Heather Dawn: Godfrey.  P.G.C.E., B.Sc. (Joint Hon)

 

 

As affirmed in my recent blog, ‘Grateful Reflection’, one of the lovely unexpected consequences of setting out on my writing journey is that I encounter so many amazing and inspiring people.  It is so uplifting to realise just how many kindred spirits exist. In sharing a little bit about them here, I aim to let their stories touch you too.  We learn so much from each other. There is a synergistic quality that evolves from connecting and sharing; mutually enlightening, supportive, and strengthening.

I am doing things I have never done before, as the journey pushes my boundaries, and eases me beyond my comfort zone.  One such thing is participating in radio interviews; it appears this is imperative for authors if they are to promote their work and reach out to as wide an audience as possible (writing, although hard work, is also very safe and insular, and somehow my ‘walls’ have insidiously retracted to create an increasingly small and comfortable space).

When my publishers publicist emailed me to invite me to participate in a live radio interview, was I ‘up for it’, my immediate response was, ‘Oh yes, of course!’  Then the realisation of my assertion swept through me, a flush of anxiety suddenly stopped me in my tracks.  ‘What was I thinking of?’.  The floodgate opened, sweeping every fragment of my self confidence and self belief away from me in it’s gushing path.  My inner voice echoed in my mind, ‘what if….you’re not….you can’t….who do you think you are….??!!’

I was sooo nervous when the day arrived.  Palms sweating, heart racing, I picked up the receiver, the telephone an instant convenient connection to the radio station across ‘the pond’ in New York.  The producer ‘counted me in’, we were live on air (no pressure…..).  A deep breath…

I was so relieved when I returned the phone to it’s charging station in the kitchen; I did it, I survived, somehow I found my words, they did not desert me.  I felt exhilarated.  A simple but significant feat. I’d climbed another mountain and reached the top, exhausted by my fearful anticipation, but so relieved to have ‘arrived’ in one piece.  Time for a cup of tea!  

But I meditate!  How can I feel so unconfident, self doubting, insecure, anxious?  Is it my watery star sign, my sensitivity?  No matter, it is as it is, as it has been all my life.  I have learned to navigate through my life, accepting this trait, my anxious sensitivity, as my companion and not my enemy.  Meditation, my best and most trustworthy friend, takes my hand and comforts me as it leads me to the safe stillness at the centre of my beating heart, accepting of, embracing, every part of me.

Then there are the people I meet, whose light lights my light, who touch and inspire my spirit, energise my purpose: and the story unfolds……… 

 

Essential Oils for the Mindfulness and Meditation (Inner Traditions, Bear & Co., Vermont USA)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Essential Oils for the Whole Body (Inner Traditions, Bear & Co., Vermont USA)

Heather Dawn: Godfrey.  P.G.C.E., B.Sc. (Joint Hon)

 

The journey from idea, pen to paper, to publication.

“You become what you believe, not what you think or what you want”.  Oprah Winfrey

The readers experience of a book is as significant as its academic and/or creative content.  Good publishers respect their readers as well as their authors, and produce books that people want to ‘own’, add to their collection, read and keep to re-read and lend to friends and family.

Getting a book published is not an ‘overnight’ process; patience and tenacity are significant requisites. And, while self motivation and a willingness to proactively promote your own work are a ‘must’, a certain degree of humbleness is also required to manage the ‘reality checks’ along the way.

Publishing is not a journey anyone can make entirely alone and synchronising the right support is as significant as writing the book in the first place (among other things, even for those who self publish, finding a good ‘proof- reader’ is an absolute must…..the truth is, no matter how proficient a writer, we all have ‘blind spots’ when it comes to our own work).

I have learnt so much, and continue to do so, as I travel through the process – the journey of learning and discovery is ongoing.

Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens. – Khalil Gibran

This is the first book I have published, so I am still a novice, and my experience is limited.  However,  if I were share any advice based on what I have learned so far, it would be this:

