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On the JJ Barnes Blog, if you’re struggling to get up in the morning, or waking up feeling rubbish, discover the best smells to wake up to so you can start your day feeling alert and positive.
Are you tired of hitting the snooze button one too many times? Struggling to shake off that groggy feeling and start your day on the right foot? Apparently we aren’t alone as studies found seven in ten Brits (68%) report feeling tired when they wake up in the morning, and 40% admit to hitting the snooze button before getting up.
Studies have consistently shown that certain smells can have a profound impact on our mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. This phenomenon, known as aromatherapy, has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity.
By incorporating specific scents into your morning routine, you can create a more positive and uplifting atmosphere, helping you start your day feeling refreshed and invigorated. So, with the help of the experts at Reviva Coffee and Dr. Hana Patel, GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness, I’m discovering the best smells to wake up to and some insight into the medical benefits of these scents.
Medical studies have shown that inhalation of essential oils, resulted in lower perceived stress levels, as well as better sleep quality. Other studies also demonstrate the benefits of scents- psychological health benefits, like mood-lifting or elevating, easing stress, and inducing relaxation among others.
For instance, lemongrass scents have been used in numerous anxiety studies, which have concluded that this aroma has some stress relieving effects.
Peppermint has well-known uses as a therapeutic scent. Studies have shown that peppermint also delivers an increased 1,8-cineole that could have a positive impact at a neuro-chemical level.
Top Five Best Smells To Wake Up To
1. Coffee beans
Many people rely on coffee to boost their energy levels and kickstart their day. However, it’s not just the caffeine in coffee that can have a positive impact on your morning routine. Scientific studies have shown that the mere smell of coffee beans can significantly boost attentiveness and energy.
Beyond its energizing effects, the scent of coffee has also been linked to a reduced risk of stress and low mood. The aromatic compounds in coffee can help promote a healthy brain and improve overall well-being. So, the next time you’re feeling sluggish, take a moment to savor the invigorating aroma of your morning coffee.
2. Lemongrass
Lemongrass, a fragrant herb with a citrusy aroma, offers a multitude of benefits for both mental and physical health, known to reduce stress and anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Additionally, it has been shown to be effective in managing high blood pressure and headaches.
By reducing stress, lemongrass contributes to an improved mood, providing a much-needed boost to start your day. Its invigorating scent can also help banish mental fatigue and increase alertness.
3. Orange
Citrus scents, particularly orange, have a remarkable ability to increase serotonin levels, often referred to as the “happy hormone.” This elevation of serotonin contributes to a more positive mood and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
In addition to boosting serotonin, orange aromas can also help decrease norepinephrine levels, the stress hormone. This reduction in stress can alleviate morning tensions and provide a natural energy boost to kick-start your day.
4. Chocolate
Chocolate, a beloved indulgence for many, offers more than just a delicious taste. The mere scent of chocolate has been shown to have a profound impact on our psychological well-being.
One of the key compounds found in chocolate is phenylethylamine, which triggers the release of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are natural mood elevators that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and pain. By inhaling the scent of chocolate, you can experience a subtle boost in endorphin levels, leading to a more positive and uplifting mood.
In addition to its mood-enhancing effects, the scent of chocolate can also help lower stress by stimulating the production of serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. By increasing serotonin levels, the scent of chocolate can promote feelings of calm and relaxation.
5. Peppermint
The familiar scent of peppermint is often associated with freshness and cleanliness. However, many people may not be aware of its numerous medicinal benefits that can help revitalize your mornings.
Beyond its ability to alleviate congestion and improve breathing, peppermint has been shown to enhance cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Some studies even suggest that peppermint can protect neurons and contribute to overall brain health.
Methodology
- Reviva Coffee sought to provide expert tips on five scents that can supercharge your mornings.
- To do this, they scoured reputable sites such as Healthline and WebMD, to identify scents and the beneficial qualities these can provide.
- Expert comment was then provided by Dr. Hana Patel, GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness.
- Research was carried out September 2024, and is accurate as of then.
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