Essential Oils for Mental Wellbeing: Soothing Your Mind This Spring

Introduction

May is a month of renewal – flowers are blooming, days are getting longer, and many of us naturally start focusing more on personal wellbeing. In the UK, Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 (12–18 May) reminds us of the importance of taking care of our minds as well as our bodies (Mental Health Foundation).

One natural, time-tested method for supporting mental wellness is aromatherapy with essential oils. These concentrated plant extracts have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, ease stress, and create calming environments. Whether you’re managing day-to-day pressures, looking to refresh your home atmosphere for the spring, or seeking a natural mood boost during the busy Bank Holiday weekends, essential oils offer an easy and enjoyable way to support emotional balance.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best essential oils for mental wellbeing, how to use them safely, simple DIY recipes, and practical tips for making aromatherapy part of your daily life. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to deepen your practice, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy the calming power of natural fragrance.

Benefits & Uses of Essential Oils for Mental Wellbeing

Aromatherapy isn't just about enjoying beautiful scents – it can genuinely support emotional wellbeing. Studies suggest that inhaling certain essential oils may help reduce feelings of stress, promote relaxation, and improve overall mood (Healthline: Essential Oils for Anxiety).

Here are some of the top essential oils that can support your mental wellness this spring:

• Lavender Essential Oil
  Renowned for its calming effects, lavender is often used to ease stress, anxiety, and promote restful sleep. Perfect for diffusing in the evening or adding to a soothing bath.

• Bergamot Essential Oil
  This uplifting citrus oil is ideal for lifting low moods and alleviating anxious feelings. Its fresh, bright scent makes it a lovely choice for daytime use.

• Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
  With its sweet, floral aroma, ylang ylang is used to reduce tension, promote emotional balance, and even help lower blood pressure in times of stress.

• Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
  Gentle and soothing, chamomile is well-known for its ability to calm nerves, ease irritability, and create a peaceful environment — ideal for use before sleep.

• Rose Essential Oil (Dilute)
  Luxurious and deeply comforting, rose essential oil is often used to lift the mood, reduce emotional tension, and promote feelings of self-love and relaxation.

• Orange Essential Oil
  Fresh and cheerful, sweet orange is perfect for energizing the mind while gently soothing anxious thoughts. A great option for morning routines or workday diffusers.

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Aroma Energy’s Top Pick:
For a ready-made solution, try our customer favourite Anxiety Essential Oil Blend – a carefully balanced mix of Lavender, Ylang Ylang, and Bergamot.
Also available as a handy Pulse Point Roller Ball for quick stress relief throughout your day.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely for Stress Relief

Essential oils are powerful natural tools for emotional wellbeing, but using them correctly is essential to ensure they remain safe, effective, and enjoyable. Here’s how to get the most out of your oils while protecting yourself and those around you.

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1. Diffusion

Best for: Creating a calming atmosphere at home or work.

• Add 5–8 drops of essential oil to water in your preferred ultrasonic diffuser.

• Diffuse for 30–60 minutes at a time, then allow for a break to prevent overexposure.

• Ideal oils for diffusion:

  • Lavender Essential Oil

  • Bergamot Essential Oil

  • Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

Tip: Diffusing calming oils while working, studying, or winding down can help naturally promote focus and relaxation.

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2. Topical Application (Always Diluted)

Best for: Personal stress relief through skin absorption and localized aromatherapy.

• Mix essential oils with a carrier oil such as Fractionated Coconut Oil or Jojoba Carrier Oil.

• Safe dilution guideline:

  • 5 drops of essential oil to 10ml of carrier oil (approximately 2% dilution).

• Apply to pulse points like wrists, temples, and neck.

Tip: Save time with pre-diluted Pulse Point Roller Balls — perfect for quick application on busy days.

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3. Bathing

Best for: Full-body relaxation and promoting better sleep.

• Mix 5–10 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil or full-fat milk before adding to your bath.
  (This helps disperse the oil evenly and prevents skin irritation.)

• Alternatively, try ready-made options like Lavender Bath Salts.

Tip: A warm chamomile and lavender bath before bed can significantly improve your sleep quality.

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4. Room Sprays

Best for: Refreshing your space quickly and naturally.

• DIY Recipe:

  • 10 drops essential oil + 30ml water + a splash of vodka or witch hazel in a spray bottle.

  • Shake before each use.

Tip: Orange and Frankincense make a great energizing room spray for mornings, while Lavender and Ylang Ylang are perfect for evenings.

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5. Wax Melts and Candles

Best for: Long-lasting, background relaxation.

• Use ready-made Wax Melts infused with natural essential oils like Lavender or Jasmine.

• Lighting a naturally scented candle can create a peaceful environment with minimal effort.

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Important Safety Tips

• Always dilute essential oils before applying to the skin.

• Avoid eyes, ears, and mucous membranes.

• Do not ingest essential oils.

• Use caution around pets, children, and pregnant women.

• Ensure good ventilation when diffusing.

• Store oils properly — in a cool, dark place with lids tightly closed.

• Perform a patch test before using any new oil on the skin.

For more detailed safety information, visit the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA).

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