What is Aromatherapy?

We could smell before we could speak.

In the swift cadence of our daily lives, amidst the clatter and clamor, we often overlook the subtle power that scents wield over our mood, memories, and wellbeing. It is a curious oversight, given that a single fragrance has the capacity to transport us to distant memories, to cocoon us in comfort, or to electrify our senses.

Through my own experiences, I have come to revere the nuanced art of aromatherapy as not only a bastion of tranquility but a conduit for profound transformation. The scent is not to be dismissed as mere background; it is an active participant in the symphony of our lives.

For eons, ancient civilizations have harnessed the therapeutic benefits of essential oils extracted from aromatic plants. From Chinese medicine to Ayurveda, the use of aromatics has been a central tenet in promoting physical and emotional equilibrium. In modern times, aromatherapy has found its place as an alternative or complementary therapy for various ailments ranging from stress and anxiety to skin conditions and respiratory problems.

The efficacy of aromatherapy lies in the complex chemistry of essential oils, which can interact with our cells, hormones, and neurotransmitters to produce physiological responses. For instance, lavender oil has been shown to reduce stress levels by impacting the autonomic nervous system and promoting relaxation. Similarly, peppermint oil has demonstrated antispasmodic effects that can relieve digestive discomfort and headaches. Essential oils are highly concentrated scents in natural form like the blood of the flower. Breathing this stimulates various psychological and physiological responses. Thus concentrated essential oils carry the same physiological, psychological, or spiritual healing properties as the plant which they come from.

Oranges: When you smell the scent of oranges, you may think of oranges which deliver significant amounts of vitamin C that boosts our immune system. The smell can make you think of breakfast with family on Sunday mornings, bringing you to a memory which makes you smile.

Vanilla: Think about how that simple scent fills most of our birthday cakes that everyone has seen or been around. The scent of vanilla is one of the most familiar scents. It represents being safe and secure.

Aromatherapy can be used in many ways!

What's remarkable about essential oils is their versatility. Just a few drops in water with a humidifier can turn a room into a sanctuary that soothes as naturally as a forest bathed in morning dew. This same oil can be added to steaming water and inhaled, with the vapor carrying directly to the lungs, enveloping your being in its therapeutic embrace.

Consider bathing your weary feet in a basin steeped with peppermint oil, or cradling your hands in waters caressed by chamomile. These moments of self-care extend beyond the physical, sending silent serenades to the soul.

Alternatively, spray a blend of your favorite oils in a room before you vacuum, allowing the whirlwind of activity to spread the scent evenly, transforming a mundane chore into a fragrant ritual.

And perhaps the most personal touch is a single drop of oil on a handkerchief, which becomes a private oasis when the world grows too loud, too close, too much—it is on the inhale that we find an intimate resilience.

It's just another way of keeping your mind and body in harmony!

“Believe me, both you and your environment will be grateful! It's just another way of keeping your mind and body in harmony. Most of us do not realize how much we are affected by everyday smells and aromas. I have witnessed first hand how fragrances and scents can change a situation. That is why I am putting together my notes on scents that I have seen work for each of the astrology signs. Over the years I have noticed from my clients which scent each sign loves the most.” - Ari

Aromatherapy Scents for each Zodiac sign

  • Aries

    Sandalwood

  • Taurus

    Vanilla

  • Gemini

    Lemon Verbena

  • Cancer

    Rose

  • Leo

    Berrywood

  • Virgo

    Lemon Verbena

  • Libra

    Vanilla

  • Scorpio

    Patchouli

  • Sagittarius

    Jasmine

  • Capricorn

    Eucalyptus

  • Aquarius

    Lavender

  • Pisces

    Sage Lavender

You might have noticed a couple of the signs have the same scent. That's because they also share the same planet. Another benefit aromatherapy has is the ability to control your environment. As I said before, if you can learn what your favorite scent or fragrance is, or what best calms you or energizes you, you can use it to keep yourself on the right track.

We here at Candles by Ari want to help you find that scent and even create an affirmation to bring two of your scents together so you can achieve your long and short term goals.