Autism & Special Educational Needs
Why Aromatherapy?
The use of essential oils on children and young people with autism, ADD/ADHD, SEN, and with communication and interaction difficulties can help induce emotional responses, which can then produce it's own corresponding effects on the whole body. It can enable them to feel relaxed, gain confidence, be more regulated or remain calm during situations that would normally make them feel anxious or hit crisis.
The aromatic essences/molecules from the oils effectively stimulate the brain and awaken the senses, which is particularly beneficial for those with sensory processing or communication and interaction difficulties. And of course the biggest advantage of using essential oils (when guided by a trained aromatherapist) is that is completely natural and has a lack of side effects.
Using aromatherapy can provide opportunity to engage in a multi sensory experience, encourages development of body awareness, intensive interaction or communication opportunities, promotes positive touch, emotionally regulate and relax and helps develop their skills in self regulation.
Aromatherapy promotes emotional regulation and can support issues relating to SEN and Autism such as behaviour, dysregulation, sleep, anxiety and much more.
Aromatherapy Massage
Quite often children and young people with autism and special needs can have anxiety and negative connotations' around social touch. Positive, appropriate touch can be taught in a safe and supported way through massage.
When having massage the brain releases a hormone called oxytocin, the cuddle hormone, this is key in brain development especially in forming attachments to people and feeling safe. Massage strengthens relationships and promotes trust and feelings of wellbeing.
Massage oils are available though my shop page or as part of a consultation package. Each one comes with guidance on simple hand and foot massage.
Aromatherapy rollerballs
Aromatherapy rollerballs are an excellent way of applying an essential oil blend. They are portable, small, discreet and easy to use and apply. It can be applied to pulse points, hands, feet, back of the neck or wherever it is preferred. Most young people I have worked with quickly become used to having it applied.
Once you or your young person become used to the aroma you may find that the effects of the roller happen very quickly, this again, is due to the olfactory system alerting the brain to the remembered aroma and the brain responding with the desired effect i.e. calming, becoming sleepy, becoming more alert.
Rollerballs should be stored safely away from children until needed.
Aromatherapy diffuser blends
Inhalation by diffusion is one of the safest and most effective ways to reap the benefits of essential oils. In fact, it's the fastest way to get essential oils into your bloodstream and benefit from the theraputic effect.
It is also a wonderful way to make your home smell beautiful!
Diffusers are widely available to buy and a popular way to safely use essential oils at home. There are a few varieties to consider such as ceramic, air and water (ultrasonic).
Simply add the desired number of drops and enjoy. I have diffuser blends available in the shop or bespoke blends can be requested through a consultation service.
Bottles should be stored safely away from children until needed.
How a consultation & prescriptive blend will help...
When you choose a consultation service for your young person or yourself I will take a detailed medical history including details of allergies, health conditions, medications and any skin issues. I will ask what issues you are having what it is you are hoping to achieve.
This is so I can safely choose and prescribe the best blend to help. Tailored to your young person's needs.
The advice I give when selecting a blend is that you use the blend regularly. and let it become part of your daily routine.
