Essential oils have many properties. But one of them which works very well for my kids and me is supporting our learning by helping us concentrate better.
Modern living is the enemy of concentration
Our ability to concentrate and focus is directly linked to the health of the connections between our neurons. There are many factors that can influence this: lack of sleep, stress, anxiety, infections, sugar and alcohol (obviously not for the kids!) can all have a negative impact on our concentration levels. More complex issues such as ADHD and other neurological challenges can also come into play. But, our modern way of living and most importantly our habits of “snacking” content on our phones and other devices means that we have a constantly distracted brain. We are overly simulated, bombarded by messages and reminders all of the time, all of which contribute to our distraction.
How to become less distracted?
Learning to be less distracted – or in-distractable seems like an crucial skill these days. You can learn more from Nir Eyal, a behavioural economist and bestselling author, in a series of articles on distraction. He provides quite a few tactics: planning your day (it works, I’ve done it), having set times for social media and email (I’m working on it!), learning to feel and control the distraction, not becoming distracted between transition phases between 2 activities.
Alongside working on ways to remove distractions and create new learning or working habits, essential oils can play an important and supportive role. Through the activation of the olfactory bulb, it can improve brain processes that can improve brain connections. And with better brain connections come better learning. I certainly love diffusing when I’m studying or when the kids are doing their homework.
What oils can support focus, concentration and memory
There are many oils that can support you with this. And with everything, some might work better for some people than others. So it is a matter of trying them out and see what works for you – or simply which smell you like best.
So below is just a small selection of oils which you might want to try
Rosemary
This refreshing and cooling herb can support memory, focus and clarity. Diffuse or apply* under the nose or across the forehead.
Lemon
This uplifting and invigorating oil can help with energy and concentration, perfect for an afternoon study session. Diffuse or inhale. It is a great companion to Rosemary
Peppermint
Another invigorating oil, it can stimulate alertness and support energy, ideal when you need to focus on your books. It is also cooling and can help with headaches, which can sometimes come on after a long study period. Inhale or apply under the nose or back of the neck.
Balance
Balance, dōTERRA’s grounding blend can help us feel more tranquil and able to focus. You can apply under the nose, on the back of the neck or diffuse for a calmer afternoon
InTune
InTune, dōTERRA’s focus blend is an effective oil in supporting our needs for focus, concentration and mental clarity. It comes in a handy roller bottle, making it really easy to apply. Back of the neck is an ideal place to apply it.
Thinker
Thinker, dōTERRA’s children’s focus blend is specifically created for children, though adults can really benefit from this blend too. As per the name, when one requires thinking, focus and concentration, Thinker is worth a try.
Would you like to find out more about how essential oils can support your health?
If you are interested in essential oils, feel free to contact me or go to my dōTERRA page.
* for safe application, please dilute pure oils with carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. Test skin sensitivity before using directly on the skin
How to get essential oils
If you’d like to get essential oils to support and balance your immune system, please read more here