Articles by Dawn Shipley, RA, NCPA
The Treasures of Tahiti
I had been dreaming of going to Tahiti for as long as I can remember. I had to see those beautiful beaches and jagged peaks with my own eyes! The chance finally came, and it was even more amazing than I could’ve imagined. The sparkling turquoise waters with the contrast of the protruding jungle-green jagged mountains, overwater bungalows, gorgeous sunsets, and fabulous rich flavors were all magical! But even more amazing and unexpected were the gracious and welcoming locals, and learning of the wonders of their lush vegetation, especially their hidden treasures such as the Tiare flower (Gardenia tahitensis).
MTHFR Mutations and Aromatherapy to Support Them
The study of epigenetics shows how our environment—which includes our emotional state, physical state and diet—can affect our gene expression that can in turn affect our health. There are polymorphisms, or mutations, in the genes that are being studied, and two of those that are very important are MTHFR A1298C and C677T. These are important because they affect the metabolism of folate in our bodies, which is crucial to many other biochemical processes. Epigenetics shows that through diet and lifestyle, which can include aromatherapy, we are able to take control of our own health and aid our bodies in functioning properly.
Aromatic Astrology
So I thought why not pair one of my curiosities with my passion: astrology with aromatherapy? Match top personality traits with essential oils that would balance out the extremes. Sometimes I chose oils for their similarities to a signs’ characteristics as well, like Sandalwood that inspires thoughts of something strong, steadfast and soothing, with Taurus, the bull, who can be temperamental, but is definitely strong and steadfast, like the sandalwood tree! It also promotes deep thought and openness, the first of which the bull enjoys, and the latter of which he needs more.