Aromatherapy as an Aid Against Exhaustion

Rub your evening R&R blend over your body, especially your chest, neck and lower back, before climbing into a warm bath or shower. Soak for at least 10 minutes, but don't use soap to take the oil off your body. When you climb out of the tub (or shower), towel off, and you'll be ready for your pajamas and pillow.

This same essential oil blend can also be added to a water-soluble, unscented bath oil and poured directly into the tub. Avoid bath oils made with mineral oil as they can be drying and irritating. Always add essential oils after the water has finished running, and just before you climb in.

Diffusing a relaxing essential oil or oil blend in your room before bedtime is another way to chase anxiety and court sweet dreams. Add just a few drops to a diffuser about twenty minutes before you plan to climb under your covers. Turn it off, or blow out the candle, five minutes prior to bedtime. Citrus scents or French lavender are especially nice, but there are also many fine sleep-promoting blends available. Maharishi Ayurved, widely available at health food and grocery stores, has a blend that many former insomniacs swear by, and Sabia offers core umber, a unique, balsamic, mossy mix that is my personal favorite.

Motivational Morning Scents

Morning: Vital Energy

Several years ago, I went through a period in my life when I was so chronically exhausted that I thought I had the Epstein Barr virus. Of course, I had two kids, a full-time job that required frequent travel, and an active social life. I never considered that fatigue and stress could be the culprits, I assumed they were simply the symptoms. Then one day, shortly after I began to study aromatherapy, I opened a tiny bottle titled "Vital Energy" by Aroma Vera. Every molecule in my body jumped to attention. I took the blend home and used it twice a day. Amazingly, by only the second morning, a brisk walk sounded like a great idea. Within a week, I had started running again and I was winning the afternoon struggle to keep my eyes open at my desk.

The core of this electrifying aromatherapy effect are rosemary and ginger, two oils renowned for their energizing and strengthening properties. Ginger is naturally warming, encouraging circulation and combating sluggishness. Rosemary is mentally and physically stimulating, green and minty. A great blend to start your morning would include rosemary, ginger, lemon, and just a drop of true rose otto. If you feel you need extra mental stimulation, substitute exotic basil for rose.