Of the researches done to date, many prove that aromatherapy plays a vital role in stress relief. Exactly how it does that is not understood, however, it is shown to alter brain waves and behaviour and endorses the feeling of contentment and satisfaction.
Moreover, it reduces the level of the stress hormone: cortisol in the brain and averts its unhealthy effects on the rest of the body. However, it should be kept in mind that aromatherapy serves as an addendum to treatment and it should not be used solely to combat stress and depression. Here are some ways you can use aromatherapy for stress relief that may be better than your visit to a psychologist.
Table of Contents
1-Diffusion:
Add your desired oil to the diffuser and add some water to it before turning it on. The diffuser will vaporize the oil and slowly fill the room with a beautiful therapeutic aroma that you can take advantage of. You can turn on the diffuser before meditating or doing deep breathing exercises.
The best oils for stress include lavender, ylang-ylang, jasmine, lemongrass, neroli, citrus scents. Of this, lavender is the most popular oil for stress relief. Lavender calms the nerves and brings the heart rate and blood pressure down. Moreover, it stimulates certain types of brain waves that combat depression. It is advised also for post-partum depression and sleep disorders.
2-Inhalation:
This technique works when you are on the go, or if you don’t have time for a diffuser. Carry an oil that works best for you in a small bottle and inhales it on the go. You can keep it in your purse and inhale directly from the bottle when you need it. Be sure to keep the focus on your breath when you use this method.
Jasmine and Ylang-ylang are other popular choices for stress relief. Most people find the smell of jasmine very pleasant and it has a soothing effect on the brain, as does ylang-ylang. Both work to bring down the heart rate and keep you relaxed.
3-Applying directly on the skin:
You can put your preferred oil in a roll-on bottle and carry it on you. Most roll-ons are pre-diluted with other oils so you don’t have to worry about getting the right amount.
You can just take out your roll-on bottle and apply directly on the skin. Some preferred areas are the wrists, bottoms of feet and back of the neck. To make your own roll-on, add 6 drops of your essential oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil like coconut oil.
Lemongrass is another great oil for aromatherapy that immediately calms down the user. They are found almost at every spa because of their great effect. People who inhale 3-6 drops of this oil show notice a decrease in tension and stress almost instantly. Many studies have shown this beneficial effect of lemongrass oil.
If you are undergoing a stressful situation and cannot deal with it on your own, then consider professional help. Book an appointment with top psychologist in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.
