Between the colder nights drawing in, and new lockdown, changes in routines and the uncertainty of the world right now, we’re certainly ready to hibernate and forget about it all! National Stress Awareness Day couldn’t come at a better time, and it’s a great opportunity to take a moment to think about your wellbeing, seek support or find methods for managing stress that work for you.
The topic of stress is an important conversation to have with loved ones in your life. Even just talking can relieve some tension. Complement this with remedies like aromachology, and you’re bound to see a positive impact on your state of mind. That’s why today we wanted to share our tried-and-tested tips for alleviating stress the natural way.
Upgrade your breathing
Although we obviously breathe all of the time, many of us don’t harness the power of the breath during stressful and anxious periods. You’ll know what we’re talking about if your chest has ever felt tight in moments of overwhelm! Throughout history, meditation practices have used breathing and posture to calm the mind. Scientific studies have backed this up too, showing that breathing exercises reduce anxiety and stress.
And who are we to question centuries of work and modern research?!
Shallow breathing, which is our usual state, can keep us stressed, whereas deep, purposeful breathing can allow you to hit the reset button and reduce its symptoms.The Headspace app has more in-depth information and even a one minute breathing exercise which you can try here.
Try some tasty tea
Talking of remedies that have been used for centuries and are now backed up by science: Anyone fancy a cosy cuppa?
For centuries, herbal teas have been known for their health benefits and have been used as natural remedies for ailments. In recent years, scientific research has backed up these age old insights as well. If you’re looking to find a moment of calm, there are two main teas which you’re going to want to keep in your kitchen cupboard. Lemon balm can be added to other herbs in tea and is commonly known as a stress reliever. Chamomile tea, also a known favourite, is linked to soothing the mind and easing you into sleep.
Find your fondest memories
Have you ever caught yourself remembering something thanks to a specific smell?
By harnessing this, you can trigger your brain into a more relaxed state. Interestingly, inhaling essential oils can stimulate areas of your limbic system, which is the part of your brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviours and long-term memory. Choose an essential-oil based candle to use whilst practicing self-care and eventually you will associate this smell with the sense of calm you felt during that period of relaxation.
Our luxury scent for November is our Signature Release scent. Featuring a 100% natural blend of cinnamon, spruce black and vetiver, it’s the perfect combination to help you let go of any stresses and feel grounded.
Trust in Aromachology
Whilst aromatherapy looks at which scents lead to certain emotional effects, aromachology focuses on exactly why certain aromas impact us in these ways. It’s the study of how scents work to trigger the human body in the ways that they do.
We harness this research in our curated collection of scents, which have been crafted to have a proven impact on your emotional state.
In particular our Relax Mood has been designed to calm the mind and bring a sense of peace to your self-care routine. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and lemongrass help you to make peace even after the most stress-filled day. To feel the benefits, try spritzing your office with our Breathe Room Mist or lighting a Relax Signature Scent Candle during an evening bath.
Walking amongst nature
Immersing yourself in a natural environment is definitely a great way to alleviate stress and reset your mind. Research actually suggests that your mind can enter a meditative state whilst walking! As winter draws in, it can be hard to find the motivation to get outside though. Since it’s likely to be cold and dark once your work day has finished, why not try a lunchtime walk? Take a hot drink, refresh your energy levels and keep stresses at bay.
Stretch it out
Taking a light yoga class or purely just stretching yourself out is also a fantastic natural stress reliever. Many of us hold our stress and tension in our neck, shoulders and upper back, so relieving this is important. If you are sitting at your desk all day, stretching can really help lessen the load you carry in your physical body, as well as your mind.
We love this free practice from Yoga with Adriene which actually teaches you how to do yoga whilst sitting in an office!
Last month, we shared our favourite ways to make the most of self-care Sundays and these hold true throughout autumn and winter.
Don’t forget that our signature scent this month is Release, the perfect blend for relieving tension. Ground yourself with our woody infused blend of pure essential oils that have been tailored to help you focus and stand firm whilst you work or play. This scent includes stress-relieving cinnamon, balancing black spruce and nerve-steadying vetiver. Featuring in November’s Halcyon Naturals subscription box, you can get £10 off your first order with the code “1STBOX”.