Scents can be deeply sensual. Here’s our pick of what aromatherapy oils to use for special occasions.

------------------------------------------------------------------- By Tricia Koh

[eastciti.com, December 27]
On my last birthday, my boyfriend created the perfect setting with my favourite music, soft candlelights and the scent of geranium. He lined the floor with rose petals that led to the bedroom and placed my gift, an exquisite chain, in the middle of the bed.

Half a year and buckets full of tears later when he dumped me, the one thing I remembered most about that night was the delicate, floral smell that lightly permeated the air-- geranium. Fresh, soothing and absolutely divine, it helped create the ambience that left me hopelessly in love. Moral of the story: never underestimate the power of scents.

"As Rosemary is to the spirit, so Lavender is to the soul."
-- author unknown

Based on the popular belief that scents have an effect on people's moods and feelings, aromatherapy originated in Egypt some 6000 years ago. Though not scientifically proven, aromatherapy makes use of essential oils extracted from flowers and herbs to heal, beautify and create a feeling of well-being. But while we wait for science to attest to this, there's no reason to shy away from a warm aromatic bath that might just chase your blues away.

So babe, it's indulgence time. We sniffed up two stores with genuinely good stuff you won't mind sticking your nose into.

Fengshui- 5 elements
Combine the healing properties of aromatherapy with the ancient art of Fengshui and you'll get Inner Peace's elements range of aromatherapy products. It makes use of the 5 elements in Fengshui to create scents for different needs and purposes. Comes in soap, incense sticks, room spray, bath salts essential oils and even scented stones to freshen up your room.

Element 1- Water
Seaweed and bamboo capture the serenity of water. When the going gets tough, use it to bring calm and luck.

Element 2- Wood
Sandalwood and ginger scent that's surprisingly mild and pleasant. For harmony and family.

Element 3- Fire
This combination of cinnamon and amber stimulates the mind and body. If you're looking for fame, use this and you might just get lucky.

Element 4- Metal
Sweet smelling white jasmine and juniper forms the main ingredients of this element's scent. Use for balance and harmony.

Element 5- Earth
If you're looking for romance or marriage, this blend of patchouli and mandarin might just do the trick. Or simply use to delight your senses.

Aroma Cushion
Aromatherapy can be used in a whole lot of ways so don't be boring. Inner Peace's aroma cushions are a new and trendy option. Use as hot/ cold compress to soothe aching muscles and joints or simply to refresh up. Choose from 6 scents:

Bergamot (relieves tension)
Geranium (anti-depressant)
Clarysage (for stress relief)
Lavender and Chamomile (headaches)
Ylang Ylang (appeases anger, anxiety)
Rosemary (respiratory problems)

Book- Neal's Yard Natural Remedies
Highly recommended aromatherapy resource that offers natural aromatherapy remedies for ailments like asthma, indigestion, sleeplessness and even sunburns. It tells you all you need to know about aromatherapy and how to use it. Useful and informative read for anyone with a genuine interest in aromatherapy.

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