The use of essential oils for stress relief is a concept that has been used for years. There is a growing number of adults each year who suffer from the effects of it long term. They may not be aware that they are having a physical reaction to a situation. The blood pressure elevates, the heart beats faster and blood glucose increases.
Hypertension and heart disease are just two of the many diseases that are linked to it and affected by it. The digestive, reproductive and immune system and the skin can all be affected by it as well. It can contribute to trouble sleeping, headaches and fatigue. If someone is already suffering with depression and anxiety, there can be a further adverse affect.
Stress is triggered by both internal and external factors. It may be affected by what goes on at home and work, in relationships, and any personal difficulties. Internally, health, lack of sleep, emotional health and nutrition may be affected. The affect does not have to be negative, it can be positive and can be a motivation. It can lead to positive changes in life. When it has become chronic there are long term affects.
What is best is to find a way to manage it. The most obvious ways to be able to better handle on it is to get plenty of rest, eat well balanced meals and to make sure all health issues are addressed and not ignored. Exercise is also important as it produces chemicals that promote feelings of well being.
To get relief consider using essential oils. These can be inhaled or applied to the skin. They cannot be applied directly to skin because they are concentrated and can cause skin irritation. Blend them with a carrier oil, an oil that is light enough to carry them both into the skin. Heavier ones are not able to be absorbed properly. Try a vegetable, nut or seed oil as a carrier oil.
Some that are commonly used are sandalwood which is used for calming the mind, relieving depression and insomnia. Rosemary increases mental acuity, while Clary sage promotes relaxation. Lavender helps with both relaxation and stress. Other relievers are geranium and chamomile. Lemongrass decreases anxiety and increases relaxation. Frankincense can decrease fatigue which is just one of the symptoms.
Jasmine bring out feelings of calmness, and basil increases nervous system strength while relieving mental fatigue. Bergamot can help relieve anxiety and stress. Any of the above may help but there are many more. No one oil is best for everyone, each person must take the time to determine what works best for them. For something even more effective, consider the combination of symptoms and choose and combine each oil accordingly.
One way to use essential oils for stress relief is by getting a massage. The right blend can be heated and massaged into the skin. The deep relaxation that follows will be a mental part of the scent of the oil. Keeping something with the same oils on it can be used as a reminder to relax during the day. They can also be added to a bath or in burners and diffusers.
The author has made available much information about aromatherapy, such as using Helichrysum and other pure and natural essential oils.