Hinduism-The One Existence.

The One Existence. 

There is one Infinite, Eternal, Changeless Existence, 

the All. 

From That all comes forth ; to That all returns. 

“ One only', without a second.” * 

That includes within Itself all that ever has been, is, and can be. As a wave rises in the ocean, a universe rises in the All. As the wave sinks again into the ocean, a universe sinks again: into the All. As the ocean is water, and the wave a form or manifestation of the water, so is there one Existence, and the universe a form, or manifestation, of the Existence. 

“All This verily [is] Brahman.” 

This is the primary truth of Religion. Men have given to the All many different names. The name in the Sanatana Dharma is Brahman. English-speaking people use the name God, adding, to make the meaning clear, “God, in His own Nature." Sometimes the Hindu speaks of the All as Nirguna Brahman, the Brahman without attributes, or the unconditioned Brahman. This is to distinguish the unmanifested state of Brahman, the All, from the manifested state, in which Brahman is called the Saguna Brahman, the Brahman with attributes, or the conditioned Brahman, the Supreme Ishvara with His universe. 

These are called “ the two states of Brahman ’ the subject is very difficult, and it is enough for a boy to understand that the Saguna Brahman is Brahman revealed— not " a second ”, but Brahman shining forth as The One, the Great Lord of Being, Thought and Bliss, He is the self-existent One, the Root and Cause of all beings. He is also sometimes called Purushottama, the Supreme Spirit, The Self. With Himself as Spirit He reveals the other side of the All, which is named MQlaprakriti, the Root of Matter. Prakriti, Matter, is that which takes form, and so can give bodies of all sorts and shapes and kinds ; all that we can touch, taste, smell, see, and hear, is Matter, and a great deal more besides, which our five senses are not yet developed enough to perceive. The solids, liquids and gases of the chemist are made of Matter; all the things around us, stones, trees, animals, men, are made of Matter. But the whole of them is not Matter; inaudible, invisible, un-smellable, un-tastable, intangible, the Spirit is in each, an Amshah, a portion, of Ishvara. We call the Matter part a Shariram, body, or a kosah, sheath, or an Upadhih, vehicle ; that which embodies, clothes or carries the Spirit. Thus Ishvara is in everything, and it is He who gives life to all things. He is  Atma, the Self, the Immortal, the Inner Ruler, dwelling in all objects, and there is nothing that can exist apart from Him. An amhsa(portion) of Him in a body of Matter, is called a Jiva, or a Jivatman, a separated Self. 

There are some very important differences between Spirit and Matter, as well as the differences just spoken of, that the senses, when completely developed, can perceive Matter, while they cannot perceive Spirit, and that Matter takes form while Spirit is formless. It is the Spirit that is life, and that thinks, and feels, and observes, that is the “ I "in each of us. And the Spirit is one and the same in everybody and in every- thing. But Matter cannot think, or feel, or observe ; it is Jadam, without consciousness. And it has also the tendency to be constantly dividing itself into many forms and to become many. So that Spirit and Matter are said to be the opposites, one of the other ; Spirit is called the knower, the one that knows, while Matter is called the object of knowledge, that which is known. 

Students should try to understand these differences, and must never confuse Spirit and Matter ; they are opposites, the first “ pair of opposites,” out of which a universe is built up. 

Just as Spirit has three qualities —सत ,चित ,आनंदनम - Sat, Chit, Anandanam-Being, Thought-Power and Bliss, so has Matter three qualities,सम:,रज:,सतवं , Tamah, Rajah, Sattvam — Inertia, Motion, Rhythm. Inertia gives resistance and stability to Matter;Motion keeps Matter active, moving about ; Rhythm makes the movements regular. You may say, " A stone does not move of itself.” But science tells you that every particle in that stone — ^particles too small for you to see — is moving rapidly and regularly to and fro, is vibrating, to use the scientific name. The शक्तिः, Shaktih, or the Divine Power of Ishvara, which makes Matter begin to take form, is called माया,Maya, and sometimes दैवीप्रकृतिः, Daiviprakritih, the Divine Prakriti. Shri Krishna speaks of "My Divine Prakriti " as " My other Prakriti, the higher, the life- element, by which the universe is upheld.” ^ 

The student may think of the great pair of opposites, Ishvara and Molaprakriti, standing, as it were, face to face, and the Divine Power of Ishvara shining out on Molaprakriti and making the qualities, called Guna,acts on each other, so that many forms begin to appear. This Divine Power is Maya, and so ishvara is called the Lord of Miya, 

Even young students 'must try to remember these names, and what they mean, for they cannot otherwise understand the teaching of the Bhagavad-Gita which every Hindu boy must try to understand. It may be good to say that the word Prakriti is generally used instead of Molaprakriti,the prefix Mola,Root,being usually left out. 

