sniff boxes/ aromatherapy

[lexxi]

I've found them pretty helpful. I wouldn't suggest anything too overpowering (ie if you're feeling unwell, sometimes cloying smells make it worse) but ones with things like lavender (not too much, for the reason I stated above), neroli, camomile and other relaxing type things can be really helpful if you're feeling panicky. I find they help me feel less stressed, because I feel like it's something physical that's helping soothe my body, so I have to rely less on my own self-will to calm myself down. Plus I find that the comforting smell helps you to deepen your breathing as well.
Anyway I hope someone finds this useful,
alexx

[asianeko]

I agree!! My doctor also suggested this to me. She said Coffee is a common scent people associate with calm, but it may be too strong for some people. Lavender Vanilla is a good scent as well. You can get hand lotions of these scents at bath and body works, I'm sure.

[paulinek]

Yes I use peppermint oil if i feel n* - it doesn't smell very minty though [img]smileys/smilies_05.gif[/img] more a woody sort of smell but i think the combination of a strong smell and slow deep breathing do help calm you. I like citrussy ones like Bergamot too.