Hello!
According to this article, studies have shown that dry air has four main effects on the human body:*
- Breathing dry air is a potential health hazard that can cause such respiratory ailments as asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, and nosebleeds or general dehydration since body fluids are depleted during respiration.
- Skin moisture evaporation can cause skin irritations and eye itching.
- Irritative effects, such as static electricity which causes mild shocks when metal is touched, are common when the air moisture is low.
- The “apparent temperature” of the air is lower than what the thermometer indicates, and the body “feels” colder.
Living in the lower half of the state of Alabama where we typically have high humidity in the summer months, I can attest to the fact that higher humidity can cause us to feel warmer! The flip-side is also true. Lower humidity can cause us to feel cooler. So one benefit of upping the humidity in cooler months may be help on your heating bills! Using your essential oils diffusers can help put moisture back into the air with the added benefits from your essential oils.
If dry skin is a problem, in addition to humidifying the air, you can lock in some of the moisture right away by patting dry after bath/shower (not rubbing) and then using a light body oil or lotion [like Genesis Hand and Body Lotion]. To be sure the product you use doesn't have damaging ingredients and can even support your skin's natural healing properties look to Young Living's range of products suitable for every member of the family. Also, be sure to use a moisturizing soap to avoid stripping natural and beneficial oils from your skin. Valor Bar Soap is one of my favorites!
Folks tend to promote the need to stay hydrated in hot summer months, but not so much in winter. But with dry indoor air, it's still important to maintain excellent hydration from the inside out. Warm herbal teas and hot cocoas may be more appealing. Try adding different flavors with Vitality oils (just a drop!) or pre-diluted Vitality Drops to jazz up your winter drinks, warm or cold.
TIP: Always choose metal, glass or ceramic containers when using essential oils as some can break down the material in plastic containers.
Dry nose?
A simple saline spray can help as can tenting your head with a towel over a sink/bowl of hot, steamy saltwater while breathing deeply for a few minutes. You can do basically the same thing in a hot shower (but you don't want to beat up your skin with very hot water for too long). Add a Shower Steamer from Young Living for an added punch.
Happy Oiling!
~Dawn
*Disclaimer: Please remember that anything discussed herein does not constitute professional licensed legal or medical advice and is not a substitute for appropriate legal or medical advice suited to your individual situation or for your own due diligence.