शेयं  यततं प्रवशायामि  यज्ज्ञातवामृतमश्नुते  

“I will declare that which is to be known, that which being known immortality is gained — the beginningless supreme Brahman, called neither Being nor Not- 

being. 

'‘Everywhere That has hands and feet, everywhere eyes, heads and mouths, all-hearing He dwell in the world, enveloping all. 

"Shining with all sense-faculties, without any senses ; unattached, supporting everything ; and free from properties, enjoying properties. 

"Without and within all beings, immovable and also movable ; from his subtlety indistinguishable ; at 'hand and far away is That. 

"Not divided amid beings and yet seated distributively. That is to be known as the supporter of beings ; 

He devours and He generates. That the Light of all Lights is said to be beyond darkness; .wisdom, the wisdom to be gained, the end of wisdom, seated in the hearts of all." 

This was in the form of Darkness, unknown without marks [ or homogeneous ], unattainable by reasoning, unknowable, wholly, as it were, in sleep. 

“ Then the Self-Existent, the Lord, un manifest, (but) making manifest This— the great elements and the rest— appeared with mighty power. Dispeller of Darkness. 

“ He who can be grasped by that which is beyond the senses, subtle, un manifest, ancient, containing all beings, inconceivable, even He Himself shone forth.

“ I, 0 Gudakesha, am the Self, seated in the heart of all beings ; I am the beginning, the middle, and also the end of all beings.” 

‘‘There arc two Purushas in this world, one destructible and one indestructible ; the destructible is all beings, the indestructible is called the unchanging. 

“The highest Purusha is verily another, declared as the Supreme Self; He who pervade and sustain-the three worlds, the indestructible Ishvara. 

"Since I excel the destructible, and am more excellent also than the indestructible, in the world and in the Veda I am proclaimed Purushottama." 

"An eternal portion of myself, in the world of life a living being, draw round itself the senses, of which Manas is the sixth, placed in Prakriti." 

" Seated equally in all beings, the supreme Ishvara, indestructible within the destructible; he who thus seeth, he seeth. 

"When he perceive that the varied natures of beings are rooted in Oxe and proceed from It, then he reaches the Brahman. 

*‘As this one sun illuminate the whole earth, so the Lord of the field illuminate the whole field, O Bharata." 

“ Earth, water, fire, air, ether, Manas and Buddhi also and Ahamkra — these are the eight-fold divisions of my Prakriti. 

*‘This the inferior. Know my other Prakriti, the higher,the life-element, O mighty armed, by which the universe is upheld." 

“Sattva, Rajas, Tamas, these are the Gunas, born of Prakriti, O great-armed one ; they bind fast in the body the indestructible dweller in the body." 

Sanatana Dharma(Hinduism)-An introduction

ॐ 

 INTRODUCTION

   Sanatana Dharma means the Eternal Religion, the Ancient Law, and it is based on the Vedas, sacred books given to men many long ages ago. This Religion has also been called the Aryan Religion, because it is the Religion that was given to the first nation of the Aryan race ; Arya means noble, and the name was given to a great race, much finer in character and appearance than the races which went before it in the world’s history. The first families of these people settled in the northern part of the land now called India, and that part in which they first settled was named Aryavarta, because these Aryans lived in it. “[The land] from the eastern ocean to the western ocean, between the two mountains [Himavat and Vindhya], the wise call Aryavarta." 

      In later days the Religion was called the Hindu Religion, and this is the name by which -it is now usually known. It is the oldest of living Religions, and no other Religion has produced so many great men — great teachers, great writers, great sages, great saints,’ great kings, great warriors, great statesmen, great benefactors, great patriots, The more you know of it, the more you will honour and love it, and the more thankful you will be that you were born into it. But unless you grow up worthy of it, this great and holy Religion will do you no good. 

The Basis of Sanatana Dharma. 

   The ancient Religion is based on one strong foundation on which are erected the walls of its structure. 

The foundation is called श्रुतिः Shrutih, " that which has been heard”; the walls are called स्मृतिः Smritih, ” that which has been remembered”. 

