We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Here Is How It Changed Our Mood

By NDTV Shopping Desk Published On: Mar 12, 2025 12:06 PM IST Last Updated On: Mar 12, 2025 02:48 PM IST
Article Main Image

Life moves fast, and stress sneaks in when least expected. Between long work hours, endless notifications, and the occasional bout of restlessness, finding ways to unwind is more important than ever.

Enter the aroma diffuser, a small, stylish gadget designed to fill the air with essential oils and, allegedly, boost mood, energy, and overall well-being. Aromatherapy has been around for centuries, with cultures across the world using plant extracts to promote relaxation, healing, and emotional balance. But in today's fast-paced world, does it really work, or is it just another wellness trend floating around the internet?

To put it to the test, an aroma diffuser was used daily for a week. Different essential oils were diffused depending on the time of day and the mood. The goal was simple: to see if a bit of scented mist could bring a genuine change in mood and well-being. Here's what happened.

We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Heres How It Changed Our Mood

We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Here Is How It Changed Our Mood; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. The Immediate Effect: A Relaxing Start

The first time the diffuser was switched on, the change was immediate. Within minutes, the room filled with a light, soothing mist of lavender and chamomile. The scent wasn't overpowering, just enough to create a calming atmosphere that felt almost spa-like.

That initial experience set the tone for the rest of the experiment. It was surprisingly soothing, like stepping into a wellness retreat without leaving home. After a long, hectic day, sinking into a chair with a book, surrounded by a subtle lavender aroma, felt like a little luxury.

Science backs up this reaction. Lavender has been known to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promote relaxation. Chamomile, on the other hand, has long been used in herbal medicine for its calming effects.

By the end of the first evening, stress levels had noticeably dipped, and there was a general sense of ease and relaxation. While one evening of aromatherapy wasn't a life-changing event, it was a promising start. The real question was whether the effects would last or if the novelty would wear off.

2. A Game Changer For Sleep Quality

Sleep was the next area to test. Many swear by essential oils like lavender, cedarwood, and sandalwood for better sleep, so the diffuser was placed in the bedroom and left running for 30 minutes before bedtime.

The difference? Remarkable. Falling asleep felt easier, and the usual tossing and turning was reduced. The scent created a cosy, tranquil environment, almost like an invisible signal to switch off for the night.

A study by the National Sleep Foundation suggests that aromatherapy can improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting deeper sleep cycles. It was easy to believe this after just a few nights. Waking up felt more refreshed, and the usual morning grogginess was noticeably reduced.

The best part? It was a completely effortless addition to a nighttime routine. Unlike meditation apps or sleep podcasts that require focus, the diffuser worked quietly in the background, making it an ideal sleep companion.

Also Read: Top 10 Gift Ideas For Scent-Obsessed People, Explore Must-Have Picks On Myntra

3. Stress Reduction Throughout The Day

Modern life is filled with little stress triggers, emails, deadlines, traffic, and even the daily news. To see if an aroma diffuser could help with stress management during the day, citrus-based oils like orange, lemon, and bergamot were introduced into the mix.

The result? An instant mood boost. Citrus oils are known for their uplifting properties, and they certainly live up to their reputation. The zesty, fresh scent made the space feel brighter and more energised, even when stuck indoors on a rainy afternoon.

It became clear that aromatherapy doesn't just work at night, it can also be an ally during the busiest hours of the day. Whether it was tackling a long to-do list or simply needing a mid-afternoon refresh, switching on the diffuser provided a natural pick-me-up.

Stress didn't disappear completely (if only it were that easy), but there was a noticeable shift in how it was handled. Situations that would typically feel overwhelming seemed a bit more manageable, and a sense of calm remained in the background.

4. Boosting Focus And Productivity

Can a scent help with productivity? Surprisingly, yes. Midweek, rosemary and peppermint oils were introduced, both known for their cognitive benefits.

The experience was like having an extra shot of espresso, minus the caffeine jitters. Mental clarity improved, focus lasted longer, and distractions seemed less tempting. Research has shown that rosemary can enhance memory retention and concentration, making it a great companion for studying or working on complex tasks.

This was especially helpful when working from home. The subtle scent acted as a background motivator, making it easier to power through tasks. Even creative work felt more fluid as if the brain had found an extra gear.

By the end of the week, the diffuser had become an unexpected productivity tool. Who knew that a little mist could help tackle procrastination?

