Stress Relief and Self Care Part 5-Aromatherapy and Stress Relief
Stress Relief and Aromatherapy
Ok, guys, it's time to de-stress. Those of us going through divorce seem to be a reservoir for stress. I never had any issues of unhealthy anxiety or depression until I was blindsided by marital separation after decades of marriage. On one stress index scale that I found, divorce rates are the second highest stressor with the death of a spouse first. I don't know if I agree with that because an unwanted divorce is like a death.
"Peel an orange. Studies show the smell of citrus can help reduce stress."
"Divorce is like a death but with intent"
I don't have an orange, but I believe that that are many scents that can enhance our mood and thus decrease our stress. The Cleveland Clinic states that "aromatherapy can improve our mood and lessen anxiety." Let's see what I can find to sniff...Brodie and I took off on a walk to enjoy the scents that nature provides. I enjoyed the smell of freshly cut grass and the aroma of the Magnolia flowers on the trees...I did find myself to be relaxed as I wandered and breathed in the perfumed air.
Brodie did not seem to be impressed with the flowers or the grass...this was more his speed. I used to tell my kids that "everybody likes different things." Case in point with Brodie:-)
I have never had luck with finding perfumes that I love, but I now have found two. Stephanie and I ventured to Nordstrom to check out the options. We both fell in love with Beach by Bobbi Brown. Every time I put it on it brings up memories of the beach...good memories, and thus it is a stress reliever.
The second one I enjoy is Star Magnolia by Jo Malone. Such a light, fresh scent. I am seeing a trend here. Enjoying magnolia flowers and now magnolia perfume. I never even realized I liked them.
If you find yourself feeling a bit stressed out, I suggest you close your eyes and slowly breathe in the scent of your choice. I can't make that decision for you because as you have learned from Brodie, everybody likes different things:-)
Remember you are not alone and you are stronger than you think!
God Bless,
KathieyV
I remember the only thing that helped save me from falling apart during my divorce was exercise. Everyday I had to walk the treadmill, lift light weights, or swim a few laps in the pool. I had no idea the scent of peeled oranges would help with relaxation!
ReplyDeleteHi Christine, I hope you are doing well now after your divorce. The emotional pain is horrible. I too relied on exercise, zumba and hiking. My faith and friendships helped me survive Check out my divorce blog if you get a chance. kathieyvwriter.com
DeleteThanks for stopping by my blog:-)
I love aromatherapy! I just wrote a blog post about essentials oils - which I use in my diffuser! I also drink wild orange oil in my water when I'm stressed and that helps. Magnolia also helps me destress, though! The smell reminds me of home - so that naturally calms me down. Thanks for sharing! This was an interesting read!
ReplyDeletexoxo Lauren | Glitter & Grandeur
I hear so much about the value of essential oils. I may have to look into that. So glad you stopped by:-)
DeleteI love the concept of this. Being stressed is no fun.
ReplyDeleteHi Sondra...no, stress is no fun. I think there are many little things we can do to distract us from our stress and a pleasant scent is one of them:-)
DeleteI love essential oils. I just started creating my own roll on blends. I keep 3 of them in my purse.
ReplyDeleteHi Jill, yes I hear good things I will have to try essential oils. Thanks:-)
DeleteI love aromatherapy! Orange essential oil is one of my favorites for uplifting my mood!
ReplyDeleteIt really does help. Thanks for stopping by:-)
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