Stress Awareness Month
Stress is the body’s natural response to a challenge or demand.
It can be physical, emotional, or psychological and occurs when an individual perceives a situation as overwhelming or threatening. Stress triggers the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline to help cope with the situation.
While short-term stress can be beneficial for motivation and performance, chronic stress can lead to negative health effects, including anxiety, depression, and physical illnesses.
Types of Stress:
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Acute Stress – Short-term stress that comes from sudden challenges (e.g., a near-miss accident).
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Chronic Stress – Long-term stress that persists over time (e.g., ongoing work pressure or family problems).
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Episodic Acute Stress – Frequent episodes of acute stress, often seen in people who take on too much
Effects of Stress:
- Physical: Headaches, fatigue, high blood pressure, muscle tension.
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Emotional: Anxiety, irritability, mood swings.
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Behavioral: Changes in eating or sleeping habits, social withdrawal.
Managing Stress:
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Exercise, meditation, deep breathing.
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Time management and setting boundaries.
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Talking to a friend, therapist, or support system.
Aromatherapy & Stress Relief
Aromatherapy involves using essential oils from plants to support physical and emotional health. When inhaled or applied to the skin (diluted), these oils can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress-related symptoms.
Best Essential Oils for Stress Relief
Lavender – Known for its calming effects, lavender helps lower anxiety and improve sleep.
Chamomile – Promotes relaxation and soothes irritability.
Bergamot – Uplifts mood and reduces tension.
Frankincense – Encourages deep breathing and meditation.
Ylang-Ylang – Lowers blood pressure and promotes a sense of peace.
How Aromatherapy Helps with Stress Awareness
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Mind-Body Connection: Helps individuals become more aware of their stress triggers.
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Encourages Mindfulness: Scent associations can remind you to take deep breaths and slow down.
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Promotes Self-Care: Using essential oils in massages, baths, or diffusers fosters a routine of relaxation.
Ways to Use Aromatherapy for Stress
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Diffusion: Use an essential oil diffuser to fill a space with a calming scent.
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Topical Application: Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil and apply to pulse points.
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Baths & Showers: Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath for full-body relaxation.
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Inhalation: Deeply inhale a drop of oil on a tissue or palm of your hand.
This Stress Awareness Month, make sure you stay calm by using essential oils to promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
