Find Your Calm: How Aromatherapy Supports Relaxation and Stress Relief
As a teacher, a mom to two energetic boys, and a business owner, life is a constant balancing act. Some days I feel like I’m juggling a million things at once. Whether it’s managing my classroom, taking care of my boys, or trying to grow my business, staying grounded is essential. That’s where aromatherapy has been a lifesaver for me. It’s not just about basking in the scents I love — it’s about creating small, intentional moments of calm that help me reset and recharge.
Growing up, I remember my mom always pulling out the humidifier whenever we were sick. She’d add eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender to it, and the whole house would fill with their soothing aromas. The scent would clear our nasal congestion and make us feel cared for. Of course, no sick day was complete without being rubbed down with the tried-and-true West Indian remedy that seemed to fix everything. Do you know which one I'm talking about? In its own way, that was aromatherapy too! It was her way of using nature to help us heal, and it’s a memory that stays with me to this day. Now, as a mom myself, I find comfort in using aromatherapy for my own family, blending those same scents into our routines when we need a little extra care.
The Science of Scent
Here’s the fascinating part: certain smells can instantly shift your mood. Imagine rushing through your morning routine, the kids are bickering, and your mind is already racing about the day ahead. Then you catch the soothing scent of lavender, and suddenly, everything feels a little more manageable. That’s because our sense of smell is directly linked to the brain’s limbic system, which controls emotions, memory, and even stress levels. When you inhale essential oils, their active compounds interact with this system, helping to ease tension and promote relaxation.
Essential Oils for Relaxation
In my experience, these three oils have been lifesavers, whether I’m gearing up for a busy morning or winding down after a long day:
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Lavender: My go-to for calming my nerves before a busy day. It helps me start the day feeling balanced and ready.
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Chamomile: On those extra chaotic days, chamomile works wonders for soothing my mind and keeping me centered.
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Frankincense: Perfect for grounding myself during breaks or when I need a moment to breathe deeply and refocus.
These oils are amazing on their own but even better when blended together for a layered effect.
How I Use Aromatherapy to Stay Balanced
Incorporating aromatherapy into my routine has been simple and incredibly effective. Here’s how I make it work for me:
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Aromatherapy Rollers: Before I head into the classroom or when the boys are especially active, I roll a calming blend onto my wrists and take a deep breath. It’s my little reminder to stay calm and centred.
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Diffusers: At home, I use a diffuser while reviewing lesson plans, tidying up, or prepping dinner. It fills the space with a soothing aroma that helps everyone relax (even the kids!).
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Candles: In the evenings, I light a calming aromatherapy candle while I relax with a book or catch up on the day. The gentle glow and soothing scent create a peaceful atmosphere that helps me unwind and recharge.
Creating Intentional Moments of Calm
What I love most about aromatherapy is how it helps me carve out moments of calm in times when I'm prone to feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s pausing for a few deep breaths between activities, sneaking in a moment of quiet at bedtime, or winding down with a relaxing scent, these small rituals make a huge difference. They remind me to slow down, be present, and take care of myself so I can show up fully for my family, my students, and my business.
Discover Our Calming Blend
If you’re curious about how aromatherapy can work for you, I’ve found that a blend of lavender, chamomile, and frankincense is perfect for relaxation and balance. It’s been my secret weapon for staying calm and collected, no matter what the day throws my way.
Learn more about this blend and how to bring moments of calm into your life here: https://glocandlebar.co/products/serene-aura
Take a deep breath, let the soothing power of aromatherapy work its magic, and glow from within.