Aromatherapy is the practice of using pure essences or oils distilled from aromatic plants to enhance psychological and physical well-being. These essential oils or essences have been prized for their health benefits for thousands of years.  Utilizing these naturally extracted oils balance, harmonize, and promote health of body, mind, and spirit.  Aromatherapy seeks to relax, reduce effects of stress, and increase energy.

How does Aromatherapy work?  Essential oils stimulate the powerful sense of smell.  We have the capability of discerning 10,000 different smells.  It is believed that the smells actually affect the part of the brain that controls moods, emotions, memory, and learning.  Studies on brain wave frequency have shown that some essential oils relax while others are associated with a more alert state. Here are some common oils and their effects:
    
Lavender: relaxes, calms
Geranium: calms, refreshes, harmonizes
Chamomile: calms, soothes
Bergamot: stimulates, energizes
Eucalyptus: invigorates, decongests
Jasmine: stimulates, elevates mood
Lemongrass: stimulates, energizes (great for tired muscles).

You can make these oils work for you.  Take an aromatic bath by simply adding 2-4 drops of your favorite oil to a warm bath and stir. Your bath can be relaxing, detoxifying, or reviving, depending on the oils you choose.  Spread the benefits of Aromatherapy all around you by using the oils as room freshners.  Use a ceramic vaporizer or a light bulb ring to dispense the essence throughout your environment.  Indulge yourself with Aromatherapy, and you'll be surprised what it can do for your body, mind, and spirit!