All-Natural Solution to Soothe Your Stress After a Long Day
Could you use some practical and effective ideas on how to soothe your senses and frayed nerves after a long day? Do you prefer solutions that do not require prescription drugs? Are you looking to minimize your exposure to chemicals that potentially cause harmful side effects? Well I have great news; today I am going to share another secret of mine. This secret is perfect for those looking for an all-natural, affordable, easy way to relax both in crises and in everyday life.
Have you ever cruised the aisles of a health food store and seen those mysterious little brown bottles? Many of them contain a variety of different essential oils. Essential oils are defined as extracted plant essences or plant oils. High quality essential oils are the foundation to the science known as aromatherapy. True aromatherapy involves the practice of using a combination of essential oils, for therapeutic purposes (including both psychological and physical well-being).
While aromatherapy is not a new idea, it has enjoyed a surge in popularity due to the increasing interest in alternative medicine and budget friendly methods to improving health. Aromatherapy is not intended to replace standard medical care, but is meant to complement it. When used properly, aromatherapy offers people an effective alternative to taking drugs, not as a cure but rather a mood-altering stimulant that can help with symptoms or help alleviate stress and other psychological factors.
"The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day." -- Hippocrates, 4th century BC
Hippocrates often referred to as the "father of medicine", was well known for using baths, physiotherapies, massage with infusions, and the internal use of herbs in order to treat different
illnesses. He was able to research and document about 200 various herbs. Hippocrates was the very first to think of the foundation of aromatherapy, which is holism.
There are many products on the market claiming to be "aromatherapy," from bath oils to candles, but while these are certainly enjoyable, most do not contain the essential oils necessary to be considered true aromatherapy. You should always be wary of any product that does not list its ingredients. Look only for products that contain pure essential oils within the ingredient list, not simply fragrances. Perfume oils do not offer the same therapeutic benefits as essential oils. Also, avoid purchasing any oils that are sold in clear glass bottles, as the clear glass can allow light to damage the essential oils. Instead, buy oils that are stored in dark-colored, glass bottles.
Essential oils can be blended together to provide a pleasing and therapeutic aroma. When essential oils are inhaled, it is thought to bring the person both psychological and physical benefits. The use of various
oils is also believed to aid in a variety of health, beauty, and hygiene conditions. Aromatherapy can help enhance a person's quality of life by calming fear, stress and anxieties related to whatever is ailing the individual.
Essential Oils to Reduce Stress
For managing stress, there are many useful essential oils and various combinations and methods for their use. Among the oils most helpful for stress are bergamot, chamomile, geranium, lavender, lemon, neroli (orange blossom), rose and ylang ylang. Among these, the most versatile and often recommended is lavender.
Lavender is considered by aroma therapists to be the one essential oil that every home should have on hand. Aside from its many healing properties, it calms, soothes and relaxes quite effectively. For anyone suffering the effects of stress, lavender would be an excellent choice to begin with.
Methods to Use Essential Oils
There are many methods for using essential oils. Here are a few favorites to try with lavender or your choice of essence for a soothing escape from stress.
As massage oil - When essential oils are applied directly to the skin, as in massage, it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Essential oils, however, should never be applied undiluted on the skin but the drops are added to a base oil, as the essential oils are highly concentrated. There are many base
oils to choose from, among them, almond, apricot kernel, corn, jojoba, olive, peanut and wheat germ oil. The general rule is to add five drops of essential oil to one teaspoon of your base oil and massage your tension away.
In the bath - Add a maximum of eight drops of essential oil to the bath. Soak for at least ten minutes, relaxing and breathing deeply.
On a tissue or handkerchief - One drop of essential oil on a tissue can be sniffed any time of day when you need a lift or a soothing break.
As a room spray - Add four drops of essential oil to a cup of warm water in a plant spray bottle. Spray around the room and enjoy the wonderful aroma.
Personal Story of Using Essential Oils
For my own hands-on research, my very tense neck and shoulders were massaged with a combination of lavender, neroli and lemon grass in a base of wheat germ oil. The effect was very relaxing. My sense of smell appreciated the delicate blend of lavender and citrus, a combination that I would definitely recommend. Just be sure to resist the urge to use more than the recommended number of drops, as they really are highly concentrated.
Resource for Additional Information
Aromatherapy is a fascinating science involving the various healing properties of each oil and effective combinations, uses and methods of use. If you are interested in delving into the world of aromatherapy, I recommend The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood. It thoroughly covers every aspect of aromatherapy, from beauty and first aid to pet care and home use, a
s well as therapeutic uses for men, women, infants, children and the elderly.
Resources to Purchase Essential Oils
Here are some convenient resources to purchase essential oils online. Essential oils are available in standard and organic forms.
Have fun discovering various essential oils and the wonderful effects they will produce for you. Let me know which ones turn out to be your favorites.
Enjoy!
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