O is for
olfactory
Often perceived as a luxury, essential oils, potpourri and scented candles elicit too many feelings of guilt for many to splurge on, so treat those who won't pamper themselves with a gift that tickles the sense of smell.
"People feel good when they smell good things," said Malia Johnson, owner of Sedona at Ward Centre, who recommends an eye pillow made with organic flax and calming lavender as a no-stress $20 gift.
Essential oils, derived botanically by either cold press or distilling, cost a bit more than fragrances that mimic the scent. These can be worn or put around the home in diffusers, lamp rings or aroma balls that are plugged into a socket, depending on what the person prefers, Johnson said.
"It's not just the smell that matters; it's how it looks in your home, as well."
RICHARD WALKER / RWALKER@ STARBULLETIN.COM
From Sedona, Ward Centre, Helga's lavender eye pillow ($19.97) blocks light and relieves tension; Snow Lotus handcrafted essential oil in lavender ($17), left; and Shadow & Light 4.5-ounce Passion lotion ($11.60), made with aloe vera, ylang-ylang, vanilla and rose petals.
Aveda Salon at Ala Moana Center carries aromatherapy candles in glass containers or tea light varieties, which bring a sense of relaxation around home without being perfumy.
At SoHa, Ward Centre, the work's done for you with incense, candles and potpourri attractively grouped and packaged, some with their own incense trays and candle holders.
Scented massage oils and lotions are another option. Add to those some candles and a mellow CD, and you have an instant little "spa at home" basket. Native Books & Beautiful Things at Ward Warehouse carries Oils of Aloha, starting at $5.50, and other Hawaii-made lines.
If you have trouble deciding, you can always give a gift certificate for an aromatherapy massage by a licensed esthetician or masseuse.
RICHARD WALKER / RWALKER@ STARBULLETIN.COM
From SoHa at Ward Centre, handsome gift box sets by Montra Sense come in lavender ($13.50), top, and jasmine ($7.50) scents and more.
RICHARD WALKER / RWALKER@ STARBULLETIN.COM
From Aveda at Ala Moana Center, Blue Oil, with peppermint, jojoba and blue flower oils, is $12 for a .24-ounce bottle.
The Star-Bulletin's countdown to Christmas continues daily, one letter at a time.
Click for online
calendars and events.