The Shruti has been given through very wise men, who heard it and received it from Devas ; these sacred teachings were not written down till comparatively modern times, but were learned by heart, and constantly repeated, The teacher sang them to his pupils, and the pupils sang them after him, a few words at a time, over and over again, till they knew them thoroughly. Boys still learn the Shruti in the same way as their forefathers learned it in very ancient day's and you may hear them chanting it in any Vaidik Pathshala at the present time. 

The Shruti consists of the चतुर्वेदः Four Vedah, 'Vedas. Veda means knowledge, that which is known ; and the knowledge which is the foundation of Religion is given to man in the Four Vedas. They are named: ऋग्वेद; Rigveda;सामवेद Samaveda;यजुर्वेद Yajurveda ; and अथर्ववेद Atharvaveda, 

Each Veda is divided into three pans : — 

1. मंत्र Mantrah ; or संहिता Samhita, collection. 

2. ब्राह्मणं;, Brahmanam. 

3 -उपनिषद्;, Upanishad. 

The Mantra portion consists of Mantras, or sentences in which the order of sounds has a particular power, producing certain effects. These are in the form of hymns to the Devas— whose relations to mcn we shall study presently — and when they are properly chanted by propcrl}' instructed persons, certain results follow. These are used in religious ceremonies, and the value of the ceremony depends chiefly upon their proper repetition. 

The Brahmanam portion of the Vedas consists of directions about ritual and explains how to perform the ceremonies in which were used the Mantras given in the first part ; and further,stories connected with them. 

The Upanishad portion consists of deep philosophical teachings on the nature of Brahman, on the Supreme and the separated Self, on man and the universe, on bondage and liberation. It is the foundation of all philosophy, and when you are men, you may study it and delight in it. Only highly educated men can study it ; it is too difficult for others. 

There was a fourth part of the Veda in the ancient days, sometimes called the Upavedah, or Tantram; this consisted of science, and of practical instructions based on the science ; but very little of the true ancient Tantra remains, as the Rishis took them away as unsuitable for times in which people were less spiritual. Some Tantrika forms of ritual are, however, used in worship, along with, or instead of, the current Vaidika forms. The books now extant under the name of Tantras are generally not regarded as part of the Veda. 

That which is found in the Shruti is of supreme authority and is accepted by every faithful follower of the Sanatana Dharma as final. All the sects, all the philosophical systems, appeal to the Shruti as the final authority, determining every dispute. 

The Smriti, or Dharma Shastra, is founded on, and stands next in authority to, the Shruti, and consists of four great works, written by sages, the chief contents of which are laws and regulations for the carrying on of individual, family, social and national life. 

Hindu Society is founded on, and governed by, these 

laws. They are:— 

1. मनुस्मृति Manu Smriti, or मानवधर्मशास्त्रं Manava Dharma Shastra. The Institutes of Manu 

2 .यजनावल्क्य स्मृति  Yajnavalkya Smriti. 

3 . Shankha and Likhita Smriti. 

4 . Parashara Smriti. 

    The first of these is the chief compendium of Aryan law, Manu being the great Law-giver of the race. Hindu chronology divides the history of a world into seven great periods or cycles of time, each of which is begun and is ended by a Manu, and is therefore called a Manvantara, Manu-antara, “ between [two] Manus." 

   “Six other Manus, very great minded and of great splendour, belonging to the race of this Manu, the descendant of Svayambhu, have each produced beings." This shows that we are in the fourth Manvantara, under the rule of the Manu who is, the next shloka tells us, the son of Vivasvata. Some of his laws are handed down in the Manu Smriti. 

   The Yajnavalkya Smriti follows the same general lines as the Manu Smriti and is next in importance to it. The other two are not now much studied or referred to. 

While the Shruti and the Smriti are the foundation and the walls of the Sanatana Dharma, there are two other important supports like buttresses : the Puranas and the Itihasah, (History).. 

The Puranas consist of histories and stories and allegories, composed for the use of the less learned part of the nation, especially for those who could not study the Vedas. They are very interesting to read, and are full of information of all kinds. Some of the allegories are difficult to understand, and require the help of a teacher. 

The Itihasa comprises two great poems : 

1. The Ramayanam the history of Shri Ramachandra, the son of king Dasharatha, and of His wife Sita, and of his brothers, a most interesting and delightful story, as you all know. 

