Life can be very overwhelming at times, and sometimes it gets in the way of how we take care of ourselves. Studies have shown that people who experience constant stress with no relief are more susceptible to major health issues. Issues like heart disease, stroke, heart palpitations, and even weight gain. There may be many reasons you haven’t had that massage in a while, or you haven’t been able to get in for that facial. Maybe your budget has been tight and you feel guilty about treating yourself. If we don’t put back in what we give out, then we become overwhelmed, and that can lead to not sleeping, not eating right, being a little bit snappy to your family and friends or just feeling down about yourself. I want to share some tips and tricks for at-home self-care that doesn’t break the bank or make you feel guilty about spending some quality alone time relaxing.
One of my favorite ways to unwind and shake off my troubles is a nice, relaxing bath. First I will mix up some salts for my bath. I like to take ½ cup of epsom salts, ¼ cup of Celtic salt, and 2 teaspoons of baking soda and whisk them together. Then I put 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil, like jojoba, grapeseed, or sweet almond oil, and I add 5 drops of lavender angustifolia, 5 drops black pepper, 4 drops himalayan cedarwood, and 3 drops neroli and mix them into my carrier oil. I then mix everything together and add it to a jar with a tight lid. When I am ready for my bath, I start my warm water and add about 1/4 cup of my salts to my bath. Once everything has dissolved, I hop in and start to relax. This is also a good time to catch up on your favorite book or listen to relaxing music, or you can enjoy the peace and quiet. Leave your phone in a safe place while you enjoy your time. Your mind and your body will thank you later.
Another great way to take care of yourself is to use self massage. This is never as good as
getting a professional massage, or even having your spouse do it, but if you are cramped for time and money, it still has its benefits. Self-massage can increase circulation, improve your sleep, clear out lymphatic drainage, and even help strengthen your muscles. There are many carrier oils you can use for self massage. One of my favorites is jojoba, but if you have olive or coconut oil, those will also work. If you don’t have a dropper bottle laying around, you can just add some carrier oil into your hand and then apply. Adding essential oils can amplify the effects of massage and even promote a more relaxing environment. Some of my favorites are lavender, sandalwood, black pepper, juniper berry, or frankincense. You can add 3 drops of each to a 2-ounce bottle of your carrier of choice. Before you begin your massage, try warming a hand towel on the stove in a pot. You want just enough water to heat up the towel, you don’t want it drenched. Take the towel and “fan it out” before laying it on your skin. Leave it for about 2-3 minutes and try to relax. Now you are ready to massage. Be sure to start on the outside of the body and work your way in. Use long strokes on your limbs and circular motions over the joints and muscles. Massage for at least 10 minutes, and don’t forget to breathe deeply and relax.
Self-care doesn't have to be costly. It is meant to heal, relax, and restore. You should try
everyday to give yourself a pat on the back, even if you didn’t do anything major. We spend so much of our time focusing on work, school, family, and even church, that we forget to enjoy our alone time and take care of our bodies. If your self -care doesn’t look like this, then find something that you enjoy and take 5 minutes everyday to enjoy it. The life we live can go by in the blink of an eye and if we aren’t enjoying it, are we really living?
As always, before using essential oils, check with your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing,
taking medications, or if you have children under the age of 12. Store your essential oils in the refrigerator or in a cupboard that is cool and where no sunlight can reach it. Make sure to wash your hands after making products, and if you get any essential oils on your fingers, just rub some carrier oil on them and then wash. Be sure to check with your aromatherapist before diffusing or wearing any essential oils if you have animals in the home.
Sarah Woods
Certified Aromatherapist
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