How to make an Aromatherapy Body Oil – Video

Video

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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How to make an Aromatherapy Body Oil (YouTube Demonstration)

All my readers already know ho to do this - clever people!

All my readers already know how to do this – clever people!

 

Last week on YouTube I did a demo on how to make an oil blend for your body using 3 essential oils. All my readers here already know how to do this (you clever people), but for those who aren’t quite sure check it out:

 

 

 

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention

copryright SR Banks 2015

An Essential Oil Guide to Opening Your Heart Centre This Valentines Day

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback

 


An Essential Oil Guide to Opening Your Heart Centre This Valentines Day

Open your heart to possibilities

Open your heart to possibilities!

 

Our hearts are wonderful little powerhouses that physically keep us going – yay! So why do we talk about our hearts in more expansive terms?

We relate to our hearts in much more emotional terms and make the distinction that we feel emotions in our hearts and we think with our brains. Of course everything is interconnected, and probably much more elusive than we really believe.

So if I say the heart centre or heart chakra, I am referring to our emotional centre, powered by the heart, in a very intuitive way.

If we are closed to sharing our emotional self we may have thoughts and feelings that tell us love is dangerous. We may also feel physically blocked to love – constricted around the heart.

Release the cobwebs in your heart

Release the cobwebs in your heart

Having a flow of energy throughout the body can keep you on the road of well-being. If we don’t have a flow of energy through the heart we may feel:

* stressed

* unhappy, even depressed, unable to enjoy life

* unwell, even to the point of having physical heart problems

* unable to relate to others and could become a loner

* have a feeling of “blah” – everything is grey

* no one understands us

hearts to you

hearts to you

 

Which oils can help the emotions flow freely and lift the veil of ordinary?

Bergamot – calm and connected, from what is to what if?

Rosewood – helps create a wonderful flow of loving energy in your heart chakra, giving and receiving

Rose – the Queen of oils to help with grief, moving forward, loving your self and accepting divine love

Fennel – licorice love – be kind to yourself and good things will happen

Patchouli – peace and nurturing

Palmarosa – flexibility and new ideas about love

Sandalwood – opens the base chakra to ignite passion throughout the body

Jasmine – sensuality

Ignite your heart

Ignite your heart

So this St Valentines’s Day, whether you are in

* a romantic relationship that’s fabulous

* a romantic relationship that needs renewal or help

* if you are single but really want a significant other

* or you are single but are looking for more meaningful relationships

* or if you’re single and you love it (so basically everyone)

treating yourself with beautiful essential oils will open you to the divine love of the universe, and expand your views on life. Know on this day you were brought here to experience, and one of those things that gets overlooked is interconnectedness. I am you, you are me. Release your heart from restrictions, and really live!

Your heart knows no bounds

Your heart knows no bounds

How Can You Use These Oils for the best Benefit?

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

2. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness.

3. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix some oils and anoint your heart – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

4. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

 

 

 

 

New Year – New Energy – Which Essential Oils?

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback


New Year – New Energy – Which Essential Oils?

?

?

So here we are, 2015! It’s definitely the present but sounds like the future. It’s going to be a great year of fun, working together, and loving life. So which essential oils can we use to embellish our clean, crisp new year energy?

Hmmmmmmmm. I’m going to split this into 3 sections, with 3 oils in each:

1. Northern Hemisphere

2. Southern Hemisphere

3. Equatorial

It's winter for you

It’s winter for you

1. Northern Hemisphere

Brrrr it’s winter for you, so the oils that I’m sending to you are those which will be comforting, warming and loving.

Cinnamon – best to use this in the atmosphere rather than on your skin because it can really burn. It’s an oil of sweetness and loving what you do, and a spice that is loved by so many people. Used in herbal formulas the spice can help to increase metabolism and even help breakdown glucose in the blood a little bit faster; so it’s interesting that it’s often used in baking. This is a wonderful oil to use in your space to invite a new depth of your place in this world – your dharma. What is your true purpose?

Rosemary – warm up your feet and entire body with an oil blend made with rosemary oil. It is also the oil of remembering and there’s no better time than in winter to remember the good times, while you’re tucked away from the cold. It is a stimulating and refreshing oil and inspires us to look at the beautiful flow of abundance in our lives. Be grateful for what you have NOW, and energetically create your new plans.