    • Believe in your aspiration; it’s your journey, your road to travel (no matter the outcome, you will learn and grow)
    • To write, you need to be focused and disciplined.  You need to set time and space aside to complete your task.
    • Writing is an insular process, and this sometimes is misinterpreted as ‘selfishness’, or ‘self obsession’, even ‘delusional’,  by some people – you will learn a lot about your relationships, your tenacity and inner resolve, and who your true friends really are.  Conversely, though, you will also be pleasantly surprised by the belief,  love,  respect and support of those you least expect it from
    • Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses
    • Understand that you will have ‘good’ writing days, and ‘not-so-good’ writing days – sometimes you just have to walk away, and return to the task later when you feel ready to pick up the mantel again
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for help
    • Don’t expect to do everything by yourself, no matter how capable you believe you are (there is great value in gaining the right support…something synergistic happens)
    • Be very clear about your anticipated audience
    • Thoroughly research your publication options (publication is a highly competitive industry/market).  For example, if you are producing a book to support a teaching course, an organisation ‘hand book’, or personal project, self publication may be an option.  However, if you are writing for a wide audience, or with the intention of being a serious novelist, then a well established professional publishing company may be your best option. Carefully review the advantages and disadvantages of both
    • Large, and/or well established publishing houses will know the market well, and will have the right professional team and expertise in place to deliver your work from manuscript to book in very good shape to the ‘wider world’
    • A publishing house who believes your work is viable to print will  contract with you and pay you a retainer and/or a royalties advancement  – be wary of those who charge you a fee to publish your work
    • Make sure you sign and receive a co-signed contract – read this thoroughly, run it by a solicitor or another reliable third party before signing
    • No matter which publication route you decide to take, engage reliable proof readers (don’t leave the task to a trusted friend, get objective support, preferably from more than one source) – we all have ‘blind spots’
    •  
    • Ensure you read and correct your work again and again before you submit it to a publisher (or self publish) – the closer your work is to a viable end product, the better and more appealing to a publisher who will, no doubt, have hundreds of manuscripts to plough through to accept or reject based on ‘first appearances’

My leap of faith has brought many challenges but also many pleasant surprises and, as my publishing journey continues to unfold, I am sure there will be many interesting and exciting encounters, learning curves and revelations yet to transpire.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heather Dawn: Godfrey.  P.G.C.E., B.Sc. (Joint Hon)

 

The prestigious Janey Loves Platinum Awards originated in 2018, and are presented for excellence and innovation for Natural, Organic, and Eco products and services. These Awards present an amazing opportunity, not only to showcase, but also to raise public awareness of the scope of choice and availability of  ‘kind to earth’ innovations.  In deed, there is something for everyone.  These awards demonstrate that we CAN make a difference through the consumer choices we make.

I gain so much more from entering the competition than winning an Award (for which I am, even so, extremely appreciative).  Simply through participation, for example, I discover a community of people striving to make a positive difference through their creations, wares and services, some of whom may have remained invisible to me but for me stepping out of my bubble and ‘having a go’.   Recent global events will impact our economy in ways yet to unfold.  It seems more important than ever to support small innovative business, and each other, to bolster resilience and transfiguration as we positively move forward.  We each have something of value to contribute.  In this context, competition slides into the background to make way for a shared sense of greater purpose.

The product I offer to this platform is my books.

The objective of my books, Essential Oils for the Whole Body and Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation, is to provide a ‘road map’ to the safe and effective application of essential oils –  to support the ‘everyday user’, student and practitioner so they may discover for themselves the many benefits and qualities essential oils gift, and how to apply them confidently, safely, effectively and creatively.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Behind the Brand question and answer profile

 

Tell us about your company

Aromantique as a business incorporates three dynamic strands; professional training, aromatherapy treatments, and related books and publications.

My aromatherapy studio is based in Lyme Regis, the historical sea town nestled on the south Jurassic coast at the border between East Devon and West Dorset. Thus, my clients are a mix of holiday visitors and local residence.  I prefer to engage with students in person rather than via ‘virtual’ media, especially as much of what we do involves experiential tasks (for example, it’s impossible to virtually ‘smell’ the scent of an oil, plant or flower).

Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation (Janey Loves 2019 Platinum Awards winner), and Essential Oils for the Whole Body (Janey Loves 2020 Platinum Awards winner) are published by Healing Arts Press Inner Traditions, Vermont USA.  – Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation is also published in Traditional Chinese.

What were you doing in a previous life?

As my age determines, I have travelled a long and varied road.  I learnt to meditate in the early ‘70’s, when I was a teenager, and, at the same time, serendipitously, was introduced to the tenets of complementary medicine (or alternative medicine as it was coined then).  I met and worked for Robert Tisserand during this period, and also met other people who enthusiastically introduced me to acupuncture, homeopathy, and osteopathy; I was young and fascinated, this was a whole new world to me.

Now, I have four lovely grown up children, who now have children of their own! While my children were small, I did various part time jobs that enabled me to juggle being a mother and work to ‘help make ends meet’.  For example, I was ‘Arts Coordinator’ for my local Council funded Arts Association, and worked for a T-shirt printing company. I was a parent governor at my children’s schools, and also stood as a candidate for the Green Party during local elections (more of a quest to encourage the other parties to take on green issues in those days, a strategy that did work in part).

