Aromatherapy Self Care Analysis

As an aromatherapist, maintaining my health must come first; if I am not at my optimum health, I cannot be successful, be it at work or at home. Diet, exercise and sleep all have a role to play in self care regimes. As Power (2015) states, the food we eat affects our daily performance; we need to consume less high fats and more fruit and vegetables (Power, 2015). Likewise, poor sleep habits affect our health. According to information from the Harvard Medical School (2007), negative sleep patterns have ramifications for long-term health. Furthermore, the effect of sleeplessness has links to increased stress levels and chronic disease (Sigurdson and Ayas, 2007). Lastly, exercise is the perfect outlet for mitigating stress as well as an escape
Restful sleep, exercise and good nutrition are important, but so is the addition of relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and aromatherapy. Incorporating aromatherapy self-care helps to improve digestion, balance cortisol levels, normalise blood pressure and improve the heart rate (Peterson, 2016). I would include the following into my daily self-care regime to maintain sustainable practice:
• Develop and use a personal scent – using an aroma unique to myself transmits information about me, which is subconsciously interpreted by others; mixing a few drops of frankincense with a carrier oil and applying to my wrists before meditation (frankincense may assist with healthy brain function as well as immune stimulating).
• Self-massage – eg Chamomile blended with carrier oil and massaged into the forehead, face, shoulders, hands and feet. Chamomile is suggested to relieve tension as well as promoting relaxation (IAAMA, 2008)
• Use a mist diffuser – the inhalation of sandalwood (for example) promotes calm and balances emotions; geranium, bergamot and lavender can also help reduce stress; lemon or eucalyptus during the winter months can help clear the air of unwanted bugs and germs (IAAMA,
Practicing intentional self-care using aromatherapy is critical for the mind/body/soul paradigm and for establishing long-term