Cedarwood Virginian – dissolve the barriers from last year to start the new year with a clean slate. This comforting oil can be used in body blends so well and is also great for soothing coughs and colds. This is also a wonderful oil to help with the answers to your questions of purpose in life. For you this winter, starting 2015, we need you to be absolutely committed to your spiritual and human purpose. This is evolution.

 

I took this pic the other day

I took this pic the other day

2. Southern Hemisphere

Yay it’s summer for us! Beach, gin and tonics, beach, swimming, really hot, beach.It’s our turn to celebrate and be out in the sun (with sunscreen on). We can relax and enjoy life. No need to think about the future too much – just be present.

Geranium – happiness and cheeriness. Perfect for a body oil blend or in a space scenting blend this floral oil of happiness reminds us we can feel good about life and enjoy every minute. It emanates colour, fun and joy – so be happy!

Vetiver – the oil of tranquility and abundance this oil is great to use to help remove heat from the body and to cool us down in the humid summer evenings. This very strong oil should be used sparingly and 1 drop around the body is enough. A couple of drops on a wet cloth, placed in front of a fan or a window can scent the entire house with the cool, earthy tones to help slip into a vibration of peacefulness and trusting.

Basil – expansive and refreshing basil oil will help open our minds to the wonderful opportunities for 2015. Basil oil can help strengthen our affirmations and resolutions for 2015 and will give us confidence. Whiff straight from the bottle or add to a space scenting blend to connect to universal intelligence.

 

The Equator - pic via commons.wikimedia.org

The Equator – pic via commons.wikimedia.org

3. Equatorial

You’re in the middle and hold us together. Whether you’re north or south of this mid line, it’s a bit milder and the seasons are not necessarily as pronounced. Your new year is one of balance and happiness where you can look forward to a 2015 full of laughter and warmth. Your oils are those which can add both introspection and celebration to your new year.

Sandalwood Indian – a classic oil for spirituality this oil gives deep meaning to the times when you can take a moment to look within. It can help raise your energetic vibration from the base of your spine right up to your crown chakra and can help you move through any thing holding you back from 2014. Perfect just to whiff straight from the bottle.

Lavender – solidarity and strength, lavender can be the one oil that can bring your thoughts, feelings and actions together. Lavender can be used for just about any issues whether physical, mental or spiritual. Perfect for a body blend lavender will nourish your skin and your soul.

Bergamot – happiness and bringing a sense of calm, bergamot is a beautiful oil to help you see the possibilities for this year. Remove any anxiety you may have about the future and just breathe! Mix a couple of drops with some carrier oil and anoint your wrists and heart to lift anything that could be holding you back.

For another new year article check this out: 2015! The Universal Number of 8! and also stay tuned for my Chinese Year of the Goat post in mid February.

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

The Highs and The Lows – Which Essential Oils to Use

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The Highs and The Lows – Which Essential Oils to Use

ENERGY!

ENERGY!

In Sydney the past week we have had stinking hot days with thunderstorms in the afternoon. Pretty much everyday, and it’s been really full on too.

Thunder!

Lightening!

Rain!

Hail!

More Rain!

Apparently it’s due to slow moving low pressure troughs. OK.

So I was thinking it’s the same in life. One moment it’s sunny, bright, happy and beachy; the next it’s an explosion of emotional energy just like thunder.  Anger, anguish, uncertainty, pain, sadness …. and so much more.

Happy!

Happy!

Essential Oils for The High Times

Since you’re already feeling so wonderful about everything essential oils can help ground you, or even add to the good vibes.

If you’re a bit on the manic side you may need essential oils to even you out, and help you feel more connected to the earth:

Patchouli – peace, connection to Mother Earth

Vetiver – calming, grounding, cooling

Bergamot – clear headedness

Cedarwood Virginian – smooth your energy, slow down

Lavender – strength and solidarity

Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend - pic via redbookmag.com

Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend – pic via redbookmag.com

I’d recommend a body oil to even out your energetic surges, and keep you hydrated, smooth and soft.

Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Tall Tree”

You can get all rustley and fun but stay connected to the ground so you don’t fly away –

Bergamot                  4 drops

Lavender                   2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian  2 drops


Not going anywhere ...

Not going anywhere …

Essential Oils for The Low Times

Depression. Sadness. Grief. Heaviness. Lack. Despair.

These emotions are hard to deal with and I know if you are feeling them, then it’s highly likely you won’t have the energy to treat yourself with an oil. But I’m going list them anyway.

Basil – open up your mind

Lemon – refresh and reload your energy

Geranium – cheeriness, happiness

Palmarosa – flexibility

Cypress – away from ego into spirit

For you, all you have to do is open up a bottle and have a sniff.

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds - but don't overdo it!

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds – but don’t overdo it!

Essential oils are your scented support system. Love them and use them ad be transformed!

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check out some pics of the Sydney storms here.

10 Recipes with Sage Essential Oil – Salvia officanalis

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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10 Recipes with Sage Essential Oil – Salvia officanalis

Sage has a beautiful soft leaf with a pungent scent

Sage has a beautiful soft leaf with a pungent scent

I’ve written about sage before calling it “An Essential Oil of Wisdom and Abundance”.

In my book I refer to sage oil as an oil of wisdom and courage and it appears in the chapters about SPIRITUALITY, ABUNDANCE and DHARMA. It is a very powerful oil in its energetic resonance and scent, and I must admit in my practice I don’t use it nearly as much as the other herb oils, (sorry sage). It has a cousin called clary sage which is also quite pungent and both these oils can be used for feminine issues including;

* to stop milk production in lactating women

* to help regulate periods, and even participate in some pain relief with other oils

Sage is also used in aromatherapy today

* as a diuretic

* to ease sore throats

* to ease rheumatic pain

Fresh sage

Fresh sage

So let’s check out some recipes.

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Easy. This will open your throat, third eye and crown chakras to the intelligence of the universe.

It will help you realise, and speak the truth. Remember to be kind to yourself.


Classic oil burner with candle

Classic oil burner with candle

 

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil. You will notice the difference in the scent when you use a candle vapouriser as the oils are gently warmed and infused into the atmosphere. The fire of the candle is also transformational in its sheer existence. Transform and cleanse as you scent your space.

“Softly, Gently, Open Your Mind”

Sage            8 drops

Mandarin    12 drops

Patchouli      5 drops


“Stand Up for Yourself”

– in a compassionate way

Sage            6 drops

Fennel          6 drops

Petitgrain     13 drops


“Get Into The Flow”

Sage                   6 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops

Cinnamon           6 drops

Orange               6 drops


a simple hairdressing mist bottle will do the trick for your amazing essential oil mist

A simple hairdressing mist bottle will do the trick for your amazing essential oil mist

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“I’ve Got My Own Thing Goin On”

Sage                5 drops

Peru Balsam   10 drops

Lime               10 drops


“I AM Living My Dream Life”

Sage                              8 drops

Bergamot                      10 drops

Sandalwood Australian    4 drops

Lavender                         3 drops


The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“I’m Ready for Expansion”

Sage                  1 drop

Jasmine 3%       4 drops   * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Owl”

Sage          1 drop

Spearmint  1 drop

Lemon        1 drop


Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend - pic via redbookmag.com

Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend – pic via redbookmag.com

5. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“That Time of the Month”

Sage           2 drops

Geranium    3 drops

Lavender     2 drops

Peppermint  1 drop


“Abundantia”

Sage              2 drops

Ylang Ylang    2 drops

Rose 3%        4 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2014

10 Recipes with Neroli Essential Oil – Citrus aurantium ssp amara/Bigaradia

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10 Recipes with Neroli Essential Oil – Citrus aurantium

citrus blossom that makes neroli oil

The citrus blossom that makes neroli oil

Pretty flower. Very pretty scent.

Neroli essential oil is made from the blossom of a couple of citrus trees which do produce bitter fruit, sometimes used for marmalade – but the main focus is to harvest the blossoms for perfume. Thank you tree, your perfume is beautiful!

In the world of essential oils and plant-based medicine it is a relative newcomer. While some herbs and oils have been used for thousands of years (lavender, myrrh, frankincense, cypress for example), this scent was made popular in Italy in the 1700’s. The story goes that,

“by the end of the 17th century, Anne Marie Orsini, duchess of Bracciano and princess of Nerola, Italy, introduced the essence of bitter orange tree as a fashionable fragrance by using it to perfume her gloves and her bath. Since then, the term “neroli” has been used to describe this essence.”

 

The principality of Nerola is close to Rome where the Princess really worked the diplomacy angle in the Italian capital, securing her future in the courts of France, Spain and Rome. The essence was used particularly in Venice to ward off water born viruses and nasties.

Anne-Marie-de-La-Tremoille_Dss-Bracciano via wikipedia.com

Anne-Marie-de-La-Tremoille_Dss-Bracciano via wikipedia.com

It is an oil that is precious and expensive to make and therefore is mostly sold in a 3% blend. (see my article “Essential Oils 3% in Jojoba – What are they, and Why?” for more information on 3% blends).

Let’s check out some recipes with Neroli 3%:

1. Facial Oil Treatment

Mix one or two drops of essential oil in one teaspoon of carrier oil. You can warm the oil slightly first if desired – it will be very relaxing! Massage your face and rest for 10 minutes. You can also place a cool or warm wet face cloth on your face as a compress over the oil mask. Remove excess oil with a tissue or cloth.

Neroli 3%    4 drops


 

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Bride”

Perfect to calm the nerves and smell wonderful too –

Neroli 3%      5 drops

Ylang Ylang   1 drop


“Summer Nights”

Get into your happy summer place –

Neroli 3%       3 drops

Lemongrass   1 drop

Lavender        1 drop


Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

“Whimsical”

Neroli 3% straight from the bottle on your wrists and heart


“Quietly Powerful”

When you need a little oomph –

Neroli                         3 drops

Cedarwood Virginian  1 drop

Nutmeg                      1 drop


 

nourish your skin with oil blends

nourish your skin with oil blends

3. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Sweetness and Light”

Neroli 3%        8 drops

Lemon            2 drops

Frankincense  2 drops


“Youthful Glow”

Neroli 3%            6 drops

White Grapefruit  4 drops

Rose Geranium   1 drop


And if you have Neroli pure essential oil then you can use it in a vapouriser or in a mist bottle. The 3% blend is only good for mixing with oil or in a cream for your face and body, or using direct from the bottle as a perfume. Here are some recipes with pure Neroli oil:

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

4. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Divinity”

Neroli           8 drops

Palmarosa    8 drops

Bergamot     9 drops


“Seduction”

Neroli              10 drops

Sandalwood      6 drops

Juniper              6 drops

Cinnamon         3 drops


“I Am”

Neroli         8 drops

Orange      6 drops

Patchouli   4 drops

Cypress     6 drops

Spikenard   1 drop


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

 

 

 

Fountain of Youth

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

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Fountain of Youth

Chapter 12

Another look in between the covers of my book

The fountain of youth fable appears in many cultures but is t real?

The fountain of youth fable appears in many cultures but is it real?

Ahh yes the fountain of youth. Wouldn’t it be great to drink water from a fountain and not only look young, but remain youthful for eternity. Sounds like more of a curse to me, but in everyday life we think of youthfulness as a remedy to all our problems. And usually this youthful glow refers to our skin and how old or young we actually look.

But what about having a youthful mind?

And a youthful spirit?

Well thankfully essential oils can address youthfulness on all levels of our existence.

The beautiful Sophia Loren

The beautiful Sophia Loren

“There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will have truly defeated age.”

Sophia Loren

 

Thanks Sophia.

1. Use essential oils on your skin

“Physical – oils for the face and body

Some essential oils are known for stimulating cell regeneration and they are deemed cytophylactic. Use these oils to communicate with your skin and help with production of new cells. Other oils have been traditionally used to have a soothing, calming and emollient effect. Oils that have been classified as anti-inflammatory may also hep your skin by their cooling action.”

Suzanne (me)

 

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds - but don't overdo it!

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds – but don’t overdo it!

