Aromatherapeutic Practices Ideal For Remote Work Fatigue

Remote work holds more advantages than disadvantages for the average person. Or, so it might seem on the face of it. The dream to be given the opportunity to manage one’s own time, avoid the stress of a daily commute and work independently of an office environment has become a reality for many. It is a welcome alternative to the stolid, somewhat unproductive nine-to-five drone that was the norm until very recently.

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An interesting article published by bcg.com gives a broad-spectrum overview of the pros and cons associated with remote life. The information gathered is the result of an extensive survey conducted with the co-operation of several subjects, resulting in an accurate data collection for the purpose of establishing how remote work is affecting the average employee across industries. 

We often think only in terms of the pros associated with remote work. The prospect has become very attractive. Who would willingly reject the opportunity to balance work and life, be given an avenue to avoid workplace conflicts, and save money while having the accessibility to manage family responsibilities?

Interestingly, psychology.org.au released the findings of several psychologists that have studied the remote work phenomenon from the perspective of the fully remote employee and the partially remote worker.

Covid-19 has obliged many companies to adopt the fully-remote model, and many have found the practice advantageous to their particular model, with plans to institute better measures to facilitate remote working options, even after the effects of the pandemic are diminished. But, what of the adverse effects and how can they be relieved?

Disadvantages of remote work

One of the most poignant observations relating to the disadvantages employees experience while conducting remote work is the onset of stress. Stress produced by longer hours, a feeling of isolation, depression (most common among those who live alone), anxiety in relation to productivity and expectation, environmental distraction, a lack of motivation, the inability to ‘switch off’, anxiety, lack of team creativity, and video call fatigue. See the article by honestprosandcons.com. Stress causes fatigue, and fatigue affects both the body and mind.

Essence transforms into energy

Working remotely might not be an active choice for many. Right now, there might be little choice in the matter. Aromatherapy is a very effective and therapeutic way of restoring imbalances in the body by revitalising polarised and discharged cells, and dispersing cellular residue by dissolving the viscous and diseased substances in body fluids.

All essential oils, whether they come from flowers, fruits, resins or barks, have antibiotic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, to a greater or lesser degree. They stimulate the body’s immune system.

Essential oils detoxify, oxygenate and hydrate the skin, are easily absorbed, and aid in encouraging the growth of new cells. Blending oils provide either calming, stimulating or detoxifying effects. They can be massaged into the skin, added to a warm bath or diffused into the environment.

How to use aromatherapy to combat work-related stress

Often, I find myself working beyond reasonable bounds, and remaining static for long periods. Stress is the invariable result and general fatigue. I want to share a few rescue remedies I’ve applied and trusted for decades.

Add five drops to a warm bath:

Morning Bath - invigorating

• Three drops Rosemary
• Two drops juniper

Evening Bath – sedative

• One drop Chamomile
• Four drops Lavender

Burn-in oil burner or vapouriser:

• Basil (mental fatigue)
• Use a vegetable oil in your burner, not mineral oil.

To clear the air

• Clary sage

Pregnant women should avoid:

• Basil,
• Camphor
• Cedarwood 
• Hyssop,
• Marjoram
• Myrrh 
• Sage 
• Thyme 
• Fennel
• and juniper

Avoid diffusing these oils in areas where pets may have access:

• Eucalyptus 
• Tea tree
• Cinnamon 
• Citrus
• Pennyroyal 
• Peppermint 
• Pine 
• Sweet birch 
• Wintergreen
• Ylang-ylang

Creating a productive home office space

We’re lulled into thinking that our homes provide the kind of space that promotes productivity and creativity, where, instead, the opposite might be true. Try, if possible, to create a personal space to work in, even if it’s the corner of a room. Take the necessary precautions to place limits on your output. After all, you are your own best employee, too.

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Recommended reading

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Tags: Remote Work, Guest Post