Fashion
The Best Essential Oils for Every Need and How to Use Them
Everything you need to know about the best essential oils—and how, when, and where to use them, according to aromatherapist Hope Gillerman….
During a time when our stress levels are running at an all-time high, even wellness skeptics may be willing to anoint their pulse points with a head-clearing essential oil. After all, the herbal healing treatment, which dates back thousands of years and has recently been lauded by everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow and Miranda Kerr to NBA All-Stars, can, in fact, have serious mind-body benefits: “The olfactory senses connect very early in brain wiring to emotional centers, so the distance from when a scent hits the nose to when it hits an emotion is very short,” explained Leslie B. Vosshall, Ph.D., a molecular neurobiologist at the Rockefeller University, in Vogue’s June 2019 issue.
“Breathing in the essential-oil vapor instantly changes our brain patterns and can help us feel calmer and more grounded,” agrees Hope Gillerman, an aromatherapist and author of Essential Oils Every Day: Rituals and Remedies for Healing, Happiness, and Beauty. “They are not a cure” and cannot replace medication, she notes; however, they are one valuable “pathway into taking good care of ourselves.” And don’t we all need to do more of that?
Below, everything you need to know about the best essential oils—and how, when, and where to use them.
What Are Essential Oils Good For?
“Essential oils are a natural, holistic way to address so many of the wellness issues that stem from the stress in our lives,” Gillerman says, adding that their benefits range from improving sleep and easing tension to providing a boost of energy during a midday slump. “Distinct from medications, they are not a cure but a pathway into taking good care of ourselves.”
How to Use Essential Oils
“Smelling essential oils by mindfully inhaling is the quickest way to change your state of mind and stress level,” says Gillerman, who recommends setting an intention before placing a drop of essential oil into the center of both palms. Next, rub your hands together and lift them up to your face, slowly inhaling through your nose. Other options, she notes, include applying an essential oil topically “to cocoon yourself in the aroma” (for example, peppermint dotted on the temple can help alleviate a headache); placing a few drops of a relaxing blend in a bath; or scenting an entire space with the help of an essential oil diffuser.
What to Know Before Buying Essential Oils
In such a crowded market, it can be difficult to know which essential oils to invest in—which is why Gillerman stresses the importance of purchasing essential oils that come directly from an aromatherapist or are certified organic. “Don’t look for a bargain, look for quality,” she says, noting that many essential oils are “adulterated, diluted or overly processed,” which can “degrade the efficacy and irritate the skin and breathing passages.” She also advises against amassing an overflowing collection. Instead, start with the essentials: a cleansing citrus; a mood-enhancing flower, such as lavender; a relaxing resin or root (think frankincense, cedarwood, or vetiver); and a stimulating scent, like basil, or rosemary.
Blends May Be Best
“Blends of two to five essential oils are more powerful than a single oil,” she says, explaining that the oils work in tandem to better target specific health and wellness issues. And what can be an overpowering scent on its own can be balanced when mixed with other oils. To wit, “ylang ylang by itself has a heavy, almost medicinal sweetness that many say they don’t like. But when combined with other essential oils, the sweetness softens into a warm, slightly fruity aroma that makes this oil a joyous component of any ‘happiness blend.’”
The Best Essential Oils for Every Issue
For anxiety: vetiver, neroli, clary sage, and geranium
For sleep and relaxation: lavender, chamomile, and rose
For mental focus: peppermint and rosemary
For energy: eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, cypress, and cardamom
For a mood boost: bergamot, ylang ylang, jasmine, lime, and lemon
For sore muscles: vetiver, peppermint, helichrysum, and pine
Fashion
Raekwon Unveils “The Emperor’s New Clothes” With All-Star Lineup
Raekwon, a legendary rapper known for his role in the Wu-Tang Clan, has just announced his long-awaited eighth studio album, titled “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” set to be released through Mass Appeal. Although no singles have been shared yet, the album is already creating a buzz and is highly anticipated this summer. It’s been seven years since Raekwon last released a solo album, and this new project feels more like a grand return than just another release.
He’s teamed up with a mix of familiar faces from the Wu-Tang Clan and some fresh talent in hip-hop. Listeners can look forward to clever lyrics and captivating stories filled with raw emotion. Raekwon has invited his Wu-Tang brothers Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Inspectah Deck to feature on the album, ensuring a classic blend that fans love. He’s also brought in well-respected artists outside of the Wu-Tang family, like Nas and members of the Griselda collective, Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, who are known for their gritty style.
Adding to the variety, singers Stacy Barthe and Marsha Ambrosius will provide soulful vocals to complement Raekwon’s hard-hitting verses. The album’s production features talented names like Swizz Beatz, Nottz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Frank G, and Roadsart, promising a rich, cinematic sound that matches Raekwon’s lyrical skills. Even with such an impressive lineup, there’s still a sense of mystery around the album. There have been no early songs or previews released, just the announcement itself, which builds even more expectation.
But for Raekwon, this is part of his journey. He has always delivered powerful lyrics and relatable street stories without much introduction. The title, The Emperor’s New Clothes, suggests a fresh start and a daring vision that might challenge the current state of rap. With his experienced flow and storytelling still sharp, Raekwon seems prepared to reestablish his place among the top artists in hip-hop.
Fashion
Wendy Williams Makes Stylish Splash At Columbia Supporting Her Designer
In a delightful surprise for fans and fashion enthusiasts, Wendy Williams made a rare appearance at Columbia University on Tuesday, and everyone couldn’t help but notice her. The former talk show host was in high spirits as she showed up to support her longtime friend and fashion designer, Mel Maxi. Wendy looked fantastic in a stylish black-and-white outfit that included a Yankee hat and her trademark flair.
Designed by Maxi himself, her outfit was not just chic but also had a personal touch that highlighted her vibrant personality. In a heartwarming moment recorded on video, Wendy told Maxi, “This is amazing! This was specifically designed for me… this is really hand done.” Wendy came to cheer on Maxi, who was set to give a lecture about fashion design at the prestigious university. Her appearance was a meaningful moment between two creative friends who have supported each other for years. Wendy’s presence emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration in the creative world.
As she walked by, a nearby fan shouted their love for Wendy, and she instinctively responded with her signature warmth and enthusiasm: “Thank you!” she exclaimed with a big smile. After being away from the spotlight for months, Wendy’s visit was a refreshing change for fans who have missed her lively spirit. There were no fancy events or flashing cameras, just Wendy enjoying the moment, supporting a friend, and reminding us all of the significance of showing up for the people we care about.
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