Aromatherapy and the Mind-Body Connection
By Wavelengths Natural Health
The pace of modern life, pressures in the workplace and all the demands of life in a continually changing world, make this an age of “stress”. What can we do to help our selves to stay centered and balanced in the rapid change that is around us? What is stress?
Stress, now considered a normal part of life, can be a positive experience creating excitement, increased energy, clarity of thought and creativity. When we think of stress it is generally thought of as being a term used to describe negative emotions or feelings of anxiety or tension in situations that are overwhelming and difficult to deal with. When we are placed under demands and pressure it depends on how we view these demands as to how they will manifest in the body. Whether we think we can cope or if we feel helpless will determine the level of stress experienced.
Manifestations of stress
Physical - muscle tension, back ache, headaches, exhaustion, ulcers, heart attacks and more
Psychological - Depression, anxiety, panic.
Behavioral - Poor concentration, lethargy, self abuse, aggression.
Emotional - lack of confidence, fear, frustration, loss of interest, hysteria
Stress affects the body, lowers the immune system, slows body function and can lead to serious physical, mental or emotional imbalances. It affects performance in the workplace, effectiveness as a parent and also affects relationships. The body can usually adjust to a stressor, however if the stress becomes prolonged the body will try to adapt to the stress and will be in a flight or flight mode. Due to prolonged stress, Cortisol will be circulating in the body and this will affect the organs. The body will become exhausted, depleted and the individual may manifest digestive problems, headaches, insomnia, acne or eczema, or repeated infections. The individual will become restless, nervous, frustrated, exhausted and will not function optimally.
How Aromatherapy can help?
Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy using essential oils from plants to balance the body, mind and spirit. Utilizing essential oils can balance the emotions and uplift the spirits. The oils have psychotherapeutic effects as well as physiological effects on the body.
Aromatherapy can help with stress management by a direct link to the limbic and autonomic system. The hypothalamus is the major control center of the autonomic nervous system. It controls the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions which activate the “fight or flight” adrenaline production. As we inhale the essential oils, there is a direct link to the limbic system of the brain via the olfactory nerve. This triggers the secretion of neurotransmitters such as seratonin or encephalins which relax or uplift the spirits. Oils that are excellent for stress management include: neroli, rose and jasmine. Citrus oils such as bergamot, mandarin, and lemon uplift the spirits, and clary sage and geranium are excellent for balancing the hormones. At Beauty Kliniek we are even able to offer customized blends.
Aromatherapy massage is also an integral part of a stress management program. We are able to customize programs for our clients. Aromatherapy is the the ultimate in relaxation and de-stressing.
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