How to Make an Essential Oil Travel Kit

How to Make an Essential Oil Travel Kit



When your traveling it's not always easy to deal with circumstances that arise--motion sickness, allergies, insect bites, upset stomach from the local cuisine can all make travels less enjoyable. The following will help you know what essential oils to have and some of the uses for your travels. The biggest part is to keep it small; you don't want a large bag to have to carry around.







Things You'll Need:





Chamomile (Athemis nobilis) essential oil




Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules) essential oil




Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil




Ginger (Zingiber officinale) essential oil




Lavender (Lavendula officinalis) essential oil




Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates) essential oil




Peppermint (Mentha piperta) essential oil




Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil




Small container to hold oils and other necessities, that's easy to travel with, makeup case works well







How to Make an Essential Oil Travel Kit




1


First, because of packing restraints try to get the smallest size bottle of essential oils you can. Even though they may be small bottles there will be more then enough essential oil for your travels.





2


Next, put your oils into the container or bag. When you know how much room you have left, put a few bandages, cotton balls or swabs and base oil--keep it to the bare minimum. Pack items that you know you will use more than others and items that can have more then one use.





3


Know some of the uses for the essential oils:

Bites: Chamomile, Eucalyptus,
Lavender
, Tea Tree

Combat illnesses, viruses, bacteria: Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Tea Tree

Headaches, migraines, fevers: Lavender, Peppermint

Heat rash, sunburn, sunstroke, windburn: Chamomile, Lavender, Eucalyptus

Insect repellant: Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint, Tea Tree

Muscle cramps, exhaustion: Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Ginger, Lavender

Jet lag, motion sickness: Eucalyptus, Geranium, Ginger, Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint

Stomach troubles: Chamomile, Ginger, Lavender, Peppermint

Wounds: Lavender, Tea Tree





4


Print this page or write down the uses, place in the container with your essential oils as a reference. It's always nice to have a reference because you may not remember what oils work for which use.





5


Now your essential oil travel kit is ready to go. Place the container in your carry-on if at all possible.








Tips & Warnings










Depending on if you are traveling by plane, it's best to check and follow their guidelines. You may need to pack the essential oils in your luggage verses your carry-on. You don't want to have your essential oils taken by the airline and not be able to use them when needed.








Tea tree and Lavender can safely be used undiluted, but any other oil needs to be diluted.








Test the oils on your skin before you pack them to see if you will have a reaction. If you do have a reaction to any oil don't pack it, use a different oil for that circumstance.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2176458_essential-oil-travel-kit.html

How to Make an Essential Oil First Aid Kit

How to Make an Essential Oil First Aid Kit



Essential oils can be useful in first aid situations if you know how to use them. They generally are inexpensive than many traditional remedies. Learning more about the healing properties of essential oils will help you to pack your own first aid kit.









1


Decide which essential oils you want to put in your first aid kit. Limit the number of oils for your kit. 6 or 7 is a good amount. The most common and useful essential oils to include are
lavender
, chamomile, peppermint, tea tree and
rosemary
. Lavender is used to treat burns and bruises. Tea tree oil can be used for insect bites. Peppermint helps with stomach problems. Common uses for a first aid kit are scraps, cuts, bruises, bites and burns. Include essential oils specifically for these (see Resources below).





2


Store your first aid kit and essential oils properly. Essential oils are volatile. Store oils in brown glass bottles away from heat and light.





3


Decide what carrier oils and bases to include in your first aid kit. Many times an essential oil must be mixed before applying. Use of oils such as sweet almond oil or base salves is recommended.





4


Include gauze, band-aids, tapes, scissors, tweezers, ice packs and other first aid needs. Be adaptable to the needs of your first aid kit. For example, in the summer, you will need different things than in the winter.





5


Make a reference sheet. Many times in an emergency you can forget what essential oil properties are. Include a list of useful essential oil remedies.








Tips & Warnings










Essential oils have a shelf life. Periodically go through your first aid kit and make sure your oils are still fresh.








