Many essential oils are said to be useful in the process of meditation and mindfulness exercises. Meditation is an ancient practice dating back to the Vedic period in India. The practice now refers to a wide range of breathing exercises, yoga postures, tai chi, mantras, stillness and relaxation techniques, etc.
Scientific research shows the therapeutic effects of meditation in relieving stress, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and so on.
Researchers suggest that the components in essential oils have therapeutic effects and sedative properties. Essential oils can complement as useful tools in enhancing the calming and healing experience through meditations.
Here are the best five essential oils to use during meditations.
1. Frankincense Oil
Frankincense has a wide range of therapeutic uses in traditional eastern medicine. Frankincense oil originates from the resin of Boswellia trees. Scientific studies confirm the potential analgesic (pain-relieving), antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant (cough relieving) properties of the essential oil.
The oil has active anti-stress, anti-neurotic, and anxiety-relieving (anxiolytic) qualities as well. Frankincense is a popular essence in perfume and incense. The woody and balsamic aroma of the oil induces calmness during meditation.
Moreover, the oil is medicinal in relieving cough, asthma, and other respiratory illness. This way, frankincense oil can help to breathe exercise during meditation.
2. Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood is a very expensive tree. The trees grow primarily in India. The fragrant woods of the tree are steam distilled to make the essential oil. Apart from the mind-blowing aroma, the oil has several therapeutic values.
Since ancient times, sandalwood has been used for spiritual purposes and in religious activities. The woody and sweet-scented oil can bring forth the feelings of inner peace, calm, and focus.
In Buddhist spiritual practices, sandalwood oil is used to make the mind alert during meditation. A topical application of the oil can also heal chapped lips, stretch marks, and other skin disorders.
3. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary is an aromatic plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. The fragrant herbs are an essential part of western and Mediterranean cuisine. Several scientific research confirms the anxiety-relieving quality of rosemary oil when used during meditation and mindfulness exercises.
In one such study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 108 participants took part in ‘Flow meditation.’ The group of participants who inhaled rosemary essential oil experienced a reduction in the stress and anxiety level ranging from 20% and 47%.
Experts recommend rosemary oil along with mindfulness exercise as an alternative treatment option for anxiety issues.
4. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is perhaps the most popular essential oil in aromatherapy. The oil comes from the purple flowers and the leaves of the lavender plants. The herb has multi-faceted uses both in culinary and in medicine.
The therapeutic components in the oil have anti-inflammatory, sedative, anti-anxiety, and anti-stress values. Several medical studies verify the sleep-inducing quality of lavender oil.
The oil can clear the mind from the day-long stress and provide feelings of calm and inner peace. You can use this sweet floral scented oil to prepare a productive meditation environment at home.
5. Patchouli Oil
Patchouli is a shrubby plant that is native to the tropical regions of Asia. The essential oil is steam distilled from the dried fragrant leaves of the plant. Commercially patchouli essential oil is an important raw material in many soaps, detergents, perfumes, cosmetics, and other products.
In aromatherapy, patchouli candles and incense are used for the fragrance. The oil has a pleasing and grounding musky note. Apart from using it during mindfulness exercises, you can enjoy its medicinal benefits. The oil can ward off fungal skin infections, eczema, and so on.
How to Use Essential Oil During Meditation
You can use essential oils during meditation and other mindfulness exercises in several ways. The most popular technique is diffusing the oil in the meditation place. Here are some of the popular aromatherapy techniques: steam diffusion, burning candles, and incense with essential oil essence, etc.
Another easy way to incorporate essential oil in meditation is to pour a few drops of oil on your palm and cup your hands to inhale the aroma. You can do this as a preparation before the meditation.
You can also dilute the preferred essential oil and apply it in the chakra points and the third eye before the mindfulness exercise. The practice may enhance inner calm and mental focus.
Bottom Line
Meditation and mindfulness exercises are ancient techniques for experiencing inner calm, peace, and balance. You need an unwavering intention and focus on getting the best out of these inner exercises. Essential oils are great tools when it comes to enhancing the overall experience of meditations, yoga, and so on. Science and many meditation practitioners claim that these aromatic oils can relieve anxiety and stress. Regular use of essential oils during meditation can provide relaxation, focus, and inner tranquility.
