How to Survive Mercury Retrograde with Essential Oils:

Have things seemed a little crazy the last few days? Are you having trouble finding the words, getting where you're going, or making your Internet connection cooperate? You may be experiencing the effects of Mercury retrograde. Even if you are not much interested in astrology or don't believe in the metaphysical world, you are not free of the chaos that this astrological phenomenon can wreak.

So, what is Mercury retrograde? Well, it can feel as though the world is upside down, making everything seem like one step forward, two steps back. Retrograde is the optical illusion of Mercury as it appears to go backward in its orbit, though it is merely slowed in its movement as we keep speeding along. Mercury is the planet of communication, travel and technology. So, if you're planning to say anything, go anywhere, or use an electronic device, chances are something among those won't go the way you planned. Retrograde began on May 29 and will last until June 22nd. But don't worry, these scents are sure to help you make sense of the crazy world.

To help you survive the next couple weeks, here is a guide to crafting essential oil blends at home to help ease the tension and turn the tide. If you're not familiar with essential oils, they are potent plant essences (also known as the life force of a plant), which have powerful effects on our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These distilled oils are concentrates of plants and flowers which have their effect both topically and through the olfactory system.

There are three blends outlined here, which I crafted, both for their aromatic harmony, and their synergistic effects. You can try all the blends or pick the one that suits your “sensibilities”-so choose by your nose or your intuition.

You can add these essential oil blends to water and make a natural perfume or room spray; add to your favorite lotion or moisturizer; add to a carrier oil like almond, jojoba, or apricot; or add directly to your bath for a soothing soak.

Personally, I love the versatility of a mist because you can carry it with you and spread it all around. If this is the option you choose, start with purified or spring water. If you don't have an empty spray bottle, they are readily available at your local health food or grocery store or easily found online. They are cheap and versatile for various uses, so grab a couple.

To begin, here is a little guide on how much essential oil to add to your base:

If you love your smells and want them to come on strong, you can add a little more. If you are a sensitive smeller, take it easy, and add a little less. I also provided substitutions for each of the blends, in case you don’t have all the oils or, if you prefer a different scent. The substitutions will work together as a whole blend, or as a replacement for one or more of the oils in the primary blends, and will provide a similar effect and synergy.

Here is a video if you still have questions about concentrations in mixing or about safely applying essential oils to the skin:

THREE BLENDS FOR BLISS:

1. Eucalyptus, basil, grapefruit, lavender

Let’s get it started! This is a great get up and go blend, especially if you are feeling a little worn down or a little slow on the jump. Try this in the A.M to get off on the right foot, or any time you need a boost.

Eucalyptus clears negative energy and opens energetic pathways. This strong scent will push bad energy right out of the way.

Basil is an excellent tonic for fatigue and is great for topical usage. A little sweet and a little spicy, this Mediterranean herb is a savory treat for the weary.

Grapefruit is vibrant and cheerful and helps to revitalize and energize the nervous system. The juice may be tart, but the sweet scent of the oil will be sure to make you smile, not pucker!

Lavender is a classic oil used to calm, heal, and balance. It's also great for easing tired muscles and soothing headaches. Think of waving purple fields of tall flowers, wafting sweetly and gently, waving good-bye to stress.

*Substitutions: Rosemary, lemon, lime, peppermint

2. Clary sage, chamomile, bergamot, geranium

Slow it down. This blend is perfect for the fast-moving or the high-strung. Maybe you have plenty of energy, like me, and you need to calm down a little. Ideal for late morning or afternoon when the stress may be piling up but you need to push on through and keep shining.

Clary sage helps relieve fear and anxiety. Imagine a wise genie in a bottle ready to pop out with sage advice to calm your spirit and guide you to tranquility.

Chamomile is used to support sleep and peace. Think of a hot cup of chamomile tea creating calm and a sense of serenity.

Bergamot, with its citrus tones, is uplifting while building confidence and aiding inspiration. It also helps to balance the nervous system when you’re feeling fried.

Geranium is a floral sent with a normalizing effect to help balance mind, body, and emotions. Like someone sent you a bouquet of flowers, this scent is a gift that will brighten your day.

*Substitutions: Jasmine, vetiver. lemon

3. Cedarwood, frankincense, orange, ylang ylang

Keep the peace. This blend is great for the scattered or the disheartened. Maybe you need to focus, reflect and regroup. This is the blend for you. A good mix to use any time of day that you need to get your feet back on the ground, meditate or get some rest.

Cedarwood is grounding and harmonizing. Imagine a walk in the forest, and let the woodsy scent bring you back to earth.

Frankincense has long been used as a meditative aid, helping provide deep stillness and pleasant dreams. To be frank, use this one when you feel like you are losing your mind.

Orange is cheerful and refreshing like the vibrant burst of aroma you get when you start to peel back the tasty fruit. It promotes mental clarity and balance.

Ylang ylang, like the happy yellow flower it comes from, produces a slightly euphoric effect and eases depression.

*Substitutions: Myrrh, patchouli, neroli

Ready to get started? One of the best things about making your own essential oil blends is that the process of relaxing and healing has already begun, as the fragrances start to work their magic. So don’t stress if you are new to this! Enjoy the process of exploring the scents and let your nose be your guide. If there is a smell that doesn't sit well with you, leave that one out. If you’re not sure whether you will like a certain combination, open each bottle and hold them together close to your nose, moving your hand around in a circle like you are stirring a pot, and take a deep breath. This should help you get the full experience.

Now, relax, enjoy, and don't let the retrograde get you down! Lift your spirits with essential oils and just breathe.