For some of us, the most wonderful time of the year is the most stressful time of the year!

We oftentimes find ourselves frazzled by the quintessential endless holiday to do list; finding perfect presents, family travel, hosting celebrations, preparing holiday dinners, decorating the house, sending out holiday cards and on and on!

Thinking about the hectic holiday season ahead, I couldn’t help but wonder how to survive the season, sans the stress.

To guide me on my path, I enlisted help from the most Zen and centered people I know, Holistic Health Coaches and spa experts from Spa Gregorie’s – Amanda Manwaring, Spa Manager and Aromatherapist and Dana Conley, Massage Therapist.

Over a cup of herbal tea, I found out everything I needed to know. For starters.. use aromatherapy..

Did you know the use of aromatherapy could instantly change your mood? If you need to feel calm or upbeat in less than a minute, then aromatherapy may be right for you!

“Using essential oils topically or aromatically is clinically proven to be an influencer of your mood,” Amanda explains, “within 30 seconds of topically applying essential oils, the oil has entered the blood stream and is effecting every cell in the body.”

And during a stressful time, maybe your flight was delayed, having car trouble or are in a family feud, “use calming and grounding oils straightaway,” Amanda instructs, “I keep a little bottle of lavender oil on me whenever I travel and it’s an instant relief.”

Her favorite application method is to put a drop of lavender or blue spruce oil in the palm of her hands, gently rubs them together and inhales slowly.

Additionally, to create a cheerful and happy atmosphere during holiday get-togethers or throughout the coming months is as easy as citrus!

That’s right, simply add a few drops of citrus (select lemon, grapefruit, or orange) oil into your diffuser and voila! The lively scent will brighten the room and as soon as family or guests walk through the door, their mood will be instantly uplifted!

“We call citrus the happy oil,” Amanda says, “It’s actually more effective than an anti-depressant!”

In January 2014, Spa Gregorie’s will incorporate aromatherapy oils into massage, facials and will retail oils and diffusers! I can’t wait!

What are your favorite essential oils?

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in these topics is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. 

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Nothing contained in these topics is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.