CONTROLLING STRESS--THINK OUT OF "THE BOX"

 Uncontrolled and untreated stress can lead to these common symptoms: dizziness or a general feeling of "being out of it," general aches and pains, grinding teeth or clinching jaws, frequent headaches, indigestion, changes in appetite, insomnia, upset stomach, constipation or diarrhea and sexual difficulties.

Research has shown that 95% of symptoms that cause women to seek Medical advice are stress related.  So why are intelligent people so eager to run to the MD or pharmacy to get a pill to pop when they can learn how to control their stress levels themselves?  By taking control over your stress you not only save money on unneeded md visits or medications but also you improve your everyday functioning and feeling of well being.

Two common out of the box remedies for stress involve aromatherapy and self massage. Both of these techniques are easy to learn and easy to incorporate into your daily stress control routines.

A modern definition of aromatherapy is the treatment or prevention of disease by use of essential oils which are extracted from plants chiefly through the process of steam distillation. Aromatherapy is considered as a complimentary modality for stress relief during many stages of life. The positive, stress relieving effects of aromatherapy are thought to be produced by the influence of the oil's aroma on human brain centers controlling sight, smell and touch. Smelling the essential oil and rubbing the oil into the skin, stimulates the body's natural release of endorphins, chemical stress relievers.

Aromatherapy research began in the 1600s when lavender was used to treat skin ailments and soldiers' injuries. Today, the modalities of aromatheapy include aerial diffusion, direct inhalation and topical applications.

AERIAL DIFFUSION & DIRECT INHALATION: emission of lavender molecules through the air  produces a pleasant aroma with both calming and relaxing effects. These methods can be utilized through reed diffusers, aromastones, pillow puffs, oil burners and room sprays. Each is inhaled directly into the respiratory system to stimultate the brain to release natural chemicals for enhancement of health.

PAIN BLEND: Combination of lavender, chamomile, lemongrass and frankincense in oil useful in gentle massages for pain relief and control of common ailments such as muscle tension, aches and strains.  Lavender mixtures can be added to baths and compresses to stimulate natural stress relief and relaxation.

DIRECT CONTACT: Applied directly to small cut with pressure to stop minor bleeding. Can also be applied to papertowel and then wrapped around ice and applied under upper lip for few minutes to stop nosebleeds.

 Self massage is proven remedy for fatigue insomnia, muscle tension and weakness, joint discomfort, and numerous circulatory disorders and skin impurities. There are 4 basic massage techniques:

RUBBING: Stimulated circulation and relieves muscle tension. Rub involved muscles in gentle, circular motions with your hands or fingers. Can be performed with or without oils, creams, lotions or body butters.

KNEADING: Gently squeezes involved muscles using a little warmed natural oil as lubricant kneading tissues as if you were working with bread dough.

VIBRATING: Improves blood circulation and relaxes muscles by using rhythmic knocking or light slapping, preferably with flat hands or fingers.

FINAL STROKING: Ends each massage with gentle strokes slowly moving outward from the center of each muscle mass.