Stressed much?
We know life can get overwhelming, but stress manifests in our life by the way we react to what is thrown at us, and how we manage our day to day responsibilities.
So though we can't entirely eliminate stress, there is still a lot we can do!
This may mean creating boundaries, saying no to things that drain you, adding more fun and play into your day, asking for help.... and baths!
Baths are a great way to unwind and bring down stress levels, not to mention you smell heavenly afterward! At least you will with these blends...
So put the kids to bed, grab your book, dim the lights, and let the relaxation begin!
Epsom salt baths
Epsom salt is a popular remedy for muscle tension and cramping as it is a rich source of magnesium sulfate. Magnesium is a commonly deficient mineral that has many functions in the body ranging from muscle control, nerve function, stress relief, digestive function, and blood pressure control.
Epsom salt baths are another way to boost your magnesium levels or provide relief to sore muscles after a strenuous workout.
You can add essential oils to your Epsom salts and then add to the bathwater for additional therapeutic benefits.
Our favourite recipe: 1/2 cup Epsom salts + 5 drops lavender
Essential oils
Essential oils are not new, they have been used by ancient civilizations for centuries for many health and beauty practices. Today they are becoming popular again as we are shifting back towards a more natural and traditional approach to health.
The benefits of essential oils are endless ranging from digestive health, skin health, blood sugar, energy, detoxification, mental health, and relaxation.
Every essential oil is different however many work together synergistically to boost their physiological, and emotional effects.
The oils we will be studying today not only provide aromatic fragrances that promote relaxation through the initiation of chemical reactions in the brain but they also provide therapeutic benefits that may be delivered through the skin.
Lavender
Known for its relaxing properties, lavender was even used by ancient Egyptians and Romans to help ease anxiety and promote sleep, which makes it a great oil to use before bed. This oil can also help soothe skin irritations like acne, sunburns, and rashes.
Chamomille
Camomile tea is a popular bedtime tea, and for good reason! Chamomile is a flower that provides a calming effect on the body while nourishing the skin and hair. It provides a sweet floral scent that is both calming to the mind and body; perfect at the end of a long stressful day!
Rose
This sweet rose scent can uplift a heavy mood and bring down stress levels. Rose can also be used as a remedy for breakouts and help promote youthful healthy-looking skin. If you need to get connected back to your heart and ease your emotions, rose is for you!
Sandalwood
Feeling antsy and disconnected? Sandalwood is the perfect grounding oil. This oil contains mood-balancing properties and is often used during meditation to settle emotions and promote a sense of calm. Sandalwood is also great for skin health by promoting clear and rejuvenated skin - the perfect soak to leave you feeling squeaky clean and smooth.
Lemongrass
Often used in massage therapy, lemongrass is very soothing to the skin and muscles which can help relieve muscle soreness. Lemongrass can also promote a positive mood and ease anxiousness. Topical lemongrass has been shown to reduce inflammatory conditions like arthritis and pain.
Frankincense
The king of essential oils, Frankincense comes from the Boswellia tree and provides a woody musky scent. It's anti-inflammatory effects have been shown to help improve arthritic conditions (1) and protect digestive health (2). It also has anti-anxiety and anti-depressive abilities providing an overall calming effect on the mind and body.
Bath blends
Relaxing blend: 4 drops of chamomille + 4 drops of rose oil or lavender + 3 drops frankincense + carrier oil
Grounding blend: 3 drops sandalwood + 3 drops vanilla + 3 drops lavender + carrier oil
Muscle soothing blend: 1/2 cup Epsom salt + 4 drops of lavender + 3 drops lemongrass
Cleansing scrub: 2 tbsps coconut sugar + + 2 drops of lavender. We also love basd body scrub that literally smells like creme brulee in a bag!
You can use a carrier oil for the above blends such as coconut, olive, or jojoba oil (about 1 tbsp).
After filling the bath with warm water, add the essential oils to a carrier oil and then add to bath water for best results. This avoids the risk of evaporation of the oils and reduces skin irritation. You can also use Castille soap as a base to use as a bubble bath!
*Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before application on your skin and start with a small amount.
Laurence Annez is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner and Health Coach, specializing in PCOS and women's hormones. She also holds a degree in Creative Writing and has extensive experience writing on health and wellness topics. Laurence's mission is to inspire and motivate individuals to take control of their own health and reach their ultimate health goals.