Altering your Mood Through Smell

Every morning before I leave for work I make sure to pat on some essential oils that are not only going to have me smelling good but create a mood. Whether I want to be pepped up, calmed down, have my sanity restored or attain clarity I can always count on aromatherapy to assist me in reaching that particular state. According to the article 'Scents & Scensibility' by Lindsy Van Gelder in the November issue of Whole Living, "Smell is the most evocative of the five senses, which means fragrance is more than just a luxury,it's a pipeline to memory and mood".

In addition to my burgeoning meditation practice I often burn nag champa incense, or dab a bit of lavender oil on my pulse point and inhale deeply to decompress from a rough day. The smells create a sense of balance for me and allow me to shift to a more positive place in my mind. Here are some of my favorite essential oils and their benefits:

• Bergamot-balancing, regenerating
• Clary Sage-antidepressant, anti-anxiety, uplifting
• Grapefruit- aids mood swings, relieves nervous exhaustion and stress
• Lavender- antidepressant,calming, rejuvenating, enhances the immune system
• Patchouli- sedative in low doses, stimulating in high doses, aphrodisiac
• Peppermint- uplifting, clearing, refreshing, mental stimulant
• Rose- antidepressant, sedative, effective in aiding grief, sadness and feminine complaints
• Sandalwood- antidepressant, aphrodisiac, aids nervous tension & anxiety

Use essential oils singularly or in blends. Create your own signature scent and carry it around with you to create whatever mood you choose at any time of the day.

What are your favorite scents and what positive mood do they cultivate for you?


Disclaimer: Remember essential oils are concentrated so use them diluted in carrier oils. Never put them directly on your skin and keep them out of the way of heat and light.