Autumn is a season of transition. The natural light changes, the days shorten, and the temperatures drop. As nature prepares for the approach of the colder days ahead, our bodies, that also follow this natural rhythm, do the same.
The fall transition of our bodies is not easy for everyone. Many people feel a bit unsettled and less grounded. Some find it challenging to adapt to the changing light and shorter days, while some feel tired and lack energy, others feel anxious, while yet others feel melancholic, sad, or even depressed.
Personally, I think of fall as a season of introspection and adjustment, the perfect time to sort and eliminate the unneeded and unwanted, to prepare for my winter routine and plan for new projects. This is the time of year when, as an aromatherapist, I focus on strengthening the body’s natural defenses and invigorating the mind through the use of essential oils, those that can boost the body’s immune system, fight fatigue, sharpen the mind and improve the mood.
These are a few of my favorite fall essentials oils, absolutely perfect for this time of year!
For mental clarity, focus and concentration: diffuse Rosmarinus, peppermint, and ginger. While Atlas cedar is perfect to help you feel centered and grounded; it deepens the breath and brings clarity to the mind.
To ward off colds and flu viruses: add a few drops of Eucalyptus (Radiata) on a handkerchief and smell it whenever you feel like doing so. You can also place a tissue with a few drops of this essential oil near you and simply let the oil diffuse that way.
To support the immune system: my favorites are ravintsara and tea tree essential oils. Add them to a carrier oil such as almond, macadamia, or apricot oil, apply them to your wrists, and then smell them regularly.
To boost the mood: diffuse lemon essence to be uplifted and experience light and joy.
Roman chamomile, fine lavender, and lemon verbena all relief anxiety and sadness and can be both inhaled and diffused.
To beat physical fatigue: inhale scotch pine, you will instantly be transported into a forest and feel energized and invigorated.
You can also make and use this blend whenever you feel tired: dilute a few drops of scotch pine and black spruce in a carrier oil and rub the blend on your lower back each morning and evening for seven days.
These “autumn essential oil blends” can be diffused at home or in the office:
To support immunity and ward off colds, flu viruses, and bacteria: try different mixes of lemon, scotch pine, Rosmarinus cineole, and fine lavender essential oils, depending on your preferences.
For a refreshing and grounding effect: try this “walk in the wood” blend: Siberian fir, atlas cedar, and sweet orange.
To relax and prepare for a good night of sleep: mix a few drops of mandarine, fine lavender, and sweet orange essential oils.
Finally, don’t forget to:
Get enough hours of sleep. The days are getting shorter for a reason! Sleep regenerates and stimulates the immune system.
Drink plenty of fluids and exercise regularly.
Go out for a walk in nature as often as you can. Oxygenate your body and spirit, breathe in nature’s aromas, and admire the magnificent fall foliage! The outdoors stimulates creativity and the planning process.
Stock up on your fall essential oils!
These are all natural tools that will see you experience autumn with full energy and productivity!
A few words on essential oil safety
Essential oils are concentrated, and you only need to use a very small amount to experience results. They must be used with care and guidelines on their labels must be read carefully and closely followed. Be careful not to mix too many essential oils at the same time, using too many at once can cause allergies and even be toxic.
Keep essential oils out of the reach of children and do not use them if you are pregnant or lactating. Avoid eucalyptus and scotch pine if you suffer from asthma.
Use only high-quality essential oils; verify that they are 100% pure and natural and organic when possible.
Always buy essentials oils from a reliable source – many essential oils available in the (online) market are fake or mixed with synthetic aromas. When in doubt, consult a certified aromatherapist.
