Over the last few weeks I have noticed a dramatic increase in the levels of stress and anxiety clients are trying to handle. They each have their own unique circumstances, conditions and history. But one common prevailing factor I have observed is the lack of healthy self-soothing and nurturing within their weekly routine.

High stress levels can create anxiety and physical exhaustion. Symptoms such as breathlessness, skin irritations, headaches, palpitations and digestive issues are but some of the ways our body tells us, that we need to unwind. Certainly I recommend regular Massages, Reiki treatments, Crystal Balancing and Sound Healing sessions. However I believe we have a fundamental responsibility to ourselves to include regular self-care into our weekly routine at home.

Taking time to care for oneself is vital to the overall wellbeing of our lives.

Uranus – the planet of innovation and enlightenment – moved into Taurus, May 2018. Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty. This astrological transit, holds the energy of – what I like to call – “wake up and shape up”. Uranus disrupts that which is stuck, and forces change through awareness and subsequent growth. It offers us the chance to look at our lives in practical terms and see what no longer works.

This transiting energy through Taurus, also offers us the perfect chance to explore the value we assign to ourselves. Astrologically, it is the perfect time to explore more deeply our connection to both our physical world, and our physical bodies. The growing interest in natural health, plant-based eating, and holistic healing are all expression of this shift. The loving use of the earth’s elements within our daily self-care and healing regime, is very much a Venusian way. Utilising nature and beauty, to support our own body’s natural rhythm and harmony.

In order for us to maintain self-care regularity, I believe it must be kept simple. So, over the last few weeks, I have recommended to all my clients what I refer to as:

“The Venusian Element”

1. Aromatherapy Oil (Fire)
2. Crystal (Earth)
3. Foot bath (Water)
4. Conscious Breath – extended exhale (Air)

Choose a relaxing Aromatherapy Oil, add it to warm water in a footbath, place a soothing de-stress crystal in the water – along with your feet – and breathe. Soak for 5 minutes every evening, for a week.

There are several oils and crystals that I use most regularly. My choice on the day, is very much based on my mood.  Each crystal and aroma have their speciality and all are worth having available, in your self-care kit. These are easily purchased, both locally or online.

Venusian Fire:  Relaxing aroma oils

Lemongrass Oil

Breathing in the fresh scent of lemongrass oil can relieve the symptoms of anxiety and promote a feeling of relaxation.  It is a refreshing, cleansing and stimulating tonic for the skin, which purifies skin tissues.  Can also be used to help tread athletes foot.

Clary Sage

This wonderful aroma, positively influences is a natural antidepressant, and is one of the best remedies for anxiety. Excellent for uplifting the mood, it helps to ease feelings of anxiety by calming the mind, while boosting self-esteem and confidence.

Lavender

Lavender is the ultimate adaptogen, known to help balance issues for all types of personalities. It is renowned for its calming, relaxing effect.  A “nervous system restorative” which helps boost inner peace, improve sleep, relieve irritability, anxiety and panic attacks, and general nervous tension.

Roman Chamomile

A calming aroma of chamomile encourages inner harmony while reducing anxiety, irritability and the tendency to overthink everything.  It is an ideal oil for relaxation and sleep.  The soothing properties can help ease the symptoms of anxiety and dispel lingering anger.

Bergamot

With a distinctive floral taste and aroma, this oil is very calming. It induces relaxation, eases mind chatter, and reduces agitation. Bergamot supports a better night’s rest.  It helps with depression and anxiety by providing an energy boost that improve one’s mood.  It is useful as an antibacterial, analgesic, and antiseptic oil.

Venusian Earth: Soothing crystals

Lepidolite

This stone contains naturally occurring lithium, an ingredient often used in anti-anxiety medications. This gentle stone allows you to benefit from this, without any of the potential side effects of medication. Lepidolite can help to bring balance and clarity in times of stress or when you feel like the world around you or your life is in chaos.

Rose Quartz

Rose quartz is considered by many to be the stone of unconditional love and is strongly associated with the heart chakra. Its gentle and loving vibrations are particularly useful in easing upsets connected with emotions, confrontation and relationships. This stone will help to bring your comfort and increase your feelings of self-love and self-worth.

Black Tourmaline

This is an excellent choice of crystal when your worries, anxiety, or fears feel overwhelming or insurmountable. Hold the stone in your hand and visualise all of your troubles being sucked into the stone, leaving you feeling relaxed and able to go about your day. Black tourmaline can also help to protect you against negative energy.

Blue Lace Agate

This calming blue crystal is regarded by many as the best choice for reducing anxiety and stress. Its soothing vibrational energy encourages relaxation and calms the nerves. Meditating with blue lace agate is highly effective in reducing stress and anxiety. If you struggle with anxiety on a daily basis it can help to carry a blue lace agate in your pocket where you can hold it whenever you need.

Venusian Air: Conscious Breathing – The extended exhalation

Conscious breathing sounds complex, but simply involves placing your attention and awareness on your breath. The most effective anti-stress, anti-anxiety breathing technique focuses on the exhalation,

2. Remember that relaxation is in the exhalation, so make your exhalation a few counts longer than your inhalation.
3. The slower you breathe, the deeper your relaxation.

This is an excellent technique for balancing emotions, quieting the mind, and regulating anxiety.  Start by inhaling through the nostrils with a count of three and exhaling through the mouth with a count of five.  After several rounds, extend the count to 5/8 and then 7/10.

Venusian Water: The sacred soak

I don’t always have the time to soak in the bath – which often involves cleaning the bath first (a real enthusiasm killer). Foot baths make this self-care routine a simple no fuss experience.

Place a few drops of your chosen essential oil, into warm water.  Do not use hot water, as it can degrade the essential oil. Crystals do not like hot water either. Test the heat with the heel of your foot, to ensure the perfect temperature.