Herbal Stress Soothers

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

18 Mar 2008 07:34 PM

Thanks to both internal (PMS) and external factors, I've been feeling pretty stressed lately. When I found myself snapping at friends, family, and coworkers, I decided it was time to stop and do some damage control.

First, I made a plan. I wanted some physical activity to help blow off steam and I wanted something to help me relax when I was done. For the physical side, I decided to clean the apartment. I'd have the added bonus of a fresh, clean home when I was done -- and the chance to work some stress out of my system.

For the mental side of things, I took some of my favorite relaxing scents -- lavender, chamomile, and sage -- and added them to a small pot of water. While I tackled piles of junk mail, changed sheets, ran the vacuum, and did laundry, the water and herbs and essential oils simmered away, filling my apartment with a sweet, fresh scent.

By the time I was done, the apartment smelled great and I felt a lot better.

When stress is getting you down, here are some things you can do to soothe the savage beast -- naturally.

• Simmering herbs and/or essential oils is a great way to fill your home with a relaxing scent. Lavender and sage are great for balancing; chamomile and other florals can be soothing. If you need energy, try bright, citrus scents. Simmer orange or lemon peel, or use your favorite essential oils.
• If you've got an herb garden out back, combine a walk in the garden with a cup of herbal tea! Take a hot cup of water with you and pick your favorite herbs to make an instantly soothing tea. Just be sure you know what plants you're picking.
• Take a relaxing herbal bath. Add dried herbs or essential oils to a tub full of water and soak away.
• Keep bundles of dried herbs in your car. The warmth of the sun will make the herbs give off their relaxing scent, keeping you from giving in to road rage.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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