I fully believe in natural remedies and techniques to treat colds, simple illnesses, and stress relief (in combination with modern medicine and therapy).

For stress, there is so much you can do to find relief, as well as to prevent that stress from causing writer’s block and burnout.

Lavender

The smell of lavender is known to be calming and ease anxiety. A diffuser is a wonderful and safe way to use Essential Oils and benefit from their healing properties. You can purchase a diffuser, big or small, add the appropriate amount of essential oil drops (according to your diffuser’s instructions) to the water, turn it on, and let the smell of lavender seep through your room/house. You can also put the essential oils in an oil burner with a votive or tea candle to heat it. Make sure to keep an eye on these burners and not to fill the bowl to the rim. Safety first!

You can use lavender sprigs as well. Put real lavender in a small satchel and place it under your pillow to promote a restful and relaxing sleep. You can make a satchel out of a simple piece of square cotton by bringing the corners together into a bundle and tying it off with a ribbon or a bit of yarn. Lavender teas can also do the same. I drink a lovely lemon and lavender tea that reminds me a little of the fruity cereal I used to eat as a child.

Sprinkle a few drops of Lavender Essential Oils into your bath, too. If you have sensitive skin, you can dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or even olive oil. I tend to have sensitive skin but have never had a reaction from lavender essential oils in my bath. The only oil that did cause a reaction was cinnamon. Let me just say…that sure stung and made my skin look as though it was burned. Ouch! But everyone’s skin is different, so it’s best to be cautious.

Chamomile

Chamomile is good for the digestive system, aids in sleep, and may relieve anxiety and depression (when using chamomile essential oils). You can use chamomile in the same way as lavender. As a matter of fact, the essential oil plug-in air fresheners (into wall outlets) that I use are a blend of lavender and chamomile. They smell so pretty. I often brew a cup of chamomile tea when I want to relax or if I have an upset stomach. I even use chamomile tea to help relieve headaches. You can add chamomile buds to satchels with lavender sprigs and mix the two oils into your bath water.

Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that reduces anxiety and can cause sedation. If you deal with insomnia, wake up a lot during the night, and/or have difficulty falling asleep quickly, a cup of chamomile tea or two may help your body and your mind to relax. There are even chamomile extract supplements that are used as a natural stomach soother and to promote relaxation. As with any supplement, consult your medical doctor first and follow the instructions.