These are certainly stressful times! It’s been an unforgiving six months since the onset of the pandemic, and most of us, world-wide, are experiencing total exhaustion. The new normal has demanded that we let go of expectations and embrace a more “go with the flow” mindset.
Easier said than done! Continual and unrelenting low grade stress can take a terrible toll on our well-being. So how can we shift our perspective and change the way we react to stress? Is there a way we can avoid falling prey to its grip.
Absolutely! It all starts with more self-care, and one of the most powerful wellness tools we can use is aromatherapy. Essential oils are easy to use, offer immediate relief and remind us of nature’s beauty.
Here are 3 stress relieving aromatic remedies you can make at home to kick start your self-care routine and keep yourself feeling relaxed amidst all the uncertainty.
Aromatic Mist
A great product to carry with you for whenever you feel stress creeping in, or before bed to help you wind down. Black Spruce has a great affinity to our breath (which slows down our stress response) and a calming effect on the nervous system
Supplies:
- 2oz spray bottle, glass or plastic with a fine mist spraye
- 2oz of distilled water
- A glass or stainless steel measuring cup
- A set of measuring spoons
- A blank label
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) 14 drops
- Black Spruce (Picea mariana) 16 drops
- Blue Tansy (Tanacetum annuum) 2 drops
- Measure out the distilled water and pour into your bottle.
- Add to your essential oils to the bottle.
- Screw in the spray mister and shake well.
- Take the blank label, give your spray a name, write out the ingredients, and affix the bottle.
To Use:
Always shake well before use, and use as often as needed, spraying lightly around your head and shoulders. Make sure to keep the direction of the sprayer away from your eyes and at least 6-8 inches from your face.
Aromatic Bath Salts
This recipe is enough for one bath or 3-4 foot baths. If you don’t want to use the entire batch for one bath, you can measure out half and save the rest for later in a glass jar. The oils in this recipe are inspired by those traditionally blended for meditation practice. Atlas Cedarwood is the centerpiece with its grounding, soothing properties.
Supplies:
- 4 TBSP of epsom salts
- 4 TBSP of sea salts
- A glass or stainless steel bowl for mixing
- Measuring spoons
- Glass, wooden, or metal stirrer
- Glass jar with cap
- Blank label
Essential Oils:
- Atlas Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) 16 drops
- Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) 8 drops
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) 16 drops
Instructions:
- Measure out each salt and mix together in your bowl.
- Add your essential oils, string well to make sure they are incorporated.
- Use immediately, or save for later in your glass jar with the lid tightly closed.
- Make sure to label your jar and give your bath salts a name.
To Use:
It’s best to first run the water to your desired temperature and depth and then get in. While you are in the tub, pour in the salts and swish around to dissolve.
Aromatic Massage Oil
This recipe is enough for 1-2 full body massages. You can also use a small amount for spot treatments, too. This blend focuses on soothing muscle tension brought on by mental stress. Clary Sage, Marjoram and Roman Chamomile work together to offer a deeply releasing blend that simultaneously quiets the mind.
Supplies:
- 3 TBSP of your favorite carrier oil (Pranarom offers a few great options, like Sweet Almond and Jojoba that offer a nice soft, smooth feeling on the skin and work well for massage.)
- 1 TBSP of an herbal oil, like Pranarom’s Calendula or Arnica Virgin Plant Oils. Herbal infused oils are another powerful way to soothe skin and muscle tissue, and are perfect for stress related aches and discomfort.
- A set of measuring spoons.
- An empty 2 oz bottle with cap.
- A blank label.
Essential Oils:
- Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) 6 drops
- Marjoram (Origanum majorana) 8 drops
- Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) 14 drops
- Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) 2 drops
Instructions:
- Measure out carrier and herbal oils into your bottle, and shake gently to blend.
- Add your essential oils, and shake until they are well incorporated.
- Make sure to label your jar and give your massage oil a name.
How to Use:
Measure out between 1 to 2 tsp of oil and rub gently but firmly on achy areas, adding more oil when needed. Can be used as often as necessary.
Tip: If DIY blending isn’t your thing, Pranarom has some powerful already-blended-for-you products, like their Stress Recovery and the Down Time wellness formulas. They feature essential oils like Lavender, Bergamot, Clary Sage and Sweet Marjoram to encourage the mind and body to relax and be still. You can easily use these wellness formulas in the DIY recipes above. Enjoy!
post by | Amy Galper, B.A. MA. Certified Aromatherapist
