We live at a pace that does not always allow us to stop. And when that happens, the first thing that changes —even if we do not realise it— is our breathing: it becomes fast, shallow, almost held.
That is where stress begins to settle in the body.
But that is also where we have a gateway to transform it: the sense of smell.
Because when we inhale an essential oil, we do not only perceive an aroma. We are sending a direct signal to the limbic system, the area of the brain that regulates our emotions. And that connection is immediate.
The science behind calm
Within each essential oil there is a very precise chemical composition. In the case of relaxing oils, two molecules stand out in particular: linalool and linalyl acetate.
Both have the ability to interact with the nervous system, helping to reduce excitation and promoting a state of balance. In other words, they support the body in that much-needed transition: from activation to calm.
That is why oils such as lavender or bitter orange leaf become great allies in moments of stress.
Two key allies for the nervous system
- Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
Lavender is, without a doubt, one of the best-known essential oils… and it is no coincidence.
Its richness in linalool gives it a particularly interesting action on the nervous system. In fact, different studies have observed its influence on GABA receptors, related to relaxation.
But beyond theory, lavender has something very recognisable: that feeling of “everything is fine”.
When to turn to it: when the mind does not stop, when it is hard to sleep or when you feel that everything is overwhelming.
- Bitter orange leaf (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
Also known as petitgrain, this oil is obtained from the leaves of the bitter orange tree and stands out for its content in linalyl acetate.
Its action is more “physical”. It not only helps to calm the mind, but also supports the body when stress manifests physically: tension, tightness or internal discomfort.
It has a very interesting ability to “let go”.
When to use it: when stress is felt in the body, not only in the head.
Diffusion or inhalation: two ways to experience aromatherapy
Depending on your moment and context, you can enjoy essential oils in two ways.
Create an environment that supports you
Environmental diffusion allows you to transform the space you are in.
Blends such as the Relax Synergy combine lavender, petitgrain and citrus oils such as grapefruit or bergamot, together with deeper notes such as Atlas cedar. The result is an environment that invites you to slow down effortlessly.
It is that moment when you walk into your home… and everything changes.
A pause just for you
There are moments when you cannot change your surroundings, but you can create your own space.
That is where direct inhalation comes in. A personal inhaler allows you to pause, breathe and reconnect anywhere.
When inhaled, the aromatic molecules quickly reach the limbic system, generating an almost immediate emotional response.
One breath… and the body begins to let go.
Returning to yourself, through the sense of smell
Integrating aromatherapy into your daily routine does not require major changes.
Sometimes, something very simple is enough: pause, inhale and allow the body to remember what it feels like to be calm.
Because, in reality, that calm is already within you.
You just need to breathe again.
Create your own space of calm with our Sinergia Relax: a blend of essential oils that transforms the atmosphere and helps the body return to balance.
Fermina Pérez Carmona
Degree in Chemical Sciences
