Aromatherapy for Anxiety Relief
Evelyn Lim
Anxiety is a state of mind that focuses on negative thoughts and
emotions. It may also come about because of a previous traumatic
experience. Anxiety often happens when fear, nervousness, paranoia, and
worry set in.
Many people who suffer from anxiety find it hard to enjoy themselves
fully. Sometimes when anxiety becomes extreme, even performing normal
day to day tasks become difficult to do. It has been found that nearly
twice as many women as men suffer from anxiety, panic, and fear related
conditions.
Associated negative emotions are also phobias and fears. Many people
face normal fears throughout their lives and this is to be expected, it
is when people develop unhealthy fears for things that are not logical,
or have a completely exaggerated response to a fear is when the phobia
begins to hinder normal life.
Although anxiety begins in the mind, it can affect the body as well.
Some of the physical symptoms associated with anxiety are a result of
the pressures of fear and panic. These symptoms may include shortness
of breath, heart palpitations, and increased perspiration. The fear may
also lead to a feeling of an upset stomach or nausea.
When someone perceives a threat, they experience what is known as the
fight or flight response. This is a very natural response and is part
of the instinct for human survival. However, when the body is put in a
fearful state, the immune system becomes depressed. If a person faces
an inability to cope especially in extreme cases of anxiety and stress,
he or she is more liable to become ill.
It is important, therefore to relieve your anxiety and stress level
wherever possible. Also, do not wait too long to address them as they
will be easier to treat in the initial stages.
In less severe cases, you can consider using aromatherapy to help calm
and soothe your nerves. Aromatherapy consists of a therapy that
involves the use of concentrated essential oils. These oils can be
massaged into the skin, inhaled or put into a bath. When inhaled or
massaged, the theory suggests that the limbic system, (which is the
part of the brain that stores and retrieves learnt memories and
controls emotions and relaxes you) is triggered. By stimulating your
body senses with pleasant fragrances, negative feelings and emotions
will give way to peace and tranquility.
Hence, if you are feeling anxious, take an aromatic bath. By bathing in
tranquil and nerve calming herbs, you can fight fear naturally and
release tension and anxiety. The appropriate herbal oils should be used
according to the emotions or negative feelings that you have and hoping
to treat. You can add 10 drops of Chamomile to a hot bath for a
relaxing anxiety-soothing bath. Soak for at least 20 minutes to achieve
the full benefit.
You can also make wonderful massage oil with 6 drops Bergamot essential
oil, 6 drops of Clary Sage, and 3 drops of Frankincense. Blend the
essential oils with 1-ounce carrier oil, such as Sweet Almond or Jojoba
for an incredible fear relieving massage.
However, if you are suffering from extreme anxiety, it is best to seek
proper help. Psychiatrists may recommend a course of therapy along with
prescribed medication to help ease the fears. Many of the medications
however, often carry side effects and must be taken according to their
instructions.
On the contrary, aromatherapy for anxiety relief has little side
effects. Nevertheless, be sure to consult with a qualified
aromatherapist if you are pregnant or suffering from some major illness
or disease. In most cases, however, aromatherapy can really do wonders
for anxiety relief and can be easily administered at home. So if you
have been feeling a little more worked up lately, try using
aromatherapy for anxiety relief!
Want to read more on aromatherapy? Check out this health article
directory for a growing database of articles on aromatherapy, natural
health, fitness and nutrition:
http://www.healthandwellnesscentral.com
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