oil spotlight: lavender

I recently started teaching an Aromatherapy Flow class at PIES Fitness Yoga Studio, in which we use essential oils both aromatically and topically to increase energy levels, open up the chakras, and enhance relaxation and meditation.  I found myself using the oils while teaching more and more, and thought having a class built around that concept would really allow students to experience the full power of the oils to enhance the practice and balance the chakras.
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This week's class will feature the "Swiss Army Knife" of oils: Lavender! While it is commonly used as a relaxation aid, lavender is helpful for SO many things, from helping to soothe cuts and scrapes to refreshing air and linens, and even alleviating an itchy scalp. In class this week, I'll have lavender diffusing to create a calming and peaceful environment and will also offer a lavender body mist to aid in relaxation during balasana (child's pose) and savasana (the final relaxation pose, and arguably the most important pose of all!). Since it is so versatile, lavender can be used to balance four of the seven chakras: the solar plexus, throat, third eye, and crown chakras. This class will focus on the solar plexus with lots of strong core poses including virabhadrasana I and II (warrior poses) and dhanurasana (bow pose), and the crown chakra with application of lavender and inversions. I'm so excited to have this opportunity to share one of my favorite essential oils with my clients!

Want to try out lavender in an everyday use? Try this super easy recipe for a DIY lip balm:

DIY Lavender Lip Balm 
2 Tbsp Coconut Oil
25 Drops of Vitamin E Oil
10 Drops Lavender Essential Oil (I use Young Living's 100% pure, therapeutic-grade oils)

Directions:
Warm coconut oil so it is liquid, approximately 30 seconds in microwave. DO NOT OVERHEAT as this will breakdown the therapeutic benefits of the lavender. Stir in 25 drops of Vitamin E Oil and 10 drops of lavender. Pour into 1 pot jar or 5 mini-pots. Cover with lid(s) and place in refrigerator until firm.
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***Remember coconut oil turns liquid at 76 degrees so you’ll want to keep this in a cool spot (cooler than 76 degrees anyway).