Simple Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can help change your mood by stimulating smell and sending messages to the part of the brain that controls emotions. While much of the science behind aromatherapy is currently anecdotal, there are more and more scientific studies being done to look at Aromatherapy and its place in the health and wellness arena. Results are showing that for some, the sense of smell can be extremely powerful and aromatherapy is not only in helping to regulate mood but also to cut down on nausea, headaches, stress, and anxiety.

While there are more than a hundred scents you can use for their therapeutic benefits, not including blends, here are a few common notes used in Aromatherapy:

• Bergamont- stimulating and great for clearing the brain
• Eucalyptus - uplifting and helps break up morning congestion
• Lavender - calming, can be helpful if you get headaches or can't sleep
• Ylang Ylang - sedating, relieves stress
• Lemongrass- (my favorite) uplifting, great for jetlag

There are always questions surrounding how to use aromatherapy, and they are often answered with expensive equipment to diffuse the oils. Before you invest in equipment, try my favorite way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy by shaking a few drops onto the wall of your shower. The steam will diffuse the scent throughout the bath for you to enjoy.

Why not try a little aromatherapy and see if it works for you. I'd love to hear what your favorite scents are.