The concept of self-care has become associated with pampering, but it is so much more than that. What it means is to take care of yourself, a vital aspect of maintaining your health and wellbeing.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic stress "weakens the immune system and inflames the body, making us more susceptible to colds, weight gain, sleep issues, stomach ulcers, depression, diabetes and heart disease." Rather than react to stress with numbing activities like binge-watching a TV show, the Cleveland Clinic recommends self-care practices.

One of the main self-care steps is to take the time in your day to pause. Activities that promote calm, peaceful reflection help us relieve stress. This can be as simple as spending some time outside or taking an Epsom salt bath. These self-care practices help "quiet the mind, balance hormones, including cortisol (the stress hormone), lower blood pressure and improve brain health," according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Our favorite way to take pause is with some simple meditation. Find a calm, quiet space and make yourself comfortable. Then close your eyes and focus on your breathing: inhale, exhale. Allow your mind to settle, in just five minutes you can feel the stress melting away.

To set the atmosphere for meditation and focused relaxation, you can use essential oils in either an essential oil diffuser or direct application. Our favorite essential oils for meditation are Frankincense, Lavender, Neroli, Patchouli, Rose oil, and Sandalwood.