Over the last week I have been doing some decluttering, clearing, and decided to cleanse my bag of essential oils that I carry around with me.
The task prompted me to look up in my journal, under my oil library section, as to why I bought some of the specific oils. I know that each of them has so many functions and healing properties and I cannot possibly remember them all.
Reading over my notes and reminding myself of their benefits was such a wonderful rediscovery and so I thought I would share some of the oils that are in my bag and why. I am thoroughly enjoying some new blends that are burning at home now too as I am doing everything I can to boost immunity 
Most oils are good for boosting immunity, reducing stress and enabling body toxin release. Also the act of us smelling and inhaling the oils promotes natural deeper, slower breath which is always beneficial for our nervous system.
Oils help us to find our centre and our state of balance when everything around us is constantly changing – they bring a sense of grounding. Oils find the level of help you need and excesses are eliminated. Used consistently is important rather than sporadically – just like our yoga practice! They are super for preventative work as well rather than only reaching for them as a cure.
Here are just a few that I keep at hand:
- Basil: is an effective oral care oil and mouth freshener, it can support asthma relief, prevent kidney stones, relieve headaches and heart disease – a real star this one!
- Bergamot: another multi-purpose oil – can be used as a deodorant, anti-septic, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressant and sedative. Great for circulation, pain reduction, relaxant, digestive and fever reduction
- Clary Sage: beautiful aroma and acts as an anti-depressant, prevents infections, acts as an antioxidant, can relieve wind related discomfort, regulates menstrual cycles, lowers blood pressure, promotes digestive health and uterine health. This is a great oil for reducing menopausal symptoms and PMT as the phytoestrogens derived from plants regulate oestrogen levels, reduce cortisol level and improve thyroid hormone levels.
- Geranium: my favourite oil as it smells divine! This oil is a gem and renowned for preventing bacterial growth, speeding healing, reducing scar tissue, improving cell health, preventing neural degeneration and can be a deodorant too. This oil helps to regulate hormonal fluctuations and is very calming, soothing, revitalising and detoxifying.
- Lemon: a wonderful ‘degreaser’ for cleaning pots and pans! Also boosts our white blood cells, promotes good digestion and cleanses the blood
- Lavender: promotes sleep and reduces stress
- Lime : a great anti-septic, anti-viral, astringent that is great for infections, toothache, disinfectant and also promotes blood coagulation and has anti-aging properties
- Peppermint: a powerful anti-nausea oil, it is energising and can also support us as we try to kick dependencies
- Tea Tree: this is great for steadying nerves and mental fatigue; it boosts the immune system and has ant-septic and anti-fungal properties. This oil can be great for many fungal related foot issues, acne, cold sores and skin conditions.
- Ylang Ylang: a wonderfully sweet-smelling anti-depressant, that is also an anti-septic, can reduce blood pressure and have sedative properties
***Please remember most aromatherapy oils are not advisable if you are pregnant.***
Last week, the Vietnamese Buddhist Monk Thích Nhất Hạnh died at the age of 95. His work and teaching have impacted the lives of so many people around the globe. It feels right, this week, to be sharing one of his many inspirational quotes.
“My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground on which I stand.”
Thích Nhất Hạnh
Looking forward to seeing you on your mats this week!
Love and light
Lorraine