By Olivia Bricen, Vera Health Blogger
Have you ever used essential oils? Studies show that scents have a powerful impact on our bodies. The olfactory nerve, responsible for your sense of smell, is located in the nose and reaches the skull where it sends signals to areas of the brain that control mood, emotion, and memory. Scents directly affect the nervous system, so if a whiff of a particular flower, perfume, or food brings up specific memories for you, it’s because your brain associates smell with these moments.
Essential oils trigger a response in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for calming and relaxing your body. I personally use essential oils every day and notice a significant difference in my stress levels when I diffuse my favorite calming oils, like lavender, frankincense, and bergamot. There are many essential oils on the market with different functions, so I gathered eight of my favorites that help me when the going gets tough. Whether you have trouble sleeping, letting go of anxiety, or you’re feeling burnt out, you can find an essential oil to help you feel better.
How to Use Essential Oils
There are several ways that you can use essential oils for stress relief. Each option is beneficial, so try them all out to discover what works best for you.
1. Diffuse
An essential oil diffuser is a wonderful option to bring aromatherapy into your space. You simply add water and several drops of essential oil, then turn on the diffuser to reap stress-relieving benefits.
2. Apply
Applying essential oils directly to your skin is another popular choice for stress relief. Try rubbing an oil on your wrists, neck, or any pressure points to alleviate stress. Close your eyes and inhale as the scent reaches your nervous system to promote relaxation.
3. Ingest
You can also ingest essential oils internally by putting a drop or two into a veggie capsule or adding drops into your favorite beverage. However, not all oils can be taken orally, so make sure to follow the directions on each of your essential oil bottles to stay safe and healthy.
Essential Oils Guide to De-Stress and Let Go
Check out these top eight essential oils for stress relief to help center you when life gets to be too much. Breathe in, breathe out.
1. Lavender
Lavender, known for its calming effects on the mind and body, is one of the most popular essential oils for stress relief. If you have trouble sleeping, try diffusing lavender before bedtime to calm your nerves and stop those racing thoughts.
2. Frankincense
Frankincense is famous for its unique properties that promote relaxation, peacefulness, and overall wellness. The warm, sweet scent of Frankincense is thought to ground you during stressful times while alleviating symptoms of anxiety.
3. Bergamot
Perfect for any period of stress or tension, Bergamot has uplifting qualities that can bring more positivity to your day. With both calming and inspiriting effects, Bergamot can boost your mood while relaxing your nerves.
4. Rose
Rose oil has a beautiful aroma that can bring inspiration to your surroundings. It is used to alleviate stress by exuding positive, uplifting feelings to reduce anxiety and depression. Rose oil is also used as a healing agent for those experiencing grief.
5. Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang’s sweet, spicy scent has a calming effect on the body to help you feel less tense during stressful periods. Ylang Ylang is also believed to help lower blood pressure and provide antioxidant support.
6. Chamomile
Chamomile has been used since ancient times for its soothing effects on the mind, body, and skin. Chamomile essential oil is perfect for those struggling with anxiety, overthinking, and worrying excessively.
7. Vetiver
Vetiver oil is frequently used after traumatic experiences and times of intense stress or anxiety. It has a grounding effect to calm your emotions and bring stability back to your mind. Vetiver also promotes relaxation to help you sleep
8. Clary Sage
Clary Sage essential oil is a powerhouse for alleviating negative feelings, depression, or anxiety. It is one of the most balancing, calming, uplifting essential oils available. Try Clary Sage to raise your spirit, boost your self-confidence, and relax your mind during stressful times.
How to Make the Most of Your Essential Oils
Essential oils are heavily concentrated and require careful attention. Stay safe and get the most benefit from your essential oils by:
- Using therapeutic grade essential oils free of synthetic fragrance or chemicals
- Purchasing your oils from reputable retailers
- Storing them safely in a dry, cool area
- Following all application directions
I hope that you feel relaxed, uplifted, and inspired after trying out these eight essential oils for stress relief. There is no denying that life is busy. With endless obligations, to-do lists, and plans, we could all use some tools to stay grounded and calm. I hope you find relief from my favorite essential oils to alleviate stress.
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