JoAnne Gaudioso
The foundation of the Wellness Lifestyle Pyramid is good nutrition habits. The next step on the pyramid is exercise. This time of the year when we reset our goals, exercise is usually top of the mind for most people. Over the holidays, not only do we lose sight of healthy nutritional habits, but one thing that often gets missed on our busy to-do lists is regular exercise. According to a recent study, those who report exercising for at least 30 minutes three or more times a week drops from October through February each year; that number steadily rises throughout the spring and peaks in July. It is time for us to jump back in and engage in regular exercise. Among other benefits, regular exercise can help release endorphins and lower stress. Finding time for regular physical activity is a habit we should create for ourselves. When awakening from our exercise hibernation, we need to ease into our training, starting slowly and progressively building up intensity.
How do essential oils fit into your exercise program? Essential oils can help motivate you. With your supplements as your base, you can add in essential oils for that added boost of energy. Simply put a few drops of peppermint oil in the palms of your hands, rub together, and inhale. Using peppermint oil for energy instead of reaching for a giant cup of coffee is one way to add to your normal afternoon slump and perhaps get you to take a walk. Peppermint oil is also good to use after a workout.
Wild orange oil is another energy-boosting scent. Combine wild orange and peppermint to get an even greater energy boost.
Lemon oil is an easy additive to everything from bath water to diffusers to add a little pep to your step. Add a drop to your drinking water, and get that energy boost with the added benefit of detoxifying your system.
Can essential oils help you after your workout? Essential oils have been found to reduce inflammation, help with pain reduction, and improve circulation. Aromatherapy has been found to be effective in treating pain post workout. Some of the most effective oils are lavender, eucalyptus, ginger, and wild orange.
Energy Boost Diffuser Blend
3 to 4 drops each of: tangerine, spearmint, and rosemary
Sore Muscle Soak
Add the following oils to a warm bath: 4 drops black pepper oil, 2 drops rosemary, and 1 drop ginger. Add 1 cup Epsom salts. Soak for up to 30 minutes. Drink lots of water while soaking and thereafter.
Are you interested in learning more about how you can integrate essential oils into your exercise program? Contact JoAnne Gaudioso at 480-225-5224 by phone or text or email me at [email protected].