2. The Mahabharatam, the history of the Kurus, a royal family of Northern India, which split into two parties, the Kurus and the Pandavas, between whom a great war broke out. It contains an immense number of beautiful stories, noble moral teachings, and useful lessons of all kinds. 

   These two books, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, tell us most of what we know about ancient India, about her people, and her customs, and her ways of living, and her arts, and her manufactures. If you read these, you will learn how great India once was, and you will also learn how you must behave to make her great once more. 

The Science and Philosophy of Sanatana Dharma. 

   While the Shruti and the Smriti, the Puranas and the Itihasa, make the edifice of Hindu Religion, we find that the Religion itself has given birth to a splendid literature of Science and Philosophy. 

Science was divided into the Shadangani, the Six Angas, literally Limbs ; and these six Limbs, or Branches, comprised what would now be called secular knowledge. In the old days religious and secular knowledge were not divided. They included Grammar, Philology, Astrology, Poetry, together with sixty-four sciences and arts, and the method by which study should be carried on, so that any one who mastered the six angas was a man of varied and deep learning. 

   The Philosophy also had six divisions, the Shaddarshanani, the six Darshanas, or ways of seeing things, usually called the Six Systems. They all have 

one object : the putting an end to pain by enabling the separated human selves to reunite with the Supreme Self ; and they all have one method — the development of Wisdom. The methods employed are different, to suit the different mental constitutions of men, so that thc3' are like six different roads, all leading to one town. 

As to what is contained in the six systems of philosophy*, it will be enough for boys to know this : — 

The Nydya and the Vaisheshika arrange all the things of the world into a certain number of kinds ; then point out that a man knows all things by means of his senses, or by inference and analogy, or by the testimony 

.of other (wise and experienced) men ; and then they explain how God has made all this material world out of atoms and molecules ; final]}' they show how the highest and most useful knowledge is the knowledge of God, who is also the inmost Spirit of man, and how this knowledge is obtained in various ways. 

The Sahkhya explains in more detail and in new ways the nature of 5^1 Purushah, spirit, and of Prakfitih, matter, and the relation of the two to each other. 

The Yoga says that as there are now, generally known five senses and five organs of action, so there are other subtler senses and organs; and explains more fully how they may be developed by men who are seeking to know God, who is their own true inmost Spirit. 

The Mimansa explains what Karma is, i. e. action, both religious and worldly, and what are its consequences, causes and effects, and how it binds man to 

this world or to another. 

The Vedanta finally tells fully what is the exact and true nature of God, or AtmS, and shows that the Jiva of man is in essence the same as this Inmost God, and explains how man may live so that Karma shall not tie him ; and finally, by understanding what the Maya Shakti of God is, by which all this world comes forth and appears and disappears, how he may (after practice of Yoga) merge himself into and become one with God and so gain Moksha. 

Aromatherapy

 The Power of Touch and the Benefit of Scents

The etymology of the word massage can be traced back to the Greek word "massein" which loosely translated means "to knead". In our hectic, fast paced lifestyle, the massage has become a thing of luxury and indulgence. However, in as far back as the ancient times and ancient civilizations of the Greeks, Persians and Chinese, the massage has been used a medicinal treatment for common ailments. It was mostly used though as preventive medicine and was given a sublime or spiritual association.

The wisdom of these ancient people should be incorporated into modern day perspective. The massage can very well be used in this age as a sort of preventive therapy. If one takes the time to trace relations between illnesses and its causes, one will notice that a lot of the modern day ailments that befall the modern individual are mostly due to stress and a hyper active lifestyle. 

Regular massage will help one maintain a balance between a hectic life and a relaxed, stress free life. This way, instead of creating a tension between these two worlds, you can create harmony and balance. To enhance the experience of a massage further, aromatherapy can be incorporated into the massage. This can be done by using an aromatherapy massage oil during the massage session. This way, you are able to harness the power of touch combined with the benefits of aromatherapy.

Whatever massage technique is employed, whether it is Shiatsu, Swedish or a combination, the benefit of using an aromatherapy massage oil will double the beneficial results of your massage session.

However you must remember to acquire the assistance of qualified massage therapists because untrained individuals may cause more harm than good when it comes to practicing massage techniques. Once you have found a qualified professional, before starting the massage session, you must tell your therapist about what you want to achieve and give a personal history so that both of you can decide what best type of massage therapy will be best given your special personal situation. 

