Everyday life is stressful enough, but add kids to the picture and it’s a whole different ball game. Mothers are often overworked and under appreciated. It’s hard to find time for yourself when your entire world revolves around someone else, no matter how cute they are. That’s where essential oils come in. They are a natural and healthy alternative to reducing stress with very few if any reported side effects.

Essential oils are one of the easiest and healthiest ways to restore a sense of calm and balance to your life when you may not always have time for yoga, meditation, or whatever it is you take time to do for yourself each day. Think of essential oils as the perfect little pick-me-up when you are feeling overwhelmed, or even to start your day with a clear head. Essential oils can even be serious stress relievers too. Studies have shown that some oils, like lavender, even have the same biochemical reactions that anti-anxiety medications do!

Lavender Essential Oil For Stress and Anxiety Relief

Lavender oil is one of the most popular and commonly used essential oils. It is known to promote a sense of calm and tranquility, and to alleviate stress and encourage peace of mind. Not to mention it smells fantastic!

Achieve Feelings of Wellness With These Other Essential Oils

Like lavender, there are a number of essential oils that contain mind-soothing effects, such as eucalyptus, sandalwood, peppermint, lemongrass, jasmine, clary sage, ylang ylang, rose, tea tree, and many more. While these oils contain the ability to nurture a healthy mind, their benefits stretch much further.

Many essential oils are considered to be adaptable, meaning their scent and purpose can change and modify according to the users needs in the moment. So most oils can be used for many different ailments such as sinus relief, headaches, physical aches and pains, etc. While a majority of these oils primarily focus on mental health, they can also alleviate all sorts of physical and mental ailments. This has lead many to recognize that essential oils are therefore more cost efficient and healthy than some over the counter medications. For those that still need their medications, supplementing your dosages with essential oils may provide additional desirable results.

Eucalyptus and Tea Tree

Eucalyptus and tea tree oils are two such oils. While they can stand alone on their merits, they work well as a team. Eucalyptus and tea tree oil are both potent oils that are said to open up the senses, alleviate stress, and invigorate the mind. Eucalyptus is also known to clear sinuses, and tea tree oil is great for cleansing the skin. When coupled with Epsom salt, this trinity can work wonders in the bath after a long day. You can also blend them with carrier oils and use them as an air freshener.

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil is another great oil, commonly used as a breath freshener or rubbed on the temples to alleviate headaches. In addition to these benefits, peppermint oil has been shown to relieve mental fatigue, reduce restlessness, and keep you energized and alert. This oil works best with a carrier oil due to its potency, or it can be used in a diffuser.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass, according to a 2011 study, is said to increase the levels of gamma amino-butyric acid in the brain. This acid is a neurotransmitter that is partially responsible for feelings of stress in the mind. Inhaling the scent of lemongrass may help to reduce anxiety and nurture relaxation.

Jasmine

Jasmine has similar medicinal effects, and was recently said to be like “valium” in its ability to calm nerves and overcome stress. Jasmine has long been a traditional remedy for anxiety, insomnia, libido, and depression. Jasmine is known for alleviating feelings of depression by stimulating the mind, boosting your mood, and promoting feelings of optimism and confidence.

Discover Your Favorite Essential Oil

These essential oils are just a few of many that have been shown to have positive effects on the mind and body. There are many oils, such as rose, cinnamon, grapefruit, clary sage, orange, sandalwood, etc., that have the same capacity to nurture and encourage mental wellness and awareness.

Essential oils are a safe when used correctly (never consumed), inexpensive, natural, and a potentially healthy way to add some “me time” to your day. Hopefully you will consider these natural alternatives next time you find yourself overwhelmed or just needing a break!