As my children began to grow up, I was able to pick up the threads I began to weave earlier and completed a BSc degree in Counselling and Complementary Medicine, then Masters’ modules in Mindfulness, and Supervision of Counselling, at the University of Salford, and a Post Graduate Certificate of Education at Bolton Institute. During this period, I set up my aromatherapy practice. I also taught at various local FE Colleges: subjects included ITEC and VTCT aromatherapy and reflexology, and PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector).  I was offered and accepted a post at the University of Salford (School of Health Science and Social Care, now the School of Health and Society) and was Programme Lead for the B.Sc. Integrated Therapy in Practice degree, Module Lead for Aromatherapy, and Supervision and CPD, and Personal Tutor (among other roles). I worked there for a number of years as part of a team delivering degrees that straddled Complementary Medicine, Health Sciences and Counselling. My specific interest was, and still is,  the psycho-emotional influence of essential oils in terms of maintaining health and wellbeing (my original dissertation explored The Role of Essential Oils in the Management and Treatment of ADHD and my Masters assignment explored Essential Oils and Mindfulness. and Supervision of Counselling).

My books are an accumulation of my years spent studying, teaching and working in this field. Essential oils embrace so many dynamics – creative, artistic, sensual, emotional, healing and nurturing, and have led me to delve into aspects I might otherwise have shied away from – organic chemistry, botany, pathophysiology – but which I find fascinating (jigsaw pieces in an intriguing landscape), so I am grateful for the nudge. I am, in this respect, a perpetual student – the adage ‘the more you learn, the less you know’ seems so true, learning seems a constantly unfolding process as one insight leads to another, then another and another.

I moved from Lancashire to Dorset nearly seven years ago (my children adults, with families of their own), settling in Lyme Regis.  The West Country is where the roots of my extended family evolved (dad, a ‘Devon lad’ joined in the RAF as a teenager, met my mother, ‘a Dorset girl’, and my brother, sister and I spent our childhood and teenage years travelling with our parents wherever dad was posted). Lyme Regis sits neatly between both counties.

Why natural / organic / sustainable / holistic?

It’s a no-brainer. It’s impossible to be involved in the field of integrated medicine and therapies and not realise the intrinsic connection we have with our environment and nature; that everything is, in fact, interconnected; that we are influenced by what we eat and consume in various ways; and that we, in turn, influence the environment around us through our actions and behaviours. We are part of, not separate from, nature; we are dependent – for example, even the slightest change in levels of oxygen in the atmosphere would end our existence; our bodies cannot function without the nutritional input gifted by nature. Experiencing respect and reverence is as important to our souls as feeling unconditional love – both states or conditions, in fact, expressions of that love.

I chose my publisher, Inner Traditions, not just because of their prestigious professional reputation or that they publish books in my genre, but also because they uphold ‘green’ values (for example, see https://www.innertraditions.com/greenpolicies).

Equally, I select suppliers whose oils and products are ethically sourced and, as often as possible, organic, especially my essential oils (for example, NHR Organic Oils , Oshadhi UK (among others).  All -be-it ‘out there’, there is something about the energy and therapeutic quality of oils that are appropriately, respectfully sourced and distilled; sustainably grown and harvested plant material and appropriate length of distillation time and temperature are significant determinants of quality of resultant essential oils.  Ensuring this quality sometimes means paying a little more for the oils, but if that payment supports this practice and finds it’s way back down the chain in fair remuneration to everyone involved, so we are all able to positively support each other, then so-be-it; quality and reliability are paramount with regard to my therapeutic practice.

What’s your USP? What sets you apart from your competitors?

My feeling is not to compete, but rather to focus on doing what I do well.  I meet so many amazing people on my journey, and we learn so much from each other; each of us has a special gift to share and express which lends itself to the ‘bigger picture’ and scheme of things.  I am fascinated and inspired by essential oils and by the way essential oils influence both physical and subtle elements (body and soul) at one and the same time, and how these dynamics influence mood, emotion, and body.

Essential Oils for the Whole Body provides a broad platform that enables the reader to ‘get started’. It is a ‘one stop’ go-to handbook that takes the reader through both the practical and subtle applications of essential oils.  Tapping into the creativity and sensuality of essential oils, embracing dynamics such as colour and gemstones is useful but also fun.  However, I ensure that I do not trivialise their inclusion, nor trivialise the application of essential oils.  I have observed that when applied appropriately, a subtle dynamical approach can actually be very effective. 

The boundaries between physical, psychological and emotional (body, mind, and spirit) often overlap. Indeed, feeling happy, relaxed and calm, positive and optimistic, demonstrably influences physical function; heart rate, blood pressure, cortisol levels, endorphin release, digestion, ability to heal, and so on.  Therefore, a significant aspect of our wellbeing, immunological support and healthy function, is influenced by our state of ‘being’ – ‘being in stress’ or ‘being in equanimity’, ‘being in fear’ or ‘being in peace’. Indeed, we are often reminded that unconditional ‘love’ is an optimum state of ‘being’. Our state of ‘being’ influences our state of ‘body’. It is in this context that essential oils find a perfect niche, as they are shown to influence all of these dynamics at one and the same time.

