Paula Hinton Aromatherapy
Therapies to Help You Relax, Unwind and Feel Like YOU Again
My Blog
Blog
Mental Health Awareness Week and Aromatherapy
Posted on 20 May, 2020 at 10:29 |
![]() |
The 18-24 May is Mental Health
Awareness Week and right now more than ever, with everything thing that is
going on our mental health is so important.
It has been estimated that 1 in 4 adults in the UK will
experience mental health issues during 2020, but that figure will probably rise
due to the current covid-19 pandemic and the effect it has had on our lives.
Before corona virus hit, our fast-paced lives had become one of the main reason
that so many of us were struggling with our mental health. Then suddenly the majority of us were forced
to stop, we had to stop working, socialising and leaving our homes. For some
this time has been a blessing where we have been able to enjoy a slower pace,
reconnect with our families and have been able to take the time to learn new
skills or hone our talents. But for many it has been a time of isolation, loneliness,
worry, boredom and frustration, and mental health problems have been
exasperated. I have often written about the virtues of essential oils
combined with massage to help many physical ailments, but aromatherapy comes
into its own when used to tackle mental and emotional imbalances. Out of the
five senses, our sense of smell is the only one that is directly linked to the
Limbic Lobe of the brain. Our brain
processes scent via the olfactory system which then leads directly to the
Limbic System. The Limbic system controls our emotions and stores learned
memories; anxiety, depression, fear, anger, and joy all physically originate
from this region. A certain fragrance can evoke memories and emotions before we
are even consciously aware of it. The chemical messengers contained within the
scent of essential oils trigger this primitive brain function and work to
influence our emotions. Choosing different essential oil aromas and their
underlying chemical compounds can bring about a powerful effect on our moods
and general state of mind; our mental and emotional well-being. These are my
top essential oils for helping with mental health issues- Lavender –regarded
as the ultimate essential oil for relaxing and balancing moods along with
fighting stress. It is well renowned for its sedative property which can help
combat insomnia and promote good sleep patterns. However keep doses low (max 3
drops in 10ml carrier) if used in excess lavender can actually act as a
stimulant. Bergamot -has
a calming effect; it is effective in tackling mild depression and insomnia. It
has been used in trials for dependency and compulsiveness with great success
due to its cenetring and relaxing properties. Frankincense-
Many studies have found that frankincense contains molecules that can penetrate
the blood-brain barrier, enabling it to carry much-needed oxygen into the
brain, as well as stimulating the limbic area of the brain. It is the calming
and grounding quality of Frankincense oil that proves to be beneficial in
treating depression, anxiety and feelings of melancholy. It is an invaluable
oil to use during meditation. Geranium -releases
negative feelings and emotions and helps to balance hormones. Geranium oil
lifts the spirit and eases nervous tension and can help to release negative
emotions and memories. This sweet flowery fragrance has a regulating effect on
the nervous system and can help dispel depression, nervous anxiety and fear bringing
about a sense of calm and wellness. Chamomile
has wonderful calming and relaxing properties that can help to reduce anxiety,
dispel anger and release old emotions. It also has sedative properties which
makes it valuable oil in tacking insomnia along with lavender oil. Essential oils are traditionally used alongside massage to
help tackle imbalances in mental health, but due to the current pandemic and
need for us all to socially distance massage for the time being cannot be
administered. There are many other ways to enjoy and benefit from the pleasures
of essential oils. Methods of use Self-Massage- Massaging our own arms and hands, legs and
feet or anywhere we can comfortably reach is not the same as receiving a
massage from a professional but it can still have it benefits. Essential oils are always diluted in suitable
carrier oil or lotion. Use 3 drops of essential oil to 10ml carrier. Reduce
down to 1-2 drops for facial use, and for use on children. Inhalation - Add 8-12 drops of essential oil in 2 pints of
hot water. Pour water into bowl, added essential oils cover the head with a
towel and inhale. Take care; do not let oils enter the eye area. Asthma suffers
