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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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