Also, through experience, I have come across situations in which essential oils, while potentially being extremely valuable, are also potentially contra-indicated because of serious underlying health conditions and/or medications being taken by a person (some essential oils can negatively potentiate certain medications, negate others, or increase risk of sensitisation).  This is why Essential Oils for the Whole Body includes a basic overview of physiology, with information about how essential oils are absorbed and excreted by the body, which oils are not safe to use in certain contexts and which are safe, and how to apply essential oils appropriately. Anchored by this understanding, ways in which essential oils can be applied subtly with minimal risk are explored – that is, highly diluted, with just a hint of scent (olfactory receptors can detect very small amounts of essential oil molecules), perhaps applied alongside colour and gemstones to gently support the subtle dynamics of each.

What’s your Big Dream?

At my age, to fulfil the typical cliché, my big dream is a cottage , flowers around the door, with a lovely big kitchen and a massive garden where I can grow things and distil essential oils, and, of course, live happily ever after!! Meanwhile, back in the real world (while I wait to meet this dream) to continue to write and share through teaching; that all my books are successfully published (in fact, this dream has already come true); that I have sufficient funds so can spend less time working and can afford time to delve into my other passions, for example, art (I love drawing, photography, and creativity) and to explore and continue to appreciate the world around me.   I do not envisage that I will stop working because I love what I do – I have a feeling, though, something amazing is going to happen that I have not envisaged, because each day is a unique moment full of both imagined and unimagined of possibility.

What Kind of feedback have you received from clients?

Feedback from Clients

Heather is a very talented and experienced aromatherapist, she intuitively blended a sublime mix of oils specifically for me and gave an amazing massage. I left with both my body and mind relaxed and rejuvenated. An absolutely delightful experience, thank you Heather.

Jess B.

 Wow! Went to Heather for a massage last week. It was an amazing experience, incredibly relaxing, and very healing. Heather is incredibly professional, whilst at the same time, extremely warm and welcoming, instantly putting you at ease. The treatment took place in her studio, which is warm, cosy and peaceful. A full body massage is just that and I felt that every part of my body benefited from the gentle massage using the essential oils that Heather and I chose together. By the end of the session I felt as though I had been wrapped in a little cocoon and was very reluctant to leave! Have already booked my next treatment. Thank you so much, Heather. I shall be recommending you to all my friends x

Clare S.

 

Feedback from Readers 

 Essential Oils for the Whole Body

 

An impressive and comprehensive presentation of what essential oils are, how they work, and how to use them, not only for physical illnesses but also on the psycho-emotional level. A great book on essential oils!

Christopher Vasey, ND, author of Natural Antibiotics and Antivirals

 

In times when most aromatherapists are going back to using simple recipes based on the biomedical paradigm, this book opens up another way of looking at topical applications and absorption dynamics. These areas are actually more complex than mechanical interpretation allows and require a book with a holistic, and even spiritual, background combined with scientific insight. It will surely build stronger relationships with the ‘whole body’.

Martin Henglein, Naturopath, Aromatherapist, and Osmologist

 

This book offers a beautiful bridge between the science of aromatherapy and esoteric application. Godfrey presents a truly holistic approach that explores how to support the whole self, from the physical to the emotional and spiritual.

Candice Covington, author of Essential Oils in Spiritual Practice

 

A lovely book packed full of information about the form and function of the human body and the ways essential oils can interact with it. This book builds on the author’s previous work, Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation, to create an invaluable guide for those who wish to understand essential oils and use them creatively and safely.

Sophie (Petit-Zeman) Olszowski, Ph.D Author of Doctor, What’s Wrong? Making the NHS Human Again, and Editor, NHS Researcher, and Director of SPZ Associates Ltd

 

I am an avid believer in using essential oils in many different aspects of body health and home use so I was thrilled to receive this book for review. What I found here is a great complete education on Essential Oi . The author has included blending of oils, safety as well as even the chemical contents, which are good to know for those of us that use oils in our daily lives. I highly recommend the instructions for making creams, ointments and skin care product’s, which was so fun to learn so much more then I knew. The recipes are brilliant and easy to follow. There is also information on diffusing oil’s, which I am already using and enjoying. A ‘definitive’ book on essential oils this book I highly recommend for all who use oils and wish to educate themselves on both the oils, the process and the creation of recipes. Out of all the books on Essential Oils I have read over the years this is my favourite.

C.C. Netgalley

 

The content of this book is full of very descriptive information about essential oils. It would make a great reference book in any home as well as the local public library. This book would also be a well-used addition to any person wanting a more in-depth knowledge of oils. It will also help those like me who dally somewhat with oils but do not fully comprehend all the intricacies. Might keep someone like me from handling the oils improperly.  

