Essential Oils And Life's Transitions
Outback Farm - Winter Solstice
Transition is a change from one thing to the next, either in action or state of being. For example, currently, we are transitioning from autumn into winter, a time to slow down, hibernate and reflect. And, there are personal transitions we all experience at certain times in our lives, such as relocating to a new town, a new career, welcoming a new family member, adopting an animal, or saying farewell to a friend, family member, or pet as they transition from this earth.
I will never forget the day we had to put our beloved horse Pete down. It was a beautiful October day and he was struggling from a neurological condition that was slowly taking him away from us. It was painful to see him suffering from this condition. However, our vet kindly suggested that the best thing for him was for us to say goodbye. So my husband and I asked for some time to say a proper farewell to Pete. Her reply, "Take all the time you need."
I wanted to give Pete a transitioning ceremony, and I needed time to gather the plants and essential oils I needed. I went to my studio and picked the essential oils of Frankincense, Myrrh, Rose and Sweet Marjoram. I gathered 4 sprigs of Rosemary; it was the only plant still growing in the garden. Next, I filled a bucket with water and added 20 drops for each essential oil and one spring of Rosemary. I went back to Pete's stall with this spiritual bath, and we sat down next to his head. While humming a healing song to him, I offered him a sniff of each essential oil. Gently, I sponged the infused essential oil and plant water from the bucket over his body. I completed the ritual by braiding the remaining Rosemary in his mane and tail. It is hard to put into words how this little ritual helped Pete transition from being in pain to a peaceful state, and he calmly laid there while we pet him. We told him how much we loved him and the joy he gave us during our time together. When he exhaled a deep breath and closed his eyes, we knew he was ready to complete his transition. Saying goodbye was excruciating, but grateful for the chance to give him the essential oils and the spiritual bath at his passing moment.
What I did not realize at the time was Pete helped to create my Peace Blend. The realization occurred when a friend called to tell me she needed to put her dog down in a few days. I mentioned my experience with Pete, and she wanted the essential oils for her dog's transition. So I blended the Frankincense, Myrrh, Rose, Sweet Marjoram with a base of safflower oil in a 5ml bottle and sent it to her. I later received a phone call telling me the Peace Blend gave her and her dog calmness and peace during his transition.
I chose these essential oils in the Peace Blend because of their traditional uses and comforting qualities. Therefore, they can assist through all life's transitions. It is my favorite gift to give to family and friends experiencing their personal transitions.