should not use. Not a suitable method for young children. Vaporisation - As essential oils are inhaled with this
method it is excellent for creating a mood atmosphere, using in the sick room
as a disinfectant and for removing unpleasant smells. The traditional oil
burners with a tea light underneath are effective when 3-5 drops of essential
oil are added to water. For electric appliances designed for this use follow
manufacturer’s instructions, but usually 3-5 drops is sufficient. Keep well out
of reach of children. Direct Inhalation - Pour 2-3 drops of essential oil onto a
tissue and sniff or use straight from the bottle by holding it about 5cm away
from the nostrils and breathing deeply. Alternatively rub one drop of essential
oil into the palms of the hands, cover the nose and mouth and inhale. Stick to
the tissue method for children, and 1-2 drops is sufficient. Bathing - Fill the bath with warm water and turn off the
taps. ALWAYS dilute the essential oils. Add 3-6 drops of chosen essential oils
to 1 tablespoon of carrier e.g. almond oil, full fat milk, honey, any
non-perfumed bubble bath. Use only 1 drop of essential oil well diluted for
children. Foot Baths - As for bathing but use 1-4 drops of essential
oil and soak feet for 5/10 minutes- bliss! Practicing Mindfulness- Mindfulness is the art of living in
the moment, being aware of our surroundings, reconnecting with the simple
pleasures in life. Mindfulness takes practice but can become a valuable skill
for life once mastered and aromatherapy can really help with the process. Essential oils are concentrated and should always be used
with care. Follow instructions given and do not be tempted to add more drops
than recommended. Unless under the guidance of an Aromatherapist essential oils
should not be used neat on the skin, but dissolved in a carrier oil, full fat
milk, honey or other base. They must never be taken internally. Always check the oils you are considering using- most modern
essential oils should have an expiry date so check this. Essential oils are a
natural product and do not contain preservatives so anything out of date should
not be used on the skin as there is a risk of skin irritation. Once you have established that the oils are in date check
where you store them. Essential oils should be kept in their original dark
coloured bottles. These dark coloured bottles protect the contents from
sunlight, which can have a detrimental effect on essential oils, so the
bathroom window sill is definitely not the place to keep them! They also need
to be kept at a fairly constant temperature normal room temperature; extremes of
heat/cold can cause the oils to deteriorate very quickly. Keep out of reach of
children. Enjoy experimenting with these lovely oils to make your life
just a little easier, calmer and more fragrant.
Although my aromatherapy clinic is currently closed I am
available to answer any questions either by telephone, email or via my website.
Please do get in touch if you need advice on which oils to use, how to use them
or would like a bespoke blend made up for you. This service is free of charge
there would only be costs involved if oils or blends were required and to cover
postage. For now please take care and keep safe and well and be kind
to yourself. Paula
x |
useful links
Posted on 1 April, 2019 at 7:12 |
![]() |
Useful Safety Links www.ifpaaroma.org for guidance on choosing an essential oils supplier, finding a registered therapist or an accredited training school www.a-t-c.org.uk Promoting Aromatherapy Responsibly go to Members List for essential oil suppliers |
The Safe Use Of Essential Oils at Home
Posted on 1 April, 2019 at 7:03 |
![]() |
I am often asked about using essential oils safely at home. My first response is always check the oils you are considering using- most modern essential oils should have an expiry date so check this. Essential oils are a natural product and do not contain preservatives so anything out of date should not be used on the skin as there is a risk of skin irritation. Once you have established that the oils are in date check where you store them. Essential oils should be kept in their original dark coloured bottles. These dark coloured bottles protect the contents from sunlight, which can have a detrimental effect on essential oils, so the bathroom window sill is definitely not the place to keep them! They also need to be kept at a fairly constant temperature normal room temperature; extremes of heat/cold can cause the oils to deteriorate very quickly. Keep out of reach of children. Methods of use Massage Essential oils are always diluted in suitable carrier oil or lotion. Use 3 drops of essential oil to 10ml