Mary.  Goodreads

 

This book is a great resource for anyone wanting to dig deeper into essentials oils, you get tons and I mean tons of resourceful information I cannot express how much detail and research this author did just for this book. You get recipes, for creams, lotions, and perfume oils. The author doesn’t only use essential oil, but she also gives you a list of gemstones to use every day, you get worksheets and much more to help you in your study and lifestyle.

Laurie. Goodreads.

 

Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation

There is a unique way to enhance psychological well-being waiting to be explored. This book tells you how meditation and aromatherapy, classic tools for modifying the mind, can work together to maintain a state of calm and insight. Familiar oils like rose and frankincense add serenity and inspiration to the practice of mindfulness meditation. Diffusing an essential oil during meditation practice can even return your awareness to that meditative mode if you smell the aromatic oil again later. 

The author is an aromatherapist who not only uses essential oils professionally but also conducts research into the effects of these powerful plant ingredients. The reader will find out how knowledge of traditional practice and subjective experience, backed by scientific evidence, is an ideal path for discovery; how mindfulness meditation and essential oil inhalation relieve anxiety or calm the mind, as explained from the perspectives of ancient history, religious practices, and modern complementary medical practice. Scientific studies involving human subjects and essential oils tested in laboratory models are described in easy-to-digest detail that adds value and validity.

Advice on how to use the pure essential oils comes with a thorough briefing on dose and safety–a prerequisite for these concentrated and potent plant extracts. In passing, learning about the many everyday food, drink, and cosmetic products that contain essential oils is an eye-opener on the hidden influences on the mind and body. This book is bound to have a long-lasting impact on both meditation and aromatherapy practices, thanks to its inspired author, Heather Dawn Godfrey.

 Elaine Perry, Ph.D., professor emeritus of neuroscience at Newcastle University and co-author of Your Brain on Plants: improve the way your think and feel

 

Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation fills an important gap in the field of essential oils. Where many other books are contented with the properties and the handling of oils, Heather Godfrey provides us with a profound scientific background of the different oils and opens up the field toward awareness and meditation. This book is a wonderful guide to using essential oils as valuable helpers for everyday life, as a source of knowledge for well-being professionals, and for a deeper understanding of oneself and nature.

Ewald Kliegel, author of Crystal Wands and Holistic Reflexology

 

This interesting book melds the science and alchemy of essential oils and their use in meditation with a mix of personal anecdotes and evidence. Taking the reader on a journey through these highly topical disciplines, it is a timely reminder and how-to guide of the importance of stepping back from the maelstrom of modern life to find a sensible inner balance.

                       Sophie (Petit-Zeman) Olszowski, Ph.D Author of Doctor, What’s Wrong? Making the NHS Human Again, and Editor, NHS Researcher, and Director of SPZ Associates Ltd

 

This book is an impressive and comprehensive presentation of what are essential oils, how they work and how to use them, not only for physical illnesses, but also on the psycho-emotional level. A great book on essential oils!

Richard Vasey Author of Natural Antibiotics and Antivirals

 

Godfrey, an International Federation of Aromatherapists fellow, skilfully explains how scent works on the brain to create relaxation and how this affects our well-being. Odors that stimulate brain chemicals, such as serotonin and GABA, trigger composure, concentration, deep breathing, and a meditative state to reduce stress and anxiety. Research is presented on rehabilitative techniques to remove negative emotional states, like regrets, traumas, fears, and anxiety. Charts and discussion show the brain’s hemispheres and the actions of a few essential oils are mentioned, although no recipes are suggested. There are also guidelines for use, healthy foods, and methods, techniques, and tools for application. 

American Herb Association Quarterly

 

This book is an informative guide to the use of essential oils as an accompaniment to meditation/mindfulness. It finishes with a chapter on other forms of achieving wellbeing – nutrition, exercise and relaxation. There are footnotes and a bibliography for further information. As such it’s very comprehensive but as a newcomer to essential oils I didn’t find the content intimidating.

Tina. Goodreads

 

A great guide for beginners wanting to learn more about mindfulness and meditation and how to use essential oils for relaxation. A good reference book to have on hand with well organised tables for easy access to information. Great background information on mindfulness and using essential oils for those that are just starting out.

Kat. Goodreads

 

 

February 9 2020 edition

Heather Dawn: Godfrey. P.G.C.E., B.Sc. Joint Hon) explains what essential oils can offer as a supplement to your mindfulness and meditation practices.


 

The article below includes excerpts from my new book, Healing with Essential Oils (working title), which is due to be published by Healing Arts Press, Inner Traditions winter/spring 2022.

