How to Manage Your Mood with Aromatherapy

I was skeptical about aromatherapy until the night before the funeral. But an experience changed my mind. It was that evening when a friend dropped by with her portable diffuser.

She intended to help me find some peace to get some rest. She left the diffuser running while she visited with me. And that was the first night I slept well in days.

Weeks later I asked what she had diffused. She replied that it was a blend of frankincense, chamomile, and lavender. I explained that it made me feel calm. Of course, that was the point. She chose the oils with that intention.

Curious, I began to investigate what other essential oils are used for aromatherapy. I learned that cedarwood, clary sage, bergamot, vetiver, and ylang-ylang are all good for relieving anxiety.

Then I discovered that essential oils could induce a cheerful mood, too. Peppermint, cinnamon, jasmine, and citrus scents like lemon and orange all have a positive effect.

Subsequently, I began to experiment with aromatherapy. First, I bought a kit that contained all the most commonly used oils and tried them one by one. To my surprise, both peppermint and lavender seemed to keep mosquitoes at bay. And lemon made my home smell like it just had a deep-cleaning.

After that, I studied how to blend oils for more powerful results. Soon I found that ylang-ylang, cedarwood, lavender, and bergamot is my favorite combination for reducing stress.

After that, ginger, lemon, cardamom, and sandalwood ranks as my go-to tool for a mental boost. But I’m always open to trying new blends of essential oils.

While I don’t believe aromatherapy can replace medical care, I do think it can enhance my well-being by positively affecting my mood. And I continue to experience the difference it makes each time I diffuse oils.