While little is known about the history of aromatherapy, the Egyptians are credited with developing a distillation machine to extract oils from certain plants, which they used to embalm the dead. But, the Egyptians were not alone. In fact, the practice of using infused aromatic oils as a mood enhancer is documented in Chinese and Greek history. Even Hippocrates, the father of medicine, is believed to have practiced aromatherapy to heal and calm the mind. In modern times, many have turned to ancient aromatherapy wisdom to explore holistic remedies. In fact, essential oils are natural remedies that can alleviate stress and anxiety. While aromatherapeutic research remains in its investigative infancy, getting in touch with your inner chemist can help boost your mood and shift your consciousness to a different energy state!
Try some of these essential oil aromatherapy mood blends to center and ground yourself (and pamper!) while relieving stress and anxiety:
Anti-Stress Blend
–Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil: 5 drops
–Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata var. genuina) oil: 3 drops
–Bergamot (Citrus aurantium var. bergamia) oil: 2 drops
Blend the oils and add the mixture to a warm bath, or use a foot or hand bath. Adding this blend to soap and using it daily in the shower works just as well. This blend provides a light, calm citrusy scent that creates an excellent tonic for nerves. The refreshing aroma washes away nervous exhaustion and restlessness while also increasing mental activity. In fact, lavender has a renowned impact on the autonomic nervous system, which can help with insomnia and regulation of heart-rate variability.
Fun fact: Bergamot oil boasts of powerful antibacterial, analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and soothing effects. In ancient Italian medicine practices, bergamot oil was used to cool fevers and expel intestinal worms.
Centering & Relaxing Blend
–Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) oil: 4 drops
–Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata var. genuina) oil: 3 drops
Add these essential oils to a warm bath after it is full. Mix the oils well and immerse yourself for a mind-calming, relaxing soak. This blend also works well without a bath! Feel free to combine the essential oils by rubbing your palms together and bringing them to your nose. Inhale deeply to re-center yourself. (Feel free to use fewer drops if not blending the oils into a water bath!) Clary Sage has a calming effect that boosts confidence, hope, and mental strength, thereby fighting depression. These effects are only strengthened when paired with Ylang ylang, which is known for relaxing the body and soul and inducing feelings of joy and calmness. Historically, Ylang ylang is effective for those suffering nervous breakdowns and acute depression.
Fun fact: In Indonesia, Ylang ylang is called “Poor Mans Jasmine” because it has a sweet aroma and shares some of the same properties and uses.
Uplifting & Strengthening Blend
–Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) oil: 3 drops
–Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) oil: 4 drops
–Lemon (Citrus limon) oil: 3 drops
To raise the spirit and strengthen your mind, blend these oils into a warm bath and soak. Your spirit will feel energized and content. Feel free to blend them in your hands and inhale deeply to feel the uplifting effects without having to take a bath or shower. Clove essential oil is useful for boosting the immune system due to its antiviral properties and this pairs nicely with lemon, which heightens one’s spiritual and psychic awareness—very empowering!
Fun fact: Cedarwood oil prevents wounds from becoming septic and protects them from tetanus germs. By defending the body against toxins, Cedarwood essential oil relieves the white blood cells and immune system of extra stress, which allows them to better protect internal functions.
What are you favorite aromatherapy mood blends for boosting your spirit and relieving stress?
More in aromatherapy: Essential Oil Blends for Yoga
7 Must-Follow Essential Oil Safety Tips
The Cleansing Powers of Palo Santo
7 Tips for Using Essential Oil Diffusers
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Photo: Nina Nelson via Flickr, Pixabay, Honolulu Media via Flickr