carrier. Reduce down to 1-2 drops for facial use. Inhalation Add 8-12 drops of essential oil in 2 pints of hot water. Pour water into bowl, added essential oils cover the head with a towel and inhale. Take care; do not let oils enter the eye area. Asthma suffers should not use. Vaporisation As essential oils are inhaled with this method it is excellent for creating a mood atmosphere, using in the sick room as a disinfectant and for removing unpleasant smells. The traditional oil burners with a tea light underneath are effective when 3-5 drops of essential oil are added to water. For electric appliances designed for this use follow manufacturer’s instructions, but usually 3-5 drops is sufficient. Keep well out of reach of children. Direct Inhalation Pour 2-3 drops of essential oil onto a tissue and sniff or use straight from the bottle by holding it about 5cm away from the nostrils and breathing deeply. Bathing Fill the bath with warm water and turn off the taps. ALWAYS dilute the essential oils. Add 3-6 drops of chosen essential oils to 1 tablespoon of carrier e.g. almond oil, full fat milk, honey, any non-perfumed bubble bath. Foot Baths As for bathing but use 1-4 drops of essential oil and soak feet for 5/10 minutes- bliss! **Pregnant and nursing mothers should only use essential oils under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner.** **Seek professional advice before using essential oils for children.** Essential oils are concentrated and should always be used with care. Follow instructions given and do not be tempted to add more drops than recommended. Unless under an Aromatherapists guidance essential oils should not be used neat on the skin, but dissolved in a carrier oil, full fat milk, honey or other base. They must never be taken internally. As always please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further advice. |
My Top Three Essential Oils
Posted on 20 April, 2017 at 6:58 |
![]() |
The most difficult question you can ask any Aromatherapist
is ‘What are your Top Three oils?’, but I’ll give it a go! My number one oil can change daily depending on my mood and
who I am working with at the time. I might open a tiny bottle of an essential
not used for a while and think ’this has got to be my favourite, why have I neglected
it for so long?’, then that can all change the next day! Having said that I nearly always return to the classic oil
Frankincense, mainly because of its power to visibly calm and comfort. It is my
oil of choice when I am faced with an obviously anxious or nervous client, one
drop, sniffed from a tissue, soothes and balances the emotions, helping to
overcome stress by slowing and deepening the breath. There have been numerous studies carried out to try and
discover why this oil can have such a profound impact on our sense of calm.
Frankincense contains molecules that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier,
enabling it to carry much-needed oxygen into the brain, as well as stimulating
the limbic area of the brain. It is this calming and grounding quality of frankincense
oil that proves to be beneficial in treating depression, anxiety and low moods.
It is also for this reason that frankincense has been prized for thousands of
years to help meditation and contemplation. Add to this its excellent
reputation as an antiseptic, its valuable use when treating all respiratory
conditions and the fact that it has proven anti-ageing properties it is easy to
see why this oil remains firmly at Number One of my top three chart. So what oil could possibly follow frankincense at the number
two spot? It has to be Geranium, simply for its wonderful floral, grassy
fragrance and for its superb balancing properties. This is the oil I recommend
to all my female clients due to its regulating effect on the hormonal and the
nervous systems, and the smell makes it a pleasure to use. I also use this oil
on my male clients as they too benefit from its balancing properties but I
would blend it with a masculine fragranced oil such as Sandalwood or Vetiver. And in at number three is Rose otto. The fragrance is sublime,
both warm and comforting, one sniff transports you to a summer garden filled
with beautiful blooms. Because of the cost I reserve this oil for my skincare
blends and for anyone experiencing loss or bereavement of any kind. Its ability
to bring about emotional balance never ceases to amaze me, Rose has a spiritual
influence and is used to balance and open the Heart Chakra. |
Muscle Tension
Posted on 19 October, 2016 at 9:09 |
![]() |
Muscular Tension Overused and overextended muscles cause tension. Any
movement we make, no matter how small, involves muscles tensing and flexing.
