Meditation Monday: Awakening Gratefulness Through the Power of Poetry and Scents
- Dr. G
- Oct 13, 2025
- 5 min read
In a world that moves at unbelievable speed, it’s often hard to find a moment to breathe. The weight of daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming, making the need for a peaceful retreat all the more important. Thankfully, you can create your sanctuary right at home using simple tools like essential oils and candles. These powerful elements can uplift your mood and help you embrace tranquility in your everyday life. Those who know me well know they can walk into my space and it is filled with aromas of my choosing. I awaken and go to sleep being surrounded by those elements that create a calm in my life. It is not just smells for the sake of...there is power in the natural scents that were created for our enjoyment and more importantly our well being.
The Power of Scent
Scents have a strong influence on our feelings and mental well-being. Studies indicate that certain aromas have the ability to lower heart rates by up to 10%, improve focus, and even elevate your mood through the release of dopamine. Essential oils, which are extracted from plants, deliver these benefits effectively. For example, research shows that lavender can reduce anxiety by 30%, while citrus scents can increase feelings of joy by as much as 50%.
Picture this: you walk into your home, greeted by the soft glow of candlelight. The air is filled with the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, known to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This sensory experience not only lifts your spirits, but also helps you escape the demands of daily life.
The Transformative Impact of Poetry
When I was young, I read the empowering poetry of Hughes, Baldwin, Angelou and others. I read for pleasure and was transformed and transfixed by the melodious words. I dared to dream of the impossible and to cultivate a world that empowered me to fulfill my dreams. Poetry was not my only read, but it was part of my library of books that helped propel me forward. This year I made a goal to read more. As life would have it, I haven't been 100% faithful to the goal. I am, however, continuing to press myself and encourage others to do so. Poetry is like music, it's rhythmic stances create a feeling of movement and flow. I love hearing the authors read their works. It gives it shape and form. It catapults one's imagination into orbit. Poetry can conjure up emotions like scents and leave one transformed. This week, I am focused on leveraging the power of poetry and essential oils to create a perfect oasis. What a perfect pairing.
Crafting Your Oasis
Transforming your space into a calming oasis is easier than you might think. Start by choosing a few essential oils that resonate with you. Here are some popular options:
Lavender: A well-known relaxant, lavender aids in reducing anxiety and is often used to improve sleep quality.
Peppermint: This refreshing scent can increase energy and help sharpen your focus, making it ideal for productivity.
Citrus: Citrus oils, such as lemon and orange, are uplifting and can help combat feelings of sadness, contributing to a brighter mindset.
After selecting your oils, consider adding them to candles. You can either purchase ready-made scented candles or enhance unscented candles by adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil. The combination of flickering light and delightful aromas creates an inviting atmosphere that enhances relaxation.
The Benefits of Candles and Essential Oils
Combining candles with essential oils offers a range of benefits that enhance daily life. Here are some key advantages you can experience:
Mood Enhancement: The right scents can elevate your mood significantly. Research shows that scents like vanilla can decrease feelings of stress by up to 15%. Lighting a candle infused with pleasant fragrances can quickly improve your emotional state.
Stress Relief: The combination of soft candlelight and calming aromas naturally reduces anxiety levels. A study found that individuals who utilize aromatherapy report up to a 30% decrease in stress.
Improved Focus: Scents such as peppermint and eucalyptus can enhance your concentration and mental clarity by up to 25%, making them perfect companions during study or work sessions.
Aesthetic Appeal: Candles not only provide a calming atmosphere but also add a decorative touch to any room, highlighting your personal style while promoting relaxation.
Creating a Ritual - Focus is Gratefulness
To fully enjoy the calming benefits of essential oils and candles, you might establish a daily ritual. This could be as simple as lighting a candle infused with your favorite scent while you read or meditate for 10 to 15 minutes. This week try poetry. Setting aside this time allows you to recharge and connect with yourself, helping to create a peaceful environment.
Developing this habit can lead to meaningful improvements in your mood and overall well-being. Remember, it’s about more than just scents; it’s about the intention and focus behind your actions. This week my focus is surrounding gratefulness. After you meditate, end your session on positivity. Jot down a few things you can celebrate about your life. You deserve it.
Join the V.I.B.E. Tribe
As you embark on your wellness journey, consider joining a community dedicated to holistic living. The V.I.B.E. Tribe at Sassafras Farms offers support for those looking to be intentional about their life. Our mantra is inspired by this intentionality and invites you to operate at Vitally Inspired Balanced & Engaged. Curiosity is the first step. If not this tribe, find another. The important thing is to find your village to help reduce the negative influences. Together, we can cultivate a community focused on uplifting each other and fostering positive changes in our lives. I am on a mission to foster self-care. We should all strive to do this.
Finding Your Oasis
Transforming your space into a source of calm and positivity is attainable. By making use of essential oils and candles, you'll create an environment that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit. Whether at home or away, these simple tools can help you find peace amid the chaos of life. Adding a book of poetry will surely create a space for the nurturing of your soul.
So gather your preferred scents, light a candle, take a deep breath, and embrace your journey toward self-discovery and wellness. Remember, you are not alone. Joining the V.I.B.E. Tribe means becoming part of a larger purpose. Together, we can create a life full of joy, balance, and intention. At the farm, we offer weekly TooneUp Thursdays to support our community. We offer a music playlist to set the tone for the month, legacy planning webinar, Lit and Libations (book club-virtual), and Yoga (virtual and in-person). Most are free or for a nominal fee. Want to join us in person to experience our oasis? We have various events and are open every Saturday from 10-4 pm. Can't make it in person? Join our virtual offerings. I hope to meet you soon. Until then... be intentional. This week I celebrate Gratefulness.
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