In May, I taught a yoga workshop at Tinley Fitness that included self-massage with essential oil blends that I made at home. Many participants wanted to know the recipe for the oil blends, so here it is! At the next workshop, I promise to bring hand outs to take home.
First things first… It is best to consult with your doctor before using essential oils, especially if you are treating a condition, have skin sensitivities, are on medication or are pregnant.
If essential oils aren’t your jam right now, no worries. You can still get the benefits of self-massage by using your favorite, trusted lotions or massage oils like grapeseed, avocado, or coconut oil.
WHERE TO PURCHASE ESSENTIAL OILS
The vessels pictured above are from Whole Foods, but you can find these at many other retailers too, including Amazon. Dark, glass vessels are best
My favorite brands of essential oils are Young Living and Doterra. You can buy them online (Links to: Young Living + Doterra). Based on my research, these are the highest quality and purest oils on the market. But please, feel free to do your own research to find oils that work best for you!
When working with pure essential oils, you need to dilute them with a carrier oil before application. In the recipes below, I suggest grapeseed oil, but you can always use vegetable oil, coconut oil, olive oil, etc. I typically purchase carrier oils at Whole Foods, but there are many other retailers that sell them.
OIL BLEND RECIPES
In the workshop I taught, I used 2 different homemade blends: one for neck and shoulders and one for hands and feet. When using these blends, be sure to avoid your eyes.
Neck + Shoulders Blend:
¼ ounce of grapeseed oil
4 drops of Doterra Breathe Blend
4 drops of Lavender
4 drops of Peppermint
You only need about three drops per area you would like to massage.
Hand & Foot Blend:
¼ ounce of Grapeseed oil
6 drops of lavender
4 drops of peppermint
4 drops of lemon
You only need about three drops per area you would like to massage.
BENEFITS OF THE SELECTED ESSENTIAL OILS
Doeterra Breathe is known for:
- Promoting healthy respiratory function and clear breathing
Lavender is known for:
- Soothing occasional skin irritations
- Promoting relaxation and restful sleep
Peppermint is known for:
- Promoting healthy respiratory function and clear breathing
- Promoting digestive health
- Relieving muscle aches and inflammation due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties
Lemon is known for:
- Cleansing and purifying
- Benefiting skin and hair
- Promoting a positive mood
Remember, you are your own expert, so make adjustments as needed to fit your needs. Please let me know if you have any questions by leaving a comment below or sending me a message. Thanks!