Any activity that entails repetitive movement from tapping away on a laptop to
swinging a golf club, or during periods of stress and anxiety, can result in
tight muscles that are ‘stuck’ in a tense state. Once these muscles refuse to
relax they weaken and circulation of blood and lymph is impaired. Once a muscle becomes inflexible it is very difficult to
release it. Painkillers and muscle relaxants can be useful but they do not heal
the muscle, they just reduce the discomfort felt. Massage is one of the best
ways to manage muscular tension in the body, especially when combined with
essential oils. Massage helps to release and stretch the ineffective muscles
and loosens connective tissue. Kneading, pressing and rubbing areas of muscular
tension results in the stimulation of the circulation to the area, this
increased blood flow brings with it energy producing nutrients and oxygen.
Massage not only relaxes and softens the muscles it helps to increase mobility
and flexibility and to reduce pain as endorphins (the body’s natural
painkillers) are released. Used in conjunction
with massage carefully chosen essential oils can provide two benefits; they
penetrate deep into the muscle tissue and encourage the contracted muscle to
expand, in turn relieving the physical pain, but they can also help with the
emotional stress that results in physical tension. There is a long list of essential oils that can be of
benefit when massaging tense muscles. Any essential oils considered a relaxant
will be of use, as will oils that have analgesic or anti-inflammatory
properties. Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus and rosemary, have a
cooling effect when applied to the skin, helping to take the heat out of
inflamed muscles. Other oils are chosen for their rubefacient effects, that is
a substance when applied topically to the body causes dilation of the
capillaries and an increase in blood circulation, oils that fall into this category
are sweet marjoram and ginger. In my practice I have found that the main areas tension
affects the muscles is lower (sacra)l area of the back, the upper back and neck
, jawline, facial muscles and scalp. I have put together a special Aromatherapy
Tension Busting Treatment that concentrates on all these areas. |
Aromatherapy: A Natural Aid to a Good Nights Sleep
Posted on 4 November, 2015 at 8:44 |
![]() |
Aromatherapy for Exams and Studying
Posted on 5 April, 2015 at 12:07 |
![]() |
As we enter the
summer term students of all ages are burning the midnight oil working towards
their exams. Anything that can help during this busy time is always appreciated
and believe it or not aromatherapy can help in its own way. Carefully selected
essential oils can boost your productivity and your health. Inhalation of an
agreeable aroma can cause many changes to the body, helping to relax, stimulate
and regulate many of our bodily systems. Essential oils have
been used for thousands of years, by many cultures, for improving mental
activity and strengthening the memory. Our sense of smell is the strongest of
the senses and is able to influence brain activity. Via our olfactory bulbs our
sense of smell is linked to the limbic area of the brain, the part of the brain
that is responsible for, amongst other things, our memories and emotions. An
odour (such as an essential oil) can be used to stimulate this part of the
brain helping our brain to function more efficiently. The connection between
new ideas and scent is developed during learning, so that same scent can
trigger the memory when the information is required, such as during an exam. To
use this information recall technique you need to introduce new odours not used
before, a different essential oils for each subject to be learnt. Whilst studying
vaporise your chosen oil close to your work station, then when it is time to
sit the exam take a tissue infused with the same essential oil with you into
the exam room. This will help to recall the information previously studied. Choosing
an essential oil for each subject is the fun bit as there are so many oils that
could be utilised: ·
Rosemary
is the most cephalic essential oil; its sharp camphorous odour stimulates
mental activity, aids concentration and boosts a fatigued brain as well as
enhancing proscriptive memory. A study in 2003 found that participants who
inhaled rosemary oil during an exam displayed significantly higher cognitive
function. It is also a great stress reliever and balancer. (Not to be used if
you suffer with epilepsy or high blood pressure and avoid during pregnancy). ·
Basil
with its sweet, refreshing smell has similar properties to rosemary. It clears and strengthens the mind, improving
poor memory and fatigue-induced distraction and also helps to relieve headaches
associated with stress and tension. (Avoid during pregnancy). ·
Peppermint
is spicy, fragrant oil and a natural ‘pick-me-up’. This oil wakes the mind,
focuses the senses and improves the memory. It is able to provide relief from
stress and mental exhaustion due to its refreshing, stimulating odour. It
clears the mind and increases focus on cognitive tasks. ( Do not use with
homeopathic remedies). ·
Frankincense
has a softer odour than some of the other essential oils mentioned but I had to
include it for its ability to quieten the mind and support focused attention.
