Articles Body and Being articles are no longer being written. We leave these in place for your reading enjoyment. The healing power of touch – February 2006 Chromium effective for common mood disorder – January 2006 The Bach Flower Essences® – December 2005 Natural solutions for stress, mood and sleep disorders – November 2005 Sytrinol™ A breakthrough in cholesterol management – October 2005 Beyond echinacea – September 2005 Stevia: A natural choice for sweetness – August 2005 Choosing a multivitamin for your child or teen – July 2005 Choosing a sunscreen – June 2005 The flames of inflammation – May 2005 Cleanse away your allergies – April 2005 Seasonal allergy relief – March 2005 Fish and your health – February 2005 Taking a closer look at vitamin E – January 2005 Wintertime aromatherapy body care – December 2004 The truth about coconut oil – November 2004 Bringing a little "calm" to children's active schedules – September 2004 Summer smoothies – August 2004 Homeopathy for PMS and menstrual cramps – July 2004 Vitamin C and pregnancy risk – June 2004

Body and Being
NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR HEALTH AND BODY CARE

Monthly articles are supplied by guest writers who explore natural solutions to health and well-being issues.

Wintertime aromatherapy body care

by Tom Havran, Aura Cacia Aromatherapy

(December 2004) — The winter season offers challenges to our skin's ability to maintain itself in a healthy state. As our metabolism slows and we cover up for warmth, the natural process of cell turnover in the dermis is diminished. The secretion of our skin's own protective oil, sebum, also slows. The lower humidity levels of the season coupled with heated interior air spaces depletes the skin's water content. All of this can lead to a build up of dry, dead and irritated skin.

There are three keys to wintertime body care:

• Facilitate the natural regenerative process of cell turnover and renewal
• Supplement the decreased level of sebum (protective oil)
• Maintain the skin's moisture (water content)

While all of this can be accomplished with a regular routine of gentle cleansing, moisturizing and the intake of pure water, the essential oils used in aromatherapy applications can dramatically enhance the effectiveness of these physical benefits and bring additional mental and emotional benefits that turn the experience of wintertime body care into something much greater than a routine chore.

Almond Oil Sugar Scrub

1/2 cup raw sane sugar

1/4 cup Aura Cacia Almond Oil

2 Drops Aura Cacia grapefruit essential oil

5 Drops Aura Cacia Lavender Essential Oil

2 Drops Aura Cacia Sweet Orange Essential Oil

Combine ingredients and mix well. Exfoliate and renew skin by massaging this mixture into the skin with gentle circular motions. Paying special attention to rough skin around elbows, knees, the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Or, follow with a gentle cleanser and moisturizer.

Grapeseed and Jojoba Oil After-Shower Protective Skin Massage

3 tablespoons Aura Cacia Grapeseed Oil(or substitute Almond Oil)

3 tablespoons Aura Cacia Jojoba Oil Essential Oil

3 drops Aura Cacia Frankincense Essential Oil

3 drops Aura Cacia Ylang Ylang Absolute Essential Oil

4 drops Aura Cacia Cedarwood OilEssential Oil

Combine essential oils with the vegetable oils. After showering, apply all over body while still wet. The skin will be clean and hydrated from the shower, the oils will help seal in this valuable moisture and add a protective layer against the elements.

Anytime Hydrating Body Mist

1 ounce distilled water

11 drops Aura Cacia Lavender Essential Oil

4 drops Aura Cacia Patchouli Essential Oil

3 drops Aura Cacia Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Combine ingredients and pour into a bottle with a mist spray nozzle. Shake the mixture and mist surface of the skin whenever it feels tight and dry. These non-drying essential oils soothe and nourish.

All of these recipes are adjustable. If you prefer other essential oils to those listed then experiment to find the best mix for you. Enjoy!

(Reprint by permission only. Contact the