It’s no secret that some scents help relax the body and mind, and they’re very good at it! Did you know that there are also scents that help give much-needed energy? Simply by taking a whiff of them, you will be able to carry out your various mental and physical tasks.
Most people would reach for a cup of coffee or can of energy drink for invigoration. But if you’re the kind of person who is sensitive to caffeine, this is not really a good idea. Lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, anxiety, palpitation — everyone knows that caffeine, especially in excessive amounts, can cause these nasty side effects.
So what should you do if you are already feeling exhausted and drowsy when it’s just 3 in the afternoon but you don’t want to put up with all the horrible things that caffeine brings? Count on some essential oils! Many of them help stimulate both your body and mind caffeine-free.
Without further ado, here are some scents that can help give you energy in a snap:
Peppermint
It’s the perfect scent to go for if you are about to embark on a task that requires sustained mental focusing. Peppermint’s refreshing smell will surely eliminate any lethargic feeling that you have. If what you have in your hands is therapeutic grade peppermint essential oil, you may add a few drops of it in a cup of hot water and consume for stimulation!
Eucalyptus
Another scent that’s very popular among those who want to attain stimulation without side effects is eucalyptus. It is also ideal for you if you are down with an upper respiratory tract infection as it can ease both lethargy and congestion. Eucalyptus is not only the perfect snack for koalas, but also the ideal scent for people who are leading stressful lives.
Lemon
The citrusy scent of lemon is scientifically proven to help lower stress levels, and that is why taking a whiff of it is a great idea if you are already beginning to feel the effect of stress on your mind and body, but you still have tons of tasks to complete. So for instant invigoration, take a bottle of lemon essential oil near your nose, or simply sniff lemon peel.
Orange
Just like lemon, orange also helps get you energized because its smell is revitalizing. Reach for fresh orange and peel it. Take the peel close to your nose as you perform deep breathing. Keep the peel on your desk and reach for it whenever you need its reviving properties. Oh, and don’t forget to snack on the orange, too, for a vitamin C-boost!
Basil
Other than making your favorite pasta sauce taste marvelous, basil is also capable of enlivening your senses. You can always take a small bottle of basil essential oil with you to your workplace especially if you believe that the day is going to be a busy one. Or you can put fresh basil leaves in a small Ziploc bag and take a whiff of it every now and then.
Juniper Berry
Especially if the bottle of juniper berry essential oil you have is the therapeutic grade, adding a couple of drops of it in a glass of water or your favorite fruit juice can help stimulate your mind and body, but very mildly only. Juniper berry also has a subtle appetite stimulating effect, helping to make sure that you get all the nutrients you need via the diet.
Sage
Numerous studies have shown that sage is a very good cognitive booster. So if you know that your day at the office is going to be a mentally-draining one, it’s a wonderful idea to be prepared. Slip a small bottle of sage essential oil in your purse or suitcase, and reach for it whenever you require some cognitive stimulation sans caffeine intake!
