Autumn: an invitation to pause, cultivate calm and restore balance... • Akamuti

The nights are drawing in, the fires are lit and there is time to be still, reflect and journey inwards, just like mother nature. It’s the perfect time of year to bring out your grounding oils, to help you anchor your energy, reclaim your roots and enjoy feeling supported and fortified for the approaching winter ahead. Some of my favourite autumnal oils are the warm, comforting and spicy oils like cardamom, ginger, vanilla and cinnamon. I love taking time out to gather my oils and enjoy an autumnal ritual at home.

Using oils to relax and ground Deeply relaxing to the nervous system, this self massage oil blend combines beautiful warm oils to nourish the body, relieve tension and replenish the skin. This lovely ritual supports and grounds both the body and mind, encouraging us to gently let go of tension and anything that no longer serves us. Firstly, make sure your space is quiet, warm and comfy. I like to light a few candles to create my calming space. There is nothing quite like the soft, calming effect of candlelight on the senses…

Set aside 20 minutes to enjoy your ritual and apply your warm oil blend to your body. I enjoy using jojoba oil but other oils such as sesame and coconut will also be perfectly suitable. You can warm your oil by placing it in a small beaker or container and sitting the container in a bowl of warm to hot water for a good five minutes. (If you enjoy regular oil massages through the winter, you might like to invest in an oil warming device)

Once your oil has warmed, add your chosen essential oils. Gently warming the oils not only activates the scent but amplifies the relaxing benefits to the body. This week I am really enjoying using rose, cardamom and orange – they really soothe my senses and make me feel really well. This mixture is particularly good for anyone feeling tired or worn out emotionally. Drizzle the oil generously into the palm of your hand and apply to the limbs using long strokes. Use broad circular massage strokes in a clockwise direction over larger areas of the body, like the belly and the chest. This massage can be performed, quite literally from top to toe. I personally love to do this after a shower, while my skin is still warm. Once the oil ritual is over, I like to pull on some cosy pyjamas and snuggly socks and get straight into bed. This way I feel I have cocooned my body in a loving, warm aromatic hug. In Ayurvedic traditions, Abhyanga is a warm oil massage ritual which is usually performed in the morning before a shower. However, I enjoy mine most before bedtime, when I can relax and enjoy a restful sleep afterwards.