2. Use essential oils on your mind

Just by using essential oils and making your own potions, you will not only fuel your creative fire, but you’ll also be inhaling essential oils too. Your thinking mind can be eased as the molecules in essential oils are absorbed into some sections of your brain. This action can help with moods, and have a flow-on effect throughout your body with hormones and other chemical messengers.

What we do every day has far reaching energetic waves

We are what we think we are, and how we project ourselves into the world

3. Use essential oils for your spirit

“Using essential oils to by-pass your self-imposed limits is the key to accessing the fountain of youth. Your heart will open to the beauty of life when you are surrounded by the natural scent of essential oil.

Grab any essential oil you can and take a big sniff to activate the part of you that knows infinity.”

Suzanne (me)

Essential oils can make you happier

Essential oils can make you happier

So my beautiful people to find out ore about how essential oils can help you stay youthful click on one of the links below.

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK

Thanks everyone.

copryright SR Banks

My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 2 (A Fresh Look, 2014)

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 2 (A Fresh Look, 2014)

 

a beautiful Indian bride

a beautiful bride

In my article My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 1 (New Edition 2014) I talk about what oils are best for the pending nuptials. Here’s a recap –

Neroli

Rose

Lavender

Geranium

Frankincense

But how do you use the oils?

We all know every wedding is different and each bride and groom are unique, but the one thing they all have in common is that they all want a memorable experience for them and their guests. Whether it be a simple beach wedding or a lavish affair at a glamourous venue with hundreds of guests, the bride will have some organising to do.

Unfortunately the oils won’t do everything but they will support you on your journey from fiancé to wife.

a happy beach wedding

a happy beach wedding

Essential oils will give emotional support and a scented burst of clarity and calm during the process. You could either use lots of different kinds of oils or pick a couple and make a combination that becomes your signature scent. So let’s look at the best 2 ways to use your oils.

1. Nourishing Body Oil

I recommend making a bottle of your chosen oil blend to use daily as a moisturiser, and more importantly as a connection to your spirit and a tonic to your mind. You will start your day off by paying attention to yourself, centering your mind and preparing for what is to come. And – your skin will look and feel totally amazing! I use oil on my skin every day and it works – my skin feels wonderful and looks good too! When your bottle is finished you can make another combo or stay with the same blend.

Alternatively for one coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Heart”

To keep the flow of energy in your heart chakra while planning your wedding

– for a 50ml bottle –

Rosewood    10 drops

Lavender       5 drops

Rose  3%      20 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

 

When making a daily blend of essential oil this often takes up time and is the first thing to be put on hold when you are juggling work, your private life and creating your perfect wedding. Consider making a bottle so it’s on hand every morning.


 

“Cool, Calm and Collected”

To breathe deeply and keep anxiety at bay

– to make a blend enough for one day –

Frankincense                       3 drops

Cardamom                          1 drop

Roman Chamomile  3%       9 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Strength and Courage”

– to make a blend enough for one day –

Geranium                       3 drops

Neroli 3%                       7 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Vetiver                            1 drop


 

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

 

2. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

This is a great portable way to keep an aromatherapy treatment with you. It is simply essential oils in an atomiser bottle filled with water. There is no need to use any emulsification agents,just shake before you mist. It can be used to refresh your face, cleanse and protect your aura, give your brain a boost and will make you smell like a natural goddess.

“Mother Earth Energy”

To keep a sense of worldliness and compassion on those crazy days –

Frankincense       10 drops

Bergamot           10 drops

Patchouli              5 drops


 

“I’ve Got the Power”

When you need strength and fortitude, with a smile –

Geranium                 10 drops

Lemon                      7 drops

Lavender                   5 drops

Cinnamon                  3 drops


 

“I’m Loving Every Minute of this Journey”

Enjoy the process –

Rose Geranium     8 drops

Orange                12 drops

Peru Balsam          5 drops


 

Remember to treat your self first then everyone will benefit.

 

copryright SR Banks

My Top 5 Oils For Brides – Part 1 (A Fresh Look, 2014)

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My Top 5 Oils For Brides – Part 1 (A Fresh Look 2014)

 

aaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!!

aaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!!

 

Essential oils are great for anybody to use but there are some stand-out oils for brides.

