The one thing that causes concern for our overall health, is that a chronic worrier has their fight or flight response continually activated, we can easily fall outside of fight or flight, and into freeze. This falls into a term called allostatic load, or overload as the case may be.
What is Allostatic Load?
Allostatic load is “the wear and tear on the body” which accumulates as an individual is exposed to repeated or chronic stress (1).
I think we are all there right now. At least at some point in our day. The sympathetic nervous system switch is stuck in the on position, resulting in symptoms (not all-inclusive) such as:
-Physically and mentally unable to sit and relax
-Anxiety (heart palpitations/increased BP, irritability, headaches, insomnia, startle easily)
-Acid reflux, stomach aches, poor digestion,
-Chronic muscle tightness and pain
-Increased skin rashes
-Lack of productivity, forgetfulness, hopelessness, apathy, worry, paranoia
-The sensation of a lump in your throat or increasing clearing of your throat (related to acid/GERD)
I had a number of these over the last couple of weeks. I have a very clear pattern in my personality, my soul……worry…..anxiety…..introspection….take massive action!
This action is not always about work, not always a to-do list or even goal setting….with this pandemic it is choosing to let go. Choosing to stop gripping. Many people are talking about wanting the world to go back to normal. The world will never be the old normal, but the new. That is actually beautiful in many ways….but there is also a lot of uncertainty and unknown. That is my weakness, but I am slowly making it my greatest strength.
Why? How?
The Universe has always provided for me, always. All I have ever had to do was ask. Not once, not twice….but consistently.
Bring in the practice of abundance, manifesting, asking, praying (in whatever ways works for you), in the grand scheme of things…It is keeping your vibration high. Will you stay there all of your waking hours? A great big NO. We are human, these are trying times….BUT we can let the feelings in, be gentle and compassionate with ourselves..hug ourselves…love ourselves…and move onto the next moment.
How can we move from it? By activating our parasympathetic nervous system as much and often as we can. Read more about that here.
It requires a new way of thinking and living!
It requires living with complete self-awareness.
At times, it requires assistance.
Using Essential Oils to Support our Emotional Wellness
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Reach for this gem to help uplift your mind and provide much-needed respite during times of situational sadness and lows.
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) Can assist during the winds of spring when you are beginning to feel ungrounded and anxious.
Chamomile, Cape (Eriocephalus punctulatus) This is by far my favorite of the chamomiles and get help to incite calm when there is great overwhelm.
Cistus (Cistus ladaniferus) also called Rock Rose Is my oil of choice for shock and trauma. It has an affinity for the nervous system, great to use during tumultuous times.
Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum) can really go to bat for you if you are feeling anxious and worried. It increases feelings of compassion for self and others with its beautiful honey-like aroma.
Laurel leaf (Laurus nobilis) Having trouble thinking positively, or finding the silver lining? Spend some time with laurel leaf to help turn that around.
Mandarin red (Citrus reticulata) Feeling stuck in freeze mode? Do deep breathing exercises with mandarin red by your side. The aroma will help when you are feeling stuck.
Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens) Call in protection during meditation for yourself, your family, and the earth using Palo Santo. The aroma helps bring great focus and concentration, enhancing meditative practices.
Ruh Khus (Vetiveria zizanoides) This green and heady essential oil, also called wild vetiver is amazing artfully blended to help with irritability, overthinking, and promotes restful sleep.
This is just a very small portion of the essential oils that we can look to help us in times of need. Check out the many others in my latest book, grab your copy today.
Reference
(1) Allostatic load. (2020, March 13). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allostatic_load
Like so many practices in life, I encourage you to become educated on the proper use of essential oils. When using them, please do so cautiously, understanding that there is often misinformation on the internet. You can be assured that I support only educated and proven resources. While essential oils should not be feared they should be respected and used properly to ensure the safety of the individuals using them.
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
Reference
(1) Allostatic load. (2020, March 13). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allostatic_load
