Yoga & Aromatherapy

The month of January sees us move into a new year. Yes, it’s 2021!

This January, more so than ever, we are all embracing new beginnings, whilst also reflecting on all that has passed in 2020.

January 2021 needs something extra special to mark this change, to celebrate the closing of one door and the opening of another, so treat yourself to the rare and wonderfully-exquisite lotus oil (nelumbo nucifera).

Made from the petals of the lotus flower and sometimes the root and seeds, it will bring some much-needed peace and tranquillity to the new year.

As a way to mark this new beginning, try placing a couple of drops in a diffuser and allow the oil to fill your space with its sweet and earthy aroma, bringing feelings of purity and peace as it fills your home with serenity.

Lotus oil is lovely to use for meditation as it improves concentration and brings clarity, so try using it as an anointing oil.

Add a drop to some jojoba oil, mix well and anoint your forehead; come to a place of stillness. Give yourself some time and space to breathe in peace and purity and breathe out the old, allowing you to rise up out of the past year and emerge into the light of the new year with confidence, courage and serenity.

Use in small quantities and avoid using if pregnant, breastfeeding or on young children and be careful with cardiovascular conditions.

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