Sometimes, all we need to combat life’s biggest challenges are the right tools. And when it comes to stress and anxiety, our toolkit is filled to the brim with essential oils.

Cultures around the world have used essential oils for generations. And now, modern research continues to reinforce the fact that these age-old tools can help elevate mood and manage the symptoms of stress.

Aromatherapy is a valuable resource for calming or reducing stress and anxiety. Cultures around the world have used essential oils for generations. And now, modern research continues to reinforce that these age-old tools can help elevate mood and manage our mental, emotional and physical well-being.

We have gathered a list of some of our favorite essential oils for calming, stress or anxiety, and formulated soothing blends that can help you find your balance.

Diffusing and inhaling essential oils can help you find relief from a racing mind and a flurry of negative thoughts. Below is a compiled list of essential oils and formulated soothing blends that can help you find your balance.

Citrus – Bergamot,Grapefruit,Orange

Floral – ChamomileRoman, ClarySage, Geranium,Lavender,Rose,YlangYlang, Calm TheStorm, Ease TheStorm.

Leafy – Marjoram,Peppermint

Earthy – Frankincense,Patchouli,Rosewood,Sandalwood,Vetiver

It all comes down to our olfactorysystem—our primordial sense of smell—which, in part, indicates whether ourenvironment is safe or not. Certain essential oils contain chemicalconstituents that elicit relaxation, particularly the ester groups (lavender, bergamot,clary sage, etc). When we breathe in the chemical constituents, they gostraight to the limbic system, signalling cellular mechanisms inside theamygdala and hippocampus which activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

Essential oils can be used forin-the-moment stress relief when you feel yourself getting worked up, or youcan use them more preventatively to stay calm and collected throughout the day.Here are a few tips for working them into your routine.

1. Diffuse in anultrasonic diffuser.

2. Apply pre-dilutedroll on to pulse points during tense times.

3. Take a whiff fromthe bottle before meditation.

4. Drop a few dropsinto Epsom salt for a relaxing bath.