Energizing: Pre-Run Essential Oils

After a long day at work or chasing after kids, the idea of completing my training schedule or even going for a leisurely run can feel like an invitation to climb Mt. Everest. But, running isn't something I do with the goal of breaking records or being a fierce competitor. Running is something I do for my sanity; an intricate part of my self care routine. It's the 45 minutes (most days) I set aside to care only for myself, both physically and emotionally. Sometimes, when I'm exhausted and stressed, a run is the last thing I want to force myself into, even though I know deep down it's the one thing I need the most! As usual, I've put some research into natural ways I can boost my energy and revive my mental state. The following is a summary of my most tried and true methods for using essential oils and oil-infused supplements as a part of a pre-run routine.

Peppermint, Eucalyptus, & Lemon Essential Oils
are a few of the most popular energy-inspiring oils. Their fresh, clean, and vibrant aromas awaken the mind and lift the spirits, and their plant constituents lend themselves perfectly to a runner's pre-run routine by opening airways, improving oxygen intake and expelling mucus. They can be especially helpful for outdoor runners during allergy season.

• Place 2 drops each of Lemon & Peppermint essential oils in the palm of your hand and mix with 4-6 drops carrier oil. Massage the mixture onto your chest, across the bridge of your nose, and on the big toes and arches of feet (Vita Flex Technique) to open the airways and awaken the mind. (I often leave them on my nightstand and do this the second I awake)
• Place 1 drop of each of Lemon & Peppermint essential oils in your palms and rub together. Cupping your hands over your nose and mouth (without touching the skin), breath in the aroma for 5-10 seconds. (Substitute the En-R-Gee Blend if desired)
• Massage 2 drops of RC (Respiratory Congestion), a blend of Eucalyptus oils, with 2 drops of carrier oil onto your chest and across the bridge of your nose (being careful not to touch the eyes)
• Make an Energy Roll-On for easy and quick application: 
  • 10ml roll-on bottle (I buy mine from amazon, search "amber glass roll-on bottles")
  • 20 drops each of Young Living Peppermint, Lemon, and RC Essential Oils (or a combination of your preferred energy-inspiring oils, ie. Black Pepper, Lemon Myrtle, Lemongrass, Citrus Fresh blend, Spearmint, etc.) = 60 drops of essential oil
  • 60 drops of your choice of carrier oil, which might include: coconut oil, grapeseed oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, Young Living's V-6 carrier oil blend.
  • Attach roll-on fitment and apply to chest, across sinuses, behind ears and on inner wrists before heading out for a run.

 

"I’ve used RC since 1995 and it’s a staple oil I use with racing, recovery, and my kids. Life would be different without it. Nothing opens my lungs quite like RC."  
​James Lawrence, aka The Iron Cowboy

​En-R-Gee Essential Oil Blend 
Young Living has created a blend of oils that all share in their ability to energize the mind and body. Rosemary, Juniper, Lemongrass, Nutmeg, Idaho Balsam Fir, Clove, and Black Pepper, come together to create a highly invigorating scent that improves circulation, and contains anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious, and anti-spasmodic plant constituents.

• Apply a drop to inner wrists, behind the ears, and on the big toes (Vita Flex Technique)
• Add 4-5 drops to your home diffuser (mixes very well with citrus oils as well: try 3 drops En-R-Gee with 3 drops of Orange essential oil)

NingXia Nitro
This one-shot tube is crammed full of essential oils and naturally powerful ingredients that enhance cognitive function and provide a boost of healthy energy. D-Ribose, Green tea extract, Mulberry leaf extract, Korean ginseng extract, Choline (as Choline bitartrate), and Proprietary Nitro Alert™ oil blend: Vanilla oil, Chocolate oil, Yerba mate oil, Spearmint oil, Peppermint oil, Nutmeg oil, Black Pepper oil, Wolfberry seed oil, and Nitro juice blend concentrate, combine to provide a healthy jolt of plant-fueled energy to the system.
​
The Energizer Bunny Smoothie, Rediscovering Nature’s Essentials
2 oz NingXia Red
1 tube NingXia Nitro
1 scoop Pure Protein Complete, Vanilla
1 drop Black Pepper essential oil
1 drop Nutmeg essential oil
1 cup of Ice OR Frozen Fruit
½ cup coconut milk or water

As always, be careful to select 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils to be sure you are breathing, lathering, and consuming only the safest and purest of oils. Understanding the different Grades of Oils is paramount when learning to live an essential oil-infused lifestyle.

To read more about the oils we use in my household, read this post about why we chose Young Living Essential Oils.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Young Living products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Related topics:

• Peppermint Essential Oil
• Lemon Essential Oil
• Sustaining : Running Strong with Essential Oils
• Recovering: Post-Run Essential Oils & Remedies
• Order Young Living Essential Oils