How to Use Aromatherapy to Enhance Your Meditation Sessions

Whether you practice meditation or are studying aromatherapy, you're going to love combining the two together. Meditation has been proven time and again to help relieve anxiety, lower levels of chronic pain, and increase your mental focus.

Studies have shown that essential oils can help you sleep better and provide relief from anxiety. Essential oils can also enhance the power of your meditation sessions. By using essential oils, we can stimulate our olfactory nerve which, in turn, stimulates both the limbic and nervous systems in a way which will enhance our meditations.

Ways to Use Essential Oils

Be sure and check in with your doctor before your start using them, especially if you're on any medications. No matter the oil, Young Living Essential Oils suggests you use natural oils that are a therapeutic grade, for best results.

Diffuser

Diffuser Oils can be sticks made from reed or bamboo. There are also some beautiful humidifier-type containers. The scent fills the room as moisture is dispersed throughout the room with a built-in fan.

Spray

Mixing your own oils in a spray bottle and lightly spraying the area where you'll be meditating is a common practice.

Essential Oils on Your Skin

This is actually a more advanced method of using essential oils as many oils can be harmful or even dangerous when applied directly to the skin. Many oils cannot be used on the skin at full strength and some cannot be used at all. For those safe to use on your skin, many need to be diluted with a carrier oil which acts as a buffer. Some common carrier oils are cooking oils such as olive oil and grape seed. Fractionated coconut oil is also a popular choice.

Two common ways to diffuse oils are on your hands and on your pulse points.

When using the pulse point method, the oils are mixed together and applied using a roller bottle.

To use an oil on your hands, first, get settled wherever you are going to meditate. Rub the oils on your hands and cup your hands over your nose and mouth. Take five to ten deep breaths and begin your meditation session.

Common Essential Oils Used in Meditation

The oils you use will depend on the goal of your meditation sessions. Sometimes we meditate to alleviate chronic pain, while other times, it's more about enhancing focus. Still, other sessions could be dedicated to reducing stress. You definitely don't want to use a stimulating oil when you're trying to lower your blood pressure!

Relaxation

Lavender oil has been clinically proven to lower brain waves and blood pressure and is great for a deeper, mindful session. When it comes to reducing anxiety, Chamomile, and Rosemary are both good choices. Patchouli has a sedative effect and is great for quieting your internal conversations.

Focus and Clearing

Clary Sage cleanses the air and also cleanses your mind of negative thoughts. For grounding, Cedarwood is a solid choice. It's also ideal for focus and mental balance. This is a strong scent so use it sparingly. Basil is also fantastic for clearing the mind.

Revitalization

Cinnamon is great for clearing thoughts and revitalizes your strength. Peppermint's reputation is well known and citrus scents can be uplifting.

Spiritual Awareness

Frankincense is used in nearly every religious practice. It helps with emotional balance and is used to release negativity. Sandalwood is another great oil for raising spiritual awareness. For releasing resistance and practicing acceptance and gratitude, try the earthy tones of Spikenard. Consider Rosemary for increasing your third eye awareness.

We are only now beginning to recognize the power of essential oils and how they can enhance our everyday lives. Try using essential oils during your meditation sessions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, you'll be amazed at the results.