The Stress Buster That You Can Multi-Task

Stress is a fact of life in today's high tech society. There are simply not enough hours in the day to accomplish all that we need to do. So we fall behind and that stresses us. Then, because of the stress, we are less efficient so we fall further behind. And now we are caught up in a vicious circle. While there are methods of relieving stress most of these require some time and we don't have the time. But there is one stress reliever that we can use without taking time out and that is where aromatherapy enters the picture.

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic oils, called essential oils, in high concentrations to relieve that stressed out feeling. The oils are all plant derivatives and are safe to use. Their use has a long history. It is believed that it started in China however the early Egyptians also delved into aromatherapy. Marguerite Maury, a French beautician who was also a biochemist, pioneered the use of essential oils for massage and skin care.

You can dab a few drops of oil on a handkerchief, a pillow, or a piece of cotton pinned inside your blouse or shirt. Inhaling it will have a calming effect. Also, depending on the oil you choose, inhalation can help the congestion caused by sinus infections and colds. Or for a pleasing aroma in your home or office, place three drops of oil in the water filled tray of a burner.

Since we don't let our busy schedules interfere with cleansing our bodies, we can also add a few drops of oil to warm bath water and enjoy a relaxing bath. And, although it does require time out, an aromatic massage is a wonderful relaxing experience.

The oils are available in a variety of scents and it is recommended that you purchase only high quality oils from a specialist in the field. Someone skilled in the practice of aromatherapy can help find the perfect oil for you even if it involves blending oils. These stores also stock the paraphernalia to accompany the use of the oils such as trays, burners and vaporizing rings.

Lavender is a very popular scent. Other scents that have a calming effect are: bergamot, chamomile, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, and juniper. Eucalyptus and hyssop are good for relieving congestion from a cold. Tea tree oil is an antiseptic with cleansing qualities so it is helpful for deodorizing and sanitizing a room. However, sniff a variety, and choose the scent you love.

If you are going to enjoy a massage with an aromatic oil, you will need a carrier oil. Aromatic oils full strength should not be applied directly to the skin. Always mix in another oil. Two recommended oils are sweet almond oil and grapeseed oil. Grapeseed oil is inexpensive and readily available in drug stores and super markets. The recommended mixture is twenty drops of the aromatic oil to two ounces of the carrier oil.

Aromatic oils should be kept out of the reach of children and you should never swallow any of the essential oils unless directed by a medical practitioner.

The beauty of the essential oils is that they can be used to relieve stress while you work.

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