Alleviating Daily Tensions

Tension and stress comes at us daily in all shapes and sizes. A key to overall wellness is knowing how to deal with the sources and side effects of these troubles in a gentle, positive way. When you listen to your body, pay attention to your surroundings, and use all the right tools at your disposal, you can take command of your life and keep both your tension and stress under control. 

EXTERNAL STRESSORS
Stress can negatively affect both the body and the mind. It may feel difficult to overcome at times, especially when our stressors come from places or things we can’t avoid like work, school, or even home. To strategically handle external stressors that disrupt your sense of wellbeing, consider some of these tactics. 

• Avoid Burnout – The quickest way to feel tense and stressed is to overwork yourself. Work and responsibilities are very important, but so is your wellbeing! Be sure to take breaks when you need them. 
• Meditate – Taking time to ground yourself by focusing on an aroma and tactile sensation is a great mental exercise. Make a ritual out of pausing during your work day to apply an essential oil like PastTense® essential oil blend to your temples, back of the neck, or inner wrists. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to inhale the fresh, herbal aroma as you feel the cooling sensation on your skin. When you’re ready, open your eyes and jump back into work. 
• Time outside – Many of us spend most of our time indoors, so shake up the daily grind with a change of scenery once in a while. Taking a stroll outside not only gets your body moving, but being near nature is also an excellent way to stimulate your mind and senses. 
• Hobbies – We know you work hard, but we’re officially giving you permission to play hard as well. Dedicating time to doing the things you love and pursuing hobbies is a great way to get your mind off daily troubles and lift your spirits by doing what makes you happy.
• Stay connected – No one ever said you had to do this alone. Whenever stressors are high, remember the people you have in your corner and reach out. Whether it’s your parents, best friend, or partner, make sure you keep close contact with the people who best support you through the toughest times. 

BODILY TENSIONS
Tension is often a result of unconscious stress. Our bodies commonly store tension in the muscles, which can result in pain and discomfort that makes it hard to focus and enjoy our best lives—which ultimately doesn’t help stress levels. It’s a vicious cycle! Luckily, there are a number of easy methods of addressing and soothing bodily tensions, and they’re surprisingly simple to work into your daily routines. 

• Take a Bath – Taking an evening out of your week to soak in a warm bath with Epsom salts is an excellent way to help relax stiff and sore muscles. To turn your soak into an aromatic experience, add one to two drops of a favorite essential oil to your bathwater.
• Enjoy a Massage – Regularly massaging stiff or sore areas of the body is an effective way to address muscle tension directly at the source. Try including a drop of Deep Blue® essential oil blend to enhance your massage with an invigorating aroma and a cooling sensation to the skin.
• Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water keeps the body happy and healthy. Making sure you are adequately hydrated each day ensures that your body has the resources it needs to keep you comfortable, inside and out. 
• Get Good Sleep – Like staying hydrated, making sure your body is getting regular, restful sleep is key to overall health and body functions. When your body is well rested, you start off each day one step ahead of any tension and stressors that the day might bring. 
• Stay active – Slouching in a work chair and sitting still all day can contribute to bodily tensions, especially in the neck, shoulders, and legs. Make sure your body is getting the exercise it needs, even if that’s just a walk around the office or some stretches on your lunch break. Talking to your doctor about the best stretches for your body can make a world of difference, and making time for even a small amount of daily physical activity keeps your blood flowing and muscles feeling limber. 

There are times when life is nonstop. We each shoulder the weight of our own worlds, but these simple practices can help make that weight more manageable. Taking care of yourself and soothing tensions as they arise is key to feeling your best so you can meet life head on each day. We believe in you, and so should you!