How to create an aromatherapy nook, according to manifestation experts and designers

Creating a quiet and cozy aromatherapy nook where you can spend an allotted amount of time engaging in aromatherapeutic practices is a simple way to feel happier and more relaxed at home.

Whether you design your aromatherapy corner in a living room, home office, or bedroom, this should be a place where you can escape from chaos to enjoy relaxing fragrances and sensory decor, creating a more mindful home. 

Elizabeth Grace, interior designer, home expert and founder of Dream Home Making Blog says, 'Dedicate time daily to your aromatherapy nook for mindfulness and relaxation. Embrace the therapeutic power of scent to unwind, meditate, or find solace.'

Elizabeth Grace

Elizabeth Grace is an Interior Designer, Furniture and Home Expert. She received her degree in Interior Designing from the University of Notre Dame. Elizabeth landed her first job as an intern with a leading firm in New York City, learning from some of the city’s top designers. She currently works as an interior designer for both residential and commercial clients.

How to create an aromatherapy nook

'With the right balance of aesthetics and therapeutic elements, you'll have a haven that not only looks beautiful but also nurtures your inner peace,' says Aleks Grigoriev, interior expert and co-founder of Priority Home Buyers. 'It's a sanctuary within your home, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.'

1. Choose a dedicated space

The first thing to think about is where it's going to go. Perhaps an alcove or reading nook, or you could use a window seat, or find a relaxing spot in your bedroom.

'Given that aromatherapy is indeed a therapy and healing modality, it deserves its own defined space to create the feeling of relaxation and tranquillity,' begins Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui & manifestation expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui.

'Ensure it's a place where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the scents of serenity,' advises Elizabeth Grace.

Jacky Chou, principal and director at Archute says, 'You want to create a sense of privacy and intimacy, so avoid places that are too exposed or busy. You can also use curtains, screens, or plants to create some separation and enclosure.'

Principal and Director at Archute

Principal and Director at Archute

Jacky Chou

Jacky Chou is the Principal and Director at Archute, an editorial magazine about architecture, home and garden. They have been referenced by The New York Times, Bustle, House & Home, Bloomberg, and Angi. Jacky also his own an online interior design company as well called Laurel & Wolf.

2. Introduce aromatherapy elements

'The most important element of an aromatherapy nook is, of course, the scent, says Jacky Chou. 'Use candles, diffusers, fragrance sprays, or incense to fill your nook with your favorite aroma.

'Dive into the world of essential oils, the very essence of aromatherapy,' recommends Elizabeth Grace. 'Craft your signature blends by combining essential oils that resonate with your emotions and needs. This personal touch enhances the therapeutic benefits of your aromatherapy practice.'

'Explore uncommon oils such as helichrysum, petitgrain, or myrrh, alongside classics like lavender and eucalyptus.' We love this essential oils set, from Amazon.

You can even use your favorite essential oils to make candles or add a personalized scent to the upholstery in your aromatherapy nook, ensuring it always smells relaxing and inviting.

Aleks Grigoriev suggests, 'Display them in a decorative tray a stylish wooden box, or dedicated shelf for an added touch of elegance.' We've listed some of our favorite options below. 

'Invest in a quality aromatherapy diffuser, an indispensable tool to disperse your chosen scents,' says Elizabeth Grace. 

3. Choose a calming color scheme

The next consideration is color, so think about which colors feel most relaxing to you that you could incorporate into soft furnishings and accessories. 

'The color scheme you choose for your aromatherapy nook can have a massive effect on your mood and energy,' explains Jacky Chou. 'Opt for colors that are calming, warm, and earthy, such as beige, brown, green or lavender. You can also add some color accents with pillows, rugs, or accessories, but don't go overboard with too many bright or contrasting tones.'

David Mason, founder of Knobs, adds, 'Choose relaxing colors like soft blues and greens, which colors also work well with natural elements.'

4. Consider Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right ambiance for your aromatherapy nook. Warm lighting that mimics natural light is ideal for creating a calming environment. For a soft glow, consider incorporating a lamp with a dimmer, string lights, and candles.

'Balance is essential, so embrace both natural and artificial lighting,' says Aleks Grigoriev. 'Sheer curtains can diffuse sunlight, creating a gentle glow. Additionally, consider incorporating soft, warm-toned lamps or candles to infuse a cozy feel,
especially for evening sessions.'

'Your aromatherapy nook should, however, be away from direct sunlight for two reasons,' explains Suzanne Butler. 'The first being that oils need to be kept away from sunlight to ensure their efficacy. But also, if you are also incorporating meditation into your aromatherapy practice, you will want the space to be relatively yang energy – which is calm and darker and can be lightened up should you wish.  Sitting in a space where the sun is shining directly on you can make the practice difficult and uncomfortable.'

5. Select comfortable seating

To truly feel immersed in your aromatherapy experience, it's vital to have comfortable and relaxing seating. This can be the focal point of your aromatherapy nook and should feel in keeping with your home's aesthetic. 

'Comfortable seating is paramount,' says Suzanne Butler. 'Using the old dining chair is not going to cut it. Ideally, a chair such as a plush armchair, chaise longue or a cushioned window seat will provide the support for you to relax into, or a suitable meditation cushion would also work.'

6. Integrate natural elements

Nate Masterson, aromatherapy expert for Maple Holistics 'Start by adding some plants to the area, which will not only help to create a natural space, but it will enhance the air quality and using fragrant species such as lavender, eucalyptus, chamomile or rosemary will help enhance the aromatherapeutic experience.'

You can also incorporate organic matter for plant pots such as rattan, wooden, terracotta or stone elements to create a calming and earthy environment. We love this handmade Moroccan terracotta pot from West Elm.

7. Add personal touches

'The final touch for your aromatherapy nook is to add some accessories
that make it more personal and appealing,' advises Jacky Chou. 'You can use some books, magazines, music, or art to stimulate your senses and inspire you. You can also use some plants, flowers, or crystals to bring some nature and positive energy into your nook.'

It's important to ensure your aromatherapy nook caters to your individual needs, so ask yourself what you will use it for to guide your arrangement and styling of this space. For example, you might want to incorporate a small side table that can hold your essential oils, a notepad for reflections, or even a teapot of herbal tea.

FAQs

'Ensuring all the tools required to practice remain in the specified area is a must,' explains Suzanne Butler. 'Rushing around prior to a session to collect all your bits and pieces is a recipe for a disaster. Imagine sitting down to start and realizing that you forgot your oils, the speaker for relaxing music is on charge in the other room, and the towels and linens you need aren’t in arm's reach. It’s not a great start to a decompression session.'

'Instead, arrange a storage cupboard to house all the tools required, so if the room is multi-use your aromatherapy essentials can be placed out of sight when not being used.'