This is a lovely oil to use at the end of a hard revision session as it
actively lowers the blood pressure and calms the mind, helping to clear your
head ready for a sound nights sleep. ·
Lemon
has calming and clarifying properties, helping to promote concentration. It
also helps to calm anger and frustration, emotions often experienced whilst
studying. ·
Ginger
for its ability to energise and uplift, helping to alleviate nervous and mental
exhaustion. Also good for calming nausea so a good oil to use to calm pre-exam
nerves. ·
Lavender
is usually thought of as a relaxant that you would use before bed but its
calming properties can help keep emotional stress in check. Lavender has a
soothing effect on the nervous system so as well as calming nervous tension it
can help relieve headaches and migraines. ·
Eucalyptus
has a cooling and refreshing effect that uplifts and clears the head. This
stimulating oil helps alleviate exhaustion and mental sluggishness. It
stimulates mental activity and as it is considered a vasodilator it increases
blood flow to the brain and the rest of the body. More blood to the brain=more
brain power! ·
Geranium heightens
the imagination so is a great oil for all anyone involved all in artistic
study. Research has shown geranium oil has a synergistic relationship with the
chemistry of the brain as it has been found to activate microglial cells which
are integral components in the fight against neuro-degenerative diseases such
as Alzheimer’s and dementia. |
Essential Oils for Winter Well-Being
Posted on 3 February, 2015 at 9:07 |
![]() |
Such essential oils not only bring heat to the areas applied
but they can awaken dull senses, lift the spirits, they can stimulate sluggish
circulation and digestion and many of these warming oils also have emollient
properties helping to calm and soothe dry, irritated skin that can often occur
during the colder months. The majority of them also have a strong antibacterial
and antiviral action making them excellent for preventing and helping to rid
the body of coughs and colds. Bath- There is nothing more soothing than a warm, aromatic bath on a cold day. Once the bath has been filled add 5 drops of your chosen essential oil to 10ml of carrier oil (sesame and olive oil are especially warming) alternatively try full fat milk or honey to disperse the essential oils. Particularly effective for aches, pains and chills. Foot and hand soak- as above but fill a bowl large enough to place the feet or hands, great for impaired circulation in the extremities or just for warming and comforting. Massage cream/oil- Mix 3 drops of essential oil with a carrier oil or perfume free cream/lotion and massage into the skin. This is a lovely way to keep hands and feet warm and well moisturised, also good for lower back pain when briskly massaged into the affected area. Please see my earlier Blog on the Safe Use of Essential Oils at Home for further information Top 10 Warming Essential Oils Sweet Marjoram-a great comforting oil, excellent for stiff
muscles, and rheumatic pain. Calms and eases stress and sadness. Patchouli- is relaxing and uplifting, it is anti-inflammatory
and helps heal many skin conditions, it is a soothing and stabilising oil so
helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Neroli- although an expensive oils it is without a doubt the
best oil for treating anxiety and other emotional problems. It calms the
nerves, being soothing and uplifting. Great to use on the face during the
winter months to protect the skin (1 drop in 5ml carrier oil, add to wheat germ
oil for a nourishing skin treat). Patchouli- is relaxing and uplifting, it is anti-inflammatory
and helps heal many skin conditions, it is a soothing and stabilising oil so
helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Frankincense- is valued for its ability to slow and deepen the breathing, helping to control anxiety and stress. Deeply calming and
revitalising oil that is especially useful in treating colds and associated
