Movement and Meditation – Winter Wellness for Mind, Body, and Soul

Keep the winter blues at bay

An ancient spiritual wellness practice that is as good for the body as it is for the mind, yoga originated in India thousands of years ago. The term “yoga” derives from Sanskrit and means “to unite”, which perfectly encapsulates the union of the mind and the body experienced during practice. Today, yoga is practised by people of all ages, all around the world.

Essentially, yoga combines movement, holding physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation techniques to promote physical well-being (strength, flexibility, endurance) and mental well-being (calmness, stress relief, anxiety relief, mental clarity and more).

Modern yoga places equal importance on the mental and fitness aspects of the practice, whereas ancient yoga focused less on the physical aspects, and more on achieving mental clarity and inner peace. Whichever form of yoga you practice, and whatever you want to achieve through it, it’s important to take a holistic approach: Find a quiet, peaceful space, switch off your devices, wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and make sure you have enough time – this is not a practice to be rushed.

While yoga can be practised all year round, it’s a particularly great form of exercise during winter when you might not be able to enjoy your regular outdoor activities, and you may be more at risk of contracting colds and flus (we’re all about immunity-boosting activities!).

Essential oils and yoga are a match made in heaven. Yoga is all about opening the heart, connecting with the body, and finding healing and freedom through movement. And what better way to assist the mind, body, and heart with transformation than with essential oils?

Essential oils are used to promote health and well-being, and when used correctly, they can improve the health of the body, mind and spirit. Like yoga, they can enhance both physical and emotional health.

SOiL Organic Aromatherapy advises on the best essential oils to utilise for yoga and meditation.

Black Pepper

Black Pepper with its warm spiciness assists with circulation and digestion as well as muscular aches. This is a useful oil for athletes before training to help prevent muscular pain and stiffness afterwards.

Rosemary

Considered a tonic for the central nervous system, rosemary essential oil is used to reduce pain and headaches, increase circulation and reduce joint inflammation. Rosemary is said to improve memory, stimulate the brain and increase mental alertness.

Lavender

Lavender has antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to help relax muscles and reduce pain. It blends well with other oils and helps to assist in relieving headaches, insomnia and restlessness. Lavender essential oil is calming and can help reduce anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation and good sleep. It helps set a relaxing, calming mood in the studio.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood has a relaxing effect on the nerves, helps lower stress and promotes calmness. Sandalwood is extremely gentle and soothing, however, it’s also very centering. Its deeper, woody scent also creates more of a spiritual atmosphere in your yoga studio. It is known to have a calming effect on the mind and to help ease feelings of anxiety.

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil is known for its refreshing and stimulating properties. It energizes the body, reduces muscle spasms, promotes circulation and has anti-viral properties. Peppermint is awakening and energizing, helping to open the mind up for greater awareness. It can also aid in diminishing mental fatigue.

Arnica Athletic Body Oil

Derived from the arnica flower, arnica oil is widely used for its ability to help reduce inflammatory pain. It can help ease pain and swelling associated with bruising, sprains and muscle aches as it helps to boost blood circulation and speed up the healing process.

Try: SOiL Arnica Athletic Blended Oil A formulated blend of carrier and essential oils, this soothing oil is just what you need for sore and tired muscles.

Frankincense

Antiviral and antimicrobial, frankincense is also a deeply spiritual oil, helping to both ground and awaken, open and heal. Its centering aroma slows the nervous system and promotes a feeling of calm and introspection, and a few drops in an essential oil burner can aid concentration and meditation.

Diffuser

You can create your very own meditation blend by combining the following oils in your diffuser:  4 drops of Lavender, 2 drops of Rosemary, 2 drops of Sandalwood, 2 drops of Frankincense and 2 drops of Peppermint. SOiL’s Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser uses water and ultrasonic vibrations to disperse the molecules of the essential oil into the air via a fine mist. Low on energy and quiet, it’s the perfect diffuser to use at home, in the office or in the yoga studio.

We urge you to give this ancient practice a try, not only for its physical health benefits but also for its mental health benefits. Here’s to a healthier – and more mindful – winter!

SOiL products are available from www.soil.organics.co.uk