Another way in which essential oils can boost happiness is by reducing stress and anxiety. Stress is a major contributor to negative emotions and can worsen mood swings. Essential oils can be used to promote relaxation, reduce Happiness is a complex and seemingly subjective emotion. It can be described as a state of contentment or fulfillment, often accompanied by positive feelings such as joy, pleasure, and satisfaction.
While happiness is commonly understood as a complex and subjective emotion, it is often described as a state of contentment or fulfillment, accompanied by positive feelings like joy, pleasure, and satisfaction (Fredrickson & Kahneman, 1993)[i]. However, due to the subjective nature of happiness, it remains a challenging concept to define comprehensively.
Though its definition may vary from person to person, the pursuit of happiness is a universal human desire. Achieving happiness can come from many sources such as personal relationships, physical activity, or personal growth or experiencing a sensation. In essence, happiness is about finding joy and fulfillment in daily life, regardless of circumstance. In this article, I will discuss a few of the reasons why essential oils can make you feel happy.
Happy emotions can be triggered by essential oils due to their natural ability to produce aromas that activate the part of the brain responsible for regulating emotions.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that have been used therapeutically for centuries. The use of essential oils has gained popularity in the field of aromatherapy, which involves the use of these oils to promote physical and emotional wellbeing. Among their many suggested benefits, essential oils are believed to have a positive effect on mood and can induce feelings of happiness and relaxation.
Essential oils contain molecules that can directly affect the limbic system of the brain, which is responsible for emotions, memories, and behavior. Inhaling essential oils can trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are known to be associated with feelings of happiness and pleasure.[ii] This is why certain aromas can instantly uplift our mood and make us feel better. Aromatherapy with essential oils can thus help balance mood and promote feelings of wellbeing. stress and anxiety, and promote better sleep. For example, lavender essential oil is known for its calming properties and is often used to relax and calm the mind. Studies have shown that inhaling lavender oil can reduce anxiety levels and promote feelings of relaxation.
Essential oils can also improve cognitive performance and mental clarity, which can lead to a more positive outlook on life. Certain oils, such as grapefruit, lemon, rosemary and mint oils, are known for their ability to improve mental focus and clarity, improve memory, and reduce mental fatigue. By improving cognitive function, essential oils can improve mood and help us feel more positive and energized.
To summarize, essential oils can have a positive effect on mood and induce feelings of happiness and relaxation. They work by directly affecting the limbic system of the brain, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving cognitive function. While essential oils may not be a cure-all for negative emotions, they can be used as a natural and safe alternative to promote emotional wellbeing. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of action of essential oils, but their therapeutic potential makes them a promising tool for managing mood disorders.
References
[i] Fredrickson, B. L., & Kahneman, D. (1993). Duration neglect in retrospective evaluations of affective episodes. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 65(1), 45-55. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.65.1.45
[ii] Lv XN, Liu ZJ, Zhang HJ, Tzeng CM. Aromatherapy and the central nerve system (CNS): therapeutic mechanism and its associated genes. Curr Drug Targets. 2013 Jul;14(8):872-9. doi: 10.2174/1389450111314080007. PMID: 23531112.