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Winter Blues - SAD
Here
we are in the depths of Winter and for many it means dealing with a
certain type of depression. SAD, seasonal affective disorder, is
real. A change in light pattern and a shift of melatonin rhythms cause responses such as:
sapped energy, anxiety, oversleeping, difficulty concentrating, moody,
social withdrawal, heavy legs & arms, appetite changes (carbo
craving & weight gain), and feelings of hopelessness. This effects
our quality of life. Essential oils are stars of light in times of darkness.
(1)
For sleep, put a drop of Lavender or Ylang Ylang on your pillow.
(2) Use invigorating oils in the morning shower, massage or shampoo:
Peppermint, Lemon, Rosemary or Eucalyptus. (3) Use any of the same 4
in a diffuser or on a cotton ball for fatigue & mental clarity. (4)
Use Clary Sage or Geranium for female balancing. (5) Citrus oils like
Orange and Lemon are great mood shifters & lifters!
Essential oils are here for the Winter season. Find
your oils for these few months. Remember Winter is always
followed by the joy of Spring. The feelings created by
aromas signal the brain to send new
neuropeptide-messengers (biochemical units of emotion) to cells
throughout the body, so this new feeling shifts the mind and body.
If we are using essential oils for emotional relief, we receive the
"side effects" of immune protection and relief from aches & pains.
Other relief includes nutritional balance, light therapy, herbs & vitamins, walking, yoga or tai chi, & activities that bring you joy.
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