Dealing with my teens’ moody days made me wonder if there was anything I could do to make them feel more relaxed, especially close to exams and deadlines when they usually are more irritable and short-tempered. I’ve researched and read many articles, but most of them mentioned ideas like spending some time outdoors, exercising, and rest. All apparently proved to relieve stress, but in my case, my teens always say they have a lot of homework to do and don’t have time to go out or sleep more (although they do so wish). So I had to dig deeper and find other natural ways that would work while they were studying, without the need to have extra time. And those are the ideas that showed the best results.
Lavender flowers in the pillowcase
Lavender is well known for its calming effects, but when I tried to add a few drops to the pillow case, it left a stain on the fabric. So, I decided to change strategy and made a fabric sachet and filled it with dried lavender flowers. All I had to do was place the sachets on both sides of the pillow just underneath the pillowcase. The soothing and relaxing scent of lavender stays all night long, and it helps them to fall asleep faster with the scented pillow.
Chamomile foot soak
This was the most challenging idea, as both my teens were skeptical about it and not very willing to try it. As they refuse to drink tea before bed time and usually still have some homework left or have to study after dinner, I just told them I would prepare the foot soak, and all they had to do was sit at their desk and put their feet inside the bowl. I have already tried it, and this bath works wonders for a good night’s sleep, although I usually just relax and read a book instead of work or study. Anyway, I wanted to give it a try, and to my surprise, the results were very positive. After the initial complaints that they could not study with their feed in a bowl, they both got used to it and told me that it actually felt good. On my side, I noticed they woke up more relaxed and less grumpy to go to school in the morning. All you need is a basin of warm water and some chamomile flowers, and soak the feet for 15-20 minutes or until the water is cold.
Lavender and bergamot essential oil blend for the diffuser
I’ve tried a few essential oil relaxing combinations that could provide a gentle aroma in the air and help my teens feel less stressed with school pressure, especially during the final exams. The lavender Bergamot blend was the most effective one and actually showed the most relaxing effect.
This is a 50/50 essential oil blend of bergamot and lavender essential oils, with 4 drops of each oil mixed with 200ml water in the diffuser. Then, I just placed it near their desk while they were studying.
These are a few natural ideas easy to try at home to help our kids improve their mood and calm their minds, reducing stress and anxiety, especially in the last year of high school when teens can feel overwhelmed. After a couple of weeks, I noticed they were both more relaxed, less agitated, and they told me they also slept better. But the best part is that they are definitely less moody.
Read Benefits of essential oils if you’d like to learn more!
