Blog posts of '2020' 'October'

Coming soon.

In the UK 75% of children spend less time outdoors than prisoners.

Those of us living in cities are outside for only 1-5% of our time.

We have all no doubt inherently felt it  , why else would we take flowers to those who are sick , but the science now supports it, nature is good for us.

Urban areas overwork the sympathetic nervous system , so that part of the body which responds to danger or stressful situations. Nature impacts the parasympathetic system , so the part of the body responsible for rest and calm. It encourages being in the moment. It increases vigour and energy,

Nature can also boost our immune system. A boost which is so vital in present times.

Studies on Ecotherapy have found that the effects are more profound if we actively engage with nature , using our five senses . Some examples of this are, smelling the earth after rain , stopping to look at the colours of the leaves or listening out for the birdsong.

How then ,in our busy lives , can we get more nature? Here are some quick wins;

• Salvage a corner of the garden and vow to spend 1 hour of working from home out there each day
• Grow something , even if it is just on your windowsill. Herbs are a good option
• Breakfast or lunch in the woods. Pack up a picnique of your favourite things
• Organise a nature trail for the children
• Volunteer for conservation work or a city garden project
• Choose to walk through a tree lined avenue or a park on your way somewhere
• Apply a natural product and allow its aroma to conjure up feelings of goodness
• Challenge yourself to learn about one new tree or bird a day on your walks. There are some fabulous free apps and resources
• Collect sea shells at the beach
• Allow yourself the opportunity of 5 minutes of just looking at the sky in the day or the stars at night

Go on then , get out there.......

"Leave the roads. Take the trails" Pythagoras

Aromatherapy is an holistic therapy which uses essential oils from plants and trees to promote the health of body and mind. It is ancient in origin but  to continues enjoy a very modern presence.

Essentail oils are highly concentrated extracts from various parts of aromatic plants and trees. The chemistry is complex.

Essentail oils can hold range of properties such as being antiseptic , antibacterial, antimicrobial , sedative , analgesic and anti depressant.

Oils can enter the body via inhalation or through the skin so via skincare and massage ( a bath oil ticks both boxes ! ) We do not ever advocate digestion.

Given their potency it is important that you are guided by a suitably qualified Aromatherapist in their use. All Zelenci products have been formulated by our founder who is a qualified Aromatherapist and is a member of the Association of Professional Aromatherapists.

Did you know that the Egyptians used Essential oils to help preserve the Eyptian mummies? When Tutenkhamun's tomb was opened in 1922 ,an Archaeologist discovered a pot containing Frankincense inside.

In medieval times , when the plague swept the world , bonfires of aromatic woods would be lit in the streets to purify the air. Doctors often carried a nosebag of herbs and oils such as cinnamon and cloves to kill germs

In 1937 Frenchan Gattefosse discovered the analgesic and healing properties of Lavender  when , working in his Laboratory he plunged his hand into the nearest liquid when he burnt himself. This was Lavender. The Lavender assisted with the pain and the burn healed swiftly with little scarring.

In the 1920's two Italian Doctors demonstrated the psychotherapeutic effects of smelling essential oils, these having an enormous influence on the nervous system. In this instance it was the locally grown essential oils such as bergamot ,and orange,

An estimated 40 per cent of all modern pharmacuetical drugs originate from plants or herbs or are the inspiration for chemical copies.

Aspirin was originally derived from the bark of the willow tree ( now it is artificially made ).

Foxgloves contain the heart tranquilliser Digitalis.

Aromotherapy is now frequently employed in labour wards ,  for palliative care of Cancer patients and in hopices. It it also utilsed in memory workshops in Care homes.

These precious liquids are in harmony with planet and people alike. They offer protection , healing and pleasure without pollutiing either ourselves or the environment.

Take a look at our aromatherapy products.

Rose

A warm , deep  , richly floral and elegant aroma reminiscent of nightime and beauty.

On the skin Rose Damascena flower oil is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and improves skin tone

For the mind and body it is it is an antidepressant/ relaxant  . It aids sleep.

Rose Geranium

Similar to rose but with a herby over tone

On the skin it is a great balancer. It reduces oil, where necessary, and adds hydration where appropriate. It is antibacteriabl, antimicrobial, anti inflammatory.  It aids Cell regeneration,  is tightening and tones. It can assist with water retention and Cellulite.

For the mind and body it is an antidepressant/ relaxant and and a hormone balancer .

Frankincense

An earthy and spiced aroma.

Frankincense regenerates and restores skin tone. It eases the appearance of wrinkles. It  is is an = anti oxidant, antinflammatory and antimicrobial.

For the mind and body Frankincense slows down breathing and quietens the mind. This is why it makes such a good night time oil.  It assists mindfulness . Frankincense has been known to enhance spirituality

Neroli Essential oil.

Neroli is Orange blossom oil.

This luxurious and decadent oil is named after the 17^th Century Princess of Orsini of Nerola , Italy. Princess Nerola liked to scent her gloves and bathwater with Orange Blossom oil.

Neroli has a fresher smell than Orange with green facets , crisp  , with a floral side.

Neroli in skincare is a cell regenerator and is helpful for fine lines ,  wrinkles and skin elasticity.

For the mind , Neroli promotes happiness. It is reminiscent of warm sunny summer days and Mediterranean gardens

Perfect for putting you in a good place on dark winter mornings !

It is a calming oil, so can assist those suffering with stress and anxiety.