Essential Oils are also known as the fragrant pharmacy. Our mind, skin, and hair all benefit from the pure essential oils. They make excellent stress busters and hence can be aptly called an antioxidant for stress.
When these oils are applied topically, they not only benefit the skin but also penetrate inside to be absorbed into the bloodstream where they infuse more intense therapeutic benefits. Their odoriferous molecules are inhaled which means the essential oils can affect us on an emotional and mental level as well. How wonderful is this? There are certain oils that help to calm our minds and improve our breathing.
Everyone in this world is under some kind of stress. Mental health is as precious as physical health. One has to identify the stress that is bothering and then choose essential oil synergistic blend to act on mind.
Let us distinguish between different kinds of stress. It may be positive stress, normal stress, or distress. It is very important to understand the kind of stress one is facing.
Positive Stress
Positive stress makes us leap higher and excitedly take on tasks & challenges on hand. This calls for oils that keep us focussed and our mind elevated to face the challenges and let the creativity flow.
This positive stress is caused when we trying to achieve something for example stress during exams. In this case, we want the oils to help us focussed and relaxed.
A blend of following oils or individually these oils can be used.
Geranium, Lavender, Basil, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Patchouli and Cardamom
Normal Stress
Normal stress occurs when our body performs its functions for survival as a response to circumstances. Most of the time it catches us unprepared. For example, when in a car accident there is a rush of adrenalin in the body. It may lead to our heart pounding or heart shivering. Sometimes the trauma lingers for days. In this situation, we need to normalize our body and mind.
The following oils are very good individually or as a blend to uplift our spirit and normalize anxious mind
Bergamot, Grapefruit, Neroli, Palma Rosa, Lavender, Lemon, Ginger and Rosemary
Distress
Distress is another level of stress that happens when our Normal stress becomes chronic, and as a result, one loses hope, willpower, and energy. It often is associated with a feeling of frustration and guilt.
These are the oils that one can use for distress situation;
Petitgrain, Clary-sage, Lemon, Marjoram, Neroli, Nutmeg, Roman Chamomile, and Lavender.
Now you all must be wondering how should you use these oils. For all kinds of stress, a bath after work every night works wonders. Simply add 8-10 drops of your favorite oils to the bath.
You can also make a blend of essential oils in a carrier oil that can be massaged on to the body gently for 5 minutes before shower.
These oils can be used in a diffuser (it can be electric or candle) to diffuse the energy into the atmosphere.
One can also sprinkle a few drops on a handkerchief or pillow cover to let the fragrance enter the nostrils and bloodstream.
So don’t stress out and make yourself a priority. Watch your body and keep away from people and situations that alleviate it.
I hope that you have found this article useful. In case of any queries do feel free to write back to me at pooja@risingsun.in
Much Love
Pooja Nagdev (Founder)
INATUR