Helpful Tips for Stress – Part I

Many are experiencing stress or mental exhaustion during these economic times. Stress can create an unhealthy balance within the body. Now more than ever is the time to take time for yourself. Stress can be relieved through aromatherapy, relaxation, diet & exercise, massage, music therapy, and herbs & teas. Over the coming days we will write a six part series to aide in stress relief. Part I is aromatherapy, we will include some recipes to help relive stress.

Part I - Aromatherapy

The aromas of many essential oils are natural relaxants. Enjoy the aromas of relaxing essential oils in the bath, create your own shower gel, or create a room spray. Examples of relaxing essential oils are Basil, Bergamot, Cedar Wood, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Juniper, Lavender, Lemongrass, Lime, Marjoram, Melissa, Myrtle, Neroli, Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Petit grain, Pine, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetivert, and Ylang-Ylang.

Natural Aromatherapy Recipes

(from Healing Home Spa by Valerie Gennari Cooksley)

Child's Play
6 drops lavender essential oil
6 drops mandarin essential oil
4 tablespoons unscented shower gel/ castile soap (or carrier of choice)

Fill tub with warm to hot water. Mix the essential oils with the carrier. Add to the bathwater and mix well. If using gel or foaming soap, mix and pour while the tub is filling to get the most bubbles.

Quiet Moments
4 tablespoon of honey (or other carrier)
6 drops sandalwood with essential oil
2 drops bergamot essential oil
2 drops ylang-ylang essential oil

Pour honey in small dish. Mix in essential oils and combine well by stirring. Add to a full warm bath. Soak for as long as you desire.

Stress-Relief Retreat
7 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops lemongrass essential oil
1 drop basil essential oil
4 tablespoons of Celtic Sea or Dead Sea salt

Add the essential oils to the salt and add to the bath. Warm to hot temperature is suggested. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes.

Stay tuned for Part II - Relaxation