Decide on which aromatherapy massage oil to use for your situation. For instance if you need an invigorating and relaxing massage, you might decide to use a rose blend for your aromatherapy massage oil. This blend consists of some sandalwood, rose and jasmine. Done properly, the use of this aromatherapy massage oil in your massage will do wonders for your mood and physical being.

You must remember to plan the schedule of your massage appropriately, Although you can start your day with a massage using an aromatherapy massage oil, remember that you should not bathe at least 8 hours after your session to allow the aromatherapy massage oil to be fully absorbed by the body.

Going back to the use of aromatherapy massage oils, you should not be afraid to try and make your own blends. You will find recipes in books and online for aromatherapy massage oils, however, this should not limit you into using just these recipes. After you have gained a certain proficiency and knowledge about essential oils and their benefits, you can try experimenting to make your own perfect blend for an aromatherapy massage oil. This way, each experience can be unique and wonderful at the same time and personally suited to your needs.  

The benefits of aromatherapy through aromatherapy diffuser 

The term "aromatherapy" was first heard from the lips of Rene Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist who discovered the healing method in the 1920s. Referred to as the practice of using aromatherapy essential oils derived from different parts of certain plants in a healing process, aromatherapy has become one of the common practices of people in relieving physical and psychological pains.

Since the discovery of aromatherapy and aromatherapy oils, more and more have become associated with the process. Commonly administered through inhalation or massage, aromatherapy products such as essential oils, candles, incense, lotions and the like, have become a household name in reducing stress, easing sleep process, aiding sensual harmony while relaxing sore and tired muscles.

USING THE RIGHT AROMATHERAPY ACCESSORIES 

Being an art and science of using pure plant extracts or essential oils in relaxing, balancing, and rejuvenating a person's body, mind, as well as the spirit, aromatherapy is also now valued for having holistic qualities and nature that are proven to be effective in certain conditions and for self-care.

In order to achieve the maximum benefits of aromatherapy oils and aromatherapy candles, various accessories were created to aid in the process of healing. One of the most in demand products associated with aromatherapy today is aromatherapy diffusers and oil nebulizers.  

Aside from visiting various aromatherapy stores, surfing the Internet is one of the effective ways of finding the perfect aromatherapy diffusers for you. By surfing the net, you can find great selections of quality essential oil diffusers for aromatherapy diffusers at great prices. 

Aside from aromatherapy diffusers, you can also find great selections of aromatherapy fan diffusers, nebulizing diffusers, tea candle diffusers, lamp ring diffusers, car diffusers, essential oil diffusers, nebulizers, essential oil burners, aromatherapy burners, essential oil warmers, aromatherapy and other aromatherapy accessories.

Experts such aromatherapists, massage therapists, spa owners, and healing arts practitioners say that it is more agreeable to aromatherapy diffusers that use no heat compared to those that use heat. This is to ensure the quality of the scent diffused by the aromatherapy essential oils. The following are just some of the aromatherapy diffusers available in the market today. 

1. Aromatherapy Inhaler. This refers to the high quality and sleek aromatherapy diffuser that is usually available in various colors. This is quite handy and you can even put it in your bag or purse. 

This kind of aromatherapy diffuser can separate itself into four pieces to enable easy filling. This kind of aromatherapy diffuser is a quite convenient way to take aromatherapy especially for people on the go. 

Aromatherapy inhalers also come in plastic packs where you can place tiny drops of aromatherapy essential oil. You can also bring it whenever you go and you can easily benefit from the power of aromatherapy oils whenever you want it. 

2. Aromatherapy diffuser for Tea Candle. If you want you aromatherapy diffuser to be unique, opt for diffusers that use agate slab as a base. 

This unique design of aromatherapy diffuser also completes the mood for total relaxation and is also economical because you just have to use a couple drops of pure therapeutic essential oils and combine it with water in the reservoir. It creates a slower and longer lasting diffusion that you can enjoy. 

3. Aromatherapy diffuser and nebulizer with or without timer. This type of aromatherapy diffuser is perfect for people who need to cover more space than a regular home model aromatherapy diffuser. 

This diffuser can also be used non-stop and can last for over 24 hours of use. Since there is no possibility of over-saturation, the use of this aromatherapy diffuser will result to a more enjoyable and healthy surroundings. 

These are just some kinds of aromatherapy diffusers available in the market. Just remember that when you purchase any aromatherapy diffuser, you will use therapeutic grade aromatherapy essential oils or candles so you will achieve greater results. 

Aromatherapy

 Relaxing Through an Aromatherapy Bath

A tiring day at the office with the head feeling heavy and the muscles in the body a bit sore will all disappear after a warm bath or a massage. Unfortunately, the prices for such services are quite expensive so this can’t be done regularly. 

If the same oils applied to the body can do wonders, why not use the same thing by simply inhaling it? This idea brought about aromatherapy and studies have shown that more people are getting into it. 

Aromatherapy comes from oils extracted from plants or trees. A few examples of these are chamomile, jasmine, lavender, sandalwood and ylang-ylang. These are packed in small bottles and pouring a few drops into warm water or using scented candles has an amazing effect on the person. 

But what makes an aromatherapy bath so effective? The key to this is the various scents, which enter through the nostrils and then sends a signal to the brain. It gives the person a certain high making one feel happy and refreshed.

This truly makes an aromatherapy bath different because the scent of the soap or shampoo used can never be compared to what the oils have to offer. After lying in the tub for maybe fifteen of l5 minutes, the individual can get up and then take a shower to rinse everything off. 

The nice thing about this new trend to take away stress is that an aromatherapy bath can be done at home. This will truly save a few dollars instead of going to the spa especially when the different oils can be purchased online or from a store. 

Sometimes, instead of just using one scent, it is possible to mix a few drops to create something that will have a stronger effect.

A good example that will help relieve body aches and pain is mixing 20 drops of lavender oil, 10 drops of rosemary and blackberry, 5 drops each of peppermint and cypress oil mixed with some massaging oil to make the pain go away.

Another great idea to mix into the warm water is 20 drops of geranium, 10 drops of bergamot and ylang ylang with 5 each of frankincense and cedar wood. This should also be mixed again with massaging oil before putting it in.

Aside from oil and candles, some have even tried using bath salts that will dissolve in the water. The person can even play some soft music in the background transforming the bathroom into a miniature spa.

Before trying anything, it will be a good idea to check if the individual is allergic to any of the oils used. Sometimes doing a few experiments when mixing one scent with the other should be done beforehand to be able to enjoy the experience.  The person could discover something new that has never been tried before until now. 

The person should be aware that aromatherapy is not the solution to someone who is suffering from a serious ailment. However, studies have shown that it can help improve or even strengthen the immune system. 

So the next time the person feels stressed, instead of taking some medicine, perhaps lying in the tub won’t be a bad idea after all to be able to recharge those all batteries and getting geared up for another day at the office

Aromatherapy

 Massage Your Way to Better Well Being

Aromatherapy is a wonderfully natural way to treat common ailments. It works by stimulating the connection between the brain and body by using the olfactory sense as a point of stimuli. The use of aromatherapy can be incorporated into daily life through the use of aromatherapy candles, soaps and such. However, to be able to get the full benefit of aromatherapy, you must get serious and learn all about the topical application of aromatherapy essential oils to affected areas for a full experience of healing.

What better way to incorporate topical application of essential oils than using it for an aromatherapy massage. You can enjoy aromatherapy massage with a partner or on your own. All you need to do first is learn and understand what essential oils are best for what to be able to begin aromatherapy massage. When you have decided which essential oil to use, you need to mix your essential oil with a carrier oil of your choice and the usual ratio is 10 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil. 

You can use different massage techniques with your aromatherapy massage. It may be beneficial however to do some research on how best to combine your aromatherapy massage with the proper acupressure point stimulation for the best effect.

An aromatherapy massage is wonderful because you are enveloped in the aromatic scents of your essential oil of choice and at the same time, you are gaining the direct benefits of topical application of these same oils. Whether you are giving the massage or receiving it, both parties will benefit from this aromatherapy technique.

If you are doing the aromatherapy massage to yourself, be sure to choose a quiet and relaxing area in your home to do this. Perhaps you can do your own aromatherapy massage after a wonderful aromatherapy bath. You can massage your chosen essential oils inside the warm comfort of your bathroom while you are still basking in the glow of the aromatherapy bath.

Work the essential oils into the affected areas. 

This way, you benefit from smelling the scents from the essential oils but also your massage will induce the introduction of fresh oxygenated blood to the area that you are massaging. Also, the application of the essential oil to the affected area will give it instant relief by penetrating the layers of skin.

