As popular as this wartime slogan is these days on tea towels and mugs, I am inclined to prefer the alternative version that says ‘Now Panic And Freak Out’. Mainly because in my world, keeping calm and carrying on does not get a lot done. In fact, it’s more likely to get a cup of tea made and a nice scone buttered. Yes, it’s true: I’m one of those people who, to achieve anything, needs the rush of adrenaline that you get when you leave something until the last minute. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that organisation is just a crutch for people who can’t handle caffeine and a bit of blind panic.

It’s a handy philosophy in a world shared by a toddler. Because what’s the point in organising anything when it’s going to be thrown in the bath (my new Top Shop ankle boots), hidden in the washing machine (my car keys) or eaten (the MOT certificate)? However, there are times when you might feel you’re panicking unnecessarily, and not getting anything done at all. In which case, I tend to reduce my coffee intake to four barrels a day and try a little aromatherapy. And thinking about this has prompted me to research a few stress-busters of that very nature, which may prove handy for you in the often hectic run up to Christmas.

Tisserand are quite the big name when it comes to all things aromatherapeutic. (See, I know long words.) They’ve been around for about 40 years, and are a UK company, so I for one rather like them. Their ‘Survival Kit’ contains, thankfully, nothing that Ray Mears would be interested in but rather three ‘roll-on’ aromatherapy oils that you apply to your pulse points when you feel the need. One is ‘De-stress’, one is ‘Sleep’ and one is ‘Energise’. Not bad for a tenner. And although I have absolutely no need for any help getting to sleep, the ‘De-stress’ smells pleasantly Turkish Delight-y and made the whole MOT certificate eating incident slightly more bearable.

For pretty much the same, ie £11, Origins will give you their best-selling Peace of Mind. The three aromas (basil, eucalyptus and peppermint) apparently tell your brain to switch off (not completely, I hope) and calm the hell down. What I liked about this was that it smelt more of the basil than the peppermint (which I am not a fan of, except in toothpaste). And if you follow the instructions you’ll give yourself a reviving temple massage too. I definitely felt better, and smelt a bit of pesto too. Never a bad thing.

Neal’s Yard undercut these two with their Remedies to Roll – Relaxation. Apparently, ‘Lavender, geranium and bergamot are for stress and irritability, frankincense is uplifting, while orange nourishes the nervous system and helps reduce feelings of exhaustion.’ I prefer this to the minty stuff, and it’s more like a really herbal perfume, which made me feel pampered and spa-ish immediately. And at a mere £5.20, it’s the same price as my other favourite stress-buster, a bottle of cheap wine.

  • Share/Bookmark