Between liberation and cabin fever

Have you ever heard of cabin fever? It's a term that's been widely used, describing a feeling often shared following the periods of confinement we've experienced.
He highlights the comfort we felt confined at home, far from the worries of others' opinions while remaining close to loved ones. While some were eager to get out at all costs, others felt more anxiety at the thought of leaving this safe zone.

To better ground yourself and more serenely embrace the changes of this new year, you can use natural essences to help you.
For example, do you feel the need to be reassured?
Certain natural essences are wonderful companions to promote grounding and allow you to move forward.

Vanilla, a comforting scent

Contrary to popular belief, vanillin is not naturally present in breast milk. However, it does contain maltol, a molecule with a caramel and praline scent, which could explain the appeal of nostalgic, gourmand notes in perfumes.

Vanilla, however, is one of those reassuring scents with infinite potential for comfort.

Much loved by children, it has the power to transport us back to carefree days. However, its delightful, warm aroma also blends perfectly with more sensual fragrance compositions.

Place your nose on vanilla oleoresin (Vanilla planifolia), and a true journey begins, one from which you will return amazed and relaxed. Vanillin, a molecule present in vanilla oleoresin, is also said to have beneficial effects on mood.

You will find it in the Mythique Iris Eau de parfum or Belle Rose Eau de Parfum Elixir fragrance.

Benzoin, a reassuring balm

Vanilla notes are also found in Benzoin resin (Styrax benzoe), with more caramelized facets.
A comforting elixir, its scent is deeply reassuring and soothing.
A true balm for the soul, it reconnects those who protect themselves following an emotional shock to their emotions.
We also find notes of vanilla and benzoin in the Lily Ambre perfume elixir, in an elegant and captivating interpretation around a magnificent lily flower.

Vetiver, anchoring one's roots

For those who feel destabilized, it is the natural "root" essences that will allow them to anchor themselves in this new reality. They allow them to draw strength from the earth and the plant kingdom, to regain balance and move forward.

Vetiver, with its earthy scent and woody elegance, is reassuring with its charismatic presence.
It promotes refocusing and grounding in the "here and now" to approach the present with confidence. This is found in Bois 21, an eau de parfum with woody notes to highlight the natural wisdom you carry within you.

Patchouli, elixir of trust

Similarly, Patchouli also brings self-confidence with its own unique touch of sensuality. It allows daydreamers to ground themselves in their bodies (with a carnal connotation), for those who get lost in intellectualizing.
His message could be: "Stop turning the problem over and over in your mind, just live!" Isn't that exactly what we need right now?

A true treasure in the world of perfumery, it highlights the passionate and gourmand red fruit accord that makes up the Sensuel Rubis perfume elixir.

DIY: Confidence Balm!

For lovers of warm, oriental scents, I offer the creation of a safe and reassuring balm.

Applied to the wrists, solar plexus, and soles of the feet, it will bring you comfort and reassurance by promoting grounding. You can inhale its fragrance whenever you feel the need.

Ingredients :

• 10g of cocoa butter,
• 4 drops of natural Patchouli essence (Pogostemon cablin),
• 1 drop of Vanilla oleoresin (Vanilla planifolia)
• 2 drops of natural frankincense (Boswellia carterii) essence, for its balsamic and woody fragrance that helps to detach from daily worries

Melt the cocoa butter in a double boiler over low heat.

Once melted, remove from heat and add the natural essences, then mix.

When the balm has solidified, test it by applying a small amount to the inside of your elbow.

Wait 24 hours before using it.

Precautions for use:

Professional advice is essential before using natural essences in the following people: pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children under 6 years old, people with epilepsy, asthma, neurological fragility and in cases of hormone-dependent cancer.

Iris HAESENDONK, Aromachology Practitioner.

References

Bitsas, A. (2009). Aromatherapy Body and Soul: How to adjust aromatic complexity and human complexity. Brussels, Belgium: AMYRIS.

Canac, P. (2019). The guide to olfactory emotions – Balance and well-being through aromachology. Chavannes-de-Bogis, Switzerland: AMBRE.

Chowta, M., Pallempati, G., Rai, A., Singh, A., & Shoeb, A. (2013). Evaluation of antidepressant activity of vanillin in mice. Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 45(2), 141. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7613.108292

Olivier RP, D. (2018, October). The molecule. Vanillin. Nose. The olfactory review, (6), 16-17.

Sejournet, C. (2020, June 2). Cabin fever: when lockdown is more pleasant than reopening. Retrieved June 9, 2020, from https://www.psychologies.com/Actualites/Societe/Syndrome-de-la-cabane-quand-le-confinement-est-plus-agreable-que-le-deconfinement

Xu, J., Xu, H., Liu, Y., He, H., & Li, G. (2015). Vanillin-induced amelioration of depression-like behaviors in rats by modulating monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain. Psychiatry Research, 225(3), 509-514. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2014.11.056