We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Heres How It Changed Our Mood

We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Here Is How It Changed Our Mood; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Elevating The Ambience Of A Room

Beyond its effects on mood and focus, the diffuser had an unexpected benefit, it completely transformed the atmosphere of the home.

There's something about walking into a room that smells clean, fresh, and inviting. The usual stale air from closed windows was replaced with a light, natural fragrance that made the space feel more alive and welcoming.

Guests even commented on how lovely the place smelled, without knowing about the diffuser. Unlike artificial air fresheners that can be overpowering or chemical-laden, essential oils create a subtle and natural fragrance that feels effortless.

It turned out to be a simple way to make home life feel a little more luxurious, like a personal sanctuary rather than just a place to exist.

6. Easing Headaches And Tension

A lingering headache midweek provided the perfect opportunity to test whether the diffuser could offer relief. A few drops of peppermint oil were added, and within 15 minutes, there was a noticeable easing of tension.

Peppermint oil is often used for headaches because it contains menthol, which has a cooling effect and helps relax muscles. The scent alone seemed to clear brain fog, making it easier to continue working without discomfort.

This was perhaps one of the most unexpected benefits. Instead of reaching for painkillers immediately, aromatherapy offered a gentle, natural alternative that genuinely helped.

For anyone prone to stress-related headaches, this discovery alone made the diffuser worth keeping.

7. Enhancing Morning Energy Levels

Mornings can be rough, especially on darker, colder days. To see if an aroma diffuser could help, an energising blend of grapefruit, eucalyptus, and peppermint was used first thing in the morning.

It was a game-changer. The fresh, crisp scents acted like a sensory alarm clock, shaking off grogginess and making the start of the day feel more intentional.

Instead of mindlessly scrolling through a phone while sipping coffee, the aroma-filled space encouraged a more mindful morning routine. Stretching, journaling, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea felt more refreshing with the uplifting scent in the air.

By the end of the week, this small ritual had become a favourite part of the day, a subtle but effective way to wake up in a better mood.

8. The Final Verdict: More Than Just A Wellness Trend

After a full week of using an aroma diffuser, the verdict was clear: it's more than just a passing trend. The impact was real, better sleep, reduced stress, improved focus, and a more inviting living space.

While it didn't magically eliminate all stress or make life perfect, it offered a simple, effortless way to enhance daily experiences. More than anything, it proved that small changes can make a big difference in how a day feels.

For anyone looking to introduce a little more calm, focus, or energy into their routine, an aroma diffuser might just be the easiest place to start.

A week of using an aroma diffuser proved that something as simple as scent can make a noticeable difference in mood, productivity, and overall well-being. The experience was more than just filling a room with pleasant fragrances, it was about creating an environment that felt calmer, more energised, and even more inviting.

We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Heres How It Changed Our Mood

We Used An Aroma Diffuser For A Week: Here Is How It Changed Our Mood; Photo Credit: Pexels

Products Related To This Article

1. Rey Naturals Tea tree oil for Aromatherapy Tea Tree Essential Oil Pure Organic Remedy

2. Secret Alchemist Yellow Vaporizer Aroma Oils

3. Home Centre Divine Scentscape Grey and White Ceramic Elephant Diffuser Set

4. Iris Purple Lavender Reed Diffuser Set

5. H&M Brown Reed Diffuser

6. H&M Black Room Spray

7. SOUL & SCENTS Reed Diffuser Refill Lavender Fragrance With 12 Reed Sticks

8. ExclusiveLane White Textured Ceramic Aroma Oil Diffuser

From better sleep to improved focus and stress relief, the effects of aromatherapy were tangible. The best part? It required no effort, just a few drops of essential oil and the press of a button. Unlike other wellness trends that demand lifestyle overhauls, a diffuser fits seamlessly into daily routines, offering small but meaningful moments of relaxation throughout the day.

Of course, an aroma diffuser isn't a magic solution to life's challenges. Stress, fatigue, and bad days are inevitable. But having a tool that makes a space feel more comforting, uplifting, or focused is a small yet effective way to support mental and emotional well-being.

So, is an aroma diffuser worth it? Absolutely. Whether it's to unwind after a long day, set the tone for better mornings, or create a peaceful atmosphere, it's an easy and affordable way to bring a little more balance and joy into everyday life.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.

Ads
Ads