Q: A stressful day and a lack of sleep gives me a headache. Is there anything I can use to relax the side of my scalp and back of my head?
A: Following are a few, easy tips to relieve tension and stress, especially in and around the head and neck.
Step 1) Hot foot bath- fill a basin with hot water and add 4 drops of peppermint essential oil. Submerge both feet into water for 10 – 15 mins. Hot water will stimulate circulation away from head which relieves throbbing.
Step 2) Massage- in a small bottle filled with 1 oz of sweet almond oil add: 4 drops of peppermint essential oil and/or 5 drops of rosemary essential oil and/or 2 drops of lavender essential oil. Apply small amount to fingertips and massage the temples and around the ears. Use small circular movements, be careful to avoid eyes. Vigorously rub scalp to finish.
* combining this with breathing exercises and neck and shoulder massage also enhances relaxation.