COPING WITH STRESS

There is increasing evidence to suggest that stress features significantly in the lives of many women, whether they are single, married or co-habiting, and whether or not they have children. Many women are finding it increasingly difficult to manage work and home commitments, leisure time and relationships, and these stresses are often multiplied when a woman has children.

For many women, the workplace often provides the most anxiety because of the pressure to meet deadlines and performance targets and to succeed in today's economic jungle. For others, the home environment is full of tension and unresolved problems. Difficulties with a relationship, financial pressures, and/or troubles with children are problems which most women encounter at one point or another in their lives.

Perhaps stress can be defined as having too much to do, in too short a time, and without the necessary resources. When such a situation goes on and on over a period of time, it can have an adverse effect on health. When we are happy and contented, every cell in the body is influenced in a positive, life-affirming way, both emotionally and physically. However, when we are unhappy, or under too much pressure for an extended period of time, the cells and stress-related conditions may begin to show: insomnia, tension headaches, chronic back problems, digestive disorders, skin problems and other diseases in the body. Stress also affects our emotions, making us irritable and bad-tempered, and this intensifies problems in relationships with colleagues, friends and loved ones. It is a downward spiral that can eventually lead to clinical depression.

Sniffing a tissue prepared with essential
oils is a handy method for improving
concentration.

The Use of Aromatherapy
Essential oils have been proved to have an influence on the central nervous system, which varies depending on the essential oils selected. Good use aromatherapy can improve general health and well-being, helping us to cope with the physical and emotional aspects of stress.

Stress can exacerbate PMS and other problems connected with menstruation. Conversely, difficult periods can increase stress levels. Essential oils can overcome these problems if they are used regularly.

Essential oils can work wonders to restore emotional health to a mind-body system that is out of balance. Used as part of a system of holistic care - so that the cause of the stress is dealt with - essential oils can offer much-needed relief. Often, this is all that is needed to break the negative cycle.



Inhalation is the fastest way for an essential oil to reach the brain.
Vaporize ylang ylang for its balancing and calming properties.

Simple Treatments
If you are finding it difficult to concentrate on your work, prepare a tissue with a blend of rosemary and peppermint essential oils, and sniff at interval throughout the day. Both of these oils are decongestants and mental stimulants, and they should help to clear congested or conflicting thoughts and mixed emotions. Add lemon oil to the blend if you work on a computer. In one Japanese study, it was revealed that 54 per cent fewer typing errors were made by staff who had been exposed to a lemon aroma, compared to those who had not.




Juggling work and home commitments can place a strain on your relationship. Make sure you and your partner find enough time to relax together without being disturbed.
















TIPS FOR COPING WITH STRESS

• Take regular exercise: join a gym, take up yoga, or go for long walks.
• Put aside some quiet time each day for yourself, for reading, reflection, meditation, visiting friends, or simply doing nothing at all.
• Eat a healthy diet, avoiding the temptation to snack on processed foods, even when you think you don't have time for meals.
• Devise a schedule at home which means that everyone takes part in running the household.
• If you have a partner, make sure you spend at least one evening a week on your own together.
• Unwind in an aromatherapy bath with a favourite essential oil every evening: this promotes a refreshing sleep, which will help to prepare you for the next day.

The effect that aroma can have on our emotions depends to an extent on whether or not we like the smell, and whether it holds any positive or negative associations for us. The interpretation of an aroma is a very individual matter and it is difficult to forecast the effect it will have on any one person. The limbic system, where aromas are interpreted, is said to be responsible for our sexuality, our impulses of attraction and aversion, our motivation, moods, and memory, and also our creativity. It is the combination of all of these things that makes us unique as individuals. Finding the aromas that really work for you is often a matter of trial and error.





Lemon rind (zest) contains the essential oil of lemon. Put a slice into water for an uplifting drink.













Lank, lifeless hair may be an early sign of stress. Roman chamomile added to your hair conditioner can restore shine and also calm your nerves.