Basking in Self Care & Guilty Pleasures

Belinda Ahern
Sep 21
2 min read

In Indonesia, the flowers are traditionally scattered across the beds of newlyweds to enhance intimacy and connection. Beyond romance, Ylang Ylang brings an array of therapeutic gifts:

Calms the nervous system, easing irritation and frustration
Encourages relaxation and uplifts mood
Supports circulation and may help regulate blood pressure
Soothes skin and balances oil production
Conditions and strengthens hair

Its fragrance is voluptuous, exotic, and euphoric—helping one shed the weight of stress and enter a state of ease.

An Ayurvedic Self-Care Ritual & Guilty Pleasure

Step 1: Gentle Movement

Begin with 20 minutes of slow, flowing exercise—walking, yoga stretches, or even light strength work—to awaken circulation and release stagnant energy. From an Ayurvedic perspective, this helps release stagnation and reduce heat in times of stress, preparing the body to fully absorb aromatherapeutic benefits.

Step 2: Aromatic Foot Soak

Prepare a warm basin of water infused with:

1 drop Ylang Ylang
A handful of dried European herbs such as lavender, rosehips and rosemary
A 1/2 cup of magnesium flakes or sea salt

Soak the feet for 10–15 minutes to ground the senses, open the body’s reflex points, and create calm.

Step 3: Ylang Ylang Massage Oil

Add Ylang Ylang with 3 drops Frankincense and 2 drops Cedarwood in 2 teaspoons of jojoba oil. Massage a small amount into the temples, wrists, and over the heart center. This nourishes the skin while inviting a sense of joy and sensual ease.

Step 4: Bedtime Ritual

Before bed, diffuse Ylang Ylang, for 20 minutes. As you breathe deeply, focus on slowing and lengthening your inhale and exhale. This practice calms the mind, encourages restful sleep, and aligns with Ayurvedic principles that emphasis on regulating your system and supporting your bodies abiltiy to digest and repair.

Important Note

Because of its intensity, Ylang Ylang should always be used sparingly in dilution. Overuse may cause headaches or nausea. With aromatherapy, less is always more.

✨ This ritual is as much about presence as it is about the essence. When you move, soak, massage, and breathe with intention, Ylang Ylang becomes not just an oil, but an ally in cultivating balance, joy, and sensual connection.

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