Essential oils for the seasons of life

Experiencing the whimsical British weather, comprising of rain, sun and wind within a relatively short period in one day, led made me to reflect upon the seasons of the year: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter, and how they can relate to the different stages of life.  For example, Spring is the season of new growth, bursting with vital energy, and can be likened to the first stage of life: birth to early adulthood.  Summer continues to be a period of vibrant and buoyant growth and this second stage of life, from early adulthood to mid-40’s, is said to be intense and passionate.  Autumn is associated with the third stage of life from mid-40’s to retirement, growth is done, the fruits of labour are harvested and nature is preparing us for rest.  The final stage of life, from retirement to end of life is considered to be a time for relaxation and harmony.  In the past, average life expectancy was said to be three score years and ten (i.e. 70), although that has now increased to over 80 years of age.

We are all, of course, connected to this wonderful natural world and I believe that within each stage of life we also experience each of the amazing seasons, whether that be the time for activity and growth, or the time to enjoy the fruits of our labour, or even the time to be simply still and recharge our batteries.  Essential oils have unquestionably been used since time immemorial to support us on our journey through life and, of course, there is a plethora of information relating to them easing the symptoms of many minor ailments and conditions: Roman Chamomile essential oil, for example, is reputed to ease an infant’s teething problems whilst there is evidence to suggest that Melissa essential oil helps improve memory in elderly dementia sufferers. In this article, however, I particularly want to share with you some aromatherapy essential oil blends that will sustain and support you throughout the seasons within each of the different stages of life, and I hope you find them helpful.  A dilution chart is provided at the foot of this article for those of you interested in specific dilution ratios for the different age groups.

Essential Oil Blend For Spring

The season for growth and activity.  Use the following blend to stimulate and enliven:

4 drops Sweet Orange essential oil
2 drops Petitgrain essential oil
8 drops Neroli essential oil
In 14ml of Moisturising Lotion

Mix well and apply to the skin in the morning after showering.

Essential Oil Blend For Summer

The season for vibrancy and continued growth. The following blend will help you to develop and progress in your work:

4 drops of Spearmint essential oil
2 drops of Peppermint essential oil
In 12ml of SLS Free Bath & Shower Gel

Use in the shower first thing in the morning for stimulation and awakening.

Essential Oil Blend For Autumn

This blend helps to slow us down so that we may enjoy the fruits of our labour:

4 drops of Bergamot essential oil
8 drops of Geranium essential oil
2 drops of Rose essential oil
In 10ml of Sunflower Seed oil and 4ml of Rosehip Seed oil

Add to your bath ensuring that the water isn’t too hot, and soak for a minimum of 20 minutes daily.

Safety note: the oils will make the bath surface slippery, so take care when getting out of the bath.

Essential Oil Blend For Winter

Quiet reflection encapsulates this season, so enjoy the following blend for helping you to relax and be at peace with yourself, your family, friends and surroundings:

4 drops of Clary Sage essential oil
8 drops of Lavender essential oil
2 drops of Frankincense essential oil

Place the essential oil blend in an aromatherapy oil burner or diffuser and enjoy the meditative aroma.

Essential oil dilution ratios for different age groups

*Please note that certain essential oils may be contraindicated for different age ranges or client groups.

Christine Fisk
Consultant Aromatherapist

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