Aromatherapy is an ideal compliment to other stress management regimes that improve quality of life by reducing stress and anxiety.
Aromatherapy uses plant oils that give off strong pleasant aromas to promote relaxation, a sense of well-being, and healing. Essential oils (volatile oils) are the basic materials used in aromatherapy, which are made from fragrant essences found in many plants.
The scented liquid is taken from certain plants by using steam or pressure. Essential oils contain the natural chemicals that give the plant its specific odor and flavor (essence).
Many different essential oils are used in aromatherapy, such as Roman chamomile, geranium, lavender, lemon, cedarwood and bergamot. Each type of essential oil has a different chemical structure that affects its smells, its absorption, and how it is used by the body.
There are different theories about how aromatherapy and essential oils work. One is that your nose’s smell receptors respond to the essential oils’ smell by sending chemical messages to your brain, which affects moods and emotions.
Another suggests that they have a life force or vitality that can affect the body in unique ways.
Matters not how, only that it does have the smell to help reduce your stress.
Aromatherapy is generally used via:
- topical ~ applied to the surface of your body generally by massage, bathwater or lotions
- inhalation~ taken into your body through breathing using a diffuser or placing drops of essential oils near your nose
Essential oils are rarely taken by mouth and studies have found that they have antibacterial effects when applied to the skin.
Allergic reactions and skin irritation may occur, especially when essential oils are left on the skin for a long period. Sun sensitivity may develop with some essential oils which are applied prior to your sun exposure.
Improve your fitness through stress reduction and management in your aromatherapy tub and let its essential oils aroma give your mind peace for a good night’s sleep followed by a quality fitness workout tomorrow.
Click Here for Free Weight Loss Coaching