Using Your Diffuser

A diffuser, by definition, is a device that diffuses (spreads over a wide area). Diffusing is a powerful way to utilize aromatherapy, because it extends the reach of a few drops of essential oils to a much larger area thereby affecting a greater number of people. (As a reminder, essential oils can positively influence the limbic system of the brain, which is the part of the brain where we retain memories and create emotions). Diffusing essential oils can also cleanse the air and support positive emotions.

If you have a diffusing device, it is most likely one of three types: 1- A machine in which youpour a small amount of water, then add a few drops of essential oil. 2 – A machine that youconnect directly to your bottle of essential oil. 3 – A machine with a cotton pad or wick, upon which you apply the essential oil. These machines “cool-mist” the oils into the air by vibrating so rapidly per second that the oils are disseminated into the air, and can run for 2-12 hours (depending on brand, type and setting). The square footage they cover greatly varies depending on size and type of your diffuser.

If you don’t have a machine, you can actually make your own personal diffuser! (Note: we do recommend refraining from heating up the essential oil to diffuse them it since it tends to break down some of the therapeutic benefits of the oils, but it is an option as a last resort). Here are a few tips for using your own body as a diffuser…a devise that diffuses:

1. Put a drop of essential oil in your hands, rub your hands together, cup your nose and inhale. You’ll find this manner of diffusing only takes one drop, it’s much more powerful than simply inhaling the oil out of the bottle, and it also penetrates your skin which helps support healthy body functions on a cellular level…..you can use this technique anytime (during a class when you need a pick-me- up, before bed when you want so soothe and relax, in the morning when you want to cheerfully greet the day).

2. Before your yoga practice, apply a drop of oil in your hands as mentioned in #1 – instead of directly cupping the nose, form a lotus mudra with your hands, bow your head, and inhale. This option is a beautiful way to start your practice with a more traditional approach, and when you are in a room with several other people doing the same thing, you’ll find there is a lovely light fragrance that this technique spreads into the entire space.

3. You can also use essential oils on reflex points such as wrists, back of the neck, behind the ears. As you move, the aroma of the essential oils does enter your olfactory system, and again, you get the topical benefit of the oils as well.

We hope you will take a moment to become a personal diffuser today! Visit our facebook page, Essential Yoga Practice, and post your favorite oil to diffuse. Namaste