I am reading book called Mind Magic by Dr James R. Doty. It is such an empowering book which helps us to understand the science behind the power of manifestation by examining our mindset. He delves into how our thoughts, emotions and beliefs can shape our reality and experiences.
He reframes manifesting not as a way of gaining great wealth and possessions, but as a daily practice that helps shift our mindset so that we can develop a deeper understanding of how your thoughts and emotions influence our experiences and outcomes.
I will definitely be reviewing Mind Magic in the near future, but it has as usual got me thinking about essential oils and how they can be used in our daily practice to change our mindset, to help us develop a deeper understanding of our thoughts and emotions and how they influence our experiences and outcomes. Out of the blue, Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham popped up in my head.
Lucky, when it comes to books, I am a hoarder, so I was relieved when I found my tattered copy of Magical Aromatherapy, alas without its original book cover.
The language used in the book clearly reflects what we knew of aromatherapy back in 1989. While some of the information on the oils may be a little antiquated, the way Scott Cunningham delves into the magical realm of essential oils is brilliant.
The use of the word, magic in the title would have definitely helped it become the best seller that it was. We all know there is something magical about essential oils and how they influence our psyche. Cunningham beautifully has been able to draw on folklore and traditional practices to detail how essential oils influence our emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Perhaps this best summarizes the heart and soul of the book as he demystifies the term magic;
"Above all, magical aromatherapy is a valuable tool, a natural practice which touches our souls with the scented energies of the earth. It is an age-old art only resurfacing in these trying times, offering hope from flowers and precious oils. May you use it to manifest positive, needed changes in your life."
Let me give you an insight into the description of some essential oils. For example, he explains how the fresh vibrant spicy aroma of basil reduces mental fatigue, stimulates the conscious mind and elevates our spirits. He then goes on to explain that basil has long been associated with money in folk magic and he recommends;
"… inhaling the odor and visualize your pockets bulging, your bank account accumulating a higher balance or any other image which you associate with money. "
Now, while I do personally struggle with this particular visualization, I understand what he is suggesting. Basil is going to give you clarity of mind; it is going to give you the focus you need to deal with the financial challenges you may be experiencing and in doing so, the scent of basil will help you to recalibrate your mindset and not feel as anxious about your financial challenges.
I love the way he describes the magic of lavender and how it can help to ease our mental and emotional anguishes. Cunningham explains how lavender can be used to calm stormy or uncontrolled emotional states by bringing our feelings under conscious control. That’s so interesting because from neuroscience we now know that essential oils can play an important role in promoting a mindful state that reduces the way we often react to our emotions.
He goes on to explain;
"Too often when we’re in such states we kill off all thoughts save those that prolong our misery. Lavender corrects this imbalance, tempering our emotions with a healthy shot of rationality. The fragrance is also used to generally strengthen the conscious mind. "
This description is pure magic and perfectly describes the comforting effects of lavender.
This year, I look forward to sharing with you so many more insights into the magical power of aromatherapy.
As Scott Cunningham says – the magic is there. Bring it into your life!
Best wishes Sal
