Home scents to soothe your mind - The Soothe Approved
Because the aroma of essential oils smell a lot better than last night’s Laksa
Text: Livvie B
Taking a couple of deep breaths can help to slow the heartbeat, decrease blood pressure and lower stress. But what if we could enhance this feeling by scenting the air around us at home with essential oils?
Cue, aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy is the practice of inhaling essential oils with the goal of improving overall wellbeing. Essential oils are extracted from flowers, leaves or roots, and therefore contain the ‘essence’ of the plant itself. When inhaled, the scent molecules in these oils influence the amygdala, which is a posh name for emotional centre of the brain. Our brain activity is often linked to smells, meaning that scents trigger emotional reactions. Have you ever caught a whiff of an ex-partner's perfume, only to be transported back to your first date ...?
Whilst the jury is still out on the scientific benefits of aromatherapy, the subtle mood boost and instant stress relief we feel through scenting our home is undeniable. There are many ways to use essential oils (such as applying directly to the body, lighting candles, dropping some in your bath), but we recommend investing in a diffuser. There are so many on the market, from electrical to candle powered, so shop around for one that suits your home style.
Each of our top essential oil picks can be used in a diffuser. Simply add a couple of drops to the water bank and turn on for instant relaxation.
BEST FOR: Getting a better night’s sleep | My Pure Earth Vetiver Essential Oil | SGD 38
Lavender is often the go-to essential oil when it comes to home scents for getting a better night’s sleep. However, lavender’s lesser-known cousin, Vetiver, boasts relaxing qualities of its own. Whilst citrus-like fragrances are often associated with energy, Vetiver’s slightly musty, woody edge gives it a calming, grounding ability, which aids relaxation and sleep.
This 100% pure oil hails from Haiti and is available from Singapore-based My Pure Earth, who encourage moving towards a natural lifestyle and away from using chemical-heavy products.
BEST FOR: Cheering you up | NEOM Scent to Make You Happy | SGD 36
This one literally does what it says on the tin.
Created by leading UK wellbeing brand, NEOM, the Scent to Make You Happy oil is a gorgeous home scent featuring an intricate blend of seven essential oils including neroli, mimosa and lemon, designed to help you feel uplifted. NEOM believe that small steps, such as pausing to take a deep breath or taking a relaxing bath, are key to living a better life. We couldn’t agree more.
BEST FOR: Relieving anxiety | To Be Calm Frankincense Single Essential Oil | SGD 53.50
It turns out that the Three Wise Men were onto something when they gifted Frankincense.
This all-round essential oil hero has been widely used in spiritual practices throughout history thanks to its restorative effects and ability to recenter the emotions. By relaxing the diaphragm, frankincense encourages deeper breathing, soothes feelings of anxiety and assists with stress relief.
Frankincense can be difficult to come by, but this 100% natural oil is available on To Be Calm, a Singapore-based brand seeking to share the many benefits of scent in our lives.
BEST FOR: Boosting your energy | Hush Candle Awakening Essential Oil Blend | SGD 22
Created by homegrown brand, High Candle, this Awakening Essential Oil Blend combines lemon, peppermint and rosemary to ‘freshen and awaken the senses.’ In addition to increasing alertness and concentration, the benefits of this aromatherapy scent include reducing anxiety and stress, as well as relieving headaches and nausea.
Essential oils are unregulated, meaning some can be particularly potent. It’s important that they are handled with care; never ingest essential oils, ensure they are diluted before use, and consult your doctor if you notice any adverse symptoms as a result of using essential oils. It’s also recommended that you examine the company selling the oil, thoroughly read the label, and opt for oils in dark-coloured glass containers.
