Feeling stressed before a trip? You’re not alone! If you’re like most people, you both love, and hate traveling. Being on a trip is amazing, but getting there? Let’s be honest – it’s stressful!
Making sure you’re packing correctly, getting your house and work in order, getting up early to get to the airport – and then actually getting on the plane and being in a new place. All of it can feel like a lot.
But never fear! Here are some ways to combat stress and anxiety, and 5 essential oils we love to throw into the diffuser to help ease travel anxiety.
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Lavender oil
Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for relaxation. It has a calming effect on the body and mind and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to your diffuser or vaporizer, or apply it to your skin before getting on the plane.
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Chamomile oil
Chamomile oil is another great option for reducing stress and anxiety. It has a soothing effect on the nerves and can help to calm an upset stomach. Chamomile oil can be used in the same way as lavender oil – just add it to your diffuser or vaporizer, or apply it topically to your skin.
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Frankincense oil
Frankincense oil is perfect for helping to ease anxiety and promote relaxation. It has a sweet, woody scent that is perfect for use in a diffuser or vaporizer. You can also apply it topically to your skin, or add a few drops to your bathtub for a relaxing soak before bedtime.
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Rosemary oil
Rosemary oil is another good choice for reducing stress and anxiety. It has a refreshing, herbaceous scent that can help clear your mind and ease tension headaches. Rosemary oil can be used in the same way as lavender and chamomile oils – just add it to your diffuser or vaporizer, or apply it topically to your skin.
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Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is great for alleviating nausea, which can sometimes be brought on by anxiety or stress. It also has a cooling, refreshing effect that can help clear your head and give you some energy if you’re feeling tired from travel.
Are oils not cutting it?
Here are some other ways to cut down stress and anxiety before travel.
Breathwork:
Taking deep breaths is a simple but effective way to calm your nerves. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, counting to four as you inhale and exhale. If you want to get further into the practice of breathing, we highly recommend the book Breathe by James Nestor and also look into the Wim Hof method of breathing.
Visualization
Picture yourself having a great time during your trip. Picture your luggage arriving quickie and easily, everyone on your trip getting along great, and your life-changing for the better because of the experience. Visualize yourself relaxed and enjoying your trip. Because what you envision, you can create.
Move your body
Getting your heart rate up is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. Taking a brisk walk or going for a run before your trip can help you feel calmer and more prepared.
Meditate
Meditation is a great way to focus your mind and ease anxiety. If you’re new to meditation, there are many resources available to help you get started.
Get enough sleep
Most important of all, because plane sleep, even in first class, just isn’t restorative. It’s important to be well-rested before traveling, as fatigue can make anxiety worse. Make sure you get enough sleep the night before your trip so you can be at your best.
Remember, you’re the pilot of your life and not the passenger. I know sometimes it feels like it’s easier said than done, but pushing yourself to move past the anxiety and actually yourself on the plane is a huge step in and of itself and one you should feel proud of.
If you feel like anxiety could creep in on your trip, we recommend packing one of these oils to have handy.