Steam Diffusing
As we continue to navigate through the global crisis with the COVID-19. It has heightened my realisation that we need to focus on our immune systems not just through the winter months but we should be putting just as much emphasis on our health continually throughout the year. Aside from good hand hygiene and what we eat and how we move with any form of exercise. Another addition is using essential oils in a steam diffuser.
Releasing essential oils through tiny molecules into our air has advanced over the years from the humble ceramic holder with a tea light underneath to more sophisticated versions with lights, timers and a variety of styles.
I moved on from the ceramic holders when the ceramic & bamboo steam models emerged. Partly driven from a safety aspect ( once the water has evaporated it switches off) plus no fear of a candle flame and the pot drying up burning the oils residue. Equally the added advantage of a steam diffuser is that it helps keep the air moist, helping our airways, repelling insects and helping create a healthy atmosphere.
We have two models in our home a smaller bamboo version that lasts for approx 4 hours with a simple design and two light levels and the larger ceramic ultrasonic steam diffuser shown above which has slightly more light options and choices of duration period up to 6 hours! This is in our living room as it covers a much larger area more efficiently.
The smaller one is perfect in my daughters small bedroom, as she tends to like a night light. It dispenses a steady stream of steam which we combine with Lavender Oil and occasionally tea tree if we suspect a viral cold is brewing and is fairly quiet, although some noise is to be expected as the water bubbles inside the chamber it can be quite soothing.
Commonly diffusers seem to be in constant use throughout the winter months as we find ourselves spending a lot more time indoors. Yet diffusers can be used to enhance the atmosphere of your home through the Spring & Summer months. Lighter scents can be used to uplift and cleanse. Particularly as tree pollen and grass pollen begins to creep in our open windows on warmer days along with the last of the early Spring colds
In terms of respiratory issues which sadly is linked as a serious symptom with COVID-19, moist air being diffused with an essential oil could be of a benefit. Although please do contact your health professional before using a diffuser with oils . Especially if you are suffering from COVID-19 symptoms or are recovering at home and self-isolating. My post here is mainly for those who wish to enhance their homes with uplifting natural scent and to help reduce air pollution whilst keeping airways moist. COVID-19 as we are all aware is a new virus and until more is known it is best to seek medical advice if you suspect you have COVID-19 before using essential oils.
Another reason I like these steam diffusers is that you can pop it on as part of a ritual to welcome your day in first thing. Using an uplifting cleansing blend. You can then use a more relaxing blend for the evening as a signal to calm and wind down.
You can also leave these safely running as they have built in sensors that cut off power when the water has evaporated. So if you are lucky enough to have a garden or are on your one daily outside exercise you can leave it and enjoy the scent as you walk back into your home.
Spring & Summer blends to consider
Lavender, Lemon & Peppermint or
Lavender, Tea Tree & Peppermint ( A favourite in our house)
Lemon & Lime & Tangerine or Grapefruit ( Citrusy & Zingy) Beautiful for those warm sunny days when you want to close your eyes, centre yourself, inhale and think of the Italian Hills!
If you are interested in good quality , ethical and sustainable essential oils. Please click the link below as I am a Neals Yard Consultant and may be able to order you some. Alongside their fantastic Organic Hand Defence Spray Sanitizer. Not only is it effective but a joy to use and inhale. Some small thing to ease the anxiety and to keep our hygiene at an optimum. Plus they do a portable USB version! Perfect for your desk.
Do look at the range of pre-blended oils that Neals Yard offers for diffusers, they have a lovely selection. I particularly like the “ Optimism” blend which is perfect for these anxious times to help us find our inner confidence. It contains a lovely blend of Black Pepper, Grapefruit & Jasmine. As well as their ‘Organic Defence’ containing Lemongrass, Niaoul & Thyme.
Whatever you choose to go with. Diffusing can be a wonderful way to bring the outdoors in through a range of scents to uplift and heal, giving you space to centre yourself and focus.
Keep safe & well.
