Aromatherapy for Yoga


Aromatherapy for Yoga

Yoga. The new posh exercise everyone from models to Madonna to medical doctors are doing and raving about. Of course there is literally nothing new about Yoga with some noting the Indian practice is thousands of years old. Whatever the history or religious ties, many are clinically testing Yoga in a number of health situations including back problems and high blood pressure. On a recent news piece a staunch medical doctor began performing Yoga after a mid-life heart attack. In addition to diet and medication, he found his stress level and blood pressure were lowered. The stretching, specialized breathing techniques and restfulness is seen by many as being the true beneficial attributes of Yoga. This has led to major studies being started to define the direct beneficial effects on one's health. Effects already apparently confirmed by Western medicinal studies.

Traditionally incenses (as well as attars) were a major aspect of the Yoga experience. Today many perform Yoga in a fashion that does not allow for the above, such in large groups confined to an exercise (or dance) room. Still one can use essential oils in a very personal fashion to not only aid in relaxation (of which has great importance in Yoga) but also, according to some, help train the mind and body. Just as essential oils can help one to remember certain events, some note that essential oils used during Yoga can be used throughout the day to throw the body and mind back into that same healthful, calm state. Essential oils noted as having such effects when combined with Yoga include:

  • Frankincense
  • Sandalwood (by far, sandalwood was the most popular attar used in India for Yoga and other healing purposes)
  • Vetiver
  • Cedarwood
  • Myrrh
Since most attars are created using a base oil of sandalwood, it is always to be found to aid in your exercises. Placing (diluted) essential oil drops on your pressure points likely is the best mode of transportation. For it is not only the scent but the essential oils inert properties which will help with your Yoga. In addition be sure to apply the essential oil of your choice right before you begin to exercise and breathe deeply from the bottle to bring its scent into your olfactory system and corresponding brain areas. You will likely be surprised how much more your can concentrate and perform your move. In addition scented oils were frequently used in India to limber the muscles prior to Yoga, a step frequently neglected in Western exercises. Any of the above essential oils can easily be turned into a massage oil (using neem or jojoba oil) to create a fast acting muscle rub.
The copyright of the article Aromatherapy for Yoga in Aromatherapy is owned by Marie A. Miczak. Permission to republish Aromatherapy for Yoga in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic