This is the first in a series of aromatherapy articles to help you with OVERWHELM. A condition that is rampant in our world at this time. We are faced with more challenges than ever before in our human history. Getting into a resourceful state by becoming quiet and still is the first step to taking back control of your mind and your life circumstances.

In this series of articles I will introduce you to the essential oils I've used for more than 30 years to treat feelings of overwhelm, stress and confusion. As well, I will teach you very simple strategies to quickly and effectively calm your heart, mind and soul.

Spikenard (Nardastachus jatamansi) Common name Himalaya Nard, steam distilled roots.

Chemical Class: Primarily Sesquiterpenes and Sesquiterpenols (of which valerianol is a component, making Spikenard a relative of Valerian family which has traditionally been used as a sedative for treating insomnia and sleeplessness.

Essential oils in the chemical class of sesquiterpenes are known to have the most sedative action in aromatherapy.

Its chemical classification denotes Spikenard's strong anti-inflammatory properties. Spikenard is known to calm hyper reactive states and inflammatory conditions like allergies and the painful symptoms of arthritis.

Spikenard is effective for treating migraine, digestive complaints, panic attacks, tension and restlessness

Spikenard's regenerative and healing action may be useful for treating incurable skin conditions like Scleroderma. Use Spikenard oil for promoting healthy skin and hair.

Spikenard was the oil noted in the Bible that was used by Mary Magdalene to anoint her master's feet.

Its character is feminine and it's useful as a yin tonic to calm the nerves, balance hormones and excessive yang states. Spikenard may be especially helpful for balancing cardiac conditions like hypertension and arrhythmia.

For perfumery Spikenard is often used as a base or middle note.

Its color frequency is in the green to blue range.

Spikenard is useful for clearing and balancing the 4th chakra (heart) of excitement, worry and conditions related to stress, 5th chakra (throat) for those with sharp and critical tendencies in speech, 6th chakra (brow) for lucid dreaming and deepening sleep patterns, 7th chakra (crown) for opening the higher mind to new revelations and innovative ideas.

Astrologically Spikenard resonates with the Moon (Cancer), Venus (Taurus), Jupiter (Sagittarius) & Neptune (Pisces) and Pluto (Scorpio).

Recommendation for use when feeling overwhelmed by life circumstances

Dispense 1-3 drops of Spikenard pure essential oil on a cotton ball. Slowly introduce the oils into your system by breathing in their vapors. Your first breath should be rather shallow, exhale fully and inhale once more. With each inhalation deepen your breathing by expanding your lungs more fully. Continue breathing the aromatic vapors for 30-60 seconds. Then allow yourself to rest for 5 minutes.

You might play some quiet and peaceful music, or relax in a hot sea salt bath as you rest and relax. If any worrisome thoughts surface just allow them to fall away; don't engage with any worry at this time.

Breathing the vapors of your Spikenard oil several times each day in this way will train your mind how to be quiet and still. You must take control over your mind and teach it how to be calm and quiet as you desire, not to run you around with worry.

You must begin to take charge of the stories you tell yourself and your Spikenard will help you to do this. Your Spikenard oil will also help you to access new meanings for your life events that are more resourceful. This practice will help you find solutions to any dilemmas you face. But first you must take a moment to use your Spikenard oil and allow yourself to be quiet and peaceful. This is your first step.