The Best Colors and Scents That Help with Exercising
We’re almost a full two months into the year, which according to a recent study done in the U.K., means 64% of people have already abandoned their New Year’s resolutions. If exercising more was on your to-do list for 2022, you may be able to boost your motivation with certain colors and scents. Here we take a look at the psychological and physiological connection between exercise, smell and colors.
Essential oils to try
Essential oils are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in plants. They have served many purposes in various cultures around the world for centuries. Their use dates as far back as 4500 BC when Ancient Egyptians used them in cosmetics and ointments. They are still used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals today and have recently become popular natural remedies to promote overall well-being.
Essential oils that can help with your workout:
- Whether you work out first thing in the morning or after work, there will be times when you need some extra encouragement to get moving. Try rubbing ginger oil or lemongrass on your pressure points for a little pick-me-up. Both of these oils are known to reduce fatigue and promote the production of heat within the body, which can help with fat burn.
- If you’re experiencing sore muscles post-workout, you can apply bergamot, cinnamon or marjoram oils topically to alleviate pain. These oils have soothing properties that help dull nerve sensitivity.
- Sleep is an essential part of recovery so the body can repair and replenish for the next workout. Lavender and eucalyptus can help you unwind and relax, which will aid in a better night’s sleep.
The impact of color
Color therapy, or chromotherapy, also has origins in Egypt as well as India, Greece and China. Today, color is becoming more widely used in medicine, with blue light being used to treat neonatal jaundice, rheumatoid arthritis and healing tissue while preventing scar tissue.
A wide variety of psychological issues are also being treated with chromotherapy. This is because some retinal ganglion cells in the eye respond to light and its color by sending signals to the hypothalamus, which is the central brain region that controls many of the body’s functions through regulation of hormone secretion. This is why, as evening approaches and blue light in sunlight decreases, we tend to become drowsy.
Each color has different effects on our mood and perception, which can play a role in our exercise routines:
- Red has energizing effects that make it an ideal color to include in a workout space. Too much red can increase heart rate and blood pressure while also raising feelings of aggression, so it’s best used as an accent color.
- Blue boosts productivity by having a calming effect that also improves concentration. If you’re looking to increase reps and sets, blue is the ideal color to surround yourself with.
- Green tends to have a calming and refreshing effect because it resembles nature. It can also boost satisfaction and healing, which can help make workouts more enjoyable.
- Yellow is a color you may want to avoid during your exercise routine as it can cause feelings of fatigue.
At Midwest Express Clinic, we understand the important role of exercise in maintaining a person’s health. We’re happy to provide advice on what specific workouts and exercises would be best for you and your fitness level. If you’re already a seasoned athlete, don’t hesitate to visit us if an injury occurs or a sore muscle isn’t going away. Visit us online for a fast, easy check-in at your nearest location today!
