Sad because of SAD? How to Let the Sunshine in with Aromatherapy

Winter can be a difficult time of year for many people, especially those with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If your mood matches the grey sky, aromatherapy is one of the best ways to get through winter. Not only can using natural essential oils (not fragrances or synthetics!) help reduce symptoms of SAD but it can add a sense of calm and relaxation.

Aromatherapy is believed to help with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) by using essential oils that create a calming and uplifting effect, alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety associated with the disorder. Some essential oils may help regulate circadian rhythms, which can be disrupted in individuals experiencing SAD due to the changes in daylight and darkness during the winter months. Common essential oils, such as lavender, bergamot, lemon, and peppermint, have been shown to have mood-boosting properties. Used in diffusers or in massage therapy, aromatherapy can help alleviate symptoms of SAD without the delayed results and serious risks associated with pharmaceutical approaches.
Joy is a good choice for SAD https://www.anarreshealth.ca/product/blend-joy-essential-oil

How do essential oils actually work?
Essential oils can elevate mood through their interactions with the limbic system - responsible for regulating emotions and memories - in the brain. Smelling an essential oil stimulates the olfactory receptors in the nose that sends signals directly to the limbic system. This stimulation results in the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine - those associated with positive moods and feelings of well-being!

Some of the most beloved essential oils have specific properties that enhance mood. Lavender is a popular oil for its calming and relaxing effects. Citrus oils like lemon, lime and bergamot are said to be energize, dispel gloom and uplift the mind and mood.

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Essential oils have a powerful effect on the mind and body, and can be used to promote feelings of calm, happiness, and relaxation - or even joy! Jasmine essential oil is an aphrodisiac that stimulates the production of oxytocin.

Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. It is released during social bonding activities like hugging, kissing, and sex, so it's often referred to as the "love hormone" or "cuddle hormone". Oxytocin plays a role in sexual arousal, as it is released during orgasm and helps to create a sense of intimacy and bonding with your partner.

In the body, oxytocin has many positive effects on our emotional and physical health, including promoting social bonding, attachment, and enhancing our overall sense of wellbeing, trust, empathy, and generosity. It reduces fear and anxiety, inviting us to feel comfortable in social situations.

Oxytocin literally helps to reduce stress levels, lowering cortisol (stress hormone) levels and reducing blood pressure. A particularly effective way to use jasmine to dispel stress is to enjoy a 20 minute bath with Jasmine Delight Bath Salts https://www.anarreshealth.ca/bath-salt-jasmine-delight

I use a titch of jasmine essential oil in my blends to stimulate lust for Life itself - Joy!

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Aromatherapy can be used in a variety of ways, from diffusing single essential oils to enjoying or even creating your own blends. You can buy any of 500 single essential oils, one of fifty+ 100% essential oil blends for $15 for 10mL, or have us make you a roll-on bottle of perfume from a blend for $20! It is important to make sure that you are using ethically sourced, real essential oils - and we don't sell adulterated or synthetic essential oils at Anarres! Essential oils are pure by definition - the product of steam distillation using only the material from a single species of an aromatic plant. By diffusing essential oils, you can create your own natural solution to SAD to help you get through the winter months with ease.

With over 50 blends we've created at #AnarresApothecary, you can find the blends and perfumes that cheer you up, keep you focussed, help you get a good night's sleep, and enjoy your productive days. https://www.anarreshealth.ca/catalog/essential-oils-blends-perfumes-ince...