Grief is defined as feelings of sadness or overwhelming despair. This may be brought on by the death of a close friend or family member. Grief can be very debilitating and can result in problems with anxiety such as fear, panic attacks, and clinical depression. Sickness, illness, and disease can be caused by a broken heart. Grief, sorrow, and pain caused by overwhelming circumstances will take a toll on the mind, body, emotions, and spirit. The physical body not immune to these effects. It may seem conterintuitive that grief can lead to sickness but it's true. The immune system slows, becoming sluggish and weakened thereby allowing sickness and disease to enter the body.



As a result, the vital importance of conquering grief impacts the health and well-being of the whole body. A wounded heart may seem insurmountable but there are remedies. It is necessary to refrain from isolating oneself as a response to grief. One must spend time in the company of caring friends and relatives, allowing them to assist you through this difficult time. If you feel overwhelmed by grief to the point that you begin to have thoughts of death or suicide, you must immediately seek professional help. You may be entering into serious clinical depression and it is necessary to seek the help of a trained professional who can provide you with counseling and work through your grief. It is important to remember that no matter how insurmountable things may seem, the feelings do not have to be indefinite.

Life is a journey with many emotional peaks and valleys. Sometimes we need to keep in mind that brighter days are on the horizon. It is important is to talk to those in whom you have trust. If you share your feelings and keep the door of communication open wide, as time passes, you will begin to see the grief abate and you will develop coping mechanisms. Tools such as prayer and meditation can also aid in healing your broken heart. Scientific studies have demonstrated the power of prayer. One can find comfort in trying times by using a combination of available tools.

Aromatherapy can also aid in relaxation when one is feeling overburdened and in need of comfort. Some may find listening to beautiful music soothing as well. A nice hot aromatic bath, lighting some candles, and relaxing to some comforting music may be just what one needs. You may prefer spiritual songs or nature sounds, such as the sounds of birds, rain, or ocean waves.

Mandarin Palmarosa is a powerful herb that promotes calmness and can help soothe one's mind. Approximately 20 drops of Palmarosa can be added to the bath water for a calming and soothing bath. Palmarosa can also be combined with rose, lavender, geranium, ylang ylang, clary sage, or bergamot. If you are adding these to the bath, decrease the Palmarosa to ten drops and substitute ten drops of one of the other essential oils. It is optimal to soak for a minimum of 20 minutes. Keep in mind that it is important to follow the safety precautions found on the essential oil's label.