Essential Oils to Help with Holiday Stress

Even if you love the holiday season and look forward to it every year, I think we can both agree that added stress is a part of the package. Perhaps the pressure is pandemic related, travel related, relative related, schedule-related, or something else among a long list of common stressors. Whatever it is that is stressing you out -- essential oils could play a big part in helping you handle the holiday stress mindfully this year and beyond.

Here are a few of my favorite uplifting aromas to relieve stress quickly.

Essential oils for traveling

Are you driving for hours in a car full of kids? Do you have plans to fly across the country? There's an essential oil for that to keep you calm and anxiety-free. Lavender is a known calming essential oil, though if you combine it with earthy vetiver, you'll be on track for soothing your fears and apprehensions.

Essential oils for arrival

So now you're there, and you're feeling that unease of where to go next. Maybe you're trying to find your luggage. Perhaps you're trying to find a cab. Whatever the case, try using something woodsy, as this will help keep you more grounded. Think spruce, cedarwood, or frankincense. Put a few drops in the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. The heat from your body will keep releasing the scent, which will keep you feeling more at home even when you're miles and miles away from it.

Essential oils for winter skin

Holiday stress, traveling or not, can make an impact on winter skin. And let's say it's likely not the impact you're looking for when you're gearing up to take loads of happy family photos. Lavender is great for winter skin woes since it soothes it so well. You don't need a carrier oil to apply it to your skin, either. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibiotic properties, which can help relieve dry, winter-worn skin.

Essential oils for family stress

No matter how much you love your family, there's bound to be some stress surrounding it. Even if spirits are high and everyone's happy to be seeing each other this year, there's always a chance for something to go awry. Being prepared for this is simple, and this is where Bergamot comes in for a calming yet energetic feeling to refresh your spirit.

Essential oils for after meals

If you're eating more decadent meals than you're typically used to throughout the holidays, utilizing some citrus, ginger, or peppermint essential oils can help you digest and feel less sluggish after eating.

Carry essential oils in your bag to help you feel at peace during the holidays, and you'll be better able to enjoy the moment!

Not all essential oils are created equal, though. It's important to pick the highest-quality, naturally sourced essential oils you can find. I personally love and use a variety of different oils and I'm not affiliated with any particular brand. I like Plant Therapy, Aura Cacia, and Pranarom which are all available either online or in a reputable health food store.

One of my favorite mindfulness meditations is using your senses to drop into the present moment. Join me in my free Facebook group, Everyday Mindfulness where I'll be hosting a free meditation challenge for the holidays!