Where to begin?

When I open a bottle of oil I want to ooh and aah over the oil like other aromatherapists. I have joined aromatherapy groups and forums hoping the enthusiasm of others would create a spark. I know, that sounds strange for someone who is working toward (for many many years) an aromatherapy certification. I really wanted to enjoy essential oils like other people. But I can’t, because unlike them, the scent often bothers me. The more I tried to write about the beauty of the oils, the more forced it felt. Finding the flowery (excuse the pun) words to describe the essence of an oil when I’m unable to stay in the room with my open bottles, is awkward. This has been weighing on me. I haven’t written anything in weeks because of this. I feel like a fraud.

The truth is:
I do not LOVE essential oils.

I love the effect oils can have when used properly. I love that they work with the body instead of against it. I totally feel essential oils have huge benefits and are much better for us than synthetic scents and synthetic medications (not medical advice) but I have found that even some essential oils are beginning to bother my lungs.

Admitting this lifts a huge burden from my shoulders. I can now write honestly about the value of essential oils with no more fluff. This is huge. I want everyone to feel the benefits of what nature has to offer without beind adversely effected.

I can create blends that vary slightly from conventional aromatherapy, with confidence.
I can scrunch my nose up at a scent that everyone else finds pleasing, without guilt.
I can limit my selection of oils to ones that work for me, without wasting money.

You can do these things too.

Essential oils have exceptional therapeutic benefits and they are a much safer alternative to the synthetics that come with a long laundry list of side effects. The trick is to find oils that fit your need and have a scent that is pleasing to you. In 99% of the time substitutions can be made for an oil that bothers you. Don’t be afraid to say you don’t like an oil.

Another alternative is to work with the whole plant vs. just the oil. That’s where herbalism comes into the picture. Stay tuned for more on that subject.

To wrap up this true confession I will say: You do not have to follow along with the crowd. Explore what nature has to offer. You will be better off physically, mentally, and spiritually.