Essential oils for focus
Give your brain the extra help it needs by following a routine to help get into the mindset of focus. Such a routine could include creating the atmosphere you need and limiting distractions. Various essential oils can help with every stage of focus. Not all essential oils are safe during pregnancy so please consult an essential oil specialist or consider taking our course on essential oils!
At least fifteen minutes before you begin, create a focused environment by diffusing the following essential oils by themselves or in a blend:
- Basil oil: Perfect for those who need mental clarity, basil is great on its own or when diffused with peppermint or cedarwood.
- Douglas Fir oil: Like the deep and grounded roots of a fir tree, the aroma of Douglas Fir gives you a sense of focus. It can also help you change your mood if you need a more positive outlook.
- Eucalyptus oil: Clear the mind and chase away tense feelings by putting a few drops of Eucalyptus into your diffuser.
- Spearmint oil: Something about mint oils just invigorates the mind. The aroma of Spearmint stimulates a sense of focus and, like Douglas Fir, uplifts your mood.
Pro tip: You can also use these oils topically for a similar effect if you’re in a place where diffusion is difficult. Dilute any of the above oils with Fractionated Coconut oil as needed.
Uplifting and energizing
- Bergamot
- Blue Tansy
- Douglas Fir
- Grapefruit
- Fennel
- Lemon
- Lime
- Peppermint
- Tangerine
- Wild Orange
Calming and focusing:
- Basil
- Bergamot
- Cilantro
- Coriander
- Clary Sage
- Jasmine
- Lavender
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
- Roman Chamomile
- Spikenard
- Vetiver
Although the way that our brain processes aromas is somewhat complex, there is a simple explanation as to how a specific aroma can elicit a response within us. When something omits an odor or aroma, molecules from the matter float through the air and into the nostrils. Once they reach the nostrils, these molecules are picked up by olfactory receptors found in the nose, and the aroma is then processed in the olfactory system of the brain. The olfactory system is the area of the brain that is known for controlling our sense of smell.
Once the neurons (nerve cells) detect the aroma, they send nerve signals to the brain, which can then identify the smell. The nerve signals transmit information from the olfactory system to the limbic system, the part of the brain where our emotions and memories are stored. The limbic system then creates a response based on memories or emotions associated with that particular aroma.
-Written by Jennifer Shell, DC (Food to the Rescue, www.foodtotherescue.com)
Great Essential Oils Course for Midwives and Birth Workers
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.