5 Ways to Fight the Effects of Busy Mom Syndrome

Back to school is an exciting time! However, getting back into a routine, learning the ways of new teachers, homework schedules, sports practices & games and so on, is enough to drive any mom to insanity! We are our kids alarm clocks, short order cooks, chauffeurs, doctors & pharmacists, counselors, cheerleaders and so much more! You’d think that this endless, exhausting cycle would be enough to give us a great night’s sleep each night~WRONG! We are so over-worked, and over stimulated, that it is becoming more and more difficult to get into REM sleep each night, causing more stress, anxiety and depression. I heard on the news yesterday that Americans are relying so heavily on sleep medications, its becoming an “epidemic”. Finding time to exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet, is difficult too, contributing to our challenge of sleeping well.

If you are like me, and crave a good night’s sleep, without the aid of over the counter or prescription help to get there, then here’s some great tips for you!! I really do use my essential oils daily, but they are a MUST HAVE at bed time (in fact we have diffusers in all the bedrooms of our house, to ensure everyone sleeps well).

1. Diffuse any of the following oils at night to help calm the central nervous system: Lavender, Chamomile, or a blend such as Peaceful Sleep

2. Add Lavender to an Epsom salt bath at night-reduces inflammation, helps with aches & pains, and relieves allergies (add eucalyptus oil for added therapeutic benefits of aches, pains, and opening up sinuses)

3. Add Lavender to your night time moisturizing routine (great for dermal cellular repair and relaxation).

4. Use 2 drops of Lavender or Chamomile oil on your pillow to help you sleep-if you wake up in the middle of the night, rub a couple of drops on the soles of your feet!

5. During the day, diffuse Mental Focus. or mix in a spray bottle with water and mist your work area. This oil helps support clarity and focus during a busy or hectic day.

And, make sure you are drinking enough water during the day to help maintain homeostasis and proper blood pressure. Hydration really can impact how you feel, and affect your blood pressure (which contributes to stress).