Yoga & Essential Oils: Get Ready For Your Next Best Duo!

Post by: Rachel Raba in essential oils, yoga, stress relief

Yoga and its health benefits have been studied for generations. In the last 10 years, yoga participation numbers have grown steadily, with over 10 million more people participating in yoga in the spring of 2017 than there were in 2006. It’s no surprise that today there are 36.7 million yoga participants in the United States alone!

Those are staggering numbers! With its focus on breathing and posture, yoga reduces stress hormones and increases physical and emotional well-being, allowing for individuals to find peace in their hectic daily lives.

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Do you run, compete in triathlons, crossfit, dance, or practice yoga? Want to get an edge on the competition? Learn more about using essential oils to enhance your athletic performance.

I walked into a yoga class last week and my teacher explained that she was going to begin using essential oils to enhance “the uplifting experience of the asanas.” This, I’ve found, is now a common occurrence. Gone are the days of a pungent smell of incense! It’s been replaced by a lighter, friendlier, more inviting aroma of essential oils that nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

Now, do you know the health benefits of essential oils? Essential oils can help with anxious feelings, aches and pains, and sleep, and many have antibacterial and antifungal qualities. They’re constantly being integrated into daily lives all over the world to help with a wide array of health issues, from poor digestion to headaches. The best part about them is that they are safe and there are no known detrimental side effects when using them wisely, unlike in pharmaceuticals. With the countless studies and research that have been done, essential oils provide all of the benefits without the side effects.

Essential oils are also amazingly helpful for with stress relief, making it a natural fit to pair it with essential oils and aromatherapy. Incorporating essential oils can multiply the stress-relieving benefits of your yoga practice. How do you do that, though? There are so many ways to use essential oils during yoga before, during, and after your practice. Here are a few examples.

Calming and Grounding: If soothing or relaxing is your goal, try these essential oils aromatically or topically: Frankincense, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Lavender, Cedarwood, Bergamot, Vetiver, or Copaiba.

Uplifting and Energizing: Try these oils both aromatically and topically (with a carrier oil) to energize your practice: Peppermint, Sweet Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, or Rosemary.

Breathing Awareness and Sinus Congestion: To clear any congestion and open your sinuses, try diffusing or applying the following to your chest: Eucalyptus, Cardamom, Peppermint, Basil, Rosemary, Myrrh, or Frankincense.

To Soothe Sore or Tired Muscles: Select one of these to apply topically with a carrier oil before or after your practice: Siberian Fir, Marjoram, Cypress, Lemongrass, Ginger, Coriander, or Blue Tansy.

Relaxation and Final Resting Pose: Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver, Cedarwood, or Serenity

It’s important to note that everyone reacts to essential oils and their aromas differently. They’re potent: some people might find lavender appealing while others might find it agitating. I recommend placing a drop on the corner of your yoga mat to gauge what works for you. Note: Using essential oils may ruin some yoga mats. Test a drop (or the mat spray below) on a small part of your mat first to make sure it doesn't affect it.

Whether you're an expert yogi or are just beginning, a good spray is helpful for keeping your mat clean and fresh. Here’s a simple recipe:

YOGA MAT SPRAY

¾ cup distilled water
¼ cup alcohol-free witch hazel or white vinegar
5 drops Lavender essential oil
3 drops Tea Tree essential oil

Instructions: Combine all ingredients in an 8 oz glass spray bottle. Shake until combined. To use, spray on mat and wipe dry with towel.

For all of this and more delivered straight to your inbox, be sure to subscribe and follow along. Send me a comment and tell me your favorite combination for yoga practice!

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Yoga Mat Spray Recipe with essential oils

WANT MORE HELP?

If you're interested in trying essential oils -- for yoga or otherwise -- but feel overwhelmed or confused by which oils to start with or how to use them, let a certified aromatherapist be your guide (that's me!).

Feel free to email me at rachel@holisticallyhealthyhome.com.
Want to talk on the phone? No problem! I'm happy to answer your questions. Click here to schedule a free 30-minute chat!

I'll get you headed in the right direction for you, your yoga practice, and your family!

5 Mar 2018