Even though essential oils have been used all over the world for thousands of years, they’re still unfamiliar to many modern Americans. Luckily for all, there is a new wave of interest . People are discovering that they do much more than offer a pleasing fragrance. Essential oils can support one’s physical, emotional, and mental health in a natural way, free of side effects and addictions. In this article, we’ll discuss the best essential oils for stress, a condition most of us need help with!
Recently, I’ve been working with a technique called Aroma Acupoint Therapy in my TCM clinic that combines essential oils with acupuncture points. I’m finding that the effects are so profound that for children & sensitive adults, this method is a fine substitute for acupuncture.
The treatment I do the most is for relieving tension and calming the spirit. If this is something you need too, then I highly suggest using the following oils alone or as a lovely blend.
All are safe used neat, in their concentrated form, if using on specific body points as I do with acupressure. But for beginners, it may be easier to dilute the oils in a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, to spread across a larger surface of the body. The bottom of the feet is a great place for topical application of these oils. This helps you ground your energy, relieve tension, and also activate many systemic reflexology points.
Or, simply place a few drops in a diffuser and let your brain’s olfactory perception of these oils help melt away the tension.
If you want to incorporate acupressure, download my free Stress Relieving Acupressure Guide for moms that can release your tension and improve your sleep (in as little as 10 minutes)! Use any of the oils below on these acupressure points to accentuate the treatment. I know you’ll love this guide!
Essential Oils for Stress and Tension
Bergamot
This oil, derived from the rind of the fruit, has both calming and uplifting properties. It’s perfect for when one is feeling anxious or depressed. Like most citrus oils, you must stay out of sunlight, avoiding UV rays for up to 12 hours after topical application. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use it though! Just put the oil where the sun doesn’t shine or choose to diffuse it instead.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the oldest oils, used by Romans & Egyptians when bathing, cooking, relaxing, and as a perfume. It’s a must-have for modern people who experience restless sleep. In addition to diffusing and spreading across the bottom of the feet, you can place a few drops on a cotton ball and place under your pillow when you’re ready to snooze.
Marjoram
It’s not just a tasty culinary herb! The essential oil of marjoram supports the nervous system, having a sedative effect and also eases sore muscles. Apply it to the back of the neck or wherever tension is showing up in your body. It’s especially effective for releasing tension in your body that might be keeping you awake at night, so would be great to put in an evening bath.
The chemical chamazulene creates the brilliant blue shade of Blue Tansy, also known as Moroccan Chamomile. Blue tansy can be diffused to uplift your mood or be massaged into the skin to relax muscular tension.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood is a very grounding oil that can help move tense energy down and out from the neck, shoulders, and upper back when applied to the feet. You can create a calming ritual where you take a hot foot bath in epsom salts and then massage Cedarwood into your feet afterwards with fractionated coconut oil.
In order to receive the greatest benefit, it’s important to use “Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade” essential oils. Unfortunately, due to loose regulation, there are many oils on the market that have been adulterated even though the labels say they are 100% pure. Visit my Natural Health Products page for my suggestions and support.
Have you used essential oils for calming the mind and soothing tension? Please let me know about your experience in the comments! Well wishes to you…
