The Northeast is gearing up for a spectacular show of rich, autumn colors. The morning chill, picking fresh apples, and the wonderful earthy smell of fallen leaves gives me the second wind I need to finish my writing goals for this year. Autumn energizes me!
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| ©kathymoulton |
Writers are observant and very in tune to their surroundings - positively and negatively. Sights, sounds, and smells spark creativity and find expression in the written word. But sometimes, we have to create an environment to spur us on.
One valuable tip that has worked for me is aromatherapy. Essential oils are extracted from the roots, seeds, leaves, or blossoms of plants. While I have not delved into all their uses, I have been pleased with using them for their aroma.
According to the article "9 Aromatherapy Health Cures" (Sarah Mahoney, Prevention Magazine, December 2012):
In a study at Wheeling Jesuit University, peppermint vapors gave college basketball players more motivation, energy, speed, and confidence.Additionally:
In an Austrian study, researchers wafted the smell of oranges before some participants and lavender before others. The two groups felt less anxious, more positive, and calmer, compared with participants who were exposed to no fragrance at all.
There is lots of information on the internet about aromatherapy and what scents produce. Here are a few I've used:
- lavender - calming and relaxing
- citrus (oranges, lemons, grapefruit) - energizes, promotes alertness and concentration
- peppermint - invigorating, energy booster
- eucalyptus - mental exhaustion, lethargy, stress
- tea tree - stimulates the brain and provides blood flow
- rosemary - headaches, fatigue, tired eyes, focus, memory
- basil - wakes up the mind
Are you feeling stressed with deadlines? Do you need some fresh energy or soothing tranquility? Try aromatherapy. A diffuser on your desk or in your living space may help give you the boost you need!
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After raising and homeschooling her 8 children and teaching art classes for 10 years, Kathy has found time to pursue freelance writing. She enjoys writing magazine articles and more recently had her story, "One of a Kind", published in The Kids' Ark. You can find her passion to bring encouragement and hope to people of all ages at
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4 comments:
I often use oils for different things,but had not thought of using them for my writing. I'm excited to try. Thanks for the suggestion.
Kathleen, interesting post. My daughter got me into aromatherapy for a number of uses.
Lovely post and yes aromatherapy can definitely help. I speak about how vetiver has been clinically proven to improve concentration and recall in one of my books and I often use sweet basil to kick me when I have got the don't want to's or an procrastinating a bit!
Elizabeth, glad you found the post interesting. Kathleen always provides great information.
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