How I use an essential oil diffuser to stay calm during the week
An essential oil diffuser has become an integral step in my daily routine — both during the week and throughout evenings and weekends.
Which oil you end up using is up to you and your routines. BellaMist offers a variety of essential and fragrance oils, both individually and in sets.
While I prefer the aromatherapy aspect of essential oils, registered dietician Maya Feller previously told TODAY that they're generally used in three ways: They can be ingested through droppers or capsules, applied to skin topically through hair or skin care products and spread into air for aromatherapy with a diffuser. Feller uses essential oils in her practice, scents including oregano, lemon, peppermint, lavender and argan oil.
Regardless of which route you head, keep in mind the ASPCA notes some possible risks when using essential oils in proximity to pets. "Using an oil diffuser for a short time period in a secured area — one that your dog or cat cannot access — is not likely to be an issue," they summarize. "However, if your pet has a history of breathing problems, it may be best to avoid using one altogether." Before buying an oil diffuser, be sure it's safe for your pets and that you pet-proof the space where you plan to use it.
While I currently use the BellaMist diffuser, there are a variety of other highly-rated options to consider.
TODAY contributor Katie Jackson recommends the URPOWER Diffuser. It's got a 4.4-star average rating from over 65,300 reviewers on Amazon, and goes for less than $20. She explains that the small-but-mighty diffuser freshens up the air and is easy to use. It also comes in a few colors, including Blue and White/Grey.
The Vitruvi Stone Diffuser is a little over half-a-foot tall and can hold up to 90 milliliters of water to disperse mist in rooms up to 500 square feet. It's got a 4.4-star average rating on Amazon from over 1,500 reviewers. While on the higher-end, it's made from porcelain and can run intermittently for up to seven hours, or up to three hours straight. It also features a minimalist and natural design that doubles as art on a bedside or coffee table. Additionally, it comes in over half a dozen colors, including Blush, Charcoal, Honey, Sea and more. You can also find a variety of essential oils on the brand's website, as well as the Move and Stay Diffusers, which offer a more contemporary design.
With a 4.5-star average rating from over 64,200 reviewers on Amazon, this InnoGear diffuser is the retailer's No. 1 bestseller when it comes to aromatherapy diffusers. It's compact and features two modes for intermittent or continuous use. It can run for up to eight hours intermittently or four hours continuously and will automatically shut off once the water runs out. Plus, you can find it in four colors, including Yellow and Brown.
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