 

 


Each moment is new, a unique, fresh, opportunity, rich with possibility, with the past confined to memory; the future to imagination.  Our experience of life occurs in the ‘here and now’.

At the epicentre of the storm, there is calm; at the centre of chaos, stillness; at the heart of ‘being’, peace. So too, at the heart of each moment, tranquillity rests within the flow of motion.

 

Remaining mindfully aware, we are present and consciously engaged in the ‘here and now’. Meditation gently sustains a consciousness of ‘being’ in the moment, enabling us to stand at the centre of each moment and observe and, thus, gain a greater sense of awareness of ‘what is’.

One’s mind constantly chatters; this is its nature. It’s a very useful tool and serves an invaluable purpose, intrinsic to the ability to survive and navigate through life; it serves us well. Meditation reminds us that we are master, not the servant of our minds; we are the observer, the orchestrator. Paradoxically, though, meditation also reminds us that we are a tiny drop in the universal ocean, separate, but belonging and connected to a greater whole. Here are three pertinent quotations from the 15th century Indian mystic and poet, Kabir:

 

In your body is the garden of flowers.
Take your seat on the thousand petals of the lotus, and there gaze on the Infinite Beauty.


God is the breath inside the breath.


It cannot be told by the words of the mouth, it cannot be written on paper, it is like a dumb person who tastes a sweet thing… how shall it be explained?

 

Mindfulness provides a practical tangible tool with which to draw attention to the moment. It provides structure, boundaries and guidance, a ‘road map’ of sorts. For example, focusing on the breath or on an object held steadily within the gaze and returning focus when the mind wanders helps to discipline the attention. Thoughts will wander from the present to the past or future, or perhaps dash off on imaginary tangents. But, we have choice. If we chase our minds through the metaphorical door, we leave the room and are no longer ‘present’. We miss the opportunity that meditation offers, and the experience that it yields.

Regular practice gifts the greatest benefit. The moment never offers more than we can deal with, and yet, the fruits of present-centred awareness and meditation are manifold. We can think of it as a ‘re-wilding’ of the soul. An over-ploughed, depleted field, abandoned and barren of life after years of repeatedly growing the same crop, left to its own devices, will suddenly begin to bloom again as nature magnificently reclaims its territory. In rediscovering our own magnificence, we then notice that life is full of miracles that completely outshine rain on our wedding day.

 

Lyme Regis, Dorset, Devon, Jurassic Coast, Health and Wellbeing, Aromantique, aromatherapy, carer’s, caring, charity, community, essential oils, Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Essential Oils, federation of holistic therapists, gifts of nature, giving, health, international federation of aromatherapists, organic essential oils, sharing, support, Wellbeing, wellness, anti depression, anti-anxiety, antiseptic, balancing, flu, geranium essential oil, perfume, skin care, sore throatHow do essential oils support meditation?

Observing the scent of essential oils we are aware of our breathing and, consequently, of the immediacy of the moment.

Beneath the surface, as we inhale essential oils they instigate a direct influence on the limbic area within the brain, also known as the ‘emotional brain’, which includes the amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus, and hypothalamus. The hypothalamus connects to the pituitary gland, the master endocrine gland, and certain chemical components within essential oils (either via chemical absorption or through instigating a neural response) will stimulate or balance hormones.

Thus, essential oils variously influence the nervous system, memory, mood and emotion. They can stimulate and uplift, sedate and calm, aid alertness, focus and concentration, and emotionally ground and inspire us. They are adaptive, and do tend to normalise or balance rather than simply stimulate or sedate.

Frankincense and patchouli slow and deepen the breath. Cedarwood instils feelings of peace. Spikenard inspires a sense of spirituality. Vetivert (the oil of tranquility) is grounding and earthing, quelling restlessness. Tea tree clears the sinuses and aids mental alertness. Rose (the queen of essential oils) balances, gently grounds and uplifts mood and emotion.

Only very small amounts of essential oils are required to procure or instigate a psycho-emotional response.

Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation explains the philosophy and techniques of mindfulness as well as how essential oils are absorbed and can support meditation. Also detailed are safe and effective ways to apply essential oils for personal use, alongside information about relaxation techniques, exercise, and nutrition.

Heather Dawn: Godfrey.  P.G.C.E., B.Sc. (Joint Hon)

I originally studied the principles and practice of a number of complementary medicine modalities in a bid to understand their philosophies and methods. In so doing I discovered a common thread between all: that is, energy, in its various forms and manifestation, but especially as a quintessential constant.

