SNAP OUT OF IT!
Life moves at lightning speed these days, and countless distractions compete for our attention. The demands of kids and co-workers, the relentless ping of incoming emails, and the constant pulse of social media can sap your energy and leave you feeling mentally fried. What’s worse, continued high levels of emotional or situational stress can make you vulnerable to cognitive decline, including a faltering memory and an inability to focus.
Increasing physical activity and practicing relaxation techniques, like deep breathing and meditation, can help calm the mind and prevent future cognitive issues. In addition, research shows that purposefully invoking positive emotions can lower stress levels and promote healthy brain function.
So, how do you get happy when you’re feeling overwhelmed? Although you can’t always turn emotions on or off like a light switch, you can use essential oils to renew your senses when you’re feeling sluggish, or create a calming atmosphere if you’re overtired. Try these popular formulations to help regain mental clarity, from sunrise to nightfall.
After your morning shower, spritz your face with an all-natural toner made from 1.5 oz. water, 1.5 oz. raw apple cider vinegar, and 6 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil, then gently wipe your skin with a cotton ball or tissue. The clean, refreshing fragrance enlivens the senses, while the pleasing properties of Tea Tree Oil soothes the skin and helps restore its natural pH balance. Apply a gentle moisturizer after toning, and you’re ready to take on the day!
When you need to shake off brain fog, essential oils can help improve mental focus and reignite creativity. Diffuse Jade Lemonâ„¢ to stimulate the mind and body, or mix 8-10 drops with water in a spray bottle to freshen the air with a zesty citrus fragrance that invigorates the senses. You can also carry a small bottle of Peppermint Essential Oil with you and inhale its invigorating scent, or add it to a diffuser to create an uplifting atmosphere.
Need to unwind after an especially hectic day? Try 15 minutes of meditation while diffusing Sacred Sandalwoodâ„¢, which has a warm, woodsy aroma that can help boost your mood and overcome the chaotic energy of everyday life. Not feeling Zen? Give yourself a mini-spa treatment! Run hot water over a hand towel and wring it out, or warm a dampened towel in the microwave for 30 seconds. Add a drop or two of Sandalwood essential oil, and carefully wrap the towel around your face with your nose peeking out as you lay back and relax.
A quiet bath before bedtime can also help clear the mental clutter and set you up for a good night’s sleep. Add several drops of Lavender Essential Oil to a tub filled with warm water and enjoy a comforting soak for 15-20 minutes. Used for generations to promote relaxation, the gentle fragrance of lavender creates a peaceful atmosphere that helps melt away your troubles. Try dimming the lights and playing soft classical or jazz music to add to the calming mood.
