Mastering the art of deep breathing may seem like an odd concept since it’s a natural act we perform daily without conscious thought. However, employing breathing techniques in conjunction with your favorite fragrance can profoundly enhance relaxation for both your body and mind. These techniques are incredibly effective whether you’re managing mild anxiety or confronting a full-blown panic attack. Additionally, integrating a soothing scent during your practice not only amplifies your relaxation experience but also enhances your scent perception and appreciation for the fragrances you already cherish. This dual approach can lead to a more profound sense of calm and well-being.
According to Catherine Turner, a distinguished expert in meditation and yoga, “Breath is life of course, and yet it sounds almost too good to be true that something so natural, free and right under our noses is one of our biggest wellness boosters.” She emphasizes that when we engage in deep, free breathing, we foster a balanced nervous system, which plays a crucial role in regulating our digestion and sleep cycles. When these bodily systems operate harmoniously, we often find ourselves feeling energized, positive, and receptive to life’s experiences. In our visually dominated society, it’s easy to forget that breathing is a sensory experience deeply intertwined with our sense of smell, enriching our overall wellness journey.
Following Catherine’s guidance, it is beneficial to practice simple breathing exercises regularly, integrating them into our daily routines whenever feelings of overwhelm arise. As we inhale, air travels through the nostrils; it is subsequently warmed and filtered by tiny hairs known as cilia and mucus lining. This air then passes over a small area of tissue at the back of the nose, known as the olfactory epithelium, where odorous molecules are identified. This information is then relayed to the brain for further processing and interpretation. By consciously acknowledging this process, we can enhance our breathing practices and overall sensory awareness.
Experiencing these physiological processes usually occurs unnoticed in the background. Yet, many of us can remember instances when our breath has profoundly affected our state: the exhilarating sensation of being ‘out of breath’ during vigorous exercise, the delightful ‘breathlessness’ associated with excitement, or the sheer pleasure of inhaling the rich, earthy aromas of a forest or the invigorating, salty breeze by the sea. These moments of heightened awareness are essential in cultivating an enduring sense of profound calm and limitless joy—feelings that often elude us as we become entangled in the stresses and anxieties of our daily lives.
Take a moment to engage with Catherine’s breathwork techniques by watching her demonstration. This mini session is designed to help you reset your mind and release any stress that may be weighing you down throughout your day. As you participate, remember to select a scent that is convenient to carry, allowing you to have it readily available in your bag or pocket. We recommend looking for a travel-sized roll-on or decanting a favorite calming fragrance into a portable, refillable spritzer. This way, you can enjoy on-the-go scented meditation whenever you need it. Consider exploring these soothing scents while you practice your breathing techniques.
Nancy Meiland shared that she was ‘intuitively drawn’ to create her first attar during the early days of the pandemic. The result, GAIA, features a tranquil blend of Calabrian bergamot, nutmeg, and jasmine sambac, prominently centered around blue lotus absolute. This flower is traditionally regarded as one that can elevate the mind and offers profound protection during transformative periods. This makes it particularly suitable for integration into meditation and breath work.
Nancy Meiland GAIA from £4.95 for 2ml (£50 for 30ml) nancymeiland.com
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Kate Moss embraces her spiritual journey by harnessing potent ingredients that reflect her commitment to meditation and mindfulness practices. Her Cocomoss skincare line embodies this transformation while also showcasing an exquisitely crafted Chypre fragrance that captivates the senses. This remarkable scent harmonizes delicate notes of jasmine and tuberose with geranium and bergamot, creating an enchanting experience. The soothing, calming undertones of oakmoss, cedarwood, and tonka are ideal for both yoga sessions and daily wear, offering a fragrant escape that rejuvenates the spirit.
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Experience an unexpectedly soothing blend of spice-infused bergamot and plum that culminates in a creamy leather dry-down, offering a delightful ‘your-skin-but-so-much-better’ sensation. The warm embrace of amber lingers on the skin for hours, creating a comforting atmosphere. This roller-ball bottle design makes it especially convenient for travel, allowing you to refresh your scent while embracing deep breathing and letting go of daily stresses.
Malin & Goetz Dark Rum Perfume Oil £32 for 9ml malinandgoetz.co.uk
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