Unlike the last two days cold and crispy -5 degree weather, this morning when I stepped outside the front door at 6.35am, I didn’t encounter the sharp fresh coldness I was anticipating. Instead, I found it all damp and dreary as I looked around. And my heart sunk. My first thought – I hate January – as most people do! It is the long dull darkness dragging our spirit down and draining our happiness away. ( I just realised that a lot of d- words are carrying negative expressions while composing the last sentence). I became immediately aware that I could not let this pessimistic emotions invade me any further; otherwise it could ruin my day.
As a quick thought, I decided to change the ingredients I used for the diffuser in the car. I normally use ti-tree and Eucalyptus. This combination not only refreshes the dour that results from my daughter’s breakfast but also sterilises the air inside the car if sitting in a traffic. But for this morning, I needed something different! I strongly felt a uplifting scent was required to help me to bright up my mood.
The blend of Basil and Ginger essences is particularly working for me as a mental stimulant. Basil has a great effect on clarifying my head and boosting my mental strength. The warmth of ginger always gives me a feel of the prevention power from those winter ailments.
However, there are many other forms and symptoms of low mood, or in a more serious condition as depression. Most common signs are restless, anxious and stressed. One has to choose the remedies that benefit one’s situation. The essential oils with sedative properties, such as lavender, sandalwood, camomile and clary sage, may help to relax an uneasy and worried mind. Please be aware not to use those if you are about to drive or use heavy machineries. On the other hand, bergamot, lemon balm and rose can enhance the mood without the sedative effects.
Mental health is a vital subject for our modern day living. It has profound effects on every individual with their everyday life. Mental illness is very often the root of many diseases as the long term emotional distress would cause the toxic compounds retained in our body. The best way is to spot the signs as early as possible and open up to seek for help. Sometimes small conversations and gentle exercise might bring unexpected outcome to boost wellbeing or strengthen confidence. As the Mental Health Foundation suggested, sharing a problem is often the first step to recovery.
Botanical Living 