Perform a skin patch test to check for any allergic or adverse reaction. If any reaction occurs during test or use, discontinue immediately.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2108335_make-essential-oil-first-aid.html

How to Make an Essential Oil Basic Care Kit

How to Make an Essential Oil Basic Care Kit



The following will help you put together 10 very useful essential oils for basic needs around the house. You will know what oils to have around and some of the uses for the oils.







Things You'll Need:





Essential Oils-Chamomile (Athemis nobilis), Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), Lavender (Lavendula officinalis), Lemon (Citrus limonum)







How to Make an Essential Oil Basic Care Kit




1


When you have all your essential oils, put the essential oils in the container. This way you have all the oils together in one place and readily available for use when needed.





2


Now add some of the necessities you will use with your essential oils like cotton balls, cotton swabs, bandages, base oils--anything that would be useful for basic uses.





3


Next, learn some of the basic uses for the 10 essential oils:

Chamomile--nervous conditions, insomnia, antibacterial, antiseptic, disinfectant, anti-inflammatory, teething, calms, burns, asthma, sprains, nausea, fever, antidepressant, sedative.

Clove--antibacterial, antiseptic, analgesic, helps prevent infections, toothache, asthma, nausea, sedative.

Eucalyptus-anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibiotic, deodorizing, antiviral, coughs, colds, insect repellant

Geranium--throat infections, sedative, relax, calm, antiseptic, astringent, balances emotions

Lavender--treats burns and scalds, natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative, detoxifier, promotes healing, prevents scarring, stimulates the immune system, stimulates cells in wound to quickly regenerate, balances mood, headaches, migraines, can be used undiluted

Lemon--antiseptic, antibacterial, insect bites, tension headaches, tonic, stimulates digestion, assist in weight loss, cellulite, wrinkles

Peppermint--aids digestion, helps the respiratory system, helps circulation, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, indigestion, flu, headaches, migraines, toothache, fatigue

Rosemary--physical stimulant, mental stimulant, muscular conditions, antiseptic, depression, fatigue, migraine, headache, cough, flu, hair care, acne, cellulite

Tea Tree--antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, used to treat candida (yeast infection), athlete's foot, acne, can be used undiluted

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)--antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic, flu, warts, fatigue, acne, anti-parasitic, insect repellant





4


Print this page or write down the uses and place in the container with your essential oils so that you always have a reference for some of the basic uses of the oils.





5


Now that your essential oil basic care kit is put together, you are ready to use it. You will find that you will use some oils more then others over time and you may want to add other necessities to your kit.








Tips & Warnings










It's best to store your essential oils in a cool, dark, dry location-this will allow for a longer shelf life and keep the oils from going bad. The bathroom medicine cabinet is not recommended since the bathroom temperatures fluctuate and is usually very damp.








Test the oils on the skin if you have a reaction, discontinue use, you can still use the oil around the house just not on the skin.








Don't use any essential oil undiluted unless stated otherwise.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2176450_essential-oil-basic-care-kit.html

How to Practice Zen Meditation

How to Practice Zen Meditation



Zen meditation, also known as Zazen, has been practiced by Zen Buddhists for centuries as a way to forget the self, thus opening the mind to the oneness of the universe and achieving enlightenment. Its practice and influence has spread, and today many non-Zen Buddhists use Zazen to achieve tranquility and respite from the stresses of their daily lives.







Things You'll Need:





Small pillow (known as a zafu)




Quiet environment







Meditate Using the Zen Technique




1


Wear loose, nonrestrictive clothing.





2


Place your zafu pillow on the floor.





3


Sit down, allowing your knees to touch the floor. There are a variety of proper sitting positions endorsed by Zen practitioners that you can learn about (see Resources below). Choose the one that's most comfortable for you while still allowing for complete body stability.





4


Keep your back straight. This is essential, as it allows for maximum functionality of your diaphragm.





5


Fold your hands in the "cosmic mudra" position (see Resources below).





