In the modern society, it is not easy to get and stay focused most of the time because of the busy schedules. Due to many things happening in the society and technology advancement, we have taken short concentration levels. Fortunately there are some oils which have the property to help the brain to focus and concentrate when this is required most.
Impediments to Focus: Understanding their Root Causes
Distractions interfere with focus by causing stress, lack of sleep or nourishing food, having too much information to process and events happening around one. This means that our thoughts are not so clear and we cannot focus on what is in front of us – the work to be done. Some essential oils like lavender, for instance, can be applied in a diffuser to enhance alertness and reduce congestion in the mind.
How Essential Oils Help
Essential oils can be described as extracts gotten from plants and they are very concentrated in that they contain the aroma of plants and other beneficial chemicals. By aromatherapy, these powerful oils are in a position to help alter both the physical and the psychological. Some oils possess a kind of adaptogenic, stimulating and clarifying and focusing effect simply because they have been inhaled. The molecules have a pleasing smell and the receptors located in the nasal passage are activated. It transmits signals to the limbic system affecting memory and emotions and controlling stress related hormones like cortisol.
Top 5 Oils for memory enhancement and proper concentration
Here are the top essential oils to boost mental clarity, improve cognitive performance and help you tune out distractions:Here are the top essential oils to boost mental clarity, improve cognitive performance and help you tune out distractions:
Peppermint
This is one of the most popular oils in the world because of its fresh and invigorating aroma. Research validates the fact that the use of peppermint oil improves the memory and increases the levels of alertness. They come with a scent that clears the mind thus helping you stay awake throughout the night.
Rosemary
Rosemary has been used for medicinal purposes for ages as a herb of remembrance, the ability to improve memory. Today, rosemary oil remains relevant to the brain health of people. Current research establishes that rosemary oil enhances reaction time, as well as, accuracy in thinking among scholars. It also helps in eradicating mental fatigue plus it can help regain concentration in case one feels extremely exhausted.
Lemon
Lemon is a very refreshing oil and it gives out a powerful and refreshing citrus smell. Research on lemon essential oil indicates improved attention, alertness and concentration among individuals who use it. The psychological effects of the stimulating scent include enhancing of mood and reduction of stress in situations where mental abilities are required.
Frankincense
Part of frankincense has been in use for many centuries, its scent is woody-spicy, and it is derived from the resin. It is particularly valued by many for its capacity to reduce anxiety and calm the whole organism. Some published research reveals that frankincense essential oil helps lower stress hormones such as cortisol. It has been found that one can achieve freedom from distraction and obsessive thinking simply by taking a deep breath of this fragrant earthy scent that calms the mind and body almost instantly.
Sandalwood
This oil is obtained from the sandalwood tree and has an extremely pleasant scent that is woody and deep; sandalwood oil is highly relaxing to the nerves. Research also shows that sandalwood oil has properties that help improve memory and the capacity to focus. It also helps in improving the brain memory so that one can focus more than usual and for a longer period.
How to Use Them
There are several effective ways to leverage these focus-enhancing essential oils:There are several effective ways to leverage these focus-enhancing essential oils:
- Topical application – Massage the specific oil on the inner wrists or temples, or any other areas of the body that can be touched without causing discomfort. It is possible for absorption to occur while scent is suspended in the atmosphere.
- Ultrasonic diffuser – Put oils into an ultrasonic diffuser so that nice smells pervade the space.
- Ceramic candle holder – put some drops of these oils into a holder so that essential oils are spread over the heated surface of a ceramic candle.
- Scent inhaler – it is the application of oil into an aromatherapy inhaler and taking a few deep breaths whenever the focus is needed.
- Shower – After mixing several drops of clarifying essential oils with water, use the water to rinse yourself while taking a shower. Heat activates the release of other oil molecules in the product.
- Essential oil-infused room spray – Spray the room with an essential oil when it is time to focus, to spread the aroma of the oil.
Blends for Concentration
The major fragrances have harmonious blending properties when mixed together in specific proportions. Here are two diffuser recipes to aid concentration:Here are two diffuser recipes to aid concentration:
Focus Diffuser Blend
2 drops rosemary oil
2 drops lemon oil
2 drops peppermint oil
Concentration Diffuser Blend
2 drops frankincense oil
2 drops sandalwood oil
1 drop lemon oil
Understanding stemming from these oils mixture will create better focus to enable one to stay home and work or study. So, merely breathing them in will assist in eliminating the fogginess of the mind or distractions that we may be facing.
Other Concentration Tips
While essential oils can help you stay on task, other lifestyle measures also improve focus:While essential oils can help you stay on task, other lifestyle measures also improve focus:
- Organize yourself – Tidy your desk and have ready what you may need at a particular time.
- Avoid notifications – Avoid being interrupted by text messages, emails or social media notifications. Avoid multitasking. Take full concentration on whatever one is doing.
- Take regular breaks – break up work in such a way that employees take short intervals to refresh their concentration and attention levels.
- Get a daily dose of physical activity – physically active people have improved blood circulation and supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain.
- Ensure that you are well-rested – One should aim at sleeping between 7 to 9 hours in order to have mental strength.
- Drink water – This explains that water is important to take in order to avoid getting dehydrated hence affecting concentration. Be sure to take adequate amounts of water in your day.
It is remarkable that the right essential oils work almost instantly to enhance the human brain capabilities. However, these are effective only if practiced alongside other aspects of a healthy lifestyle. If you are able to cut down on stress levels, get organized, avoid distractions and lead a healthy lifestyle that is beneficial to your brain, you will realize that you are able to concentrate well without any intermissions.