Remember to Breathe Deeply

Breath is a deep luxury that often goes unnoticed and under appreciated... until it is challenged.

As a result of horrific fires in the Napa & Sonoma areas, the air is full of harsh irritants. Our nose, throat and lungs are exposed to air that is now full of debris and toxins, making it very challenging to get a deep breath.  In this type of situation, I naturally turn to essential oils, and take down my wood boxes of oils to decide what will help us breathe. 

In addition to the smokey air, the chilly mid-October causes the passages in our lungs to constrict. This combination is harsh on lungs, but there are important essential oils with vital properties that we can turn to for help:

  • For a sore throat or cold and flu symptoms, I turn to the anti-bacterial properties of Lemon, Lavender, Ravensara & Peppermint.
  • To open air passages and increase respiration, I rely on the antispasmodic properties of Bergamot, Rosemary or Clary Sage. 
  • To expel toxins or mucus build up in the lungs, the expectorant properties of Frankincense, Ravensara or Niaouli can help.   

There are a number of ways to use these lovely oils, and infuse them in your daily pattern this fall. Some of my favorites are: 

  • Draw a bath and put 2 or 3 drops of one of the oils into the water and soak for 10 to 15 minutes.  
  • Add 1 or 2 drops of oil into a palm full of lotion and rub into your hands and feet. 
  • Create a spritzer, using a 2 oz spray bottle with purified or distilled water. Add 4 or 5 drops of essential oil, shake and spray as needed. (I like to carry a spritzer with me. As needed, spray over head and face and inhale deeply.  Ahhh, breathe!)

If you're wondering about today's blend- I used a combination of Peppermint, Bergamot, Ravinsara, Rosemary, Clary Sage and Marjoram. Remember to breathe deeply friends, and stay healthy! 

 

**As always, I feel compelled to lovingly remind you to use respect and caution whenever using essential oils and seek professional guidance.  If you have animals make sure they have a way to leave the room you are using essential oils in.  Many of the essential oils humans enjoy are toxic to animals, especially cats.  Animal’s body systems are different than humans and may not have the things needed to process the oils and as a result may actually poison them.    

This Aromatherapy blog and information is based upon the common uses of aromatherapy.  This blog and information does not intended to be used for diagnosis or to treat any condition.  Please do not use this information as a substitute for medical advice/counseling with a health care professional.  No part of this blog article may be reproduced in whole or part without the explicit written permission of AromaticVitality and or Maggie Yule.**

Maggie's ThoughtsMaggie Yule