Young or old, amateur or professional, individual or team – – at some point in your life each of you is going to engage in some athletic endeavor. Whether your are the Olympic champion of chasing your children around the park, a member of a professional football team, or an individual committed to maintaining their health through yoga or pilates, each of you can benefit from aromatherapy.
Before Working Out
Probably the most important things you can do before you workout are drinking plenty of water and stretching your muscles. Fitness experts suggest that you pay attention to your fluid intake 2-3 hours before exercising. Drink 2-3 cups of water during that time, and then drink another cup immediately before you start exercising. Without this extra water, your muscles will become dehydrated. Muscle movement depends on how hydrated you are, so if they are dry, they will not work as well. As a result, your workout will not be as productive as you would like, and you’re likely to be sore later on.
Enhance Circulation and Respiration – In a spray bottle containing 4 ounces of water; add 7 drops EACH of Geranium, PalmaRosa, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Rosemary. Use as a body splash and allow it to air-dry.
Tight muscles and tendons are more susceptible to little tears and strains during exercise, compared to relaxed, flexible sinews and connective tissues. And studies have shown that pre-workout stretches can improve flexibility in the hamstrings and is especially effective at reducing tautness in the lower back. Apply the Tone those Muscles blends before your stretching.
Tone those Muscles – Into 2 ounces of base lotion or 2 tablespoons of carrier oil, add 3 drops EACH of Black Pepper, Geranium, Rosemary, Lavender, Peppermint, and Orange essential oils. Massage a small amount into your arms, legs, and other muscle groups that you might use during the workout.
During Your Workout
During your workout, you will probably perspire. Even when I teach water aerobics, I am surprised that I can sweat in a pool, but when you put significant effort into your workout, you are going to sweat. Perspiring increases the chance of breakouts, not only on your face, but also on other parts of your body. Use the Prevent Skin Breakouts blend to help.
Prevent Skin Breakouts – In a spray bottle containing 3 ounces of water and 1 ounce of Witch Hazel, add 5 drops of Clary Sage, 7 drops of Cypress, and 12 drops of Bergamot. Spray on the areas of your body that are susceptible to breaking out during your workout, such as back, face, and arms.
The Prevent Skin Breakouts is a must of anyone during the summer. Even if you are sitting outside reading a book, the heat, humidity, and increased sun exposure all contribute to the possibility of breakouts. This refreshing blend will be a welcome treat during the hazy, lazy days of summer.
During your workout, it’s a good idea to take a break, catch your breath, and stretch a little. If possible, you also want to use the Enhance Performance blend to increase your muscle tone and concentration.
Enhance Performance – Into 2 ounces of base lotion or 2 tablespoons of carrier oil, add drops EACH of Black Pepper, Geranium, Rosemary, Lavender, and Peppermint. Use as a body lotion, but only apply a small amount so it doesn’t interfere with your workout.
After Working Out
After working out your body is full of lactic acid and wastes that you want to remove thoroughly. A terrific way to do that is a shower. Use the Shower Away Waste spray BEFORE and AFTER your shower. This blend is not only good for flushing out your system, but it also contains great antiseptic and antibacterial properties to keep germs away.
Shower Away Waste – In a spray bottle containing 4 ounces of water, add 7 drops EACH of Lavender, Rosemary, Lemon, and Eucalyptus. Spray your body and allow it to air-dry.
If you overdid your workout, the Painful Muscles blend will help.
Painful Muscles – Into 2 ounces of base lotion or 2 tablespoons of carrier oil, add 20 drops EACH of Clove and Eucalyptus, and 10 drops of Thyme. Massage a small amount on the sore muscles frequently throughout the day.
Enjoy your fitness and here’s to your health!