Why?

The wedding planning can be stressful and it can also take up a lot of time. Of course it’s different for everyone, and whether you have a casual beach wedding or a party in a 5 star resort, you do have to think about a lot of fine details. You are also entering into a contract with your partner, and quite possibly changing your life forever. You are entering a new phase of your life too, with lots of new family members you are required to be nice to. There can be many issues surrounding your wedding and marriage, and essential oils can be your scented support system on the journey.

Essential oils not only smell beautiful, they can help minimise stress, and help you focus on the things that really matter – like your health and happiness rather than the seating plan, or the boyfriend of your friend who you don’t really like but have to invite anyway. You get the drift.

Essential oils work in an holistic way with your own energy, emotions and thoughts to provide a connection to the divine spirit within you.

orange blossom = neroli

orange blossom = neroli

1. Neroli

Neroli is a traditional oil for brides as it’s best qualities are those of relieving anxiety and tension – the flowers were strewn over the marital bed to ease tension, and included in the wedding bouquet to help you stay calm. The word Neroli comes from the name of an Italian princess who brought the oil into popular culture a few hundred years ago, so it’s actually quite a new oil to the field of Aromatherapy. Many oils and tinctures of plants have been around for thousands of years, and this is how we know they work.

Neroli is a wonderful oil to use as a perfume straight from the bottle from the moment your wedding fever kicks in. Use it when you are stressed about something not going the way you want it, or simply as a scent to help you cope with any mild anxiety. it is a beautiful scent to wear on your wedding day to give you a stunning, floral perfume and support your emotions and the butterflies in your stomach. This oil is an expensive oil and usually comes already diluted in jojoba to lower costs. The label will say “Neroli oil in 3% Jojoba and you can see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba.

Men tend to love this oil too, as it has a bitterness about it even though it’s a floral oil. If your man is stressing try some bergamot in place of neroli to relieve stress! A drop on his solar plexus chakra wouldn’t go astray on the big day.

 

 

the beautiful rose

the beautiful rose

2. Rose

Rose oil is the oil of Cleopatra – the oil of queens. It is sometimes referred to as the Queen of Oils too! Rose is the oil of loving yourself, and others. Whatever you think a Queen embodies – then so does this oil. Not only wonderful for skin, and as a regulator for heat, rose oil will bring a sense of calm and inner strength. This really is a woman’s oil. It is the essence of femininity and strength, of subtlety and fortitude.

Use rose oil during your lead-up to the wedding to help you stay centered and loving.

As for Neroli, rose will often already be diluted in 3% jojoba. Use it a perfume straight from the bottle, use it in your skincare regime in some rosehip oil and even give some the other women in your life who support you. Nurture yourself with rose oil.

 

lavender is spectacular

lavender is spectacular

3. Lavender

Lavender is the oil of calming, soothing and grounding. It brings all your scattered energy together. Lavender can be used to help induce sleep, to use in a bath when you a feeling overwhelmed, and to vapourise around you when you need to make difficult decisions. if you could only have one oil in your life, I suggest it would be lavender, as it has so many uses. It is the perfect first aid all because it helps cuts and wounds heal, helps burns lose their sting and is perfect for shock. Take some lavender with you to the wedding and have a huge sniff straight from the bottle to give you a blast of solidarity. Share it amongst the bridesmaids and if anyone has a headache a drop on the temples will aid the pain.

 

Geranium in my street

Geranium in my street

4. Geranium

This oil is made from the flower and it very definitely a strong floral oil! Geranium is another good oil for skincare -face and body. It is an oil of happiness and playfulness and is bright and full. I use geranium oil when I feel I need a boost, and when I need a bit of stability in my emotions. It’s great for brides who are quite emotional and teary and will help you as you plan your wedding –  when you need help looking for the fun and joy in the process. It’s easy to get bogged down in the “doing” of the wedding but it’s just as important to enjoy and be present in this process too. Have fun with geranium oil and it’s floral cheeriness.

