aromatherapy candle or an aromatherapy diffuser. Inhalation is one of the quickest ways in which aromatherapy enters our bodies – and it is also one of the most effective ways for dealing with emotional issues such as stress (source: Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, Shirley Price, Len Price). Just make sure that you choose an aromatherapy candle that is made with essential oils (not fragrance oils, as they have no therapeutic properties) or add a few drops of an essential oil to an aromatherapy diffuser.
Aromatherapy Bath Oils for the Holidays
Shopping, eating and visiting with friends and family can all take their toll on our stress levels during the Holidays. One of the best ways to relax and unwind after a busy day is to take an aromatherapy bath. Add a drop or two of essential oils to your bath water, use an aromatherapy bubble bath or use bath salts (such as Epsom or Himalayan salts) that have therapeutic properties. This will help you to not only relax but will ease tired, aching muscles too, depending on the type of essential oil that you choose.
Aromatherapy for Digestive Complaints
Sometimes we eat just a little too much of the good stuff during the Holidays which can result in minor stomach upsets or digestive complaints. If you do overindulge in too many rich foods, keep a bottle of massage oil with appropriate essential oils(see below) to hand to massage over your stomach, if you experience a stomach ache.
Aromatherapy Emergency Kit for the Holidays
Essential oils have different therapeutic properties, so you need to choose the appropriate oil for your problem. Here’s a list of essential oils that I would recommend for your aromatherapy emergency Holiday kit:
- citrus oils such as lemon, orange and mandarin for digestive complaints
- ginger essential oil for digestive complaints and nausea
- ylang ylang, lavender and rose for stress.
(source: The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, Julia Lawless)
The above essential oils are just a few suggestions for Holiday complaints; you can substitute various other oils too.
Traditional Aromatherapy Scents for the Holidays
If you are trying to create a Holiday mood for your party or gathering, you might want to use some of the more traditional scents associated with the Holiday season. The following scents are common aromas used at this time of year, but you can also use other scents to create either an uplifting or mellow atmosphere in your home:
- cinnamon
- myrrh
- frankincense
- orange
- sandalwood
- pine
- cypress.
Use these scent in an aromatherapy diffuser, or as an aromatherapy candle, for the best effects.
Cautions for Using Aromatherapy During the Holidays
Essential oils are a therapeutic way in which to enhance the Holidays. However, make sure that you add just a couple of drops of an essential oil to your diffuser (and in water to avoid burning the oils). Never apply essential oils directly to the skin; use a carrier such as a massage oil, lotion or water. If you are unsure about how to use essential oils safely and effectively for the Holidays, consult a qualified and experienced aromatherapist for advice. Happy Holidays!
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