I found myself on a massage table recently (I know, tough duty), face down and ready for some bodywork. I once again realized I had forgotten a key massage ingredient – eucalyptus oil.

I am cursed with sinuses that tend to fill up quickly when I lay face down. Not sure if this is a common problem, but it can quickly convert a relaxing massage into a fight for breath. I like to work with my massage therapist using deep-breathing techniques, for maximum benefit. When my sinuses are clogged, I derive less from the experience.

I have found, thanks to a sympathetic massage therapist a while back, that a tiny bit of eucalyptus oil, available at many health food stores, or other essential aromatic oils such as peppermint can help dramatically in such situations.

Though eucalyptus can be a bit harsh if used to excess or if applied directly to the nostrils, and can cause a reverse reaction if used too much, a drop or two of eucalyptus on a cotton ball can keep you breathing fully while in the face-down position.

Aromatic oils can also be a blessing during cold and flu season, as can anything containing a healthy does of hot peppers. Seem like such a simple solution, but it works, and way better than developing dependcies on over-the-counter meds which contain oxymetazoline (Afrin), phenyleherine (Neosynephrine) or xylometazoline (Otrivin or Inspire). You can also purchase simple saline nose sprays which can be effective.

We’d love to hear about your experiences. I can’t be the only one who suffers in the face-down position! Drop us a note!