A brief overview of yourself, what do you do for work, leisure and your self care journey.

My name is Niamh (pronounced Neev), and I own a gorgeous beauty studio in Brisbane. I have always had a passion for skin, and along with that comes a keen interest in more natural ways of beauty. Before I studied beauty I was very much into beauty trends, but not so much in terms of treating my skin and body healthily. After studying I really turned that around and made an effort to truly look after myself and my skin.

What self care rituals do you resonate with the most?

Having a background in beauty and skin health, something that I always do for myself is my skincare routines morning and night. I find that even on days where I’m really tired, I can still modify that self care moment to suit my mood so that I’m still spending time with myself. Doing my skincare really adds that element of routine and consistency, so that I can be motivated each day to show up for me, look after myself and ultimately keep me going in all other aspects of my daily life.

Speaking of your experience, why do you think Aromatherapy plays a role in good self-care habits?

I think it is all well and good to have products and perfumes that smell nice, but there is a lot of research now to suggest that strong, synthetic fragrances aren’t all that good for our bodily systems. Personally, I struggle with quite extreme eczema on my hands and I find it hard to use everyday products without being heavily irritated. Aromatherapy gives me peace of mind. That skincare element is so important in my self-care habits, and I find so many more options for my sensitive skin and system with natural ingredients that are proven to calm, focus, energise, or whatever it is I need. I also think that the ritual of choosing an essential oil, turning on a diffuser or burning a candle is within itself a placebo - you are anticipating a calm and safe space when you begin these rituals.

How do Auric Alchemy products help you create an ideal environment for self-care rituals?

I adore the Clarity Mist. I love to spray this around my room or onto my clothes in the morning to wake me up and focus my mind for the day. That all ties into doing my skincare routine, whilst taking in the beautiful combination of ylang ylang (my absolutely favourite!) and orange peel to liven me up. In the evening I pop some of the Auric Alchemy Bath Soak into my bath. The lavender is so calming and nostalgic to both me and my partner, and when he sleeps better, I sleep better!

List your top three "self - care must haves"

To completely de-stress and connect with self with an essential oil diffuser, candles and a room clearing spray.

My top 3:

• An essential oil diffuser (Heart Blend as a sneaky extra)
• Lip balm
• A scalp massager!!

See instagram post here. 

Niamh's instagram account here.