Transform Your Yoga Practice

Aroma therapy can restore both physical and emotional well-being. Combining the healing benefits of yoga with the powerful therapeutic properties of essential oils can transform your yoga practice. Using yoga asanas (poses) to heat the body and open up the energetic pathways allows the medicinal qualities of the essential oils to directly enter these pathways, thus increasing your overall sense of well-being.

Aromatherapy acts on the central nervous system relieving stress, anxiety, and depression while relaxing, and uplifting the spirit. I have found that a great way to start any yoga practice is a direct palm inhalation of your favorite essential oil. Just put a few a few drops of an essential oil in the palm of your hand, rub together, and breathe in deep. This is a quick and easy way to reap the many therapeutic values of these aromatic treasures without offending any sensitive yogis on a nearby yoga mat.

Here are my two all-time favorites to get you started. Lavender (which is considered by some to be the panacea of all essential oils), is calming, relaxing, anti-microbial, immune enhancing, hormone-balancing, safe, and it smells wonderful! Another favorite of mine is Floracopeia’s delightfully fragrant blend called “Breathe,” which is an exquisite mix of Eucalyptus, Silver fir and White sage. “Breathe” will help keep the lungs clear of excess mucous, deepen your breath, and boost your overall respiratory immunity.

Before you begin your aromatic journey, here are a few important tips to remember when using essential oils. It is important to only use the highest quality therapeutic grade essential oils. Synthetic or adulterated oils may be less expensive, but they will not provide the same desired effect as pure therapeutic grade oils. Citrus oils are phototoxic and should not be applied directly to skin before exposure to sunlight because it can cause severe skin damage. Always avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

The synergy of yoga and aromatherapy is truly a restorative and healing experience for the mind, body and soul.

Robin A. Barnette, ERYT 500, is a registered yoga teacher and a certified Aroma Therapist. Robin believes that the optimal way to healing begins with opening the body through yoga, laughter, love, and big, deep, aromatic breaths. “Like” her Facebook page to learn about upcoming workshops and classes.