The Top 9 Oils for Destress

Even though the seasons are changing in Hong Kong, the pace remains unchanged. Fast, hectic and busy…Hearing these words makes us energized, just like the city of Hong Kong yet it also makes me feel a little stressed.

So how do we reduce stress in our busy lives?

Some people take medication to reduce the symptoms of stress but more and more people are turning to alternative and natural remedies.

Medical research now says that stress may be largely responsible for causing or at least promoting more serious disorders such as heart disease and allergies. This is why it is important to find ways to reduce stress in our busy lives.

One way is to incorporate essential oils into your life. Essential oils have been used over many centuries to alleviate common problems such as insomnia, dyspepsia, irritability, headaches and depression, working by scent and by absorption.

The magic of the oils are that they can affect the whole person : their physical symptoms, attitude and mood.

To de-stress, choose oils for their calming and rebalancing properties.

• Geranium
• Cedarwood
• Chamomile
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Rose
• Neroli
• Orange
• Ylang Ylang

How to use essential oils – It’s easy and convenient!

Using 1-2 drops of essential oils choose 1 method below.
1. Cup your hands together and inhale directly.
2. Rub it clockwise under your feet.
3. Drop onto tissue and leave it by your bedside.
4. Drop and leave it near an air vent so the air circulates with the scent.
5. Use a cold diffuser.

Your body is very powerful in telling you what it needs.

Remember to choose an oil which you like the smell of otherwise it won’t work.

With lavender oil, it is safe enough to put directly on your skin without diluting. For headaches just apply neat to the temples. Or by cold compress to the forehead or back of neck.

Aromatherapy massage can also give deep beneficial relaxation. It also works to rebalance the energy levels, re-harmonising areas which have built up toxins. The use of several essential oils in the massage oil creates a synergistic effect which increases the powerful benefits of the essential oils. Massaging with essential oils will further release any tension in your body and improve blood circulation.

Next time you want to lift your mood and clear your head, just reach out for a bottle of essential oil, inhale and relax or treat you and your body to a de-stressing Aromatherapy massage.

Your body will thank you for it in the short and the long term.

Contributed by Irene Li, Certified Aromatherapist, Indian Head Massage, Baby Massage; Pregnancy Massage Therapist

Healthy living is your best defense. Balance Health has not been evaluated by the FDA and should not be used to prescribe, diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness with essential oils. Always consult with your doctor or medical professional with any questions you have regarding health concerns.

Workshops By Irene:
Make Your Own Honey Lemon Body Scrub