6


Keep your mouth closed, and press your tongue gently against your palette. This will reduce your need to swallow.





7


Breathe deeply and rhythmically.





8


Center your body gravity in your "hara," located 2 inches below your belly button.





9


Rock your body in circular arcs, decreasing the circumference with each pass. Keep your gravity centered in your hara.





10


Count the number of times you inhale and exhale. When you reach 10, go back and start at 1 again.





11


Let any thoughts that come to your mind run their course. As time goes on, external thoughts will intrude your Zen meditation less and less.





12


Practice, practice, practice. With time, your awareness will deepen and you will begin to experience the physical and psychological benefits of Zazen.





13


Purchase a straightforward introductory book on the subject of Zazen to learn more (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Specially-composed music can aid practitioners of Zen meditation with their ability to concentrate (see Resources below).








Zen meditation can be self-taught, though it may take considerable time and effort. The costs associated with learning it, though, are minimal.








Zen meditation should not be used as a substitute for any conditions for which you have been prescribed treatment by a health professional. Though practitioners often report heightened physical and mental health, you must consult your doctor before ceasing any medical treatments.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031420_practice-zen-meditation.html

How to Practice Vipassana Meditation

How to Practice Vipassana Meditation



The Indian word "Vipassana" loosely translates into English as "to see things as they really are." Buddha himself practiced the art, and modern practitioners use Vipassana meditation as a means of transforming the self and purging the body of mental impurities. Its ultimate aim is the improved happiness and health of its adherents.







Things You'll Need:





Qualified instruction in Vipassana meditation







Prepare Yourself




1


Find a free 10-step Vipassana meditation course near you by visiting the Internet's Vipassana meditation Web site (see Resources below).





2


Learn the prescribed code of discipline, required of all Vipassana meditation practitioners.





3


Abstain from killing anything, stealing, lying, swearing, sexual activity and all intoxicants leading up to and during your instruction period.



Practice Vipassana Meditation




1


Breathe deeply. Focus on the flow of your breath as it enters and exits your nostrils.





2


Observe your bodily sensations. The goal of Vipassana meditation is to understand and not resist your body's natural reactions.





3


Open your mind to the idea that everything is interconnected. Try your best to exude love and kindness to everyone and everything, and keep goodwill towards all in the forefront of your mind in your day-to-day life.





4


Practice daily. Vipassana meditation can only be properly learned through patient, focused effort. Bear in mind that Vipassana meditation is considered by its adherents to be primarily a mental exercise, perfected through sustained physical concentration.





5


Extend the peace and tranquility you reach during meditation into your day-to-day life. Appreciate the goodness and interconnectedness inherent in all things.





6


Learn more or find a qualified and accredited Vipassana meditation instructor near you by visiting the official Vipassana meditation Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Learn Vipassana meditation free of charge by finding a Vipassana community near you. Courses are available at no cost thanks to the generosity of experienced practitioners who have donated money to further the reach of Vipassana meditation.








Vipassana meditation is not a recommended treatment for physical illnesses. Consult a physician if you have any concerns about a recurrent physical condition.








Never pay to take a Vipassana meditation course. True practitioners do not charge any fees of any kind for their services. Anyone who asks for payment for a Vipassana meditation course should probably be avoided.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031421_practice-vipassana-meditation.html

How to Practice Transcendental Meditation

How to Practice Transcendental Meditation



Transcendental Meditation is a trademarked meditation technique perfected in 1958 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Many believe it can be used to reduce stress and improve thinking and concentration, as well as to help you feel calmer and more alert. Its central technique is the repetition of a specific sound, called a "mantra," invoked to achieve a state of restful awareness.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Qualified instruction in Transcendental Meditation







Complete the 7-Step Learning Process




1


Find a qualified instructor in your area who can guide you through the 7-step process of learning Transcendental Meditation. You can easily accomplish this by visiting the official Transcendental Meditation Web site (see Resources below).





