What makes you feel good? Gets you in a good mood? What triggers memories and brings stories to your mind? What helps clear your brain and motivates you? What helps you to relax and to sleep?
Beautiful music?
Nice weather?
Wonderful smells?
A good movie or book?
Every person is different, but for me it is all of the above. Sometimes some help me more than others, but the one that is most constant is the smells. Smells have an effect on the brain and the body… either positively or negatively.
Have you ever noticed yourself getting in a festive mood when you caught certain smells… like cinnamon – or ginger (gingerbread was one of my favorite Christmas desserts growing up)? Or felt more awake and cheerful around the scent of certain flowers, signaling the arrival of springtime?
Essential oils can work the same way…
Aromatherapy with essential oils have been used for thousands of years in many cultures around the globe. I like to use aromatherapy for relaxation, sleeping and supporting the respiratory system. And these are just a few benefits.
You can use essential oils in aromatherapy by inhaling it through the nostrils directly from the bottle, diffusing it or rubbing it on your skin. You can even take a relaxing bath, as well.
Oils for aromatherapy:
Lavender – Known to have a relaxing smell for many. It is calming and may even help with sleep.
Rose – It can have a relaxing smell.
Lemon – This seems to make everything seem brighter. It can also help support the immune system.
Peppermint – A very invigorating smell. This one can help to awaken the brain, and it can also help support the respiratory system.
Rosemary – It can help with focus and keep the brain alert. It can also help support the respiratory system.
Frankincense – It can help with focus and grounding.
Jasmine – Jasmine is my “happy oil” (everyone has one). 🙂 It can be a relaxant or help to energize.
These are just a few of my favorite essential oil aromas. Everyone has their favorites for many different reasons, and not everyone likes the same smells, nor will these oils have the same effect on everyone. Try different ones, see which smells you enjoy and which is your “happy oil”. 🙂
Leave a comment