Wednesday

Sponsored By:

"All dreams are within reach. All you have to do is keep moving towards them."

-Viola Davis

Welcome to Wednesday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Getting started with aromatherapy

• Last-minute wellness Valentine’s Day gifts

• Feeling drained? How to reset in seconds

• Why do certain scents evoke memories?

….And more ❤️

A Beginner Guide to Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has become a popular way to unwind and improve well-being, and for good reason. Essential oils—concentrated plant extracts—are known to help with everything from stress relief to better sleep. A few drops of your favorite oil can create a soothing atmosphere, reduce anxiety, and even enhance your mood.

Lavender oil, in particular, is praised for its calming properties. Studies show it may help ease anxiety and improve sleep, making it a go-to for anyone looking to wind down at the end of the day. Simply inhale it, add a few drops to a diffuser, or apply it to the skin (diluted, of course!) for a moment of relaxation.

Peppermint and ginger oils are also worth exploring. They’re known to help with digestive discomfort and nausea, making them perfect companions when you're feeling under the weather. Just a whiff of these oils can offer immediate relief.

Remember, though, essential oils should be used safely. Always dilute them with a carrier oil before applying them directly to the skin and be mindful of any potential allergies. The key to enjoying the benefits of aromatherapy is balance and knowing what works for you.

Wellness-Inspired Valentine's Day Gifts for Inner Peace

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful chance to show some extra love with gifts that bring relaxation and rejuvenation. Rather than going for the usual chocolates or flowers, why not consider wellness-inspired options that will help your loved ones unwind?

1. Aromatherapy Diffuser & Essential Oils
   Give the gift of relaxation with an essential oil diffuser paired with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus. It’s a simple yet effective way to create a soothing environment at home.

2. Weighted Blanket
   For those who enjoy cozy comforts, a weighted blanket provides a sense of calm and relaxation. It's a perfect way to help someone unwind and sleep soundly.

3. Plush Bathrobe or Pajamas
   A luxurious bathrobe or comfy pajamas is always a hit for anyone who loves to lounge in style. Combine with a bath soak or body scrub for an added touch of indulgence.

4. Guided Meditation or Yoga App Subscription
   A subscription to a meditation or yoga app makes a thoughtful gift for anyone looking to prioritize their mental well-being. It’s an easy way to start a calming routine right from home.

5. Nourishing Skincare Set
   Pamper your loved one with a skincare set that includes items like face masks, moisturizers, and soothing creams. It's a simple way to show you care and help them unwind.

Feeling Drained? This Can Help You Reset in Seconds

Ever feel drained, unfocused, or just off? Your body’s energy plays a bigger role in how you feel than you might think. That’s where Auratherapy comes in—a simple way to refresh your energy, clear mental fog, and feel more balanced throughout the day.

Auratherapy uses essential oils and natural aromatherapy to support your body’s energy flow. Think of it like a reset button for your mood:

• Essential Oil Roll-Ons – A quick swipe helps with focus, relaxation, or emotional balance. Feeling scattered? Roll on Vitality for grounding. Need some love vibes? Go for Joy.

• Aura Sprays – A refreshing mist to shift your energy and instantly boost your vibe. A quick spritz, a deep breath, and your aura is instantly glowing.

• Chakra Kits – A full set to support well-being and help you feel more in tune with yourself. These kits include everything you need to align your energy and are perfect for creating a daily ritual.

No complicated rituals—just breath, intention, and nature’s best ingredients working together to help you feel better every day.

For a limited time, use code Revyourchakra15 for 15% off at Auratherapylife.com—but hurry, this deal disappears February 20th! Don’t wait—your reset starts now!

Thank you to Auratherapy for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Why Certain Scents Evoke Memories

Ever notice how certain scents can instantly take you back to a specific moment? That’s the power of odor-linked memories. These memories are tied to smells that trigger emotions, often more intensely than images or sounds. Think about how a whiff of your mom’s perfume can bring a flood of childhood memories—this is the Proust effect in action.

Researchers have found that odors activate the brain regions responsible for emotions and memories, like the amygdala and hippocampus. This is why smells can evoke such vivid and emotional memories, and why they’re more effective at doing so than pictures or words.

Interestingly, odor-linked memories don’t just affect our emotions—they can improve our well-being. Positive memories triggered by scents have been shown to reduce stress and boost our mood. Lower stress levels can lead to better physical health, reducing inflammation and even improving social interactions.

You can use this knowledge to your advantage! For instance, associating a pleasant scent with studying might help you recall information better during a test. The scent you link to a study session becomes a memory aid, helping you perform at your best. So, next time you want to relax or focus, consider what scents might trigger the right memories for you!

A Note From Us

Wellness Round-Up:

1. How vitamin C can make your hair super shiny

2. Is it really that bad to drink coffee on an empty stomach?

3. 6 natural herbs that can help you sleep better

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use aromatic oils for religious ceremonies, beauty treatments, and medical purposes as far back as 3,500 BCE.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Sometimes self-care doesn’t have to be big or complicated—it can be as simple as diffusing your favorite scent after a long day. Aromatherapy gives you permission to pause, unwind, and truly focus on yourself.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!