How to use essential oils for anxiety/sleep

Hi everyone! I’m very big on health and wellness, keeping fit and all that good stuff. So today I thought we’d have a wellness themed post about essential oils. You can buy them in a lot of health shops but not many people may know the different types and how to use them. Today, I’d like to focus on essential oils to help with anxiety or sleep. First, we’re going to discuss what are essential oils, and then we’ll talk about all the different ways you can use them and the best oils for different uses such as diffusing or baths.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that have been used for thousands of years for their therapeutic properties. They can be used to alleviate a wide range of physical and emotional conditions, including anxiety and sleep disorders.

Different ways to use essential oils to promote relaxation and calmness

1. Diffusing

One of the most common ways to use essential oils is by diffusing them into the air. A diffuser disperses the essential oil molecules into the air, allowing you to inhale them and experience their benefits. To promote relaxation and calmness, try diffusing lavender, bergamot, or chamomile essential oils in your bedroom before bedtime or throughout the day.

2. Topical application

Another way to use essential oils is by applying them topically. Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, and apply it to your skin. You can apply the oil to your temples, neck, or wrists. For anxiety, try applying a blend of lavender, frankincense, and bergamot to your wrists and inhaling deeply. For sleep, try applying a blend of lavender, chamomile, and cedarwood to the bottoms of your feet before bedtime.

3. Bathing

Adding essential oils to your bath can also promote relaxation and calmness. Add a few drops of lavender or ylang-ylang essential oil to your bathwater and soak for 20-30 minutes. The warm water and essential oils can help ease muscle tension and promote a sense of calmness.

4. Massage

Massaging essential oils into your skin can also help promote relaxation and calmness. Mix a few drops of your favourite essential oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your skin. For anxiety, try massaging a blend of bergamot, frankincense, and clary sage into your neck and shoulders. For sleep, try massaging a blend of lavender, chamomile, and vetiver into your feet and lower legs.

5. Inhalation

Inhaling essential oils can also promote relaxation and calmness. Add a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to a tissue or handkerchief and inhale the aroma. For anxiety, try inhaling a blend of lavender, bergamot, and frankincense. For sleep, try inhaling a blend of lavender, chamomile, and vetiver.

Conclusion

In conclusion, essential oils can be a natural and effective way to promote relaxation and calmness. There are many ways to use essential oils, including diffusing, topical application, bathing, massage, and inhalation. Experiment with different oils and blends to find what works best for you. Remember to always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to your skin and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any medical concerns.