Women's Fitness January 30, 2025 0 Comments

The Hack That Turned Me Into a Morning Workout PersonâLess Coffee Required

Right when I wake up, the hit of natural energy (cortisol, technically) tricks me into believing I can tackle my to-do list and hit the gym before noon. But that natural energy doesn’t last very long—by the time I finish scanning my inbox and slipping on a workout set, you’ll find me beelining to my Nespresso machine.

That’s why I’m always looking for alternative (cue: caffeine-free) ways to feel more energized. Recently, instead of reaching for a second cup, I decided to dust off my essential oil diffuser and pop in some uplifting scents. I’ve found that diffusing bright, citrusy oils, like lemon or orange, gives me that much-needed pep in my step, especially on gray, thick-of-winter days.

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I like my scent extra concentrated, so I pour about 10 drops of oil into my water-filled diffuser and let it work its magic while I get ready for the gym. It’s a simple, caffeine-free ritual that transforms my morning into a moment of energy and focus.

And before you write off essential oils as woo-woo, consider that scent is well-established to influence mood. A 2015 review¹ in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine explains that when inhaled, essential oils interact with receptor cells in the nose, sending signals to your brain. This triggers the release of neurotransmitters including serotonin, endorphins, or noradrenaline that promote relaxation, euphoria, or stimulation depending on the oil.

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The best essential oils for energy

When it comes to scent science, Bekah Nixon, vice president of global product innovations at DoTerra, an essential oils company, says mint and citrus oils are the two areas to stick with for creating energizing and invigorating blends.