How to Manage Stress with the Power of Plant-Based Fragrances

Aromatherapy in self-care dates back to Ancient Egypt, where plant oils were used extensively in religion, cosmetics, and medicine. China and India were also exploring the benefits of herbs at around the same time, but the term “aromatherapy” was officially coined in 1937 by French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse. Today, if you're wondering how to manage stress, many would suggest incorporating plant-based fragrances into your self-care routine.

The Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine defines aromatherapy as the therapeutic use of essential oils from plants via the skin or the olfactory system. Some of the major methods essential oils penetrate the skin are inhalation, local application on the skin, and baths to relieve stress and rejuvenate. When these scents are inhaled, the brain receives the signal to release feel-good neuro messengers like serotonin and endorphins to the rest of our body systems. 

According to the World Health Organization, stress at work can be caused by poor working conditions and organization and lack of support from superiors and colleagues. The American Psychological Association (APA) encourages establishing healthy boundaries to manage work stress, such as not checking your work emails after dinner or not answering phone calls when you are in the middle of a task. These boundaries contribute to your focus and productivity. 

The APA also recommends taking some time to recharge and relax. Use your vacation days even when working from home. Practice mindfulness, such as deep breathing, walking, or enjoying meals to train your mind to focus on one activity at a time. Finding the time for self-care, whatever it means to you, is also essential. It lists bathing as a healthy way to reduce stress.

Take a soothing, calming bath with Dove Relaxing Lavender Body Wash, which has lavender and rosemary extracts that soothe and soften skin. Everyone could use a relaxing bath like this one at the end of the workday.

Stress at home and in life may generally stem from different causes. The Mental Health Foundation in the UK lists family, relationships, and money problems as the most common sources of stress at home. This state of stress can lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, and low self-esteem, which can further harm relationships and result in withdrawal and indecisiveness.

Managing stress comes down to the individual. It’s important to figure out what the stressor is, and then review one’s lifestyle and investigate different ways to improve one’s well-being, such as taking on less work, delegating tasks at home, and organizing the household.

It helps to protect yourself from stress with regular exercise, eating healthy, and taking some time off, which benefits mental health. For self-care that goes deep, use Dove Go Fresh Sakura Blossom Body Wash, which contains cherry blossoms and Himalayan sea salt to hydrate your skin for 24 hours.

Avocado oil is known for its healing antioxidant properties, while calendula extract is a powerful antiseptic that accelerates wound healing, including acne. It has an invigorating scent that refreshes and awakens the senses, and a light skin feel and clean rinse — a great way to start the day.

How to manage stress in life at a time like this? Start by doing simple things. Find time to care for your well-being, and the energy to care for others will follow.