Yoga & Aromatherapy

The month of February brings increasing light and a sense of hope and renewal and the knowledge that spring is on its way.

A lovely essential oil to use this month is evening primrose oil (oenothera biennis).

Made from the seeds of the evening primrose flower, this beautiful little plant only comes into bloom at night, hence its name and why it’s perfect to use this month…a little ray of hope in the darkness of winter.

Evening primrose oil was first used by Native Americans, as well as the Greeks and Romans, for its healing properties. It nourishes, protects and heals, so has many wonderful uses.

As a light carrier oil, it can be used directly on the skin as a nourishing treat.

You can massage it onto the face and give yourself a pampering facial this month to give yourself some self-love and self-care.

As it has such good anti-inflammatory properties, it will also help to heal and soothe any inflamed areas, so ideal with any dry or itchy skin conditions. You can try adding a couple of drops of Roman chamomile oil to some evening primrose oil and then massage this blend onto the whole body for a calming and comforting body treatment.

You can even use it in an oil burner to help draw out winter toxins and help shake off any negativity and winter blues and to bring some gentle healing to all.

Generally considered a safe oil to use on all.

Julia White is a yoga teacher and aromatherapist (jwhitelondon.com)