Now Shahnaz Hussain’s Anti-stress Treatments

Shahnaz Hussain is a known name the world over. She re-discovered the art of beauty not only for a proud and ancient civilization like India but also mankind. Without the side effects of the artificial beauty aids that the west has invented she came as a whiff of fresh air for the beauty conscious. But she has more in her treasure, something that the stressed out world needs more.

by REPORTER@DAYAFTERINDIA.COM

Shahnaz Husain Treatments that help to relieve stress, induce relaxation, help mood upliftment, or relieve fatigue, have become so relevant to modern life. That is why treatments based on aromatherapy and essential oils have also gained popularity. Actually, this is not at all a modern concept, because such treatments have been in use since the ancient times. Ancient Ayurvedic texts contain records of the aromatic oils and plant extracts that were used to treat psychological and psychosomatic problems, as their fragrances were said to influence the nervous system and induce calm and relaxation. Extracts and oils of rose, sandalwood, lavender, orange flower (neroli), brahmi, etc., have been used in Ayurveda for their stress relieving benefits.

From dispersing or diffusing the aroma of such plant products, to scented baths and aromatherapy massage, there are several ways of using such treatments at home, to relieve stress and bring about relaxation of both body and mind. Dried flowers and leaves, for example, can be used as pot pourri and left around the house. All one has to do is to add a few drops of an essential oil to these from time to time.

Another interesting way is to use aromatherapy candles. The olfactory function actually plays an important role, as the olfactory nerves carry the signals to the brain, where the aroma is analysed. The aromas can evoke varied responses. Just smelling them can have the power to alter a person’s mood or mental state. Candles are a wonderful way of diffusing the atmosphere around you with fragrance, to calm you, make you feel relaxed and reduce stress.

Another way of dispersing aroma is by using special tea light holders, in which there is a recess below to burn a candle (tea light), while water, with a few drops of essential oil, and is placed above. The heat from the candle warms the water and helps to disperse the aroma. In your diffuser, you can put 2 drops of rose or lavender essential oil along with 2 drops of lemon oil in the water. Geranium oil also helps to uplift the mood.

The ancient sages of India advocated yoga, pranayama and meditation, which can easily be adapted to our modern lifestyle. Ideally, one should learn these from a qualified teacher, but you can easily start with simple breathing and see how it actually helps to de-stress and bring about a feeling of calm.

Deep breathing is an excellent means of reducing stress. You do not need to adopt the yogic posture. You may sit in a comfortable chair, with feet flat on the floor. Your body should be relaxed. Close your eyes and begin breathing, slowly and with ease. Allow your mind to follow your breathing as you inhale and exhale. Breathe in slowly and deeply and then breathe out slowly. Concentrate your mind on your breathing by observing the inhaling and exhaling of breath.

You can continue breathing this way for two minutes, normally and easily, focusing your attention on your breath. If you begin to feel relaxed, continue for another few minutes. You will notice that your mind and body have relaxed and you may even find that your mind is much quieter. Focusing your attention on your breathing has pushed all other thoughts away for a few minutes. You can place an aromatherapy candle, tea-light diffuser, or pot pourri near you during deep breathing and meditation.