Beating the winter blues with aromatherapy

For some, a simple whiff from these tiny bottles is like a whiff of fresh air. Aromatherapy student, Regina Shell says she found several that were calming and uplifting to the spirit.

Finding the right 'sniff' is what Edee Webb's class in aromatherapy is all about. Edee says, "the way essential oils work, you breathe them in, the oils help release emotions and lift your spirits."

Teacher Edee Webb also says its a matter of science. The chemistry of the oils is linked to memory and when you smell something it brings a memory back.

And to her students, the proof is in the pudding. Or the apple pie! According to Maryann Geoffrey, "anyone who has smelled good old moms apple pie could answer that one. It does something. It triggers some good memories."

Edee has some favorites. Like a bit of citrus or rosemary oil to brighten her mood or some peppermint oil instead of between meal snacks.

If you don't have a nose for aromatherapy try a diffuser to blend the scents through the air or a little drop on your skin so you can take a whiff.

Regina Shell says, "I would apply it to the throat area so that I can smell it during the day."

And for an extra boost try a raindrop. Its a splash of a special blend of oils, massaged into the feet and the back. This raindrop technique leaves her students smelling great and feeling even better!

If you would like to smell the difference aromatherapy can make, try taking one of Edee's classes. You can find a schedule of upcoming classes at www.ingoodhands.us. Or call In Good Hands at (865) 588-3004.

Here are some hints on essential oils that can be used to help out those winter blues:

Relaxation - add 10 drops of Lavender or Tangerine essential oil to a bath and soak for fifteen minutes

Colds - add a few drops of Eucalyptus oil to the water in a vaporizer or aromatherapy diffuser to help congestion

Stress - add a few drops of jasmine oil to a carrier or vegetable oil and massage into skin to help de-stress

Memory - take a whiff of rosemary oil to improve memory