There are many factors and resources available when trying to achieve complete wellness. One resource to consider is the power of aroma and scent therapy.

Welcome to the Breathe Chile blog, a safe place to discuss mindfulness, physical fitness and receive positive motivation.

Breathe Chile may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story as an Amazon Associate and through affiliate links.

What is Aroma?

Aroma is a distinctive, pervasive, and usually pleasant or savory smell with a positive connotation. Your ability to smell comes from specialized sensory cells, and these cells connect directly to the brain. The parts of the brain that process these signals also store memories or provoke emotions.

The Power of Aroma

Scents can be used to invoke memories and emotions. According to Harvard news, “Smell and memory seem closely linked because of the brain’s anatomy.” Of the five human senses, the scent is the most potent trigger of emotion and memory. Ambient scenting is used in retail stores, casinos, and some hotels to guide the feeling of the employees and customers. Scented venues are viewed as more luxurious and often boost your mood, making you want to be there.

3 Ways to use Scent Therapy

Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants to heal or treat a condition such as anxiety, poor sleep, or certain skin conditions. Essential oils are made from the “essence” of flowers, herbs, or trees. I use aromatherapy primarily through a diffuser, candles, or both. Part of my morning routine is to wake up before everyone, turn on my diffusers, and light a few candles to set the mood for the day. As a result, my husband and kids wake up with a more positive attitude. My favorite essential oils are:

• Lemon – has the power to enhance your performance and improve your attitude
• Lavender – has strong healing properties that have been shown to reduce stress levels
• Eucalyptus – promotes relaxation and reduce stress
• Basil – provides relief from nervous tension, mental fatigue, migraines, and depression

Another one of my favorite ways to use the power of aroma therapy is to have fresh flowers in the house. The floral scent they admit naturally releases essential oils into the air. My husband is great for frequently bringing home my favorite flower, Stargazer Lilies, which smells up the entire house floor.

For me, wearing a scent I love makes me happy. I love being a novice member of the fragrance community. Certain fragrances can invoke feelings of being on holiday in the South of France on a yacht. Or memories of cozying up to the fireplace at Christmas time. Fragrance is an easy way to use aroma and scents to boost your emotions.

The Power of Aroma is one resource in the arsenal of total wellness. Comment below and tell us how you use scent therapy.