In today’s fast-paced world and growing competition, many people struggle with stress and overthinking and this constant chain of thoughts that can be overwhelming and exhausting. Fortunately, there is so many natural and effective way in medical science to slow your mind and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.

Aromatherapy for mental wellness is very popular these days among people who are keen to try alternate treatments. In Aromatherapy for relaxation and calmness mostly essential oils are used for slowing down the mind and reducing overthinking due to their ability to affect the limbic system of the brain.

Limbic System

The limbic system is responsible for regulating emotions, responding to stress, managing memory and various other brain functions.

The science behind essential oils and anxiety reduction

The aroma of essential oils can stimulate the limbic system in a way that triggers a relaxation and calming response, promoting feelings of calmness and reducing anxiety and stress due to overthinking. When we inhale the aroma of an essential oil, it travels through our olfactory system towards the brain, where it can have positive effects on the limbic system. Different essential oils have different chemical compositions and properties; therefore, they affect the limbic system in different ways.

Using essential oils in a diffuser or candles or inhaling the scent directly from the bottle can be an effective way to promote relaxation and reduce overthinking. Applying skin-friendly diluted essential oils topically to your skin in the form of creams or soaps can also be beneficial. However, it is important to use essential oils safely, in optimal quantity and appropriately to avoid any adverse effects.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best essential oils and how to use them for this purpose

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular oils which are used for relaxation and reducing anxiety. Its gentle and floral aroma is soothing and calming to the mind and body, making it a widely popular choice for slowing down an overactive mind. Lavender oil is also known for its sedative effects, and it can help to reduce stress by promoting sleep. Studies have shown that lavender oil can help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, improve mood, and promote relaxation.

To use lavender oil to slow your mind, add a few drops of oil to a diffuser or you can also light lavender candles and allow the scent to fill the room. You can also add a drop or two to your pillow at night and its scent will work to promote restful sleep. If you prefer, you can also dilute skin-friendly lavender oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and apply it on your temples, collar bones, wrists, or the back of your neck.

Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot essential oil is another excellent choice for slowing down an overthinking mind. Its sweet and citrusy scent is mood uplifting and refreshing; therefore, it helps to promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Bergamot oil is popular for its mood-enhancing properties and is often used to reduce stress and calm your senses.

To use bergamot oil, add a few drops to the aroma diffuser or inhale the scent directly from the bottle. You can also dilute bergamot oil with a carrier oil or lotion and apply it topically to your skin.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil has a warm and earthy aroma that can help to promote a sense of calmness and relaxation. It is known for its grounding properties and is very helpful for those who struggle with racing thoughts and a busy overthinking mind. Frankincense oil is also used in the treatment of depression for its antidepressant effects and can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

To use frankincense oil to slow your mind, add a few drops to a diffuser or inhale the scent directly from the bottle. It can also be used on the skin in the form of oils, creams or lotions.

Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile essential oil has a sweet and herbaceous aroma that can help to control racing thoughts and reduce stress and anxiety. It is known for its calming properties and can be especially helpful for those who struggle with insomnia or lack of proper sleep. Chamomile oil is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce tension in muscles and promote relaxation.

To use chamomile oil to slow your mind, you can use it in a diffuser or apply it directly like perfume. You can also dilute chamomile oil with a carrier oil or lotion and apply it to your skin.

Vetiver Essential Oil

Vetiver has a deep and earthy aroma which is one of the most helpful Natural remedies for a busy mind. It is known for its grounding and calming effects on the mind and can be especially helpful for those who struggle with a restless mind and sleepless nights. You can use it by applying a few drops behind the neck and massaging it into sore and stiff neck muscles.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Ylang-ylang has a sweet and floral aroma that can help to promote relaxation and calm the mind. It is known for its mood-enhancing properties and can be especially helpful for those who struggle with overthinking and racing thoughts. To use it you’ll need to dilute it with oils or creams or bath gels, and make a solution which has 1% to 5% of the essential oil.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Cedarwood has a woody and warm aroma that can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. It is known for its calming and grounding properties and can be especially helpful for those who struggle with a busy mind.  To use Cedarwood oil to slow your mind, add a few drops to a diffuser or mix in your DIY cleaners.

Clary Sage Essential Oil

Clary sage has a sweet and herbaceous aroma and is one of the best essential oils for promoting mental calmness. It is known for its mood-enhancing properties and can be especially helpful for those who struggle with overthinking and negative thoughts. You can use it in a bath steamer at the end of a stressful day.

Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli’s musky and earthy aroma is among the most widely used essential oils for a peaceful mind. It is known for its grounding and centring properties and can be especially helpful for those who struggle with a restless mind.  You can use it by applying a few drops of the essential oil in the palms of your hands and then cupping your palm around your nose and mouth to inhale.

How to use essential oils for stress relief

While essential oils can be natural, herbal, and effective in slowing your mind and reducing overthinking, it is also important to properly Use essential oils to slow down the mind. Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted with other products before use. They should also be used with caution around children, patients, pregnant or nursing women, old age people and pets. Also always purchase from a trusted brand that makes pure oils without added chemicals or preservatives to avoid allergic reactions. If you have any medical conditions like asthma or skin allergy or are taking medication, you should consult with your treating doctor before using essential oils. Also, if you notice a big change in the texture, feel, or smell, you should discard the oil, because it has probably spoiled.

In conclusion, essential oils can be a powerful tool for slowing down an overactive mind and promoting relaxation and calm. Lavender, bergamot, frankincense, Clary Sage, Cedarwood, and chamomile essential oils are widely available and great choices to reduce stress and slow down overthinking.