Aromatherapy

[Snow White.]

Hello!

I'm just wondering if anyone has ever tried aromatherapy for anxiety or depression?

I am currently using an oil burner and burning a mixture of lavender (calming) and geranium (settles nervous system).I find it helpful but I might be biased because I really like scents, I find they ground me. Also I breathe deeper to take in the smell.

Also I quite like the idea of something natural being able to assist in low levels of anxiety.

Anyway would love to hear what others think or if you've tried it :)
xxx

[Ktulu]

Yes I sometimes use aromatherapy for relaxation. A few years ago my aunty got me a lovely lavender pillow spray when I was in hospital and that's when I saw the benefit of it. For me, I don't think it's the actual scent itself that calms me, but rather the association I have with it. I strongly associate scents with memories, good or bad, and can find 'good' scents very calming and can make me feel safe. A non aromatherapy example: my mom, aunty and cousin all wear the same perfume and if I smell it, I instantly think of them and feel safe.

I don't burn oils, but I have little spray bottles that I add water to and a combination of oils, shake really well and use as an air freshener, spray on bed linen, clothes etc (provided it is safe for the fabric). I find this calming and like to be able to make up my own combinations.

[DUNFERMLINEBOY]

Yep Aimee and as well as burning the oils i would highly recommend that you book yourself an Aromatherapy massage as well because the oils are then getting deep into the tissues, and the smell stays on ya for a couple of days and gives u that relaxed feel! So yeah would highly recommend xx

[Snow White.]

Thanks so much Craig :)

[Cedrus]

Just wanted to say something I learnt (can't remember where though) - too much lavender can have a paradoxical effect and make you hyper.

[Snow White.]

Oh thank you Cedrus that's very important to know! Really appreciate it :)
I'll keep mixing it with my Geranium so I don't use too much.

[Cedrus]

No worries. Lol, I remember once where me sleeping was non-existant and i put a load of lavender oil on my pillow, got into bed and started feeling ultra excited about the prospect of sleeping....sleep took a while that night to show its face.

Have you thought about getting a nice handkerchief and putting some oils on it so when you are out you can have something that helps you relax? I'm not sure if you'd need a base oil though, i know you do if you want to use oils as a perfume. Having something nice to smell can be comforting.

Also, for anxiety outside I find having something to fiddle with really helpful - I have a small glass stone with a face engraved into it and i take it to class/appointments with me and it helps.