Today anxiety and stress are rampant. Between COVID, social & climate issues, and economic concerns it can be challenging to manage our emotions and stop the fight- or- flight response. However, research suggests that aromatherapy can have a profound effect on your mind and emotions. It can assist you in shifting from fight-or-flight into a calmer, more relaxed state within minutes! Remember prolonged anxiety and stress weaken your immune system, cause trouble sleeping, and contribute to other health issues. So let’s explore how essential oils work on your emotional state. Then I will share a few oils that can assist you in tapping into your calmer, more serene self.
Emotional learning and memory take place in the amygdala which is part of the limbic system in your brain. The limbic system has a direct effect on various chemicals for example cortisol & adrenalin as well as hormones in your body. When you inhale an aroma it travels by way of the olfactory nerve pathways directly into the limbic system and amygdala. This immediately evokes memories and emotions before you are consciously aware of them. It totally bypasses your cerebrum which is your conscious thought center in the brain. Where smells are concerned we react first and think later. So inhaling a pleasant aroma can help you shift your mood in just 1-2 minutes!!
For example, have you ever walked into a shopping mall, smelled fresh cookies baking, and immediately had memories of you and a family member baking together accompanied by a sense of love or warm fuzzy feeling? That is because it is imprinted in your amygdala. I have always loved gardening and keep a few aromatic plants in my yard. Gardening calms me and helps me to feel grounded and centered. When I smell a floral oil such as ylang ylang, jasmine, or rose I feel my body starting to relax and my distress starts melting away. Now I’m not saying all your anxiety or stress magically disappear but it will take the edge off, break the fight-or-flight response and enable you to think more clearly
All you have to do is take 3-4 deep inhalations directly from the bottle whenever you feel anxious or stressed. You can also put a few drops on a cotton ball or tissue, place in a plastic bag to take with you and use throughout your day. Another option is to diffuse it in a room with an ultrasonic diffuser.
Below are just a few oils that are calming to the nervous system which helps in alleviating anxiety and stress. Remember your emotional response to any oil depends upon your unique life experiences and chemistry.
Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia* Marjoram – Origanum majorana
Mandarin – Citrus reticulate* Roman Chamomile – Anthemis nobilis*
Rose – Rosa damascene Ylang Ylang – Cananga dorata
Frankincense – Boswelia carteri
* I recommend these oils for children because they are very mild and children usually love their aromas. They are very effective for adults too.
If you would like to find the specific oils your body wants to ease anxiety and/or stress contact me for an aromatherapy session. Not sure this is for you? Click here to schedule a free 30-minute consultation with Laurie.