December
Scents & sensibility: Lift your mood this winter
Can seasonal scents boost your mood? Your nose knows it can!
When the days grow shorter and the chill sets in, our senses crave comfort. Did you know that seasonal scents like pine, cinnamon, and citrus don’t just smell festive, they can also boost your mood and reduce stress. Research shows that scent has a direct line to the brain’s emotional center, making it a powerful tool for winter wellness. Let’s explore how to turn your home into a cozy, mood-lifting sanctuary.
DIY tips for seasonal scent rituals
Cinnamon and orange simmer pot: Combine orange slices or peels, cinnamon sticks, and a dash of cloves in a pot of water. Simmer gently to fill your home with a warm, uplifting aroma.
Essential oil diffuser blend: Mix three drops cedarwood (grounding), two drops cinnamon (comforting), and two drops sweet orange (energizing) and add to your diffuser.
Scented sachets: Fill small fabric bags with dried lavender, rosemary, and pine needles. Place them in drawers or hang near your workspace for a calming effect. Grandma approved!
Candle hack: Add a few drops of essential oil to melted wax around the wick of an unscented candle for a quick aromatherapy boost.
Holiday room spray: Combine one cup distilled water, 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oils in spray bottle, shake well, and spritz around your home. Get creative and find the scent you love.
Bath soak: Add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath for a luxurious and relaxing experience. Be sure to use something to help disperse the oil, like Epsom salts, to help integrate the oils with the water.
SAD Awareness Month
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects about 5% of adults and often peaks in winter. Symptoms include fatigue, low mood, and changes in sleep or appetite.
Quick tips to combat SAD:
- Get outside during daylight hours.
- Use a light therapy lamp for 20-30 minutes daily.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Pair scent rituals with mindfulness for extra mood support.
