How to Use Aromatherapy to Reduce Stress

Video Transcript

DEBBIE MANDEL: Greetings everyone. I'm Debbie Mandel, a stress management specialist and author of "Addicted to Stress." In this clip, we're going to talk about how to use aromatherapy to reduce stress. This is a very quick and easy way to shed stress because your olfactory system, your nose, is tied into your brain, the limbic system. The primitive reptilian brain that is responsible for that fight or flight. So the top three fragrances that relieve stress are lavender, citrus and vanilla. But please don't limit yourself to those fragrances, because what if you have a bad memory with one of those fragrances? That wouldn't do. One size does not fit all. Experiment during the good times as to what fragrance pleases you. Maybe it's fresh linen. And this will help you to relax. Also, I'm big on stress management synergy like music and headphones, well, why don't you dab a little fragrance on like an essential oil when you listen to music to really accelerate the relaxation response. The five things to keep in mind with using aromatherapy for stress reduction are: one, the olfactory system is tied into the brain and is a very powerful persuader; number two, lavender, citrus and vanilla are the top three stress management reducing fragrances; three, to remain alert, cinnamon is very effective, keep that in mind for a long drive; four, experiment and individualize your fragrances during the good times so you can activate them during the bad times; and your last point is for stress reduction synergy, leave your mind to get into your senses, use aromatherapy while listening to music.