Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is a severe anxiety disorder brought on by an extremely traumatic life experience. It can range from cases mild to extremely severe, between 6 and 11 percent of Afghanistan war veterans suffer from PTSD, and about 12 to 20 percent of Iraq war veterans suffer from it, but the numbers are estimated to be much higher according to the U.S. Department of Veterans affairs.
Traumatic events that can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) include:
War
Rape
Natural disasters
A car or plane crash Kidnapping
Violent assault
Sexual or physical abuse
Medical procedures (especially in kids)
Some Common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
Irritability or outbursts of anger
Difficulty concentrating
Being on constant red alert, (Fight or flight)
Substance abuse
Depression and hopelessness
Suicidal thoughts and feelings
Headaches, stomach problems, chest pain
Cognitive therapy is the recommended treatment for PTSD however, restorative/therapeutic yoga and aromatherapy can be used to address many of the individual symptoms of PTSD greatly helping to manage the condition.
Restorative/Therapeutic yoga is a gentle practice using props, blocks, blankets and bolsters to support and open the body thus creating a state of deep relaxation and a renewed sense of calm and peace an overall, ‘I am Safe” feeling.
Aromatherapy can help ease a wide assortment of ailments. It acts on the central nervous system, relieving depression, anxiety; reducing stress, relaxing; as well as uplifting, restoring both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Combing yoga and aromatherapy is a great way to ease PTSD symptoms and to help naturally heal the body.
Lavender essential oil: is great for anxiety, nervousness, headaches and insomnia Lavender essential oil is also considered calming and relaxing.
How to Use:
Direct Palm inhalation
Put a few drops on a cotton ball in a pillow case for insomnia
7-8 drops in a bath
*Do not take lavender essential oil internally. Do not apply directly to the eyes or mucous membranes.
Sweet Orange essential: is an anti-depressant, relaxant, and an overall mood enhancer. It can be used used to calm the anxious or nervous mind.
How to Use:
Direct Palm inhalation
diffuse
*Do not take orange essential oil internally.
Do not apply directly to the eyes or mucous membranes.
Potential for Skin Irritation: High, Photo-toxic
Peppermint essential oil: Helps concentration and gives emotional endurance. Peppermint essential oil is also extremely effective for taking the edge off tension headaches also, you can rub a few drops of Peppermint oil to help ease a nervous upset
stomach
How to Use:
Direct Palm inhalation
8-10 drops in the shower
diffuse
A few drops rubbed on temples for headache
A few drops rubbed on stomach to help ease nervous stomach
*Do not take peppermint essential oil internally. Do not apply directly to the eyes or mucous membranes.
Questions or comments contact:
Robin Barnette,ERYT500 Cert.Aroma.
Robin@Yoginirobin.com
Recommended Books:
The Therapeutic Yoga Kit by Cheri Clampett and Biff Mithoefer
Movie on PTSD:War Torn 1861-2010 on HBO
ERYT 500, is a registered yoga teacher and a certified Aroma Therapist. Throughout her life, Robin has sought the benefits of alternative medicine as she has seen the amazing healing benefits first hand. As an yoga instructor and an aromatherapist, Robin's passion is educating clients one-on-one and in workshops about how to achieve optimal health naturally by incorporating good lifestyle choices, yoga and essential oils. She also regularly publishes articles dedicated to educating and sharing the wonderful healing benefits of therapeutic essential oils.
Robin believes that the true way to optimal health and happiness is through aromatherapy, yoga, love, laughter, and big, deep aromatic breaths.