How to Use Subtle Aromatherapy to Promote LOVE

By Joni Keim

Love is the best gift we can give others, but never forget that in order to give that gift you need to love yourself first. Which is why as an aesthetician I often remind my clients that EVERYTHING about an at-home skin care routine can be considered self-love, especially if that is the intention. So, every step from compressing to cleansing to toning to moisturizing, etc. can all be subtle and energetic ways to practice self-love. If you feel challenged in this area, you can use subtle aromatherapy to promote love for both yourself and others.

Author Parker Palmer said, “Self-care is never a selfish act—it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.” Let’s explore how you can use subtle aromatherapy to promote the gift of love.

Love encompasses so many different things. In the Greek language, there are 7 main types of love: Eros which is romantic, passionate love. Philia which is the love in friendships. Storage which is familial love—between parents and children. Ludus is flirtatious, uncommitted love. Pragma is practical love for duty or shared goals. Agape is universal, altruistic love—an unselfish concern for others. Philautiais self-love, which can either be healthy (self-respect) or unhealthy (excessive pride).

In this exercise, you can use subtle aromatherapy to activate these two types of LOVE: agape and healthy philia. The essential oils that are particularly indicated are: Bergamot, Frankincense, Geranium, Helichrysum, Lavender, Marjoram, Neroli, Orange, Patchouli, Rose, Rosemary, and Sandalwood.

Each has a particular affinity for the heart center. (For more information about subtle aromatherapy and the heart center, see Aromatherapy & Subtle Energy Techniques by Joni Keim and Ruah Bull.)

Make the essential oil blend you are going to use. A beautiful blend is 50/50 Bergamot and Rose. Subtle aromatherapy uses small amounts of essential oils (0.5% to 1%).

To make a mist: Mix 5 drops of Bergamot and 5 drops of Rose in 4 ounces of water in a mister bottle. Shake well before use.

To make an anointing oil: Mix 2 drops of Bergamot and 2 drops of Rose in 1 tablespoon of jojoba or fractionated coconut oil. Store in a glass roller bottle, small glass bottle, or small jar with caps. Set aside.

• Sit quietly and relax. Breathe slowly and deeply. Breathe in all positivity. Breathe out any negativity. While deep breathing, place one of your hands on your heart.
• Clear your mind and acknowledge each essential oil you are going to use and the plant from which it comes.
• Activate your hands by rubbing them back and forth 24 times. Feel the energy in your hands and direct your breath into them for 5 deep, relaxed breaths.
• In your mind, hold the intention of the purpose of using the essential oil. Pick up the essential oil blend container and direct your intention to it.
• If using a mist: Mist over your heart, your hands, and top of your head while holding the intention of the essential oil blend. You can choose to repeat an affirmation while misting, such as “My heart is full of love for others and myself.” If using an anointing oil: Anoint your heart, your hands, and the top of your head. You can choose to use a visualization such as seeing yourself being loving to everyone you meet as well as yourself.
• Lastly, mist or put a drop of the blend in the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together and cup your hands over your nose, breathing in the aroma (without touching your nose) and holding its intention in your mind.

Make this exercise meaningful for you. Add other actions if you want. Change what doesn’t feel right to you. Take as long as you like.

Use subtle aromatherapy to promote love for yourself and others and let us know what you think. We love hearing from you! If you’re new to blending essential oils, make sure to download e3’s free guide, Listen to Your Nose: An Introduction to Aromatherapy.