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ITo quote Oscar Wilde, "Nothing can cure the soul but the senses, just as nothing can cure the senses but the soul."

Everyday, in my practice, I see a variety of people – from youth to maturity, each one displaying various physical imbalances, varying levels of discomfort and various mental mindsets regarding life, health and well-being. Although the therapeutic session for each individual is unique, they do all share one vital common thread.

Not only is each individuals’ physical body calling out for attention, each person’s soul is asking for a reprieve not only from physical pain and discomfort, but from the emotional/ mental havoc inflicted on ones well being when either the mind or body are imbalanced. What affects one ultimately affects the other.

For this reason, the integration of Essential Oil Therapy, or what is commonly known as "Aromatherapy" into all of my therapeutic bodywork session is a must. Essences have a well-documented effect on the physical body, but where I find their greatest value is their ability to reach a person on a much deeper level, the emotional level. The scientific reason for this reality is well documented as well, for within the area of the brain called the Limbic, all memories and emotional responses are housed. This is also the area of the brain that computes and differentiates aroma.

Let me give you an overly simplified explanation of how aroma positively impacts the mind, then in turn the body. You begin your day early and you run your body hard and fast through out the day. In turn, your mind stays in overdrive, ready and prepared to keep you going. The brain sends out constant signals to the heart, lungs, organs, nerves and muscles, and glands, keeping them on a constant stage of alert. In return, the involuntary portions of your body are on overdrive as well, closely monitoring the physical systems, making sure they are operative. Often, in an effort to conserve recourses, system functions will be suppressed, or turned to "conservation" mode.

What makes aroma and our sense of smell an invaluable resource in physical/psychological stress management is this: Aroma provides us with the ability to introduce a different stimulus for the brain to focus on. Unconsciously, the brain is focusing in on the aromas being inhaled, giving it a diversion while calming and uplifting the senses. As the senses balance, so does the body. So does the soul.

Today, especially in these perilous times, our senses are on extreme overload. For this reason, it is vital that we all pay added attention to our mental well being in order to maintain optimal physical health. Provide your senses with a welcome and uplifting distraction, and for this may I suggest a long warm bath infused with Mandarin, Bergamot, Sandalwood, and Rose. Infuse the same essences to several ounces of water and use as a room mist or car freshener. Add to several ounces of carrier oil and apply as a body moisturizer. Add to a warm basin of water and soak your feet. Let the essences permeate your mind, your body and your soul.

©2003 Carrie-Anne Tapia, L.M.T., Owner
Redlands Aromatherapy • 414 Tennessee St. # U
Redlands, CA 92373 • 909-534-3656

Carrie-Anne Tapia is an Aromatherapy Practitioner, Reflexologist, and Massage Therapist. Redlands Aromatherapy and Bodyworks, is a practice dedicated to meeting all of your Therapeutic Essential Oils needs.
This intent of this article is to inform and educate, and is not intended to serve as medical advice or as a medical diagnosis.