In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of peacefulness, and achieving overall wellbeing can be challenging. There’s always something next on the list to do before we begin to think about ourselves. Fortunately, nature has provided us with a helping hand, in the form of essential oils!
An essential oil is a highly concentrated, aromatic liquid that is derived from certain plant parts, such as the flowers, leaves, bark, stems, or roots. Capturing the natural essence and distinctive scent of the plant it is extracted from is not easy. Getting these properties can involve methods like steam distillation, cold-pressing, or solvent extraction. After extraction, the resulting essential oil contains the very concentrated ‘essence’ of the plant, including its fragrance, flavour, and potential therapeutic benefits.
Essential oils have been used for centuries in many cultures around the world. They are used for medicinal, aromatic, and cosmetic purposes. It’s worth noting that essential oils are very highly concentrated, so only a few drops are needed to achieve your desired effect.
Essential oils possess remarkable properties that can enhance our physical, mental, and emotional health. Here we will explore some of the best essential oils for sleep, energy, calmness, and relaxation, along with tips on how to use them effectively to promote a sense of wellbeing.
Essential Oils for Better Sleep
A good night’s sleep is crucial for our overall wellbeing. With poor sleep habits we can wake up feeling tired and crabby, and that feeling can stay with you all day. A few disturbed nights can leave you feeling dreadful. Incorporating the following essential oils into your night-time routine can help you relax and prepare for a quiet night with a restful slumber.
Vetiver
You know those days when you are absolutely tired out after a busy day. You close your eyes –looking forward to sleep – then suddenly, your brain goes into overdrive and you start to think about every random thing that was tucked away in the back of your mind! If you have nights like this then why not try Vetiver. As well as smelling divine, this grounding essential oil can be effective for easing an overactive mind. Spritz a room spray infused with vetiver and amber wood essential oils in your bedroom, just before bedtime, to relax and help you to gently drift off into a good night’s sleep.
Lavender
Nothing affects you more than a lack of sleep and lavender is well known for its calming properties. Lavender oil naturally lowers your heart rate and therefore promotes relaxation and can also reduce anxiety. Diffuse a few drops of essential oil in your bedroom aroma diffuser or try a reed diffuser in the bathroom where a warm bath can create a steamy lavender-infused atmosphere for you to wallow in. Blackout blinds and even a sleep mask will aid your efforts.
Chamomile
Renowned for its soothing effects on the nervous system. Chamomile is usually harvested very early in the morning to ensure the essential oils are not lost. You could try a comforting Chamomile tea before bedtime, to aid relaxation and give you a restful night. Decorate your bedroom with natural colours rather than overstimulating brights, and remember to avoid stimulants such as coffee, alcohol, and even loud action films for a good hour before you go to bed. Put the phone away (or listen to one of the many sleep meditation apps) and ensure the bedroom is warm but not overly hot. Sweet dreams!
Essential Oils for Energising
On the opposite end of the scale, there are times when you need an energy boost to combat fatigue and increase energy levels. Certain essential oils can provide a revitalising effect throughout the day. Here are some options to help energise your body and mind when you need it – perhaps for an important meeting or nerve-wracking job interview. Check out our fresh collection and find a new favourite to keep you energised!
Peach
Peach has invigorating properties that can enhance mental alertness and focus. Diffuse a few drops of Peach Passion oil in an aroma diffuser during periods of low energy for an instant mood boost (and of course – a wonderful scent!)
Orange
The fresh and uplifting scent of orange oil promotes feelings of positivity and rejuvenation. Diffuse orange oil in your workspace or burn a long lasting, sustainable soy, twin wick candle simply bursting with orange zest to start your day with renewed vigour.
Rosemary
Known for its stimulating properties, rosemary oil can enhance mental clarity and improve concentration. Simply inhale the wonderful piney aroma before engaging in mentally demanding tasks! Rosemary is a very versatile herb and windowsill plants can be bought in most major supermarkets. Usually paired with lamb but its aromatic flavour is used in tagines, focaccia bread and even shortbread! I’m going to try this Rosemary Crown recipe by Nadiya Hussain. It looks delicious. I’ll let you know how I get on!
Essential Oils for Calming and Relaxation
In moments of stress or anxiety, incorporating calming essential oils into your self-care routine can provide a sense of tranquility. Check out our relaxing range of home fragrance to help you to achieve a calming and restorative atmosphere within the home.
Bergamot
Bergamot oil is renowned for its mood-enhancing properties. A citrus fruit, native to Italy where the essential oil is extracted from the peel to bring a cologne-inspired fragrance. Breathing in that wonderful fragrance is like swimming in sunshine! Try our divine Starry Night candle to help you to relax and chill after a busy day.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang has a soothing aroma that can help reduce tension and promote relaxation. Use an aroma diffuser to disperse the fine vapour of our Simply Spa essential oil blend. Containing Ylang Ylang for a gently uplifting and relaxing experience that’s sure to repair those tense muscles
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm has long been revered by herbalists for its calming properties. Lemon balm is know to help relieve anxiety and stress. With natural antibiotic properties, this insect friendly plant is used in our With Love gift set. Create a welcoming, relaxing environment by using the different products together at the same time. A heavenly scent-scape!
So – in a nutshell...
Essential oils can be powerful allies in your journey towards improved wellbeing. By incorporating these natural remedies into your daily routine, you can create a harmonious environment for relaxation, better sleep, increased energy, and overall serenity. Eessential oils can contribute to your holistic health and wellbeing. Whilst all of our home fragrance ranges are infused with essential oil – do remember that Heart & Home essential oil blends are not for use directly on the skin. Use then in an aroma diffuser for maximum impact. As ever, we’d love to hear your views and look forward to our next blog which will focus on favourite fragrances for sunny days. Here’s hoping we get some!
