Aromatherapy oils can enrich a meditation in a variety of ways. Certain essential oils are known for their healing abilities, while others can aid in meditative concentration. Additionally, the scent of certain oils can enhance psychic ability.
History Of Aromatherapy
The history of aromatherapy dates back over 5,000 years, although the actual term wasn't coined until 1937 when Dr. Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, (a French chemist,) used it as a title for a book.
Since that time, scientists have studied essential oils and have found that they have many positive effects on the body such as reducing stress and improving circulation.
How To Use Essential Oils for Meditation
The first step to using essential oils involves purchasing a simple oil burner. These can usually be found at natural health stores or New Age shops. Fill it with water, then, add a few drops of essential oil to the water. Be sure to only use one fragrance at a time, unless you are already knowledgeable in mixing scents. Light the candle underneath and you're all set to begin a meditation.
The next step is to establish the goal for the meditation. If meditating for healing, Lavender is very soothing and can help ease high blood pressure. Orange can aid in digestion and help alleviate tension headaches. To aid in concentration and help to keep the mind clear, Juniper is recommended. Looking to increase psychic abilities? Try meditating with Yarrow.
Through the use of the light of the oil burner and the scent of the essential oil, the goal is to create a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere for meditation. The scent can either be an aid in meditation or the focus of the meditation. In addition, like candle meditation, the flame can be used as the center of the meditation.
Frankincense and Other Essential Oils Good For Meditation
To increase awareness and add to spiritual growth, scents such as cedar, rose, and myrtle are recommended. A particularly popular aromatherapy oil is frankincense. Used in biblical times for religious purposes, frankincense is one of the gifts that the three Kings presented to Jesus in Bethlehem. It is known for its healing properties as an antiseptic and astringent.
Additionally, frankincense has a calming influence, allowing for better concentration and slower breathing, which in turn can lead to a deeper meditation. Associated with divination, frankincense is also used for spiritual growth, along with enhancing psychic abilities.
Besides burning an essential oil, certain oils can be inhaled and used for medicinal purposes such as lemon, eucalyptus, and mountain pine. Adding cinnamon or geranium to a hot compress is very tension relieving, while rose, lavender, and honey are great for use as massage oils. As aromatherapy oils continue to be studied, more and more benefits are being discovered.
Readers may also enjoy Healing With Essential Oils, along with Meditation And Incense, and The Effects of Incense Fragrance.
Sources:
- Complete Aromatherapy Handbook, Susanne Fischer-Rizzi, (Sterling Publishing Company,) 1990.
- A Guide to Meditation, Lorraine Turner, (Parragon Publishing,) 2002.
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