As the seasons of our life deepen, we become increasingly aware of the rhythm of our breath—the invisible thread that connects us to the world around us. For those of us who have lived through sixty-five years of changing air, we understand that clear, effortless breathing is the very foundation of our stamina and our peace of mind. There are times, however, when the chest feels heavy, or the breath lacks the expansive freedom it once had. In these moments, we can look to the resins of the earth, substances that have protected trees for millennia, to find a way to soothe our own respiratory pathways.
Among these treasures is the “golden tear” of the forest: Frankincense. Long before it was a prized commodity in ancient trade, it was a household staple for its ability to clear the “stagnant air” within the body. When we use such a potent, aromatic substance, we aren’t just addressing a physical symptom; we are engaging in a sensory ritual that signals the nervous system to slow down and the lungs to open. By pairing this with the warming, circulatory support of specific oils, we create a topical application that encourages the chest to release its grip, allowing for a deeper, more restorative exchange of life-giving oxygen.
The Warming Chest Compressing Balm
This remedy is designed to be massaged into the chest and upper back, providing a steady, aromatic release that supports clear breathing and a sense of internal warmth. It is a sugar-free, non-invasive way to fortify the respiratory system during the colder months or times of seasonal transition.
Ingredients
- Three tablespoons of extra virgin coconut oil (the base for smooth absorption)
- Five drops of high-quality Frankincense essential oil (the “king of resins”)
- Two drops of Eucalyptus oil (to encourage a cooling, open sensation)
- A small piece of beeswax (optional, to create a more solid balm consistency)
Instructions
- In a small glass bowl placed over a pot of simmering water (a gentle double-boiler), melt the coconut oil and the beeswax until they are completely liquid. Using low, indirect heat ensures the delicate properties of the oils remain intact.
- Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat and let it cool for just a minute, so it is warm but no longer hot.
- Carefully stir in the Frankincense and Eucalyptus oils. The scent will be immediate—deep, woody, and refreshing.
- Pour the mixture into a small glass tin and allow it to set completely until it becomes a soft solid.
- To use, take a small amount of the balm and warm it between your palms. Apply it to the chest area using broad, upward strokes. As you apply the balm, take three slow, intentional breaths, allowing the aromatic vapors to gently clear the path for a deeper, easier rhythm of life.
