When trying to create a restful environment, you should always consider adding a relaxing scent. Aromatherapy is a long standing relaxation tool, which can help to ease stress and anxiety and can help to create your perfect restful and calming space. While many scents used in aromatherapy have not been rigorously tested, some have stood up to clinical studies on their calming influence.
One of these is a well known aromatherapy scent – lavender. Lavender is well known for aiding with relaxation and rest, however, less well known is that lavender has also been proven in a 2012 study to lower blood pressure, heart rate and skin temperature. These are all signs of your body physically relaxing in response to the smell of the lavender.
Another great aromatherapy option is bergamot, which is a citrus fruit. It is most commonly known as one of the key flavours in Earl Grey tea and is often used in herbal remedies. Several clinical studies found bergamot essential oil to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, and that participants in the studies reported feeling less stressed and scored significantly lower in anxiety scores.
Whilst you may already know the calming effects of chamomile when drunk as a tea, chamomile is equally effective when used as an essential oil in aromatherapy. Studies have found chamomile to have a range of beneficial effects, and one of these is to aid relaxation and reduction in anxiety. One study found that stress hormones decreased after inhaling chamomile extract, helping to relax those participating in the study.
There are a number of ways for you to introduce relaxing scents into your home. Scented candles are a fantastic way to gently introduce a scent throughout the house, without being overpowering. If you’re looking for a quick burst of fragrance, as you try to relax, burning essential oils in oil burners works quickly to fill any room with your scent of choice. For something more subtle and long lasting another great choice is to buy reed diffusers for your home.
Whichever scent and diffuser you choose, aromatherapy is a great way to create the perfect relaxing space.
Try a few and see what works for you!
