Essential oils have been used for centuries, and are renowned for their healing properties. By diluting them in a carrier oil (such as sweet almond), essential oils can be used in massage to restore the spirit and relax the body. You can also use an oil burner to release their healing scent. Adding a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath at the end of a hard day can help ease tired, knotted muscles, and release stress. Sprinkling diluted essential oil on your pillow before bed can induce a peaceful sleep, freeing the mind of tension and promoting relaxation.
It is always a good idea to check that the oils you use are vegan and have not been tested on animals. There are many different oils to choose from. However, I’m going to focus on the four oils that lift my mood and provide immediate relief when life gets tough.
Lavender
Lavender has a light floral aroma, and is best at fighting the symptoms of stress and tension. It can help induce sleep, and will help you to unwind and let go of worries. I use lavender oil whenever I want to block out the day and look inwards. It helps me to let go and relax, usually resulting in a good night’s sleep.
Bergamot
Derived from the bergamot orange, bergamot is a brilliant oil for treating the symptoms of anxiety and panic. It has an uplifting citrus scent that both comforts and invigorates the mind. Using bergamot helps keep the mind sharp, focussed, and calm, helping you to stay optimistic and positive.
Frankincense
As well as its biblical connotations, Frankincense is also known for its profound ability to stave off nightmares and feelings of fear or terror. Its deep, woody, enriching scent is deeply healing and helps you to connect once more to your spiritual self.
Rose
Rose oil is incredibly enjoyable to use. Extracted from the petals of roses, it is intoxicatingly sweet and floral. Rose oil helps us through grief, heartbreak and sadness. It unconditionally supports and heals from within. Using this oil helps mend the soul if it has taken a battering, and helps us deal with hurt or disappointment.
Using essential oils brings the healing gift of nature into our own homes. The scents created can be relaxing or invigorating. They can spark action or induce inaction. It is also possible to blend oils together, and this is useful if you are treating a particular emotional or physical complaint. But even if you are not looking to lift your mood, introducing essential oils into your life might help keep stress and anxiety at bay, helping you to maintain inner peace and spiritual wellbeing.
Main Image courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons / Joshua DeLung
Second image courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons / Mount