Oils for Winter Blues
For some like myself, the shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures of the winter months can cause feelings of sadness and depression — commonly known as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Besides frequently feeling melancholy, the so-called “winter blues” can include a number of different symptoms: a depressed immune system, lethargy and low energy, sleeping problems, loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy, changes in appetite, weight gain, agitation, and difficulty concentrating. No fun!
Fortunately, I have the power of essential oils to help combat SAD… and you can, too! Essential oils can help ease the side affects of winter blues, giving us the uplifting, energizing, and calming energy that our body, mind, and spirit needs during the long dark winter months.
Here are some of my favorites (click to shop):
Bergamot oil is always at the top of my list when looking to relax, restore, and calm. This beautiful oil is incredibly uplifting and so helpful for dealing with the winter blues or feelings of depression or stress throughout the year. Bergamot can also help with sleeping ssues, helping you to feel calm and relaxed.
Lavender oil is perfect for helping lift the spirits during those times when one is feeling down. It can also help fortify the immune system. Cardamom invites mental clarity and balance.
Frankincense oil boosts emotional strength and stability, helping to encourage the ability to hold steady and persevere. It helps to support feelings of alignment and security. Also when Frankincense is combined with any other oil it boosts the effects of the oil.
Jasmine is known for supporting women’s hormones but it is also an uplifting oil. It stimulates and strengthens the spirit, increases self-confidence, and promotes feelings of optimism. Jasmine is one of the best oils for relieving depression and diminishing fears.
Lime oil brings sunshine and light to the mind, body, and spirit. It refreshes and uplifts, making it a gorgeous choice for fighting depression as well as fatigue. I love this paired with Pachouli (see below)
Wild Orange oil is very energizing and can help provide courage as well as Happy thoughts and feelings. Wild Orange also calms emotional distress and is immensely supportive when working through depression or anxiety.
Neroli oil is one of our favorites to use when wanting to usher in peace and balance to the mind, body, and spirit. It provides strong emotional support and is incredibly calming and soothing. Neroli oil can provide support during times of depression or anxiety.
Patchouli oil is incredibly balancing and calming to the mind, body, and spirit. It is beautifully uplifting and can help reduce stress and alleviate anxiety. Patchouli is an exquisite oil to use during times of sadness.
Adaptiv was formulated to assist with anxious states. It imparts reassurance and calm when an individual is caught up in cycles of worry, tension, or uneasiness. This is a must have during the winter blue months, conveying the ability to overcome feelings of sadness.
Balance is the most steady oil blend, rooting you in calmness and settling down nervousness or feelings of anxiety. I love diffusing it at night with other oils like lavender or serenity to help my scattered feeling or thoughts.