an autumn day in the life...

the autumn equinox has passed now, and we begin to experience the hypnotic changes in our surroundings. being a true child of nature, when this time of year rolls around i find myself awash in energies unlike any i experience at other times of the year. it begins at about the same time i notice the squirrels scampering around and up and down our walnut trees. i become more domestic, cooking and cleaning, making preparations for the dark months. i spend more time walking in our wooded space, watching the now golden light filter down through the trees to create a dapple on the path. our dogs wander with me, easing away at times, noses to the ground. they are no doubt experiencing the same sweet aroma of decaying leaves that i take deep into my lungs.
at this most special time, when the day is done, i feel a thrill of expectation. it is the winding down hour; a good cup of tea and a healthy dose of Autumn Sunshine, our wonderful seasonal blend, in my lamp. every lamp in the house is lit and exuding the rich aroma that extends the magical qualities of the day into bath and bed time. when i put the lamps out and cozy up in my bed, that lovely scent lingers, sending me off into slumber and dreams of winding paths and floating leaves.

Which essential oil diffuser is best?

For zapping germs? for combatting bacteria, virii, molds and spores, you can't beat a nebulizing diffuser. Microparticles of the oils are dispersed into the air and stay suspended for up to two hours. Disadvantage? The nebulizers tend to be noisier than other styles, and can require more maintenance than others. However for banishing germs, etc. they can't be beat.



For silence and convenience? My personal favorite is the AromaStone. This small British unit is safe, carefree and low maintenance.

It gently heats the essential oils to baby-bottle temperature. Disadvantage? It's not a powerful diffuser. It is perfect for bedside use, but not the best choice to fill a large room with aromatics.




For a child's room? the Ultrasonic nebulizer combines the function of a nebulizing diffuser with a humidifier. Perfect if you child is prone to stuffy noses, colds or ear infections. No heat is involved, so if a child does tip it over there is no danger of a burn. Disadvantage? Some people find the light distracting, and obviously if you live in a damp or humid environment adding more moisture to the air counter-productive.

For mood and ambience? The traditional aroma lamp (sometimes called a burner) is my favorite. A bowl of warm water, over a tea candle, with a few drops of your chosen oil added. Silent, attractive, and simple. Disadvantage? All the risks of a lit candle, of course, as well as the chance that you may use up all the water in the bowl before the candle burns out.



For further discussion of these and other recommended methods of diffusing please click here.