HOW ESSENTIAL OILS KEPT ME SANE DURING LOCKDOWN

In times of stress and angst, when the world seems upside down and it’s hard to make sense of it all (yes, I’m talking about you 2020!), it’s essential you take time to focus on your own mental and physical well-being.

Recent years have seen us shine a bright light on the importance of physical and mental health, which is a wonderful thing, but many of us are still failing to apply our newfound knowledge to our own busy lives.

But I’m not here to preach at you; I just want to share with you the simple ways I’ve managed find peace and tranquility during this year of insanity…. via the power of essential oils. It might not be groundbreaking, but harnessing the sweet aromas of essential oils has proved to be a lifesaver in recent weeks. They’re versatile, inexpensive and have soooo many benefits. Here’s how you can harness the beautiful simplicity of oils for yourself…

1. Enjoy a relaxing diffusion

Using an essential oil diffuser to fill your home with beautiful aromas can have a hugely therapeutic effect on your mental wellbeing. The scent of lavender oil, for example, aids stress-relief and promotes a good night’s sleep, while fresh-smelling bergamot and tangerine lift your spirits. There are a number of diffusers and oil burners on the market, which work wonderfully, but our favorite is the Viva Naturals Ultrasonic Diffuser ($15, amazon.com). This powerful, stylish little beauty vaporizes without any heat, leaving your home smelling divine and acts as a mist humidifier minimizing dust and allergens too. Hard to believe it’s only 15 bucks!

2. Give it a spritz

From mist sprays to roller balls, there’s an array of ways to enjoy your essential oils on the go. Ginger and eucalyptus oils can relax you and ease motion sickness when traveling, while rosemary and lemongrass fragrances are ideal for an instant energy boost during a hectic day. We love these from the folks at Rocky Mountain Oils. Founded in 2004, they’re a leading non-MLM purveyor of 100 per cent natural and authentic essential oils. We don’t receive any kick-backs for mentioning them, we just love how they work and the quality of their products.

3. Tantalize your taste buds

Did you know, some essential oils are so pure you can ingest them? They have a plethora of health benefits including cleansing your digestive system and helping you relax. Always choose 100 per cent pure food-grade oils without synthetic additives. Lemon and grapefruit oils, for example, make a refreshing drink – simply add four or five drops to taste to a large glass of ice-cold water for a refreshing, revitalizing kick.

4. Harness bountiful beauty

Some beauty brands add a few drops of essential oil to their products. They can work wonders for your skin, promoting a nourished and glowing complexion. Our very own skincare-science sensation, Karen, waxes lyrical about essential oils and shows you how to make your very own face mask using lavender essential oil and live probiotics during her appearance on the Today in Nashville show.

5. Awaken your senses

Finally, harness the zing of peppermint oil in the shower. Washing with products containing this cooling beauty can really ramp up your energy levels and sharpen your senses. What’s more, it leaves your skin tingly and refreshed. Peppermint is pretty potent so remember not to overuse it and always avoid… ahem… delicate areas, if you catch my drift!

Even when lockdown is lifted, I plan to keep this up… making time for myself and using oils to lift my spirits and nurture my physical and mental wellbeing. I hope they can bring some calm and relaxation to your life too.

Mamas-to-be, please note:

Always seek advice from a professional before using essential oils when pregnant.