Caregivers Benefit from Evidence-Based Aromatherapy

A simple inhale and the power of aroma provide a quick break from the stress of caregiving and much more…

Caregiving is not an easy job. Whether one is a family member or friend, or working professionally as a nurse, nursing assistant or other form of caregiver, even the most resilient people experience stress and burnout.

The population is aging and more caregiving is being provided by family and friends. Approximately 1 in 3 adults in the United States provides care to other adults as informal caregivers. There are over 5.3 million professional caregivers including almost 3 million RNs and almost 2 million CNAs. The demand for professional caregivers and nurses continues to rise and it is no secret there is a labor shortage.

This means more responsibility is placed on current caregivers, informal and professional – and absolutely equates to more burnout and stress, physically, mentally and spiritually.

Caregivers of all types need and deserve quality ways to address self-care. Aromatherapy is one of the best evidence-based solutions to address Caregiver stress and burnout.

Below we share how Caregivers can destress at any time, anywhere.

What does Caregiver stress and burnout look like?

The work of a Caregiver, whether informal or professional is rewarding but stressful. Some signs of stress and burnout are:

Feeling overwhelmed or constantly stressed
Fatigue
Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
Losing weight or gaining weight (often around the belly due to elevated cortisol levels)
Becoming easily irritated or angry
Sadness and withdrawal from activities
Headaches, aches and pains
Addictions

Aromatherapy supports the Caregiver in many ways, so they can in turn provide better care.

Our sense of smell is a direct link to our brain influencing our mood, motivation and more. Aromatherapy is an enjoyable and easy way to reduce stress quickly in the moment and also has longer term benefits for our health.

Lowers cortisol levels
Increases happy chemistry in the brain, lifting the mood almost instantly
Essential oils stimulate the brain and help perk us up throughout the day
Using aromatherapy easy and fast acting
An “AromaBreak” encourages caregivers to stop and breathe for a moment, resetting the nervous system as needed.
Empowers Caregivers by helping them manage their own stress
Inspires and instills confidence to use aromatherapy when caring for others

Aromatherapy is already deployed in healthcare and other settings to reduce workplace stress and support employee wellness.

Workplace wellness has been a hot topic recently and stress and burnout has increased more in healthcare settings than any other setting. Aromatherapy has become a useful, empowering tool for nursing staff. In fact, at West Virginia University Cancer Center nursing staff felt especially during the pandemic they found relief from aromatherapy and in return, felt they could provide better care.

Staff not only appreciate the gift of self-care to support them on the job but will learn how the benefits carry over into the quality of care they provide residents.

Here’s 3 Easy Ways Caregivers Can Shape the Day with Aromatherapy

Caregivers can and should have aromatherapy available in the moment.

1. Begin the Day with Aromatherapy:

Similar to a cup of coffee, a morning prayer or turning on the TV. Whether using a diffuser or an AromaStick, breathing in a stimulating, joyful blend can get the day off on the right foot by alleviating any anxiety about work and life and stimulate serotonin and dopamine which are responsible for our happiness and motivation. Caregivers and nurses can even do an Aromatic Meditation like the one below first thing in the morning and really find their Zen.

2. Be Prepared with Aromatherapy On the Go:

Having AromaSticks on hand, like those in our CareWell Caregivers Kit, can support whatever moments might come up during the day. With blends for focus, stress, relaxation and joy and even to protect us against illness, Caregivers can pause at any moment, take some breaths and experience an Aromatic Reset in an easy, effective way.

3. Sleep Better and Wake Up Recharged:

One of the best ways to reap the benefits of essential oils is while we sleep. Not only can blends like SleepWell help us sleep better, relax our body and mind and lower cortisol levels – breathing in aromas that benefit our immune system and breathing, for example – help us wake up feeling healthy and refreshed.

Looking for Caregiver Self-Care Product Suggestions? Check these out!

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From our Founder: An Aromatic Meditation just for you.

Try this quick, easy Aromatic Meditation for Caregivers at any time:

Step away from the job for a moment by going into a quiet room, your car or even the bathroom. Get comfortable if you can. Open your favorite AromaWell AromaStick inhaler and begin to inhale it’s aroma, breathing naturally.

Pull your shoulders up to your ears – and then allow them to soften back down, feel them relaxing and letting go. Release tension in your hands and feet.

Close your eyes and see yourself in your “happy place” whatever that might be… the beach, the forest, even on your couch watching your favorite show.

Feel what it feels like to be in your happy place – the sound, the sensations and colors, think of the comfort it provides.

Begin to breath slowly and deeply with your eyes close, think or whisper to yourself:

I am safe and protected from burnout and stress.

I am letting go of anxiety right now.

I deserve to take a break.

I can feel the stress leaving my body now.

I am so grateful for this moment.

I am so calm right now.

I am healthy.

I am focused.

I am capable.

I am doing a great job.

I am grateful to make a difference in the life of others.

You can repeat this or any other statements that bring you peace and contentment.

Sit with your AromaStick for up to 3 minutes and enjoy your break.