INSPIRATION:
Wellbeing
Effect of scents
THE EFFECT OF SCENTS ON OUR WELL-BEING
Scents influence our thinking, feelings, and well-being. And this is truly no coincidence: It has already been scientifically proven that certain scents trigger specific reactions. The olfactory perception (i.e., the perception of scent) is connected to the emotional center of our brain; through your nose, smells reach the brain directly and can affect your well-being in fractions of a second. Which scents help with lack of motivation and fatigue and even release happiness hormones, you will learn in the following.
EFFECT OF SCENTS: POSITIVE INFLUENCE ON MOOD & WELL-BEING
Can the right scent contribute to your happiness? Definitely! A perfume is more than just a scent for many of us; it can put us in certain emotional states or even be associated with certain memories. When we perceive certain fragrance notes, our brain automatically retrieves the memories and feelings it has stored together with the scent. Scents can
- improve our sleep quality,
- reduce stress,
- Relieve headaches and
- even strengthen your immune system.
So they are real helpers for your mental well-being. In addition to the positive effect on your mood, they also have the following effects:
- Antibiotic and disinfecting
- skin-caring
- digestive
- Mosquito protection
USE SCENTS PURPOSEFULLY: THESE FRAGRANT NOTES ENHANCE YOUR WELL-BEING
By using scents deliberately, you can promote your well-being. Smells in the form of perfume are a well-known method to use fragrances for a special purpose. Our highly developed sense of smell also reacts to more subtle scents and can influence our behavior and feelings. Whether it's to clear your mind, reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, or release happiness hormones: the following scents help you naturally strengthen your mental well-being.
Calming & anxiety-relieving: Lavender
The calming effect of lavender is well known. But this flower has more to it: lavender scent is considered a natural anxiolytic and can significantly reduce states of restlessness. According to studies, the scent can somewhat block the anxiety receptors in the brain and consequently has an anxiety-relieving effect. Thus, lavender balances your mood and can have a positive influence on your well-being in cases of depressive moods. Nowadays, lavender is even an approved medicinal product and is mainly used in the treatment of the following complaints:
- inner restlessness
- Sleep disorders
- States of exhaustion
- Anxiety disorders
- Panic attacks
Vanilla: the happiness maker
It is known as the "Queen of Spices" and, alongside saffron, is the second most expensive spice worldwide. The sweet scent of vanilla is one of the most widespread fragrances and is a true superstar: almost 200 natural individual substances combine in this scent note to create a harmonious composition that not only provides a pleasantly sweet taste but also stimulates the release of the happiness hormone serotonin in the brain. A true bringer of happiness. Whether in perfumes, scented candles, or foods – the delicate, sweet scent of vanilla envelops our senses and makes us happy!
For an extra portion of happiness, you can add vanilla to the following dishes:
- Fruit salads
- homemade ice cream
- yogurt
- Fruit spreads
- Fruit slices
Focus: Cinnamon
Whether as a scent or a spice in food: cinnamon boosts your brainpower, this scent gives you a real concentration boost! Cinnamon contains many antioxidants, is particularly rich in potassium, has been proven to regulate blood sugar levels, and has anti-inflammatory effects – a true all-rounder! The oriental-spicy aroma is one of the most soothing scents overall and even has a positive effect on our cognitive performance. It especially enhances memory and concentration.
Tip: If you like to consume a lot of cinnamon products, make sure it is Ceylon cinnamon. This contains less coumarin and makes it safe for consumption. Coumarin is a natural flavor and fragrance compound that occurs in particularly high concentrations in so-called Cassia cinnamon. An overdose of coumarin can lead to headaches, nausea, dizziness, and liver damage.
Cleansing: Frankincense
Frankincense is used in many ways, primarily because of its medicinal effects. It has anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, pain-relieving, and decongestant properties. Another advantage: as a room fragrance, frankincense cleans the air of pollutants and provides relief from coughs, chronic bronchitis, or sore throats. In oriental cultures, the scent of frankincense is also known for its spiritual effects, driving away negative energies, cleansing the body from within, and uniting mind and soul.
USE OF FRAGRANCES IN AROMATHERAPY
In aromatherapy, essential oils are specifically used to alleviate illnesses or to enhance well-being. Aromatherapy utilizes the unconscious effects of scents through plant essences. It is usually practiced by naturopaths or doctors. There are various ways to use essential oils:
- Inhalation
- for massage
- Sauna infusion
- Mouthwash
- Skin balm
- Diffuser lamps
- Compresses
The following essential oils are ideal for aromatherapy:
- Zeder: has anti-inflammatory effects and loosens mucus in colds
- Bergamot: reduces stress and has an antibacterial effect
- Jaw: clear the airways and increase blood circulation
- Chamomile: antibacterial, promotes wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic
- Rose: soothes the nerves and relieves nervous tension
- St. John's Wort: relaxing and mood-enhancing effect
- Lemon: revitalizes during exhaustion and promotes concentration
- Lavender: helps with cough and bronchitis, against sleep disorders and with stomach and intestinal complaints
MORE WELL-BEING IN EVERYDAY LIFE WITH THE TARGETED USE OF FRAGRANCES
A delicate scent of vanilla in your living room, a full bath with lavender addition, or a massage with citrus oil – soothing scents affect our feelings, moods, and our body. The following tips will help you easily transform your home into a unique oasis of well-being.
1. Aroma diffuser
A trend with a feel-good effect: Aroma diffusers are visually very decorative in most cases and can be easily integrated into your interior. They create a pleasant room climate and have a positive influence on humidity. Use essential oils of your choice specifically to strengthen body and mind.
2. Scented candles
They smell good and create a wonderful feel-good atmosphere in your home: Scented candles release a pleasant aroma and candlelight creates an intimate and gentle environment. Both help you to relax and find balance.
3. Cooking
In addition to the scent of essential oils, it is especially the smells of spices that positively influence your well-being. Here you can specifically use stimulating spices for cooking, which provide a pleasant aroma and an aromatic taste.
