The Essential Oil Combinations To Bring You Bliss
There's no escaping stress, whether it's caused by work, family, relationships, or our environment. It follows us everywhere, and it's part of life. Not to mention, 21st century living has us connected to the latest information — good and bad — at all waking hours of the day. Ultimately, this constant influx of news on top of life's daily stressors can leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
But what if there was a way to switch our brains out of fight or flight mode and into a calmer state of mind? And what if that solution were natural, too? Enter: essential oils, the concentrated essences extracted from plants, via doTERRA. Essential oils are used in the practice of aromatherapy, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece, where civilizations used aroma oil in perfume, medicine, and cosmetics, via Stadler Form.
Today, essential oils have been found to relieve nausea, allergies, and even repel insects. However, the positive effects on stress relief and relaxation have been the most widely studied use of essential oils. This Iranian study found that aromatherapy decreases cortisol levels, also known as "the stress hormone." Plus, aromatherapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mental fatigue when used in therapeutic massage, says VeryWell Mind.
This research is exciting, especially for those who prefer to relax using natural methods. But what are the best essential oil combinations to bring you bliss? Read on as we dive in.
The best essential oils for stress relief
Since we know stress is inevitable, it's important to find easy ways to manage it. Around 84% of Americans feel stressed at least once a week, according to a 2022 ValuePenguin survey, so it's clear we need accessible tools to help us handle life's headaches.
Finding little bits of bliss throughout the day can help you feel happier, relaxed, and more grounded. And with the power of aromatherapy, you can transport your mind to a better place, even if just for a few moments. This mental shift is actually aroma changing our brain waves, explains research by Kangwon National University.
Lavender is the most well-known essential oil for stress. According to this study by the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, the component linalool found in lavender has a sedative effect that may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote feelings of relaxation. In contrast, citrus essential oils such as grapefruit, lemon, neroli, and orange have mood-boosting effects, via doTERRA.
Bergamot and ylang-ylang are two other essential oils to add to your bliss-inducing blends. In fact, this study conducted in a mental health facility's waiting room found bergamot to reduce stress and bring about feelings of calm and contentment.
Mix and match any of these essential oils. There's no wrong combination when it comes to finding your bliss.
How to use essential oils at home to bring you bliss
There are several ways to utilize essential oils for their calming, bliss-inducing benefits. Whether you prefer a room or body spray, or a diffusing blend for the air, there's an at-home remedy for you. The best part: using DIY essential oil solutions at home is easy, affordable, and natural.
First off, it's important to note that essential oils are highly potent, and they cannot be applied directly to your skin. To avoid any skin reactions, they need to be diluted in a carrier oil, lotion, or a mixture of water and alcohol, via New Direction Aromatics. Making an essential oil room spray at home is surprisingly simple. Tara Rochford Nutrition suggests combining 2 oz water, 1 oz alcohol, and 30 drops of essential oil (a combination or not) in a 4 oz glass bottle.
If DIY isn't your cup of tea, there are plenty of perfectly mixed aroma oils out there. Roll-on applications are wonderful on the go or at work, so you can find bliss wherever you are. Eden's Garden makes several 100% pure essential oil blends in convenient roll-ons.
There are plenty of other ways to use essential oils for relaxation around the home. You can put a few drops of your favorite essential oils, like lavender or bergamot, into a warm bath to elevate an already blissful experience. And, of course, aromatherapy lovers can't get enough of diffusers misting around the home.