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Patchouli
Oil
The rich, heady scent of patchouli essential oil
is well-known from its inclusion in many perfumes. The earthy,
sensual fragrance is often used as a base for other perfumes. In
holistic healing, however, patchouli stands out for its abilities to
relieve stress.
To begin with, take a warm shower. This helps you to relax and feel
renewed. Set up your area beforehand so that you can begin
immediately after your shower. We will use two methods; the first
will be a warm foot bath, and the second will be a towel wrap. For
the foot bath, fill a small basin with warm water. A large kitchen
pot often works well, but it must be stainless steel. Teflon and
aluminum may react with your essential oils. Infuse the water with
5-7 drops of patchouli essential oil (more is rarely needed, but you
may put up to 10 drops if you desire) and swirl the water around
once or twice to allow the oils to disperse. You will want to place
your feet in the water immediately after swirling your oil, so don't
do this until you're ready to begin.
Our second method of stress relief will be a warm towel wrap. Again,
you will want a basin of warm water with 5-7 drops of patchouli
essential oil. Dip a clean towel into the water and wring it gently
over the basin so that it stays just barely damp. Drape this over
your shoulders like a cape. (You will need to be topless to allow
the warmth and the essential oils to penetrate your skin.) Place the
patchouli essential oil in your footbath and swirl it in, then allow
your feet to soak in it for at least ten or fifteen minutes. When
your towel wrap begins to cool, dip it into the water and wring it
out again, then drape it back over your shoulders. Do this as long
as you have your feet soaking. (The basin with the water and
patchouli essential oil for your towel wrap should be within easy
reach so that you don't have to get up to renew your towel wrap.)
A word about your seating: it is very important that you have a
comfortable chair to sit in. It should not be anything that you'd be
afraid to get wet, but you must be able to sit comfortably in it.
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