Design or coincidence? Meditation came to my awareness when I was a teenager in the early ‘70’s, while searching for my ‘truth’ and trying to make some sense of the ‘world’ and my ‘purpose’ and ‘place’ within it. I realise now, even more than I did at the time, that learning to meditate was a gift bestowed; this simple process of being ‘present’ and aware grounds and gently anchors my psyche in ways I cannot always find the words to explain.  And, because one path often leads to another, ‘alternative medicine’ (as it was termed in those days) seamlessly eased gently alongside; the common underpinning tenets of one complementary to the other.  Thus I also discovered that practicing meditation lends experiential insight to the subtle principles and expressions of many ancient healing and wellbeing practices; my body truly is my temple as well as my vehicle, and earth, also a gift, is a garden of abundant nourishment and awe; blessings deserving reverent respect, nurture and care.

Of all the complementary medicine modalities I  studied, essential oils resonated with my ‘way of being’ and personality the mostThis is not to say, however, that essential oils  ‘stand alone’ or are better than other integrated modalities, because each modality brings it’s own significant dynamic and special value in terms of holistic wellbeing and health.  In reality, essential oils straddle many principles and practices, from phyto-chemistry and botany, to psycho-emotional-spiritual and ethereal; an aspect of their appeal to me.  Alongside their subtle and creative dynamics, the chemical components of essential oils present clearly observable, identifiable, measurable physical properties and qualities, evidenced through extensive research exploring their benefits.

For example, essential oils and their components are anti-microbial, skin and wound healing, they are shown to positively alleviate psycho-emotional states, such as mild anxiety and depression, and to stimulate cognitive function, aid mental alertness, concentration, clarity of thought, and memory. They revitalise and aid regeneration of skin tissue, support the immune system.  They are attractant, repellent and protective (as they are within plants).  Essential oils and their components are used to enhance and protect the integrity of many manufactured foods and household products; they add flavour and increase the shelf life of foods, mask unpleasant tastes and odours, create pleasing and alluring scents, and more.

 

Applying Essential Oils Holistically

Combined with massage (or soft tissue manipulation), the therapeutic qualities of essential oils may be potentiated.  Massage warms surface tissues, aids the circulatory (lymph and blood), nervous and immune systems, and supports absorption of essential oil molecules into the deeper layers of skin and circulatory system, from where they are transported throughout the body.

I am inspired by the sensual (‘scentual’), psycho-emotional-spiritual influence of essential oils, and their ability to tap into and connect to deep intrinsic feelings, moods, emotions, and memories, to create ambiance, to physically restore, rejuvenate, repair, and protect the whole body, from physical to subtle.

Collectively my books  enable the reader to go on their own journey of discovery, to apply essential oils safely and effectively with maximum benefit.

How do I use essential oils? I use essential oils in various ways.  ‘Less’ is often ‘more’ when applying essential oils; very small amounts can be incredibly effective.

It is easy to become chemically saturated with a product, any product, if it is overused, but especially essential oils because they are so concentrated.

Thus, essential oils are best applied in moderation, varying the oils used; for example, I don’t use the same oil repeatedly, I select alternatives and vary the oils I blend together – doing this reduces potential for sensitisation

I wear small amounts of essential oil as perfume on my clothes or in my hair, rather than on my skin. I add small amounts of essential oil to skin care remedies, and make up non-scented creams, lotions and ointments to allow for essential oil breaks – remember, carefully selected vegetable oils have amazing skin care qualities of their own – and apply the same principle for face-masks and hair products (non-scented shampoo or conditioner).  This way, the benefits of essential oils are fully realised without saturating the body.

Some oils are best kept as first aid remedies and applied if and when required – tea tree and lavender are good first aid standby’s.

Using Essential Oils as household cleansers

Lyme Regis, Dorset, Devon, Jurassic Coast, Health and Wellbeing, Aromantique, aromatherapy, carer’s, caring, charity, community, essential oils, Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Essential Oils, federation of holistic therapists, gifts of nature, giving, health, international federation of aromatherapists, organic essential oils, sharing, support, Wellbeing, wellness, anti depression, anti-anxiety, antiseptic, balancing, flu, geranium essential oil, perfume, skin care, sore throat

Environmental perfumes instil an ambience, a particular theme or mood, when gently diffused into the atmosphere in inspired bursts on occasion.

Essential oils seem far too precious to use as house cleaners (see below), however, they are valuable ‘fumigants’ – dried herbs, such as sage, can be ‘smoked’ or ‘smudged’ to the same end – close doors and windows for up to thirty minutes during fumigation and leave the room, then return and open up windows and doors.

Daily cleanliness and hygiene are better served with soap and water – we build our immune system through coming into contact with germs and bacteria and by allowing certain minor infections and illnesses to ‘run their course’; the troops are more effective when reserved for ‘battle’ rather than a minor skirmish.  Gentle oils, such as lavender, can be applied moderately as preventives (but, even so, still not used constantly).

