Smells and Candle Scents to help Relax

We could be a little more calm in our lives especially right now in quarantine, and aromatherapy (therapy by aromas or scents) can be a great way to relax. Whether you’re new to aromatherapy or looking to expand your fragrance collection, I've found a list of the best calming smells. Then, I'll show you the best way to use your new scents, such as running a diffuser and lighting candles.

Smells and scents provide our nose with nostalgia - meaning we remember them. Isn't funny that we associate smells with things or places because our nose remembers them! You may associate that home smell with your family, cigarette smoke to that distant relative, or salt to the ocean. But because of this memory, our nose uses certain smells to help it relax. These smells are not only scientifically proven to relax us, but when our nose builds up the memory of this scent, we are able to relax without trying to.

Lavender

Lavender is one of the most popular scents for relaxing and falling asleep. This fragrance oil has many calming properties, and it can help release tension, soothe racing thoughts and help you unwind. Whether you’re stressed from work or just want to supercharge a relaxing night's sleep, lavender will help you calm and unwind incredibly quickly.

Jasmine

Jasmine is a sweet, rich flower with a scent that is known for its calming properties. If you’re tired and stressed, this fragrance will help soothe your tension and promote relaxation. Jasmine is not only found in oil form but can also be found in candles, perfumes, soaps and even alcohol and desserts. My neighbours across the round grow jasmine and when it blooms in Spring it is a lovely fragrance that makes me feel very calm out on my walk.

Lemon

While citrus and citrus fruits (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit) are more well-known for increasing alertness and energy, it can also help you calm down after a hard day. Lemon has also been paired with other fragrances to add a note of brightness and alleviate some fragrances that may be too rich or sweet on their own. If you’re more skeptical to using lemon or citrus to relax, all I can say is, don't doubt it or dislike it until you try it.

Sea Breeze

If you prefer a fresh scent like me, that transports you outside, sea breeze or beachy smells is an excellent choice that will also help you calm down after a stressful day. After all, we can’t think of anything more relaxing than sitting next to the ocean with a tropical drink in our hand. As an added bonus, you won’t have to clean sand out of every crevice at the end of the day.

Vanilla

This sweet, mild scent doesn’t get enough credit for its calming properties for people usually associate it with other things. While many people disregard vanilla as a common fragrance, it’s a fantastic base scent that will also help you relax—not to mention it makes your whole house smell like baked goods, minus the hassle and mess of getting in the kitchen. If that's not a win-win I don't know what is.

Peppermint

If you’re looking for an strong and alerting yet calming scent, but don’t want a citrus fragrance (lemon), then peppermint is a good alternative. The minty nature of this refreshment will gently make you more aware while soothing away tension. If you’ve never explored peppermint beyond the occasional cup of peppermint tea or bar of chocolate, you’re missing out.

We all feel stressed sometimes, all you need to do is try these, and you'll be feeling calm again in no time. I hope that you enjoyed this post, please subscribe for more access to the website and monthly posts.

If you have any feedback, advice, or additional methods, please comment!