Bastyr University's Essential Oil & Aromatherapy Certificate Program

I spent the past weekend at Bastyr University studying to become a Certified Aromatherapist.  I finished my first of eight in-depth courses which was Essential Oil Therapy-Foundations.  The instructor is Jimm Harrison who developed and is teaching the Essential Oil Therapy Certificate Program for Bastyr University School of Natural Medicine and is the author of Aromatherapy: Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils for Esthetics. He is AMAZING and I know I am so lucky to get to learn from him!!!

I am getting really excited for the upcoming three day class on the chemistry and biology of essential oils.  I have always wanted to learn the molecular composition and structure of the oils and be able to identify the therapeutic properties which will help me be able to  blend some awesome formulas to address specific skin concerns.  Words like aldehydes, sesquiterpne alcohols and oxides will make their way into my beauty vocabulary soon. 

After that class, I will take five more three-day courses in therapeutic properties, blending and application methods, olfactory system and emotional effects, skin care and spa application, and  aromatherapy consultation.  After all seven courses (140 hours) are complete, I will need to document some case studies and pass my final exam.  Wish me luck!!!

I am excited to put my new knowledge into practice and will be coming up with some really awesome skincare recipes and essential oils blends as I delve deeper into the world of aromatherapy and essential oils. 

-Shannon