#SelfCareSunday: Scented candles and essential oils can soothe your soul

Sundays in South Africa are often traditionally a day of rest, a time to slow down and savour a break. We especially need this over lockdown, whether it is on a Sunday or another day, we need to take a breather.

Working or studying from home gives you a lot more time for introspection and too much time to yourself can sometimes cause overthinking, anxiety and even depression.

Studies show that aromatherapy can help improve your mental health and you can do this from the comfort of your own home with scented candles and essential oils.

You can find scented candles and essential oils at any pharmacy chain, or home store.

Self-care benefits

Set up your scented candles around a hot bath. Then add a few drops of an essential oil to the water. Sink in and relax. This may help to:

• Relieve your stress, anxiety, depression;
• Declutter your mind, which increase focus and in turn, increase productivity; and
• Change your mood, making you more calm and level-headed.

How to use essential oils

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The different smells of earth and nature help soothe your mind and each essential oil is said to serve a different purpose.

Here is a breakdown of some of the popular essential oils and what to use each one for (according to Healthline):

• Lavender oil – Use lavender for stress relief.
• Chamomile oil – Chamomile improves relaxation, lifts mood and may also reduce anxiety.
• Tea tree oil – Use tea tree oil to fight infections and boost immunity.
• Peppermint oil – Peppermint oil may help boost energy and assists with indigestion.
• Sandalwood – This calms your nerves and is good for focus.
• Jasmine – The sweet scent of jasmine can aid with depression.
• Lemon – Lemon oil can also ease digestion and may help fight headaches.
• Eucalyptus oil – The strong smell of eucalyptus oil can assist nasal congestion and may have the ability to calm down coughs.

How to use scented candles

Image: Adobe Stock

Candles provide an aesthetic and atmosphere that may calm the mind.

However, you can use them for more than just long, relaxing baths. You also can place them around your home or even office and study area. Choose from natural or sweet smells depending on your mood.

• Natural – For a natural fragrance, try to match your candles closely to the essential oils listed above.
• Sweet – There are many scents and they include vanilla, rose and fruity infusions, such as citrus.

In addition to the scented candles and essential oils, add on to the self-care routine with body scrubs, body butters, bath bombs or bubble baths.

Meditation is also an idea for when you’re alone to give a positive mindset and glow with positive vibes.

#SelfCareSunday is the best way to start a new week: Relaxed and refreshed!