The OG self-love ritual is that of fragrance and aromatherapy

Often mistaken for indulgence, something extravagant, time-consuming, or reserved for rare moments of escape. In reality, self-love is far simpler and far more essential. It is the quiet, everyday practice of listening to your body, honouring your emotions, and choosing calm over chaos whenever possible.
In a world that constantly demands our attention, energy, and perfection, emotional fatigue has become almost invisible. Stress, overstimulation, and mental overload are now part of daily life. This is precisely why creating small rituals that restore balance is no longer optional; it is an act of self-respect.

One of the gentlest yet powerful ways to begin this journey is through aromatherapy. We speak to Dr Blossom Kochhar, founder of the Blossom Kochhar group, to understand how it affects your mood and her top four choices for feeling better in a jiffy.

Why 'aromatherapy' is synonymous with 'self-love'

Our sense of smell is directly connected to the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotions, memory, and mood. Unlike other senses, fragrance bypasses logic and works instantly on our feelings. This is why a familiar scent can calm us, uplift us, or give us quiet confidence within seconds.
Aromatherapy doesn’t demand time or effort. It asks only for presence. A few mindful minutes with the right essential oil can shift your emotional state and reconnect you with yourself. Here are the top four notes to start with. 

Rose 

Rose essential oil is perhaps the most profound oil for self-love. Soft, comforting, and deeply nurturing, rose gently supports emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and feelings of overwhelm. It reminds us to slow down and be kind to ourselves.

When life feels heavy or you find yourself emotionally disconnected, rose brings warmth and reassurance. It encourages compassion, not just for others, but for yourself.

Pro tip: Turn to rose during moments of self-doubt or emotional stress.

Quick ritual: Add one drop to your moisturiser or diffuse it during reflective moments.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood has a warm, woody aroma that instantly grounds the senses. It helps slow racing thoughts and brings the mind into the present moment. This oil is ideal for unwinding after long days and creating a sense of emotional stability.

Sandalwood is especially beneficial when anxiety feels physical, such as tight shoulders, shallow breathing, and restlessness. It gently anchors you back into calm.

Pro tip: Perfect for evening rituals or meditation.

Quick ritual: Diffuse before bedtime or apply a diluted drop to pulse points.

Jasmine

Jasmine is an oil of confidence and emotional openness. Its uplifting aroma helps ease nervousness, lift the mood, and inspire positivity. Rather than overpowering, jasmine encourages confidence that feels natural and effortless.

It is especially useful before social interactions, presentations, or moments when you need to show up fully as yourself.

Pro tip: Use jasmine when you need an emotional boost.

Quick ritual: Inhale gently or diffuse as you get ready for the day.

Basil

When the mind feels scattered or mentally fatigued, basil essential oil can be deeply refreshing. Known for supporting mental alertness and focus, basil clears mental clutter and sharpens concentration.

It’s an excellent companion for workdays, study hours, or moments when decision-making feels overwhelming.

Pro tip: Ideal for daytime use.

Quick ritual: Diffuse during work hours or inhale directly for instant clarity.

Self-love doesn’t require elaborate routines or hours of effort. Often, it is the smallest, most consistent practices that create the deepest impact. Aromatherapy teaches us that caring for ourselves can be simple, sensory, and deeply intuitive. When you prioritise calm, clarity, and confidence, everything else falls into place naturally. 

All images: Pexels

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