throat and chest problems. Benzoin- a great comforting oil with a sweet, warm, vanilla-like scent. A good all-rounder for the winter months as benzoin is beneficial for rheumatism and poor circulation, eases coughs, colds and chills, soothes chapped skin as well as being uplifting, revitalising and an antidpressant. Black Pepper- has a dry, spicy and woody aroma and acts as a stimulant as well as being strengthening and comforting. Great in a foot soak for chilblains, its overall warming effect eases arthritis, rheumatic pain, stiffness and neuralgia. Also helps fight viral infections. Bay- fresh and spicy with a warm, balsamic base note. Reviving and refreshing it is an effective antispetic for the respiratory system. **A strong oil that should only be used in small doses and very occasionally.** Myrrh- resinous and smoky in aroma, myrrh is renowned for its healing properties and so is beneficial for most inflamed skin conditions. as it has a drying effect it is great as an expectorant for treating coughs and colds. This oil has a calming, spiritual effect on the body and mind, bringing about a sense of peace and tranquility. Sandalwood- has a relaxing and uplifting effect with a sweet, woody, long-lasting fragrance. Excellent for all types of nervous tension, used in baths it is calming and relaxing as well as being soothing and hydrating to the skin. As you can see Aromatherapy and Essential Oils offer the perfect Winter Tonic. Have fun experimenting and keep warm this winter. I'm off for my bath now.......! x |
New Year Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture Offer
Posted on 1 December, 2014 at 9:41 |
![]() |
New Year offer! For January and February 2015 FACIAL REJUVENATION ACUPUNCTURE one-off treatment half price- Now £42.50 (was £85) £50 off Initial course of 6- Now £275 (was £325) £65 for follow up treatments |
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture
Posted on 28 November, 2014 at 11:05 |
![]() |
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture Also known as
cosmetic acupuncture, facial enhancement acupuncture or acupuncture facelift. This type of
acupuncture is part of Microsystem acupuncture which concentrates on the face,
scalp and auricular (ear) areas. It is a non-surgical method of slowing down
and reducing the ageing process. Ultra-fine, hair-like needles are inserted
into the skin at various acupuncture points on the face and head, needling
these specific points creates a direct manipulation on the body’s energy
system, helping to balance and energise the body as required as well as
removing blockages along the energy pathways (meridians) According to
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) many meridians begin and end in the face,
making Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture a truly holistic therapy as it treats
the whole person. Many factors contribute to the ageing process; including diet
and lifestyle, exposure to sun and pollution and of course stress. The main
areas we begin to notice our faces ageing is around the eyes and mouth as our
muscles begin to lose tone. Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture stimulates
acupuncture points near these sagging muscles to tighten and lift the area.
Needles are also inserted into fine lines and wrinkles along the crease, this
creates a very small wound which the body endeavours to repair by producing
collagen, which will gradually fill the crease so the wrinkles appear
diminished and some fine lines will disappear altogether. Other benefits of
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture are an overall lifting effect, increased muscle
tone, bags and puffiness may appear lessened and the quality of the skin can be
vastly improved due to the increased circulation of blood and lymph to the skin’s
surface. Although Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture does not deliver the
immediate, dramatic results achieved by more invasive treatments and surgery it
is a viable option for anyone wanting to slow the ageing process down
NATURALLY, with gentle, subtle effects. Initially a course of treatments is
required and changes are notable after the 3rd or 4 session, but
many people report improvements after the initial session, especially brighter
eyes, clearer complexion and improved sleep patterns. Like the idea but aren't sure if its for you? Then why not book a FREE 20 minute consultation where we can discuss your areas of concern and you can see the needles used and even experience one or two to see if FACIAL REJUVENATION ACUPUNCTURE is suitable for you. Call 01400281905/ 07908015126 to book. |
Categories
- Aromatherapy (12)
- sleep (2)
- muscle tension (2)
- essential oils (2)
- anxiety (1)
- depression (1)
- emotional wellbeing (1)
- mental health (1)
- mental health awareness (0)
- mental wellbeing (0)
- study (1)
- exams (1)
- winter (1)
- well-being (9)
- massage (10)
- toxins (5)
- hot stone (1)
- Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture (2)
- special offers (1)
- bath (2)
- footbath (3)
- warming (2)
- stress (0)
/