Hospitals have documented particular fragrances that are sometimes detected when a person has just passed away; these fragrances are often reminiscent of lavender or violets. Interestingly enough, violets have long been associated with medicine and healing establishments. The violet was the ancient symbol of Athens and the Greeks used it extensively in the treatments of headaches and sleeplessness. Medieval priests cultivated violets in their monastery gardens and used them to relieve swelling or hoarseness. 

The blue violet is said to represent love. Perhaps all of these associations are linked to the scent detected at hospital bedsides. In any event, a fragrance such as this may bring comfort in times of worry or anxiety, and if we believe that it is literally heaven sent, then it is a lovely reassurance that we are not alone.

Fragrances and spirituality are inextricably mixed. The nativity story explains how the magi brought the gift of frankincense for the new-born baby Jesus. In temples and churches around the world, incense perfumes the air. Some indigenous peoples also include aromas in sacred rituals. When we light joss sticks and candles in our homes today, we mimic those rituals in some respects; if scented, the candles bring an additional sense of comfort, as well as light and warmth. 

Fragrances have a power of their own. When we smell them, they can stir up our memories and transport us to other places and people in the blink of an eye. Holiday happiness may be captured by a certain smell, such as the sea, or the scent of exotic flowers not grown at home. 

Angels are like flowers in the forest, beautiful, fragrant and found only if we seek.

Anon

Fragrant Protection

Many practitioners of aromatherapy and Reiki have angel stories to share. It seems that the fragrances they use and the spiritual atmosphere created in their treatments somehow invite the angels to be present. Laura’s story, which follows, is about one such experience. Fragrance such as this may bring comfort in times of worry or anxiety, and if we believe that it is literally heaven sent, then it is a lovely reassurance that we are not alone.

One beautiful spring morning, Laura was preparing her Reiki treatment room for her first client of the day. Recently she had purchased some perfume sprays, which she planned to use before starting the Reiki healing. 

The first client was a close friend called Rosemary, who was feeling rather fragile as she had recently lost her job and was struggling financially. That morning, she wanted to unwind for a short time and forget her worries. Laura looked at her perfumed sprays and chose one especially for her friend. The bottle had the name of an angel written on the label, which Laura thought would be especially appropriate. Gently spraying the air above Rosemary, she told her to close her eyes and relax. 

A moment later Laura held her hands above her friend’s head, concentrating on transferring the wonderful energy she could feel in her hands.  She became aware of the room brightening, which she thought odd owing to the fact that sunshine was already streaming through the window. However, the light continued to increase until it was so bright that Laura could only marvel it did not hurt her eyes at all.

Suddenly, the dazzling light formed itself into a pair of huge wings, hovering above the treatment bed. Yet her friend seemed completely unaware of what was happening. It was true that Rosemary had her eyes shut but Laura thought the light would have penetrated even closed eyelids. There was no movement from her friend, however, and Rosemary could only gaze in wonder at the fantastic sight. The fragrance also increased with the light, making the moment even more magical.

Slowly the vision faded and Laura continued with the treatment, saying nothing to her friend until she had completed the session. As her friend slowly sat up on the treatment table, she said to Laura, ‘There was such a strong sensation of love in this room, I feel blessed.’ Only then did Laura tell her what she had witnessed and Rosemary left her that day feeling calm and comforted, knowing that she had the help and love of the angels with her.

How shall we tell an angel from another guest?

How from the common worldly herd one of the blest ?

Hint of suppressed halo, rustle of hidden wings,

Wafture of heavenly frankincense, which of these things ?

Gertrude Hall