I’m not referring to a feeling based on an incident or situation. I’m talking about a disorder that affects millions of Americans this time of year. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to the changing of the seasons. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months draining your energy and causing you to feel moody. The good news is that there are plenty of things to do to combat SAD. Depending on the severity of your symptoms would determine what you would use.
Some simple steps are to get outside on sunny days. Go for walks or even car rides to soak up some sun. Increased levels of vitamin D has been shown to lessen the symptoms. If you aren’t taking a multi vitamin that includes vitamin D, add some to your vitamin intake.
The way that I have always combated the symptoms are with essential oils. Being an aromatherapist, I like to try natural remedies. There are four essential oils that have been medically proven to address some of the things that contribute to SAD.
- Sandalwood oil is great because it helps you feel grounded and centers you body. It is a great to use with meditation and it is incredibly powerful to help sooth your senses.
- Tea tree oil is most commonly used for skin problems because it is a natural antiseptic and can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. The reason it is good for SAD is because it also stimulates the immune system. Many of us get sick during the winter months so it’s a great oil to use to help you stay healthy. Staying healthy, helps you stay happy!
- Lavender oil is great because it has a calming effect on your senses. I like to carry it in my bag in an inhaler. With just a few quick inhalations, you will start to feel your stress relieved. This is also great for anyone with chronic illness which can be worse in the winter months. Lavender also has anti-inflammatory properties which helps to promote skin growth and healing.
- Last but not least is Lemon oil. This oil helps lift your mood. In some countries they diffuse lemon oil in the ducts of factories to help workers feel good and work faster. Why do you think so many cleaning products have lemon? This way we can all be happy little cleaners!
There are lots of ways to incorporate these oils into your life. You can diffuse them in the air or even put a few drops in a cup of hot water. You can combine several oils and make a synergy. I put them on my wood stove in a cast iron pot with water. You can put them in a spray bottle with water. A hot bath with some Epsom salts and oil is also great. For the quickest results apply them directly to the skin. Please note that you must dilute oils with a carrier before doing that. I like coconut oil. Not only are you benefiting from the essential oils, coconut oil is deeply hydrating and anti-aging! Some oils can be ingested. I love putting some lemon in a vanilla protein shake with some blueberries. Tea tree oil should never be ingested.
If you’d like to learn more about Aromatherapy, I teach a workshop that not only teaches you all about essential oils, but you also make products for yourself based on what you learned and what you liked. My next workshop is on Saturday December 7thduring the day. The products make great gifts for the holidays, or you can keep them for yourself! For more details reach out to me at SixtiesAndSexy@gmail.com
Sixties and Sexy 