Smell Your Way Out of Stress

Smell Your Way Out of Stress

Have you ever smelled a rose as you walk by? How did that make you feel? What memories are stirred with the smell of earth and rain? When you are stressed do you go to your favorite coffee house and smell your cup of coffee? Do you have a smell that wakes you up or helps you concentrate? I ask these questions because I have been exploring the wonderful world of smell and how it affects me.

If you have not gotten on board with aromatherapy or essential oils, I highly recommend you do. There are several studies that show that smell can really manipulate your body and mind. I have had personally experienced this myself. 

My friend gave me some essential aromatherapy oils after my second baby. I didn't use them for a while but one day my newborn was being incredibly fussy. I tried feeding, swaddling, massaging, Tylenol, and of course cuddling. He wouldn't stop and my nerves were at their end. I decided it was a good time to try the oils. It didn't calm my baby down but it calmed me down! I love the smell of flowers, especially lavender and lilac. They remind me of my Aunt Diane's home and her amazing garden that I always admired. I was able to put my baby down and allow him to finally cry himself to sleep while I allowed myself fall back into the memories of flowers.

I started using the oils as perfumes and my husband loved the smell. (This is seriously saying something because he NEVER smelled my perfumes before because his olfactory nerves are damaged from his work). I used peppermint before workouts to give me a boost, and lavender to help me sleep. I use lemon when I am getting stressed and rosemary when I want to get something done. 

Now you don't only have to buy essential oils or expensive aromatherapy bottles. You can grow them too. I have a rosemary plant that I just rub my fingers on the leaves to have the same affect. If the smell of coffee, or a blanket, or a cologne makes you feel something, explore what that feeling is and take advantage of it. It does not even have to be that natural. The smell of engine oil and hot concrete make me excited and feel adventurous because it reminds me of my trips to theme parks as a kid.

Share with me what smells you like, or don't like, and tell me why. What memory works with those smells. See how you can use them to better your overall health.

Prevention.com
 WebMD.com
NAHA Blog
MAYO Clinic