For an aromatherapy massage you can enjoy in solitude but in total relaxation, you can employ the services of a professional masseuse. You can bring your own home blends of aromatherapy massage oil or benefit from a professional aromatherapy package at your favorite spa.

Whether you decide to employ aromatherapy massage alone, with a partner or with a professional, be sure to make the most out of it. Situate yourself in a relaxing position in an equally relaxing area. From here you can breathe and feel your way to better health and disposition.

One last tip for getting into aromatherapy massage: use the right types of essential oils for the corresponding ailments or problems. For instance, if your goal is to alleviate a headache, simply massage to the back of your neck a blend of rosemary and lavender oil. If it's aching muscles and tired joints however, you can try a mixture of one part each eucalyptus, basil and sage combined with 4 parts of your favorite oil like sweet almond or jojoba.   

Aromatherapy

Handing Out Presents In Aromatherapy Gift Baskets

Christmas is right around the corner holiday shoppers are out there in the malls looking for something ideal for friends and family members. The children will get toys while the grownups will probably get a book or a piece of clothing. 

If this has been the only thing that the individual has been buying for years, perhaps it is time to try something else such as an aromatherapy gift basket. The customer may find this in the home section of the department store or in a specialty store. 

The prices will vary depending on the contents of the basket. The basic one will have oils, candles and a burner. A bigger version may also contain that with additional items like a few bars of soap and even a guidebook that will be helpful for those who are not familiar yet with aromatherapy. 

On average, the price of an aromatherapy gift basket is from $50 to $100 each. This will give the person an idea how much; will be spent on getting these as presents if there are a lot in the Christmas list. 

If this will go over the customer’s budget, these items can be purchased separately and then just placed in a basket or a box. This can be covered using food wrap since not everyone has the machine to get it shrink-wrapped.

A special thing that the individual can throw in maybe a small bottle of wine or an adult toy as long as this won’t offend the person.  

Those who have been practicing aromatherapy for years or have even taken classes can save more money by producing these items at home then putting it in gift baskets. It is not that hard to make soap or bath salts since there are a lot of stores that sell these products.

The customer can even go to the bookstore or look it up in the Internet if that individual wants to give aromatherapy gift baskets to a lot of people in a variety of scents. 

The aromatherapy gift basket is not a gift given to women. There are men who also appreciate getting something like this as a gift. The trick is finding the right scent that the person will like.

This can also be given for just about any occasion and it is not only during Christmas. This will also be a great gift during bridal or baby showers, anniversaries, birthdays and Valentines Day. 

Those who want to avoid the long lines at the checkout counter can also purchase these gift baskets online. A few of these can be added to the basket then paid using the credit card so this can be delivered to one’s home. 

Some stores will even deliver it to the recipient but nothing is more personal than handing it out to that person. The customer should just order early because the stocks could run out. 

Aromatherapy is getting more popular these days because it is able to relieve stress and pain. It is no wonder that those who don’t have time to go to the gym decide to get these things from the store and then feel better after doing this at home. 

Since everyone experiences a certain amount of stress daily, perhaps getting an aromatherapy gift basket will be ideal. People will be able to enjoy the holidays feeling rested and anticipating what the new year has to offer. 

Aromatherapy

 Light up your mood and senses with aromatherapy candles

Of all the aromatherapy products available in the market today, aromatherapy candles are the most popular ones. Available in hundreds of scents, sizes, designs, shapes, colors, and textures, aromatherapy candles are preferred by most people because they are convenient and safer to use. 

In fact, by using aromatherapy candles, an ordinary room can turn into a more cozy and inviting place where one can relax. Aside from turning an ordinary setting to an extraordinary one, scented candles can also evoke various memories from the past while transporting you into a place where you can find serenity and tranquility. 

Unlike the usual candles, aromatherapy candles are known to release small but continuous streams of herbal and floral essences as they burn into the air. As the natural chemicals and essential oils contained in each candle enter your body through breathing, the therapeutic properties of the oil steadily travel in your bloodstream to stimulate the brain. 

Compared to the direct use of aromatherapy essential oils through a massage, subtle benefits can only be achieved by lighting an aromatherapy candle. But, the diffusing essential oil in scented candles can aid greatly in the alteration, enhancement, and improvement of one's state of mind. Aside from veering you away from the toxicities of your environment, burning aromatherapy candles can also give your space a touch of nature as it enlivens and cleanses the air in your abode. 

