How Perfume Can Support Maternal Wellbeing

Motherhood, while profoundly rewarding, often introduces a whirlwind of new responsibilities, chief of which is now keeping a new baby alive and looked after. Often, this will unfortunately overshadow personal self-care. Amidst the demands of nurturing a new life, it's vital for mothers to find moments that reconnect them with their individuality and promote overall mental and physical well-being.

Integrating scent rituals into daily routines offers a simple yet effective avenue for fostering calm, intention, and self-love during postpartum.

The Psychological Influence of Scent

I’ve talked before about how the human olfactory system is intricately linked to the brain's limbic system, which governs emotions and memories. This connection explains why certain fragrances can evoke vivid recollections and can shift your mood instantaneously. Engaging with pleasant scents, like we have at De(ux) Mains can serve as a grounding mechanism, helping you to navigate the emotional complexities of postpartum life.​

Aromatherapy and Maternal Health

If you will indulge my science brain again, please. Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils, has been recognised for its potential benefits in alleviating certain postpartum complications. A systematic review by Khadije Rezaie-Keikhaie et al. highlighted that aromatherapy can positively impact postpartum issues such as pain, anxiety, and depression. The study supported the conclusion that incorporating specific fragrances into daily routines, can result in enhanced relaxation and mood stabilisation.

“Results demonstrated that aromatherapy can improve symptoms commonly experienced in post-partum period, including depression, stress, pain, anxiety, and fatigue”.

Establishing Scent Rituals for Self-Care

Creating intentional scent rituals can provide mothers with dedicated moments of self-care amidst their busy schedules.

I have taken the liberty of suggesting a few below:

Morning Renewal

Begin the day by applying De(ux) Mains or diffusing uplifting essential oils like citrus or peppermint. This practice can invigorate the senses and set a positive tone for the day ahead.​

Midday Pause

Use calming scents such as lavender or chamomile during short breaks to promote relaxation and mindfulness. A brief inhalation of these aromas can serve as a reset button, reducing stress levels.​ Each of De(ux) Mains perfumes contains certain natural fragrances for this specific purpose.

Evening Unwind

Incorporate soothing fragrances like sandalwood or vanilla into bedtime routines. Diffusing these scents or adding a few drops to a warm bath can signal the body to prepare for restful sleep.​ De(ux) Mains perfumes can be applied before rest to promote the connection between scent and rest, and for promoting calm before nightly feeding routines.

Incorporating scent rituals into daily life can be a transformative practice for mothers seeking to reclaim moments of beauty and self-connection amidst the demands of motherhood. By thoughtfully selecting and engaging with fragrances, mothers can cultivate an environment of calm, intention, and self-love, ultimately supporting their overall well-being during the postpartum journey.​

Reference:

Khadije Rezaie-Keikhaie et al, “Effect of aromatherapy on post-partum complications: A systematic review” Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice Volume 35, May 2019, Pages 290-295.