Using Essential Oils in food

I might use one or two drops of an essential oil to flavour foods or deserts, especially citrus oils, peppermint or, extravagantly, rose. However, I firmly believe that plants, herbs, spices and edible flowers are best consumed in their whole-plant form, either fresh or dried; flavonoids and minerals are not distillable, but significantly contribute to a plants nutritional, healing, and anti-oxidant value.

Hundreds of pounds of plant material is required to produce a relatively small amount of essential oil, thus, it is important to be mindful of the ecological footprint incurred when producing and consuming essential oils (such as, sustainable farming or wild harvest methods, sourcing and using locally grown and distilled essential oils, optimum distillation conditions, and so on). Nature provides essential oils in very small amounts in their natural form; thus, we should take a ‘leaf’ from natures book and use essential oils sparingly and sustainably, reserving their intense use for acute short-term scenarios (such as, occasional environmental cleansing and fumigation, or remedies for ‘flu, infections, viruses, and to support mood and emotion as and when required, and so on – perfumes should be worn sparingly, subtly, as a treasure, a lovely gift).

It takes 35 pounds of lavender flowers to produce just 15ml of essential oil (or approximately 300 drops), 2,500 to 4,000 kg of rose petals to produce just 1 kg of rose essence.  Just one drop of essential oil is equivalent to 15-40 cups of medicinal tea or up to 10 teaspoons of tincture.

 

Lyme Regis, Dorset, Devon, Jurassic Coast, Health and Wellbeing, Aromantique, aromatherapy, carer’s, caring, charity, community, essential oils, Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Essential Oils, federation of holistic therapists, gifts of nature, giving, health, international federation of aromatherapists, organic essential oils, sharing, support, Wellbeing, wellness, anti depression, anti-anxiety, antiseptic, balancing, flu, geranium essential oil, perfume, skin care, sore throat

Balance and variety is key in terms of maintaining health, wellness and fitness.  This can be achieved in various ways: meditation; walking in nature; yoga and gentle stretching exercises.

I confess I am not a ‘sporty person’ and have never enjoyed going to the gym, but benefit from the flow of movement through walking and doing gentle exercise. I have been a vegetarian since I was seventeen and try to eat mainly fresh whole foods – although I do love chocolate.

Essential oils are my companions, but I apply these in respectful moderation.

I try to balance my time and activity so I move my mode between working, resting, nourishing, socialising, exercising, creating, and helping. I don’t like to tell anyone else how to live their lives, but I think we help each other by being consciously compassionate, living from our best intention, and ’being present’.

Lyme Regis, Dorset, Devon, Jurassic Coast, Health and Wellbeing, Aromantique, aromatherapy, carer’s, caring, charity, community, essential oils, Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Essential Oils, federation of holistic therapists, gifts of nature, giving, health, international federation of aromatherapists, organic essential oils, sharing, support, Wellbeing, wellness, anti depression, anti-anxiety, antiseptic, balancing, flu, geranium essential oil, perfume, skin care, sore throatYou will find much more information about about essential oils here:

www.aromantique.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

My books provide comprehensive information about applying essential oils safely and effectively (look out for my next book, Healing with Essential Oils, which will be published by Inner Traditions Bear & Co. early 2022).

Find out more about my books here

 

 

 

 

 


What an absolute privilege it was to attend and give my presentation at Wellbeing by the Lakes Festival last month.  I can still feel the remnants of the beautiful, uplifting, peaceful atmosphere lingering in my psyche – almost a little slice of heaven, in fact, a little glimpse, perhaps, of how heaven could be on earth; synergistic cooperation and mindful interaction.

 

 

The car park was heaving, yet, not once did I feel ‘crowded’ as I meandered around the Lakes along paths lined with wild flowers (so many bees and insects), bushes and trees, and the various artisan stages and tents scattered around the site.  The whole event was meticulously planned to ensure absolutely the best visitor experience.  So many talented and inspiring speakers, story tellers, musicians, and artists, each with their own gift to share.

The gentle presence of the Tibetan Buddhist monks, robed in timeless saffron and red Kāṣāya, the colourful sand mandala patiently created, each morning heralded with a chanted reminder to be compassionately ‘present’….a universal preyer of gratitude.  Yes, peace is possible.

Clearly, though, the effort to create such an ambience was immense; like the swans I observed gracefully gliding across the Lakes with their peaceful, almost regal, air of belonging, while paddling their feet frantically beneath the waters surface to generate their apparent effortless motion.

Could it get any better??!!  I am really looking forward to next years festival.

Simon and Monique truly did achieve their goal.

 

 

 

“For those in search of a better life, enter our world of calm and reflection, absent from stress.  Connect with your mind, body and breath to escape from the tensions of modern life to find inner peace and joy.”  Simon Gudgeon, Festival Director, Artist and Owner of Sculptures by the Lakes.

 

 

Heather Dawn Godfrey, Author of award winning bestselling new release, Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation