Written by Deola “Abela” Paul-Inyang
Travel & Exploration is exhilarating; at least for some; opening a vista to the world; experiencing people, cultures & parts unknown.
The soul-experience of travel imbues a euphoric feeling of cosmic proportions. This euphoria can often come with mixed emotions. If personal experience is anything to go by, “jet-setting”; hopping on and off a plane can be quite gruesome giving the long hours, the “pat-downs” at security & “sexy” scrutiny at immigration. Flying can be a very stressful experience for some maybe not most. In truth, any form of commuting can be somewhat distressing. Even for the frequent flyer or luxurious traveller, hopping between time zones can take a toll on the most experienced traveller.
In general terms, the stress & anxiety related to air travel can be alleviated through a carefully curated Travel Lifestyle. Being deliberate about basic lifestyle choices can make the difference between arriving Distressed or Refreshed.
“Aromatherapy leverages on the potent power of natural scents (essential aroma oils & aromatic herbs) to incite relaxation, promote general wellness and protect the body from the emotional effects of stress.”
There are numerous ways to enjoy the benefits of Aromatherapy. It is imperative to note that in spite of the natural benefits of aromatherapy, the use of essential oils may not be for people with extreme scent or fragrance sensitivities. The following Aromatherapy tips may be instructive for Travel Life.
BEFORE THE TRIP
AROMATHERAPY BATH/ SHOWER: Have a Relaxing Aromatherapy Bath before leaving for the airport & arriving at your destination: You may choose to do this by adding a synergy blend of essential oils into bathwater. Creating a simple synergy blend can be done by adding a few drops of your favourite essential oils together in a blend. As essential oils are not water-soluble, adding a pint quantity of UHT milk can help dissolution. Infusing a stimulating Bath Tea steeped in clean hot water or natural aromatic bath salt crystals to your bath water also works. For those who prefer showers, the use of an Aromatherapy Shower Gel would be most convenient.
DURING THE TRIP
PILLOW SPRAY: Add a few drops of the synergy blend of essential oils or spritz-on some Aromatherapy Pillow Spray to your travel pillow to induce relaxation during the trip. You may use a clean handkerchief in the absence of a travel pillow. It is important to be considerate of other passengers when using aromatic oils; only a few drops are required in order not to irritate your senses or the senses of other passengers.
ARRIVAL
BURN AROMATHERAPY CANDLES: Ensure to pack along with an Aromatherapy Travel Candle of your choice. Burning an aromatherapy candle in your hotel room or personal space at your destination point can help create mental balance & emotional harmony.
Lavender oil should not be used were mental alertness is required as it is a calmative and may induce sleep. Peppermint oil should also be used with extreme caution as it is mostly unsuitable for pregnant women. This might sound ridiculous to mention, but for those who suffer from excessive sexual urges, marjoram oil may be helpful. Lemongrass oil may be useful to relieve nausea or motion sickness. Oils listed as antiseptics, antibacterial, antifungal and/or antiviral are especially useful in flu prevention. A simple method is to mix essential oil blends with water in a small spritz/ spray bottle and sprayed in your hotel room or sleeping space to cleanse the air.
In the absence of these essential oils, simply purchase ready-to-use aromatherapy products.
PLEASE NOTE: Essential oils should be purchased from only reputable apothecaries were purity can be guaranteed. It is imperative that essential oils should be mixed with a carrier oil i.e. coconut oil, sunflower oil et al before use on skin. Not more than 10 drops should be mixed in a 100ml carrier oil solution. Some essential oils have properties that make them either photo-toxic, skin sensitizing or unsuitable for pregnant women, people with medication or suffering an ailment. The information offered in this material is intended for general interest purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional advice. If you are pregnant, on medication or suffering from an ailment, please consult your doctor before using essential oils especially on the skin. Most essential oils are for external use only and should not be ingested.
Deola Paul-Inyang is the Perfume Composer & Scent Architect for Abela by Scents of Africa – A Luxury Home, Fragrance & Aromatherapy brand handcrafted in Nigeria. You can connect with her on Instagram @deola_paulinyang or check out her creation @abelaworld on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter or visit www.abelaworld.com
