Aromatherapy and Anxiety

Anxiety can result when fear, nervousness, paranoia, and worry have been set in place and have become prevalent. This is a state of mind that focuses on negative emotions and may be the result of an underlying traumatic experience. Many people who suffer from anxiety live their lives in fear and never truly enjoy all of the pleasures that life has to offer them. Although anxiety begins in the mind, it will affect the body as well. Some of the physical symptoms associated with anxiety are a result of the pressures of fear and panic. These symptoms may include shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and increased perspiration. The fear may also lead to a feeling of an upset stomach or nausea.

When someone faces a real fear or threat, they experience what is known as the “fight or flight” response. This response is a natural component to human survival and is an instinctive reaction to a perceived threat. One of the main physical results from anxiety may be that when the body is in a fearful state, the immune system becomes depressed. For those who live with anxiety, panic, and fear for a long period of time, they are subjecting their immune systems to a state of consistent suppression. This may result in a susceptibility to infections, sickness, and disease.

Along with the physical side effects, anxiety is devastating because it robs the sufferer of deriving any pleasure from life. In fact, the fear may become so intense that just performing normal day-to-day tasks become nearly impossible to do. Scientific research has determined that nearly twice as many women as men suffer from anxiety, panic, and fear related conditions.

Accompanying anxiety are phobias and fears. Many people face normal fears throughout their lives and this is to be expected, it is when people develop unhealthy fears for things that aren’t logical, or have a completely exaggerated response to a fear is when the phobia begins to hinder normal life.

Psychiatrists may recommend a course of therapy along with medication to help handle the fears. Many of the medications that are often prescribed carry side effects and must be taken according to their instructions.

There are other anxiety related illnesses such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, it is important to seek help for any anxiety related disorder that you are facing. Life is too short and precious to spend it in fear and not experiencing the joy and happiness that is yours to enjoy.

It may be a long hard journey of intensive therapy and other treatments, but it will be worth it. To manage your fear and live your life in peace, security, and stability will be your ultimate rewards. Aromatherapy can help in many ways as well. For example, when you are feeling afraid, you can enjoy the physical and emotional benefits provided by an aromatic bath. By bathing in tranquil and nerve calming herbs, you can fight fear naturally and release tension and anxiety. You can add 10 drops of Chamomile to a hot bath for a relaxing anxiety-soothing bath. Soak for at least 20 minutes to achieve the full benefit. You can also make wonderful massage oil with 6 drops Bergamot essential oil, 6 drops of Clary Sage, and 3 drops of Frankincense. Blend the essential oils with 1-ounce carrier oil, such as Sweet Almond or Jojoba for an incredible fear relieving massage.

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