The holidays can be a stressful time for everybody. That’s why we at Rethink Beautiful have decided to share our go-to solution for de-stressing during the holiday season: aromatherapy.
This centuries-old practice entails using specific scents to influence your mental state, relieving stress and anxiety. It is also associated with improving quality of sleep, increasing focus, and uplifting moods. For those of you who are curious about how aromatherapy can benefit you this holiday season but don’t know where to start, here is a list of our essential oil recommendations for inhalation aromatherapy—based on studies, research, and personal use.
Diffuser v. essential oil candles
The diffuser and the essential oil candle are two popular forms of inhalation aromatherapy. Both function similarly: the essential oils put into a diffuser are the same essential oils being made into candles. When it comes to choosing between the two options, it’s mainly personal preference.
Some aromatherapy users choose a diffuser because you can change out the scent to suit your needs. In contrast, essential oil candles are restricted to the oils used to make them. This limitation is a non-issue if you’re sure of what benefits you want, though, which is why we’ve compiled this guide to essential oils based on our aromatherapy goals for the holiday season.
What scents are good for de-stressing?
We know that this holiday will likely be more difficult due to the global pandemic, which is why de-stressing is at the top of our to-do list. Studies show that rosemary essential oil helps cultivate a sense of serenity in your environment. According to one study published by Translational Research in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, bergamot essential oil has been shown to lift spirits. Similarly, research on the aromatherapeutic effects of lavender has demonstrated that the scent can positively impact our mood and cognitive ability, which makes these scents ideal for days when we want to calm down during a stressful season.
What scent is known for improving sleep?
If you’re looking to catch a few extra z’s over the holidays, you’re in luck because many essential oils will aid in improving your sleep. Essential oils such as vanilla, jasmine, and sandalwood are associated with relaxation and can be effective oils for sedation. Studies have shown that lavender also works to fight insomnia. Adding a few drops of one of these scents to your diffuser or lighting a lavender candle before bed can help you get the restorative, deep sleep you need after a long day.
What about essential oils for focus and productivity?
Understandably, some of us might be looking for ways to increase focus and productivity over the holidays, with all of the planning and organizing that typically goes into making this season extra special for friends and family. Adding peppermint to your list of essential oils will not only increase your sense of alertness but also aid in uplifting your mood. Similarly, sweet orange essential oil has been studied for its ability to banish fatigue.
Whatever your plans are for the holidays, aromatherapy is one way to show yourself some TLC. Whether you’re experimenting with aromatherapy over the holidays or looking to implement the practice into your daily life, these potent oils are an excellent place to start.