 

frankincense resin - the oil is steam distilled from this

frankincense resin – the oil is steam distilled from this

5. Frankincense

Frankincense is the oil of breathing deeply. By taking deep, slow breaths you will automatically relax. Vapourise frankincense oil in your home for relaxation and as an oil to help you connect more deeply with your spirit. Traditionally used in the Catholic church to inspire the congregation reach a meditative and spiritual state, it is also used as a symbol of faithfulness to God, and in worship rituals. This oil is also good in skincare and is particularly indicated for more mature or dry skins. Once again add some of this stunning oil into your rosehip oil and use a a facial moisturiser. I use rosehip everyday on my face and I couldnt recommend anything better and more simple. When you add some essential oils to it, it becomes a powerful softening and nourishing treatment.

Stay tuned for My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 2 (Revised Edition 2014) for recipes and a more detailed description of how to use them.

Remember to treat yourself first , then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks

10 Recipes with Spearmint Essential Oil – Mentha spicata

Flowering spearmint - Mentha spicata

Flowering spearmint – Mentha spicata

Ah beautiful spearmint! It always comes off second best compared to peppermint, but it has a wonderfully sweet and soft nature. It is part of the very big Lamiacae family (which is actually called the Mint Family). This family of plants contains all the herbs; lavender, marjoram, thyme, oregano, patchouli, peppermint sage, clary sage, melissa and many more. This family contains many plants that have been used in healing for thousands of years and became popular again in medieval times.

I was first introduced to spearmint as a kid. With this

The classic Wrigley's Spearmint sticks

The classic Wrigley’s Spearmint sticks

Not only was the flavour amazing but this gum came in sticks, not pellets. I thought this was the best thing ever, and can still feel the cool flat, slightly powdery finish on the gum.

But I digress.

Back to the plant and oil.

If you think that spearmint and peppermint have similar qualities you’d be right. Spearmint just has a more friendly scent as it’s milder and appeals to kids too. Peppermint can be a bit spicy for some people, so that’s where spearmint is great. So how can you use it in aromatherapy recipes?

Just use any mist bottle you can find it doesn't have to be glamourous to get the job done

Just use any mist bottle you can find it doesn’t have to be glamourous to get the job done

1. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Happy Kids Happy Life”

Spritz around the little ones to lighten up the vibe –

Spearmint          10 drops

Orange               10 drops

Geranium              5 drops


“I Think I Ate Too Much”

Spearmint         8 drops

Lemon             12 drops

Lime                  5 drops


“Light and Happy”

Refresh your aura –

Spearmint         8 drops

Bergamot          8 drops

Rosewood         5 drops

Frankincense     4 drops


“New Workspace Energy”

Change the feeling in your creative space for the better –

Spearmint        6 drops

Mandarin        12 drops

Lavender          5 drops

Patchouli          2 drops


Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Faeries Live in My Garden”

Spearmint                       1 drop

Roman chamomile 3%    3 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“The Only Way is Up”

You CAN be a positive about the future –

Spearmint           1 drop

Lemongrass        1 drop

Rose Geranium   1 drop


“Today WILL be Easy!”

Spearmint     1 drop

Neroli 3%      3 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


 

 

Lovely long hair in great condition

Add essential oils to keep your hair in great condition

 

3. Hair Mask

Warm 3 teaspoons of oil (either olive or jojoba) and add 7 to 8 drops of essential oil. Massage into your hair from the ends up. Wrap your hair in a towel (or some plastic wrap then a towel). Leave for 1 hour, or overnight, then wash and condition as usual. This is the same ratio for a body oil blend and for more info see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and  “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”.

Spearmint       2 drops

Lavender        4 drops

Rosemary       1 drop


 

A bath can be so luxurious! pic via www.housetohome.co.uk

A bath can be so luxurious! pic via http://www.housetohome.co.uk

4. Soak in a bath

I don’t often recommend adding too many essential oils to a bath as they are difficult to disperse and can cause minor skin irritations when combined with the heat of the water. If you do like to use them in a bath, try 4 -6 drops in total and add the drops to another medium like sea salt, coconut milk, other milks or a water dispersible agent.

“Evening Treat”

Spearmint       2 drops

Ylang Ylang     2 drops


“Morning Zinger”

Spearmint      2 drops

Juniper          1 drop

Cypress         1 drop


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks