I’ve been candid about what a stressful holiday season it’s been so far for me, and how I like to use herbs to help my body handle stress better. Here, contributor Heather will tell us how to use essential oils for stress relief, which is a perfect example of how I personally like to use essential oils. -Jaclyn
During the busy holiday times of year, stress can take over. We can run ourselves into the ground by trying to do too much in too little time, eating more sugar in treats than normal, and getting less sunlight and rest than we do other times of the year. (Jaclyn’s note: a quality cod liver oil is perfect for making up for lack of vitamin D in the winter!)
There are often huge meals to shop for and make, kitchens to clean up, families and friends to host and a plethora of other things that keep our lives busy. We need to take time and relax.
And, that’s where aromatherapy comes into play here. Basically put, aromatherapy is the art and science of inhaling scents that are relaxing, comforting, calming, or even energizing. When you go into a coffee shop and smell the freshly roasted beans, or if you go into Bath and Body works and smell the lotions, you are essentially experiencing aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy is a great way to get the benefits of essential oils in a very safe manner. Although some may feel ingestion of oils are safe, I generally advocate that people shouldn’t take essential oils internally. And not all oils are safe to use on the skin, especially “neat,” or undiluted. Aromatherapy helps to avoid the possible reactions, such as sensitizing the skin, burning the skin or possible damage to inner tissues, while giving you the benefits of the oils.
I like this blend, because it’s calming and energizing at the same time. When life hands you lemons, make this essential oil blend!
Citrus oils are very energizing, as well as “cleansing” to the mind. Rosemary is great for helping to remember things, which is why many of us are stressed in the first place trying to get it all done, and lavender is a calming oil that helps to relax. Together, they create a beautiful blend that anyone can be around.
To use essential oils for stress relief, you’ll need:
- a small bottle to keep the blended oil in
- 25 drops lemon essential oil (you can also try grapefruit, lime, or orange)
- 10 drops rosemary essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
Carefully blend the oils in a small bottle and add 5-6 drops to a diffuser, diffusing for an hour at a time. OR, add 2-3 drops to an essential oil necklace that you wear. You can also place this blend in a roller bottle to roll on the skin. If you choose to do that, you will need to add 1 1/2 teaspoons of a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil.
Not sure which types of essential oils to use? I’ve been happy with these high-quality essential oils, many of which are organic!
What are your favorite essential oils for stress relief?
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