HEALTH: Address your stress

Address your stress


Aromatherapy
Ellen Cox

Having given a number of talks and workshops on stress to a variety of audiences, I am always amazed at the large turnout. The participants appear equally amazed when I kickstart the event by passing around an elastic band. Stretch a rubber band beyond its capacity and ‘snap’ (ouch). Essentially this is what happens if stress is present over long periods of time, our bodies are unable to continue to function in good health.
If we do not address the stress, a pattern of ailments will start to appear and eventually manifest into more serious illness. Stress and stress-related illnesses are among the most prevalent health problems of the modern world.

Effects of stress
The immune system is the front line of defence for good health. When we are stressed it is one of the first systems in the body to be affected, greatly weakening our ability to fight off everyday germs and leaving us vulnerable to coughs, colds and infections. Essential oils known to help support the immune system include Lavender, Tea Tree and especially Ravensara. Two or more oils used in conjunction often offer superior results due to ‘synergy’ – which means they work together.
The digestive system is also affected by stress, loss of appetite and nausea can be some of the first symptoms. In the long term, this can result in reduced absorption of vitamins and minerals, stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. Camomile, Fennel, Ginger and Peppermint essential oils are known to alleviate (initial) digestive complaints. When massaging oils into the stomach area, dilute the essential oils in a vegetable oil (for quantities see below) and always massage in a clockwise direction – this is important as it is in keeping with the peristaltic movement in the gut.
The hormone (endocrine) system is complex at the best of times. It influences all bodily functions and is responsible for regulating growth, metabolism, reproduction and our response to stress. After all, the term ‘stress’ was first used in the 1930s by an endocrinologist Dr Hans Selye.
The influence of essential oils on the hormone system is one of the most important ways in which they act on the body. All essential oils are balancing in relation to hormones, choosing oils with calming, relaxing properties will enhance the overall effect. Roman Camomile, Frankincense, Lavender, Neroli (Orange blossom – excellent where anxiety is present), Rose Otto (particularly beneficial to the reproductive system, for all ages), Sandalwood and Vetivert (extremely grounding – exceptionally effective when a person feels they may defy gravity and go into their own orbit!).
Our bodies send us signs for a reason, some of the early signs of stress are irritability and loss of sense of humour, irrational behaviour, mood swings and low self-esteem.

Methods of use
Feet
The feet are one of the most convenient and effective methods of absorbing oils into our bodies. The skin on our feet is very tough and unlikely to be irritated by repeated applications of essential oils, and so especially good for those with very sensitive skin.
I like to dilute oils in Aloe Vera gel because it is readily absorbed and convenient in the mornings when time is of the essence and we are tempted to skip a very beneficial regime.
Vegetable oils are also used to dilute essential oils and offer rich nutrients for the skin. They also take longer to rub in – and, of course, what better than a short foot rub to help alleviate stress.

Foot bath
Foot baths have many of the benefits of a full bath whilst saving time and water. Use a large basin and enough water to cover the ankle bone. Dilute oils and add. Very useful for older people who find taking a bath is impractical.

Bath
A bath can be a seriously relaxing and simple way to unwind, and adding essential oils will enhance the effects. It’s important to dilute the essential oils to avoid irritating the skin. Relax for at least ten minutes, and avoid any shower gel, bubble bath or shampoo. 

Dilutions
Add 5-15 drops (this gives a 1-3 per cent dilution) of essential oil to 10ml (approximately 1 tablespoon) of gel or oil and apply on the feet. For a child or an elderly person use 2-5 drops. Use the same dilutions for the rest of the body, but reduce in cases of very sensitive skin. For those who dislike an oily bath, dilute the essential oils in 10ml of milk (Cleopatra eat your heart out!).

> Ellen Cox is a qualified professional aromatherapist and a member of the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists. She currently practices aromatherapy two days a month in St Brendan’s Retirement Village in Mulranny. She has worked with Atlantic Aromatics for 15 years.