I like my thrills cheap and chic. Tea and essential oils are the perfect way to rev up in the morning, escape in the afternoon and unwind in the evening. It’s the sensuality of the herbs and florals that brings my awareness to my body while allowing my heart and soul to soar. When I open a can of aromatic tea leaves, I am transported instantly to my favorite places: Paris, Topanga Canyon, home. I remember walking through the 6th in Paris on a chilly gray afternoon. The hum of the cars and scooters, the chatter of the people, the slick stone sidewalks, a heavy wooden door propped open– these heralded my first journey into the tea rooms of my favorite city. The momentous difference between the buzz of the exterior and the solitude of the courtyard that greeted me as I tentatively explored the hidden shops of this little hideaway still haunt my ennui. Contrast heightens sensuality and strengthens memory. Tucked in the back of this quiet escape was a little tea room with eight tables and the most aromatically pleasing tea I had ever experienced. It was an autumn blend of figs, rose, chestnuts and what else?
To this day, tea brings my soul fulfillment.
The effect of essential oils is similar in that the scent of the oils grab my attention and hold me in the present. They are different, though, because I do not feel a sense of nostalgia or longing when I use essential oils. Instead, the oils inspire me to establish something in the moment. For example, the scent of Jasmine makes me feel feminine and particularly pretty so my response is to adorn myself suitably. Essentials oils provoke activity from me. Lavender urges me to relax. Peppermint urges me to think. Sandalwood makes me turn inward for guidance and inspiration. For me, every essential oil comes with a call to action– even if it’s a quiet one. My favorite is pure rose oil. I have a small bottle of 10% Moroccan Rose oil in Jojoba. Every evening before meditation, I place one drop on my neck and one on my wrist. The ritual of sitting at my altar preparing for meditation by placing those two drops makes every cell in my body vibrate with the present moment. Sensuality. Begins. With. The. Nose.
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