THE POWER OF SCENT

Unlike other aromatherapy products that require accessories, aromatherapy candles are simpler to use. All you need is a pack of your chosen scent and a match or lighter to unleash powerful and soothing scents that enhances mood, uplifts spirits while relieving tensions. Aside from lighting up the aromatherapy candle, there are various ways to enjoy it. Here are some: 

1. To enjoy the best aromatherapy candle, make sure that you buy items that contain "aromatherapy candle" label not "scented candle" label. This can assure you that you will enjoy the benefits of pure essential oils as the candles burn into the air.  

2. Make sure that you select the right candle for the appropriate situation. Know what your purpose and your desired effect in using a specific aromatherapy candle. 

If you wish to invigorate, treat yourself by lighting an invigorating aromatherapy candle that contain mixture of oils from the citrus and mint families such as peppermint, spearmint, basil, eucalyptus, or cedar, rosemary, cinnamon, geranium, cassia, and vanilla to stimulate and revitalize your senses quickly. 

If you want to relax, opt for a relaxing aromatherapy candle that contains pure essential oils from lavender, chamomile, patchouli, geranium, and rose that can help you release stress. If your creativity is being altered and you're experiencing a mental block, light up aromatherapy candles that can help you concentrate such as those that contain citrus essential oils like lemon, orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, and bergamot. 

And if you want to add atmosphere to your space, opt for aromatherapy candles that contain sensual essential oils like ylang ylang, vanilla, neroli, rose, clary sage, and sandalwood.

3. Make sure that you light up aromatherapy candles that can complement each other. Avoid burning candles that compete with the fragrance of other candles because the combination of these can produce a heavy scent that can cause you headache. 

4. Make it a routine to light up aromatherapy candles so your body can get used to the therapeutic benefits of various essential oils. 

5. In order to enjoy the maximum benefit of an aromatherapy candle, make sure that you choose the candle that is appropriate for your need and desired effect.

Creating an Aromatherapy Kit

When people think of aromatherapy, this usually means getting treatment in a spa. Those days are gone now as the person can buy a kit and bring it out whenever it is needed. 

The customer can just buy it from a reputable store and have this stored in a cool and dry place so this will be just as effective like the day it was purchased. 

Not everyone is familiar with aromatherapy. Those who have time can sign up for a class to learn the various properties and uses of each of the oils. 

A beginner kit can come with four 10 ml. bottles. One example of such a kit may hold lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree  and peppermint. 

In the course of the class, the student will learn that lavender is effective in treating anxiety and stress. Eucalyptus and peppermint can help the individual breathe easy again if one has a clogged nose while tea tree oil can be used to alleviate muscle pain.  

Students who are already familiar with the various scents can get a larger kit that has more bottles. The individual will become an expert in using it one by one or even mixing the various oils that can help others feel refreshed. 

Learning the use of each will make it easier for the person to use candles and bath salts. Eventually, buying packs don’t have to be done anymore since this can be purchased separately to come up with new concoctions. 

If the oil that the person wants is out of stock, this can be ordered online. The customer will just have to pay using either cash or credit card.  

Someone with a large aromatherapy kit can mix 20 drops of lavender oil, 10 drops of rosemary and blackberry, 5 drops each of peppermint and cypress oil and use this to massage those sore muscles. 

Another concoction that can help the individual relax is by using 20 drops of geranium, 10 drops of bergamot and ylang-ylang with 5 drops each of frankincense and cedar wood. 

Having an aromatherapy kit is like carrying a first aid pack wherever the person goes. This should be checked regularly so there is always enough around when it is needed. 

Someone who decides to become an aromatherapist after taking the class should first check if the client is allergic to any of the oils. This will give the professional time to find a substitute. 

The person does not have to take a class in order to know how to use the kit. This is because each pack comes with a set of reading instructions that will help the user understand the use of each oil. 

The aromatherapy kit can be used as long as this is needed. Sometimes just opening the bottle and inhaling it is enough while at times this has to be applied to the body. 

All of the oils are made from natural ingredients, which are extracted from either plants or trees so there is no risk of overdose when it is used to make the pain go away. The customer can buy a pack today and experience the difference, which in some cases is more effective than buying drugs over the counter. 

If however, the person’s condition does not improve, maybe it is time to call a doctor. People should remember that aromatherapy can only be used to help someone who is suffering from a headache, a cold or muscle pain.