The change of seasons and the switch in daylight savings time can be unsettling for both children and adults. Low energy, disrupted sleep, and a confused internal clock are common side effects. Fortunately, there are simple strategies to help prepare the body for these minor disruptions. Aromatherapy and yoga—when used with care and supervision—can be powerful allies. Here’s how!
How Does the Time Change Affect Our Bodies?
Our bodies are sophisticated, well-tuned machines constantly adapting to their environment, but they thrive on stability. The body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is particularly sensitive to disruptions, especially those related to changes in light and dark. When the time changes, our internal mechanisms have to work harder to regain balance.
How Essential Oils Work in Aromatherapy
Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds found in plants. In aromatherapy, they can have calming effects on both adults and children, helping to promote relaxation and better sleep. Essential oils can be applied directly to the skin, ingested, or most commonly, diffused into the air where their scent is inhaled.
Choosing Essential Oils for Children
When selecting essential oils for your children, opt for those specifically formulated for kids. These oils generally contain fewer ingredients, reducing the risk of allergies or sensitivities compared to adult formulas. Always consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional before using essential oils.
Some of the most popular essential oils for children include lavender, Roman chamomile, green mandarin, and sweet orange. These oils provide calming effects without being too overpowering or stimulating.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for children. It offers a range of benefits, including calming the body and mind. Lavender can help relax tense muscles, reduce stress levels, improve mood, and promote better sleep. Many parents find that diffusing lavender oil in their child’s room helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman chamomile oil is another great option for children. It offers similar calming effects to lavender but has a gentler scent. Chamomile oil can help reduce anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and ease tension headaches when massaged onto the temples or other areas of stress.
Green Mandarin Essential Oil
Green mandarin essential oil has a sweet, mild fragrance that helps relax both the body and mind. It’s particularly effective for reducing stress and anxiety in children. This oil can also promote better sleep—just add a few drops to your child’s pillow before bed. Additionally, green mandarin oil can aid digestion and strengthen the immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system.
Sweet Orange Essential Oil
Sweet orange essential oil has a refreshing aroma that’s great for boosting energy levels in children (and parents!). It’s also very calming, making it perfect for children who struggle with concentration at school or home. Besides its calming effects, sweet orange oil has antiseptic properties, making it ideal for treating minor cuts and scrapes. It can also help reduce feelings of tension or anger in children prone to mood swings.
The Combined Benefits of Yoga and Aromatherapy
Yoga is known for its stress-reducing and sleep-promoting benefits. Combining yoga with aromatherapy can enhance relaxation by creating a soothing yet energizing environment, perfect for winding down at the end of the day or easing into the morning. You can achieve this by diffusing essential oils in the room before starting your yoga session or by applying a few drops to your hands before poses that require deep breathing and focus.
Always consult a professional before using essential oils, especially with children, and avoid using these oils during pregnancy.
