Modern life is full of frustrations, many of which can lead to excess stress. Long-term exposure to high stress levels can lead to many different health problems, including elevated blood pressure, a compromised immune system and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
A very effective way to combat stress naturally is to practice aromatherapy using essential oils. Aromatherapy has been in use for over 6,000 years, with many different civilizations finding essential oils to be helpful in relieving stress and calming the mind. The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates is believed to be the first person to study essential oils and their effects.
Essential oils are powerful plant extracts, many of which have a beneficial impact on the body. The human body has an incredibly powerful sense of smell, and the scent of certain essential oils can release endorphins and neurotransmitters, resulting in a sense of calm. This can in turn lower blood pressure, relieve pain from a stress-induced headache and promote a better quality of sleep.
One of the most popular oils for stress relief is lavender, a highly effective sleep aid as well as a calming scent. Another essential oil to try is rose geranium oil, which has been shown to have a balancing effect on the central nervous system. Bergamot is another beneficial essential oil believed to boost energy while inducing a sense of calm.
These oils can be added to a hot bath or to massage or olive oil so that they're applied directly to the skin, or they can be added to a humidifier or oil diffuser so that the scent is inhaled with the air. There are also many products on the market such as pillow sachets or linen sprays that incorporate the use of essential oils and are designed to be used on bed linens.
By introducing any one of these scents into your home or daily routine, you can enjoy their stress-reducing capabilities.