Essential Oil Blends for Yoga

Namaste. Yoga has become a popular form of exercise as it can improve muscular strength and endurance, respiratory and circulatory health, and increase energy and vitality and more. Here are a few blends to try out during yoga practice. For diffusers with the standard capacity, 100ml, use 4-5 drops of essential oils. For 200ml water capacity, you may use 6-9 drops.

Lemongrass + Helichrysum + Sweet Orange

Lemongrass possesses a lemony and earthy scent that is beneficial for boosting alertness and wakefulness while repelling bugs, which is also ideal for outdoor yoga. Helichrysum, rich and earthy, provides emotional comfort to assist with meditation, yoga, and self reflection. Sweet orange leaves the senses energized while elevating the mood.

  • 100ml water
    • 2 drops lemongrass/helichrysum
    • 2 drops sweet orange
  • 200ml water
    • 3 drops citronella
    • 3 drops ginger
    • 3 drops sweet orange

*You can substitute lemongrass with citronella, helichrysum with ginger or chamomile, and orange with other citrus oils

Peppermint + Oregano + Basil

Breathing plays an important role in yoga as it helps to remove emotional blockages as well as controlling different levels of consciousness. All three oils have relaxing and expectorant properties that will not only facilitate easier and deeper breathing, but also provide relief for those suffering from nasal congestion and seasonal allergies.

  • 100ml water
    • 2 drops peppermint
    • 2 drops oregano/basil
  • 200ml water
    • 2 drops rosemary
    • 2 drops basil
    • 4 drops peppermint

*You can substitute either the oregano or basil with rosemary, and peppermint with spearmint

Ravintsara + Thyme + Cedarwood

Ravintsara’s green and woody scent is helpful for calming down nerves and tension prior to yoga. Thyme’s stimulating nature is good for combating sluggishness and poor focus, and its fresh and herbaceous scent cleanses the air of airborne bacteria. Cedarwood supports the respiratory system, and its balsamic and woody scent soothes the mind and body.

  • 100ml water
    • 2 drops ravintsara/thyme
    • 2 drops cedarwood
  • 200ml water
    • 3 drops eucalyptus
    • 2 drops thyme
    • 3 drops cedarwood

*You can substitute ravintsara with eucalyptus

Sandalwood + Patchouli + Lime

The rich and woody scent of sandalwood and its emotionally balancing properties goes hand in hand with meditation, spiritual and yoga practices. Patchouli’s deep and earthy scent promotes relaxation as well as helping one to feel centred. Lime’s bright and crisp scent creates a clean smelling and enlivening environment.

  • 100ml water
    • 2 drops sandalwood/patchouli
    • 2 drops lime
  • 200ml water
    • 2 drops amyris
    • 2 drops patchouli
    • 4 drops lime

*You can substitute sandalwood with amyris, and lime with other citrus oils

Frankincense + Black Pepper + Lemon

Frankincense is well known to be used during spiritual and meditative practices. Its sweet and earthy scent has a positive impact on mood and cognitive function. A smidge of dry and spicy black pepper can be very stimulating, boosting mental clarity and energy. Lemon’s refreshing and vibrant nature is wonderful for combating fatigue, lethargy and irritability.

  • 100ml water
    • 2 drops frankincense/black pepper
    • 2 drops lemon
  • 200ml water
    • 3 drops clary sage
    • 2 drops black pepper
    • 3 drops lemon

*You can substitute frankincense with clary sage. It has a different scent but is another popular oil for yoga and meditation practice

Diffuse these blends for not more than 30-60 minutes at a time with plenty of break time in between, you can also use them as a sleep aid before bed. Make sure to use them in moderation. Consult a health care or medical professional if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition.