Aromatherapy - Beach Sun & Summer Fun

I do not know about you, but I am so happy to see the official start of Summer. Being a Florida girl transplanted in North Carolina, fun in the sun will be a welcome change. I am looking forward to trips to the beach, indulging in various types of food prepared on the grill and spending quality time outside with family and friends. aromatherapy will also play an integral part in my summer plans.  From muscle aches, sunburns, overindulgence to bug bites, the essential oils used in Aromatherapy can assist in alleviating the some of the discomfort that comes with summer fun.

Beach Body

So of course, instead of working on my beach body throughout the year and pacing my workouts, I decided to cram all my workouts into 2 weeks prior to my first summer engagement. If there is any confusion on if I had a major summer beach event to attend, let me be clear, by engagement I meant my first trip to the beach wearing the perfect swimsuit. As you all know, when you begin a new workout routine you are most likely to end up with sore, achy and tight muscles.

Common uses of essential oils in aromatherapy are promoting mindfulness and feelings of tranquility and calm. However, there are several essential oils that are known for their pain and inflammation reducing properties. Spike Lavender, Cardamom, Rosemary, Geranium and Chamomile are known for these properties. Blends containing these oils can support the alleviation of the discomfort from muscle sprains and aches. Anise can help with muscle cramping and has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Fun in the Sun

So now that we have an acceptable beach body, on to the beach! After spending one hour more than you should have in the sun, you have tender sunburned skin.  Aloe Vera does wonders for providing a cooling sensation your skin will welcome especially when blended with Lavender Essential Oil. Aromatherapy blends containing Chamomile Geranium and Sweet Almond can also assist with providing relief for sunburns.

Digestive Discomfort

We have all been in a situation where we have eaten one bite too many. Essential oil blends containing Ginger, peppermint, and lime can help reduce feelings of indigestion.  Peppermint, Orange and Bergamot are known to contain properties to reduce feelings of nausea. Imagine relaxing in a warm tub after a satisfying meal When added to bath salts, Roman Chamomile, Jojoba and Spikenard can work wonders to release tension in your stomach and promote feelings of relaxation.

 Insect Bites and Skin Irritation

Summer festivities can last from dawn to dusk.  Essential oil blends containing Cedar Wood, Lime and Patchouli can help prevent you becoming a four-course meal for a very hungry insect. Blends should be applied to exposed areas of the body prior to venturing outside. Blends containing Patchouli, Sweet Basil, and Cajaput can be used specifically for your face.

Essential oils such as Sweet Basil, Lavender, Lemon, Lime and Marjoram have properties that can assist with the discomfort from those insect bites on the one area of skin that one pesky mosquito decided to nibble on.

Incorporating the use of essential oils in your summer plans will help ensure that minor inconveniences will not prevent you from enjoying beach sun and summer fun!