With the holiday season in full swing and the exciting New Year upon us, at some point a little stress and exhaustion can enter the picture. Thankfully, there is the natural, simple and therapeutic option of aromatherapy to assist with fatigue, nervousness, overly-emotional feelings, and even digestive disruptions.
In essence, an individual’s feelings of stress stem from the part of the brain called the hypothalamus. Because the hypothalamus is also part of a larger system (the limbic system) that processes smells for the brain, a direct and simple method for addressing the brain’s stress-production is through the aromas that we smell (aromatherapy).
Aromatherapy, has been shown to awaken one’s spirits, ease physical afflictions, or as in our current discussion, calm oneself and reduce stress. Since certain scents help the brain to produce slower brain waves, it ultimately allows for one to R-E-L-A-X and rejuvenate. Popular examples of relaxing aromas include: Lavender, Chamomile, Lemon, Marjoram, Rose and Sandalwood. Such scents are readily available as essential oils and these oils can be easily combined with other ingredients to create recipes for a sound body and mind.
Below, you’ll find three wonderful recipes that draw heavily upon the benefits of aromatherapy for stress reduction. These homemade treatments will allow you to enter an exclusive organic spa (your own home) where you set the appointment time and can simply kick back and enjoy. Utilize the treatments at your leisure when you are in need of your own R&R.
Chamomile & Lavender Milk Bath
This treatment combines the skin softening qualities of whole milk and honey with the soothing scents of vanilla, chamomile, and lavender.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Organic Whole Milk
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1-2 drops Vanilla Extract
- 1 drop Lavender Essential Oil
- 1 drop Chamomile Essential Oil
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Add to your drawn bath and enjoy the soothing scents of chamomile & lavender. Use entire mixture, do not store excess.
Soothing Lavender Massage Oil
Use this one for self massage on tense spots or grab a loved one and share a relaxing massage.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup Grape Seed Oil
- ½ cup Wheat Germ Oil
- 3 drops Lavender Essential Oil
Directions:
- Mix all 3 ingredients in a glass bottle (with a top for containment).
- Shake well until all oils have been fully combined.
Chamomile Eye Relaxant
This one is great for relieving tired and puffy eyes.
Ingredients:
- Approximately ½ cup of Purified or Distilled Water
- 2 Chamomile Tea Bags
Directions:
- Boil water. Once it has reached a boil, remove from heat, and add tea bags.
- Allow tea bags to steep for 3-4 minutes.
- Remove bags and allow to cool (ensure that they are cool enough to not burn your eye area) before squeezing any excess water from the bags.
- Place your body in a comfortable, reclined position and put one bag over each closed eye.
- Allow bags to sit on your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. Reflect, relax and enjoy the soothing action of the chamomile on your senses.
Enjoy and don’t forget to give yourself the gift of relaxation this holiday season!
~BH
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