A Dosha this is Good for the Soul

     When considering wellness it is important to consider the mind, the body, and the spirit. One of the best ways to balance all three is through Yoga. Whether you are advanced or a beginner, like me, Yoga is an excellent way to center yourself and promote wellness.

     When I think of Yoga I think mostly of stretching and breathing while being mindful of what my body is telling me. Yoga is the perfect blend of meditation and exercise and which makes it a great opportunity to utilize the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy to enhance the experience.

     One of the most beneficial oils to use during Yoga exercises could be Frankincense or boswellia carterii. Frankincense essential oil is distilled from the gum of a desert bush that has been used in religious ceremonies, cosmetics, and medicines throughout all of recorded history. I find it fascinating that several different ancient cultures have utilized this aromatic plant and that it is still highly valued today.

     Frankincense’s most notable quality is surely its ability to slow and deepen the breath which can be very helpful during Yoga. This ability to help regulate breathing combined with the ability to clear the mind is a wonderful combination for finding your “zen moments.”

     Frankincense can be safely diluted into a body oil or lotion where it can support meditation and also help with any muscle and joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory action. If you would like to add essential oils to your body oils or moisturizers it is important to do it safely. A 3% - 5% dilution of essential oil into a carrier like Jojoba oil or an unscented body balm is a safe way to apply the essential oils topically and providing an aromatic boost to your routine. Be sure to check out the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy for advice on how to use essential oils safely and effectively.

     Frankincense is not the only essential oil that can be utilized during yoga practices but it is certainly a good one. Many other oils can be used for emotional and spiritual balance and there are plenty of excellent resources to learn more specifics.

     If you are in tune with your dosha and want and essential oil combination to help support your dosha I have a few recommendations. Below are some recipes for body oils that will offer subtle aromas to compliment your doshas during yoga exercise.

Kapha Blend

Warm and stimulating oils like Rosemary, Eucalyptus, and Juniper are recommended for Kapha dosha support.

5 drops Ortho Flex Original EO combo

10 ml Jojoba Oil

Pitta Blend

The Pitta dosha is supported by Cooling and Sweet aromas like Lavender, Chamomile, and Spearmint.

4 drops Nite Cap EO combo

1 drop Spearmint EO

10 ml Jojoba Oil

Vata Blend

A Vata dosha can be supported by heavy, sweet, and warm aromas such as Cinnamon and Orange

3 drops Christmas Pleasures EO combo

10 ml Jojoba Oil

     Another excellent way to utilize essential oils during Yoga is with a natural Yoga Mat spray that will help keep your Yoga mat and other accessories clean and fresh.

Many essential oils are antimicrobial, antiseptic, and deodorizing. Below is a recipe for a bright citrus-scented Yoga Mat Spray.

Fresh and Clean Yoga Mat Spray

40 ml High Proof Vodka or Grain Alcohol

80 ml Purified Water

05 drops Lemongrass EO

05 drops Lime EO

10 drops Tea Tree EO20 drops Tangerine EO

Combine in a 4 oz. PET plastic or glass spray bottle.

Spritz on surfaces to keep them fresh and clean.

Shake well before use. Wipe off excess to avoid surface damage.

If you are concerned about young children or pets you can substitute Eucalyptus radiata for the Tea Tree essential oil in this recipe.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Written By:

Phil Shepard

Store Manager

Time Laboratories

About Phil

Phil Shepherd is an avid aromatherapy enthusiast who enjoys working for Time Laboratories and Windrose Aromatics. As a southeast Idaho native, Phil enjoys working in his local community theater and spending time at home with his husband and his pets.
Phil loves working with aromatherapy, particularly making custom fragrance blends. Phil manages the local retail outlet for Time Laboratories, is a proud NAHA volunteer, and feels privileged to have had the opportunity to work closely with a pioneer of American aromatherapy, Ms. Annemarie Buhler.