Have you ever heard of aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is basically the usage of certain aromatic materials (such as essential oils) in order to produce certain pleasant smells that may improve psychological and physical well-being. Typically, the aromatic materials are dispersed through a diffuser and essential oils can be purchased online or at dedicated shops. Some supermarkets and pharmacies even carry essential oils for your perusal.
Aromatherapy is an age-old practice, and it relies largely on the “olfactory connection”. As we understand it, certain smells may trigger certain memories or associations in your head. Maybe you’ve walked by a perfumery once and smelt the brand of perfume a loved one wears, and it triggered feelings of comfort and security. Aromatherapy works in a similar way. When you smell something, your olfactory nerve is triggered, and certain smells can bring about certain physical or physiological sensations. Some benefits of aromatherapy are:
- Lavender may produce feelings of calmness and relaxation
- Frankincense may improve sleep
- Peppermint may ease headaches and fight fatigue
- Lemon may reduce depression and anxiety
- Rosemary may reduce pain and stress
- Bergamot may reduce anxiety
- Clary Sage oil reduces stress and alleviates menopause symptoms
An alternative method to using a diffuser and essential oils is using pre-prepared candles or lotions. These may be easier to set up, though you may lose some versatility if you would like to utilize a different scent. Bath soaps or shower tablets are another popular way of dabbling in aromatherapy whilst showering or bathing. These can be dropped inside your bath or activated with water in order to fill the entire bathroom with pleasant smells whilst you shower.
That said, there are some concerns you should take note of considering aromatherapy. Firstly, the oils used are highly concentrated, hence may be toxic even in small amounts. Hence you may have to carefully consider where you keep your oils if you have small children or pets at home.
Why Choose Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley?
At Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley, we believe in promoting the health and wellness of our residents. We do this in several ways. Firstly, our 24/7 team of medical professionals is always on standby in the event of emergencies or to attend to the health of our residents.
As part of our exclusive senior living programs, we run health and fitness classes for all our residents to take part in. Our dining room also serves healthy (but super delicious) meals that take into account the dietary needs of our residents as well as any special dietary concerns they may have. We also have excellent, well-maintained amenities for our residents to enjoy, inclusive of beautifully kept grounds where we oftentimes run outdoor activities to work up a sweat and enjoy the serenity of nature.
To find out more about Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley, feel free to contact us here to ask us any questions you may have, or request a tour of our community to discover us first-hand!
