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Aromatherapy for Teenagers
by
Francoise Rapp
Adolescence is one of the most difficult stages of our lives. During this dynamic period, we not only encounter awkward physical changes -- such as skin problems and weight issues --
but we also see a rise in the expectations we face from family and society, which brings emotional conflict. In fact, one-third of American teens claim they suffer daily from stress-related issues, including sleep deprivation, anxiety and depression. The
other two-thirds say they feel stress-related symptoms at least once a week.
Teenagers in general have a tendency to shut down their emotions as a method of coping with the influx of change in their lives. They may also become irritable, angry, provocative,
or resort to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. This stage is also extremely difficult on the parents, who must also come to terms with their teens, who are no longer children.
The following aromatic recipes can be used to help teens better cope with the emotional and physical stress they face. Next month, I'll provide some aromatic blends to help parents during
this life change!
To create these custom aromatic blends, add the essential oils in a 10-oz bottle and then add organic vegetable oil to fill.
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Aiding Communication
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This blend is effective for teens who shut down their communication by isolating themselves in their own world. It will help them better express their desires and emotions.
-3 drops Sage
-4 drops Lavender
-2 drops German Chamomile
Massage the neck and shoulders. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.
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Accepting One's Identity
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This blend reconnects the body and spirit, helping teens create an awareness of their purpose and identity. It helps soothe the transition toward adulthood by encouraging the teen along the right path.
-4 drops Sandalwood
-3 drops Frankincense
-2 drops Jasmine otto
Massage the heart chakra and solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.
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Depression
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This blend can help teens open themselves to positive opportunities and attitudes. It will bring more joy into their lives.
-3 drops Ylang Ylang
-4 drops Orange
-4 drops Grapefruit
Massage the solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.
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Panic Attacks
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This blend soothes and calms fear-related issues or sudden bouts with panic.
-2 drops Roman Chamomile
-1 drop Rose otto
Massage the heart chakra and solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.
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Sleep Disorders
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This blend brings a deep sense of calm. It can help teens process emotions during sleep. It stops the chatting mind that may impede healthy sleep patterns.
-2 drops Roman Chamomile
-4 drops Petitgrain
-4 drops Basil
Massage the neck, shoulders, temples and forehead. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands
and inhale deeply.
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Skin problems
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This recipe will purify, soothe and regenerate the skin.
-3 drops Lavender
-3 drops Geranium
-1 drop Rosemary
Massage the face thoroughly with this blend. You can also incorporate the blend into an unscented moisturizer or clay mask.
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Escaping
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This blend allows more grounding, inner strength and stability. It helps teens face their issues while turning them into positive lessons. It also enhances courage and faith.
-4 drops Cedarwood
-3 drops Cypress
-3 drops Rosemary
Massage the sacrum and solar plexus. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.
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Anger-Related Symptoms
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This blend soothes the heart and soul when the teen expresses anger toward others as well as himself.
-4 drops Marjoram
-1 drop Rose
-1 drop Jasmine otto
Massage the heart chakra, sacrum and solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands
and inhale deeply.
| (c) Francoise Rapp, 2002. Permission is granted to reproduce this article in your print or electronic publications, providing you use the article in its entirety, including the brief bio trailer, all links and references within. Please let me know if you use this article by email to
francoise@aromalchemy.com.
This article was originally published by Francoise Rapp in "The Arom'Alchemy Newsletter," a weekly ezine dedicated to healthy mind, body and soul through the use of aromatherapy. Join her for many aromatic moments to come by subscribing at
www.aromalchemy.com/education.
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