There is a wonderful variety of essential oils out there. And they all have an amazing array of beneficial properties and uses. You want to make sure that you are not buying a load of them which you won’t use or that you don’t know how to use.
I have a long list of favourite’s but there are a few staples which I almost always have to hand. And these are eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, peppermint, orange, lemongrass and orange and rose. I feel like this covers all the basics, a good range of uplifting, calming and delicious.
A note on quality: It is really important to ensure that you buy high quality essential oils, otherwise you may not be getting any of the benefits. I use Neal’s yard remedies and Atlantic Aromatics.
Essence inspired morning shower– Use a couple drops of eucalyptus to clear your airwaves, eucalyptus is an expectorant which means it can help clear the body of toxins and harmful micro-organisms. So this is especially revitalising if you are feeling a bit under the weather.
Fresh breath and calm the belly– a drop or two of peppermint oil into your drinking water after meals can help to freshen your breath and also because of its carminative properties, it can help soothe and relieve bloating.
Eau de essential– I have always had an aversion to perfume, any time I walk into a perfume shop I feel overwhelmed and sometimes get a bit of a headache, that is why I find essential oils to be an amazing alternative. I usually dab a dot lemon grass onto a scarf or you can mix a couple drops of your favourite (I love rose) with a carrier oil like de-fractionated coconut oil and pop it into a roller so that you can apply it to the wrist and neck like traditional perfume.
Don’t deodorize essentialise– lemongrass is uplifting and cleansing and lavender are calming and balancing creating the perfect combo for a yin-yang deodorant. I mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 2tbs of arrowroot powder and 1tbs of baking soda. Melt the coconut oil and stir the arrowroot and baking soda then add a few drops of each essential oil to the mix for an all natural and wonderfully delicious smelling deodorant.
Fresh practices– A couple drops of each orange, tea tree and eucalyptus in a spray bottle with water combine to make a fantastic antibacterial, cleansing and amazing smelling mat cleaner to invigorate your practice. Check out my recipe here. Make mat cleaning and essential experience!
Pillow partner- Lavender oil is my favourite pillow partner. I find a couple drops onto my pillow before I go to lay my head down for the night to be so soothing. The smell usually remains all the way through to the morning making it a delightful scent to wake up to…warning this may cause you to stay and snuggle your pillow for a little extra time in the mornings.
What is your favourite essential oil and how do you love to use it? I would really like to know as I might like to borrow your idea for my own benefit. ; )
Leave a comment below.
Have an essential oil inspired day!
@awaytolivewell aka. Ana Maria