2


Attend an introductory lecture at the Transcendental Meditation center of your choice.





3


Take your personal preparatory lecture with your instructor.





4


Participate in a personal interview with your instructor.





5


Receive 1 to 2 hours of personal instruction from your Transcendental Meditation teacher.





6


Verify the correctness of your technique over a 2-day period. Each day counts as one of the 7 steps.





7


Submit to a third day of "checking" your technique. Completing all 7 steps generally takes most students only a few days.





8


Receive your own personalized mantra after you complete the 7-step learning process. This mantra is personal and should be kept to yourself.



Practice Transcendental Meditation




1


Relax. Sit quietly with your eyes closed in a controlled environment with minimal distractions.





2


Breathe deeply and practice allowing your mind time to calm down.





3


Repeat your mantra over and over for 20 minutes.





4


Focus your mind on the "oneness" of the universe. This is achieved through repetition of your mantra and by shutting out any external distractions around you.





5


Observe, accept and move past any intrusive thoughts that pop into your mind. Simply practice repeating your mantra until you've gone 20 minutes thinking of nothing else.





6


Learn more about Transcendental Meditation by visiting the official Transcendental Meditation Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Know that professional instruction in Transcendental Meditation can be expensive, with costs reaching into the thousands of dollars.








Consult a health professional if you're experiencing prolonged bouts of insomnia or suffering from physical ailments induced by extreme stress. Transcendental Meditation is used to enrich the everyday consciousness of otherwise healthy people, not to cure serious medical conditions.








Beware of unqualified instructors. Make sure you ask for credentials when considering signing up for a Transcendental Meditation course with a specific instructor, and ask if there are any former students who would be willing to provide you with a testimonial.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031419_practice-transcendental-meditation.html

How to Practice Taoist Meditation

How to Practice Taoist Meditation



Based on the ancient Eastern philosophy of Taoism, which stresses the interrelatedness of all things, Taoist meditation is looser and more relaxed than many of the other Eastern schools of meditation. Using the principles of "jing" (tranquility) and "ding" (focus), Taoist meditation seeks to invigorate and transform your innate spiritual energy to relieve stress, promote longevity and improve your overall health.







Things You'll Need:





A quiet place to meditate




Computer with Internet access







Prepare for Taoist Meditation




1


Be aware that the practice of Taoist meditation aims for the harmony of the so-called "3 treasures" of body, spirit and mind. Learn more about the 3 treasures at the Holistic Online Web site (see Resources below).





2


Seat yourself comfortably. Distribute your weight evenly, and keep your spine straight.





3


Focus on your breathing. Feel each breath enter your nostrils, fill your lungs, then leave your body. Establish a breathing rhythm.





4


Focus on your energy. Feel it fill you and leave you with each breath you draw. Notice how your thoughts swell and dissipate with each breath. Continue until you achieve a state of wakeful calm.



Use Taoist Meditation Techniques




1


Notice the rise and fall of your mid-section as you draw and exhale your breath. Focus on how this simple act sustains your life, and shut out external thoughts to the greatest possible degree.





2


Utter a mantra. Chant it using a long, drawn-out tone of voice.





3


Visualize. The practice of Taoist meditation involves envisioning an important spirit, demigod or deity (or an item of personal spiritual significance) floating above your head or in the empty space in front of you.





4


Continue to repeat your mantra as you visualize.





5


Meditate as often as possible--at least once per day and multiple times per day if your schedule allows. With practice comes perfection. This old adage is equally applicable to Taoist meditation.








Tips & Warnings










The expense involved with Taoist meditation is minimal. You will generally only need to purchase simple instructional materials, such as a book like "Taoist Meditation: The Mao-Shan Tradition Of Great Purity" (see Resources below).








Do not expect meditation to replace the care of a physician if you are experiencing any physical or mental symptoms of stress. Sharp increases in anxiety, depression or panic, or the onset of ulcers or high blood pressure, should be immediately discussed with a medical doctor.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031435_practice-taoist-meditation.html