It’s time for back-to-school preparations, which means that it’s a perfect time to try out some of our relaxing aromatherapy techniques!
Aromatherapy can be used in various ways to help relieve stress, relax, and focus. It can be incorporated into your daily routine as a soothing bath, a calming diffuser, a pillow spray, and more. If the blends below excite you, consider checking out our Online Certificate in Aromatherapy to learn how to design and make your own blends!
Ready to get started with our favorite back-to-school recipes? The easy blends below have just a few steps and are a lot of fun!
Safety Note
All formulas can be used with your choice of method of application. The formulas are made for adults and should not be used with children unless they are reformulated safely for children. If any formula is used for topical application, be sure to do a skin patch test. If any adverse reaction occurs, discontinue use and consult with a physician.
For kid-friendly holistic health tips, check out our Holistic Health Tips for Busy Parents!
Mind Over Matter Bath Oil Blend
Relax from a hard day of studying with this formula. The essential oils are selected to relax and uplift while supporting stress and anxiety.
Ingredients:
- Lavender Lavandula angustifolia essential oil: 2 drops
- Bergamot Citrus aurantium var. bergamia essential oil: 2 drops
- Sweet Orange Citrus sinensis essential oil: 1 drop
- Clary Sage Salvia sclarea essential oil: 1 drop
Instructions:
- In a separate bottle, combine all essential oils. Cap and roll the bottle between your hands to mix the essential oils.
- With a dropper, add 3-5 drops of the blend to a full tub of warm water. Swish the water with your hand to disperse the essential oils. Soak for 20-30 minutes. This blend can also be added to 1 cup of sea salt or sugar for a scrub.
Brain Focus Personal Inhaler Blend
Maintain focus and wakefulness during your study session with this blend. This application method is portable, so you can take it on the go.
Be mindful not to use the inhaler late into the evening, as these essential oils are stimulating and may keep you awake. The inhaler should last about 3-4 weeks before it may need to be refreshed.
Ingredients:
- Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil: 5 drops
- Lemon Citrus limonum essential oil: 2 drops
- Peppermint Mentha x piperita essential oil: 1 drop
- A personal inhaler with a cotton wick
Instructions:
- In a glass ramekin, add the essential oils and mix.
- Place the cotton wick in the ramekin to absorb the essential oils. Using tweezers, place the cotton wick into the cylinder of the inhaler applicator and screw on the cap.
- Place the inhaler at the opening of the nasal passage while holding down the other nostril. Inhale 5-10 times and repeat on the other side. Use the inhaler as needed.
Bedtime Pillow Spray Blend
If your brain is still in overdrive but you need to sleep, you can help put your mind to rest with this relaxing pillow spray.
Lavender is famous for supporting healthy sleep cycles, but if it’s not your favorite scent, you can explore our on-demand blending course to find alternate solutions!
Ingredients:
- Frankincense Boswellia carterii essential oil: 24 drops
- Lavender Lavandula angustifolia essential oil: 16 drops
- Lemongrass Cymbopogon flexuosus essential oil: 8 drops
- Distilled water: 3 oz.
- Vodka (Everclear, or Organic Witch Hazel): 1 oz.
Instructions:
- In a 4 oz. spray bottle, add distilled water, vodka (Everclear or Witch Hazel), and essential oils. Cap the bottle and shake to disperse the essential oils. Shake well before each use.
- At least 15 to 30 minutes before going to bed, spray the pillow 3-4 times. This blend is a 2% dilution. You can also use this as a room spray.
Meditation Diffuser Blend
If you need downtime to recharge or a mental break from studying, this diffuser blend will do the trick.
Having a diffuser blend in the background while you practice other forms of student self-care, like meditation or reflection, can help you feel rested and calm.
Ingredients:
- Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil: 2 drops
- Peppermint Mentha x piperita essential oil: 1 drop
- Lemon Citrus limonum essential oil: 1 drop
- Basil Ocimum basilicum ct. linalool essential oil: 1 drop
- Lavender Lavandula angustifolia essential oil: 1 drop
Instructions:
- Add 3-4 drops to the diffuser. Do not exceed 30 minutes at each use, and diffuse in a well-ventilated area.
- This blend may be used once in the morning and once in the evening. Do not use this blend around children under the age of 10.
Additional Back-to-School Tips:
Aromatherapy can help you get into a good headspace to relax or to focus, so make the most of it by practicing good study habits! Here are a few of our favorite tips for success:
- Practice good time management. Keep track of your assignment due dates!
- Reduce distractions while studying, preparing assignments, or taking tests.
- Finish studying 30 minutes to an hour before going to bed to clear your mind. This includes shutting down all electronics.
- Take brain breaks and study in sessions. Don’t try to cram.
- Drink water and reduce your intake of caffeinated beverages.
- Eat healthy snacks and less sugar while studying.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Practice yoga, meditation, walking, or any form of exercise.
- Breathe deeply: You’ve got this!
Study Aromatherapy with ACHS
If you’re missing any of the essential oils for these recipes, you can get them from the ACHS Apothecary Shoppe.
If you’re eager to advance to more complex aromatherapy techniques or curious about the science behind aromatherapy, consider going back to school with ACHS. We offer a variety of programs surrounding holistic health, including aromatherapy, herbal medicine, holistic nutrition, and more.
Ready to take the next step in your aromatherapy education? Get in touch with us here!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
References
Cooksley, V (2015). Aromatherapy treatments for the mind and emotions. Aromatherapy: a holistic guide to natural healing with essential oils (pp, 310, 330 and 351). Floramed Publishing.
Curtis, S., Johnson, F., &. Thomas, P. (2017). Mind and well-being. Essential Oils: all-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body and home (pp. 237-238). Penguin Random House.
Parramore, K. (2018). Mental and emotional health. Aromatherapy with essential oil diffusers (pp. 89, 91-107). Robert Rose.
Purchon, N. & Cantele, L. (2014). Conditions and remedies. The complete aromatherapy & essential oils handbook for everyday wellness (pp. 178 and 407). Robert Rose.
Stiles, K. (2017). Relaxation and emotional support formulas. The essential oils complete reference guide (pp. 252, 256 and 348). Page Street.
