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There are some things that you probably cannot change about your work environment. Among these things are the office lighting, the noise level, the furniture layout, and the color of the walls. However, you can definitely take steps to improve your office environment without having to request a work order. One way to do so is to use aromatherapy for productivity.
Skeptical? According to Entrepreneur magazine, “Smell is the strongest of the senses and is best able to influence brain activity.” This is because olfactory bulbs directly connect to the areas of the brain that process learning and emotions. For many people, aromatherapy can even lower blood pressure.
By harnessing the power of scent, you can take control of your mental and emotional state at work. Even though your use of aromatherapy for productivity is the behavior of an impressively enterprising self-starter, you will want to be discreet. One way to do so is to keep small bottles of essential oils in a desk drawer. During times of fatigue, stress, or decreased productivity, put a few drops of the essential oil of your choice on a tissue or handkerchief and inhale deeply to take advantage of the aromatherapeutic effects.
You can also use aromatherapy in the office in more creative ways. Here are a few:
Energizing Lemon and Orange
Citrus scents tend to have an uplifting effect. Lemon and orange are particularly useful because not only do they calm and energize, they also offer the benefits of Vitamin C when consumed in fresh fruit form. So, during times at work when you need to revitalize yourself, think citrus. Eat an orange and inhale its scent deeply. Or try squeezing lemon into your water to get the triple benefits of aromatherapy, hydration, and Vitamin C.
Calming Jasmine and Lavender
Jasmine and lavender scents are known for their relaxing properties. Lavender is so soothing that it is widely used as a sleep aid, for stress relief, and to help ease headaches. During times in the office when your stress levels are high and you need something to help calm your nerves, try rubbing on a jasmine or lavender scented lotion to gain both aromatherapy and self-massage benefits.
Concentration-Enhancing Peppermint and Cinnamon
Peppermint and cinnamon can clear the mind and increase focus and concentration. If your brain is feeling sluggish at work and you need to renew your focus, try taking a five-minute break and chewing a stick of peppermint or cinnamon gum while inhaling deeply. Doing so will not only help freshen up your mental state but will also provide a bit of a sugar boost to help you power through.
Aromatherapy for productivity in the office can be done so discreetly that no one will ever realize that you are actively giving yourself a boost. Having a cost-effective and immediate way to improve your productivity is a valuable tool. So try keeping citrus fruits around the office, tucking a lavender-scented lotion into your desk drawer, or slipping a pack of cinnamon gum into your briefcase. You never know when you will need it most.
