THE NEW YEAR

The new year represents a fresh beginning, a clean slate, a chance to symbolically start over. I have a few winter oils in my arsenal that I use consistently all season long. I love oils that refresh my space, as well as my mind. I love oils that warm the room, as well as my heart. And I love oils that help me support my inner terrain, and immune system. One of my favorite winter blends features refreshing Eucalyptus (eucalyptus globulus), piney Siberian Fir (abies sibirica) and earthy Rosemary (rosemarinus offinale) which I blend in a 3% dilution (15-18 drops/carrier ounce) in coconut oil. It is the perfect winter salve for immune support and decongestion. Making your own “ vapo rub” gives such a feeling of connection, without the often toxic chemicals found in over the counter brands.

It’s also a fun time to experiment with warming oils like Cinnamon Leaf, Clove Bud, Cardamom and Black Pepper. Pairing with a citrus or floral oil can emote a grounding and warming blend; a perfect accompaniment for the afternoon cup of tea, or meditation. Use with caution as these oils can be sensitizing.

I hope the new year finds you reflecting on who you are and what you need to feel joy and support, inside and out. Happy Blending!

DECEMBER TIDINGS

This time of year is so special; the magic of the holidays, the beauty of the season, the falling snow....The end of the year is a time of gratitude, joy and settling in for a long winter. The hustle and bustle can wear us down though, and the shorter days can lend to melancholy feelings. I love incorporating essential oils into my winter regime. Whether as a warming diffuser blend, a winter body lotion or steeping some herbs in a pot to scent the room, aromatherapy can help support us during these months. I encourage you to get creative, and experiment with an oil or two you are unfamiliar with. It is also a great time to set your intention for the coming year, and oils like Clary Sage (salvia sclera), Spike Lavender (lavendula latofolia), and Rosemary (rosmarinus officialis) can help support focus and devotion. The holidays also instill a feeling of tradition and spiritual introspection, so classics like Frankincense (boswellia carterii) and Myrrh (commiphora myrrha) warm our spirits, support us emotionally and connect us to our deeper selves. Enjoying aromatherapy in the winter can also keep us connected to nature when the plants are buried beneath the snow, and remind us to take some time for ourselves.

I wish you all a wonderful holiday season, a blessed winter and as always, happy blending!

-Erica

FALLING INTO AUTUMN

This is my favorite season, for good reason. Cooler weather, crunchy leaves, apple picking, pumpkin pie....the scents of the season are so warming and comforting. Autumn reminds us to slow down and restore ourselves after the hectic energy of summer. It is important to give ourselves rest. An afternoon nap, a cup of herbal tea, a yoga session....all ways to heal ourselves and give our bodies and minds time to restore.

One of my favorite essential oils ever is Cinnamon Leaf. It is warm and familiar and so powerfully therapeutic! I traditionally use it more in a diffuser than topically due to its ability to cause irritation. Blended with citrus oils, or other spices like Cardamom, Allspice or Clove, will bring warmth and energy into your space! Try this Autumn blend for your home diffuser, and enjoy! Happy Blending! -4 drops Cinnamon(cinnamomum aromaticum)

-3 drops Sweet Orange (citrus sinesis)

-2 drops Clove Bud (eugenia caryophylleta)