How to Form a Habit that Sticks: Using Aromatherapy in Habit Formation
Introduction
A positive life is built on the foundation of positive habits. Positive habits are the daily stone-work that build us up into who we want to be, ideally. Forming these habits isn’t hard, with the right framework, tools, and accountability.
At Fum we have been helping people create positive habits for the past three years and have specifically helped over 500 customers reduce and/or quit their smoking habit.
In this blog, we will walk you through what Aromatherapy is and how it can be a tool in your habit formation.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy works with the systems of our body by delivering the aromatic properties to the olfactory system in our nose and mouth. The aromatic properties are then absorbed by olfactory receptors, bringing benefits to your whole body. Common uses for aromatherapy include, easing headaches, curbing cravings, supporting respiratory function, relieving symptoms of stress, and many more!
Linking Aromatherapy with Your Habits
The principles of association can strongly reinforce habits or feelings in our lives.
Such as the smell of freshly baked cookies can be associated with cozy feelings of comfort, or a certain candle can teleport you into a time-once-forgotten. Aromas can be associated with good feelings and positive experiences. We can utilize this principle of smell association to set our mindset in habit formation.
You can use smell association as a hook to boost your habit formation
Pick specific smells for specific tasks. Shield for waking up in the morning, Peppermint for working out, Reassurance for reading and relaxing at home, Lavender for calming down before sleep. Over time, as you consistently associate these smells with certain activities, you’ll find that the smell automatically makes you feel that way, with less effort on your part.
Case Study: John’s Working Mindset
John struggles to focus at work. He feels like he has distractions around him that prevent him from completing his tasks.
In an effort to focus more, John explored aromatherapy. John began using Peppermint Cores in his Füm when he arrived at his desk to work each day. He made sure to only use this essential oil infused Core in his Füm for this situation- diving deep into work and being focussed. Soon, John was on his way to productive mornings.
Over time, as John consistently used this essential oil while working, the smell of Peppermint Cores helped him focus his attention. This is for two reasons:
(1) Like chewing gum while studying and chewing the same gum when taking the test, having an aromatic hook can help get your mind ready for the task at hand.(2) Peppermint, and its cooling sensation, uplifts the senses and can help clear that morning brain fog and kick start your day. Peppermint is a natural pre-workout for good reason!
Habit Formation is a Journey
Forming a new habit is a journey. This journey comes with all sorts of twists, turns, and unexpected surprises, even with supportive tools like Aromatherapy. Enjoy the struggle--we’re human.
Start with plan
One of the biggest mistakes people make when they are starting a new habit, is jumping into it without a plan. They haven’t defined why they are creating the habit or how they are going to get to where they want to be. Start there.
Ask yourself and define
- Who do I want to be? What is my“ideal” self and what habits would that person have?
- Why do I want this? What is going to motivate me?
Create a SMART habit
After figuring out who you want to become and why you want to pursue that, you need a goal. Big, vague goals often lead to burn out and frustration. Start with a goal that you can actually work towards and assess your progress by. A good format for this is SMART habit.
- Specific: What is the exact outcome you are looking for? (simple, sensible, and significant)
- Measurable: What is necessary to accomplish said habit? (meaningful, motivating)
- Attainable: Do you control the outcome, and is it realistic? (agreed, achievable)
- Relevant: Does this Habit make sense for me? (reasonable, realistic and resourced, results based)
- Time-Based: When do I expect to see results? (timely, time-sensitive, time-limited)
Gather tools and resources
Establish a way that you can remind yourself to do your habit and keep yourselfaccountable. A great way to do this is to use a habit tracker. A Habit Tracker allows you to see your progress, times of struggle, and can reinforce your motivations to work towards your goal
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All Fum orders in the month of January come with a free Habit Tracker.
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Aromatherapy can be another tool for reminding and reinforcing your habit formation journey. Through associating the habit with specific essential oils in your Füm™, you can establish rhythms that motivate and empower you.
Find Accountability
Lastly, tell a friend. A journey is always more fun with a companion. They don’t necessarily have to be forming the same habit, but having someone who checks in on you or that you report to is great accountability for forming your new habit.
To Wrap it up...
Aromatherapy is a powerful tool for habit formation. Aromas can transport you into the right mindset to reach your goals. Associating positive feelings and actions with your senses can motivate, empower, and encourage you in your habit formation.
What aromas help keep you positive? Let us know in the comments!
Cultivating positive habits in our lives doesn't have to be intimidating. Finding useful tools, such as Füm with Cores or Habit Trackers, can effectively reinforce your motivation and encourage you to keep going. Grab your Fum today, breathe in the benefits, and start creating positive habits that will change who you are becoming.
Curb Your Cravings with Fum™ Conquer
Cravings can sneak up on you when you least expect them and they can really throw a new habit off. No matter your cravings, Fum with Conquer Cores is a great combination for quelling cravings and keeping you on track for creating positive habits. Conquer Cores are a blend of natural essential oils known for curbing cravings. Grab yours now.