Comfort : August 27, 2008

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Stress, Stress, Stress: The Smell of Stress Relief

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Aug 27, 2008 by Rebecca White-Glanders

We all know that aromatherapy can be used to ease tension and quiet a busy mind. Finding products that do the trick, however, can be another matter. Many people make the mistake of giving up on aromatherapy when the techniques they've tried just aren't working. Fortunately, there are more ways to use aromatherapy than you probably know of. Below are some of the best ways to use your favorite scent.

Scented Candles
Everyone is familiar with this one, but how well they work depends on two things - the scent used and the amount of scented oil mixed into the wax. A quick test: before buying a candle gently brush your finger over the top of the wax. If you can't see the oil, or it doesn't have a pleasant smell, then it likely won't diffuse well when burned.

Scented Oil Burners
This one can be a little more complex than candles, though all that's needed is an oil burner, tea light and vial of scented oil. Pros: the oil in the burner spreads the scent very quickly. Cons: the scent can smell a bit differently coming from an oil burner, and you have to watch them closely. If the oil burns too low, it causes a very unpleasant burning odor. The best way to see if this works for you is to try it.

Scent Diffuser Reeds
When I first saw these, I thought they looked completely ineffective, until the office I worked at got one. To my surprise, the diffuser reeds left the room smelling pleasant and fresh every day for weeks. They work by setting a few small reeds in a container of scented oil. The reeds absorb and slowly diffuse the aromatherapy oils over days and weeks.

Aromatherapy Body Products
Although these types of products can be found everywhere, don't simply buy whatever aromatherapy blend the company claims is "stress-reducing." Take the time to find a formula that you find pleasant and relaxing. If you use aromatherapy shampoos, conditioners or lotions, they should work well beyond the initial application. If the scent is short-lived, then it's not worth your money.

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