In an increasingly fast-paced and emotionally taxing society, many people are using natural therapies to maintain their physical and mental well-being. On September 11, at La Botanica: Gli Oli Essenziali attendees at the Palazzi Community Center were able to  explore the powerful role that aromatherapy can play in everyday life, particularly through the personal insights of wellness experts Federica Polidoro and Marco Pigato. They shared how specific essential oils can help manage stress, boost mood, and even ease the emotional challenges of studying abroad. Through stories, rituals, and useful tips, Polidoro and Pigato illustrated that essential oils are more than just smells; they assist with mental healing, memory, and overall daily maintenance.

The atmosphere of the event played a huge role in shaping how people experienced the presentation. It was held outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery that made the space feel calm and inviting. Upon arrival, guests were greeted with glasses of prosecco and a neatly arranged seating area that encouraged everyone to relax and engage. The casual, yet elegant setup set the tone for an event centered on wellness and self-care. All around, people were eating, studying, and enjoying the warm setting, which gave the event a natural and approachable energy. As the presentation unfolded, the sensory experience became even more immersive. Polidoro and Pigato passed around different oils, allowing everyone to smell and test for themselves. Each aroma added another layer to the atmosphere, connecting what attendees were learning to what they were feeling in the moment. The combination of the outdoor space, the interactive experience, and the friendly crowd created a memorable environment that reflected the heart of aromatherapy itself.

Polidoro provided a detailed description of how each essential oil can be used to enhance both physical and mental health. She explained how connected we are to our senses, and when the outside world feels overwhelming, we must harness our internal strength. In response to a question from the audience, she explained how she developed a ritual involving essential oils that ultimately helped her overcome a difficult time. For Polidoro, these oils were more than a temporary topical product; the oils turned into an escape that allowed her to manage her emotions naturally.

Pigato shared a similar passion for the oils, using a fascinating pop culture comparison to convey the self-soothing that occurs when using aromatherapy. He compared the process of smelling specific blends of oils to the popular Disney movie, Inside Out. The film follows a young girl as she navigates the challenges of growing up and the complexities of emotions that develop with age. The girl’s memories are stored in orbs in her brain, which are also accompanied by specific emotions.  When you smell something familiar, it is usually associated with a memory that holds significance, whether it’s good or bad. Therefore, aromatherapy can be a positive force in reminding us of things that bring happiness or joy from the past. Reminding ourselves of happy moments and better times when we are feeling down can give us hope and perseverance. Ultimately, Pigato and Polidoro believe that these oils are the key to healing mental wounds.

After the event, we waited in line to ask Polidoro and Pigato a few questions for our interview. As there were many other people also waiting to talk to them, we limited our interview to 2 questions we thought were most important. The first question we asked was, “What is one way someone can utilize essential oils to improve everyday life?” Throughout the event, they both emphasized the importance of each essential oils and how different scents can make you feel different emotions. To answer our question, they recommended using essential oils every morning to start your day. For example, if you are feeling down, using lemon essential oils on your chest and hands, as well as just smelling it helps to uplift one's mood.

Finally, we wanted to focus on how to connect the event with university students. As we know that for most of us it can be very difficult to leave our families and adjust to a new culture, so we asked, “Many students who study abroad tend to feel homesickness or cultural stress, how can aromatherapy help with that kind of emotional balance?” Polidoro stated that mixing different essential oils together is another great way to combat feelings of homesickness and stress. One of the scents that was passed around during the event was called “air.” It had a fresh scent and its purpose was to help one feel less “suffocated” by their emotions. She recommends to mix “air” with a lemon essential oil to help homesickness in the morning and throughout the day. At nighttime, she recommends putting lavender essential oil on your feet and ankles, and by rubbing some on your hands. This is supposed to help us to relax and improve positive thoughts.

As international students, we understand how difficult this experience can be. Attending this event not only taught us how we can adapt aromatherapy into our daily lives to improve our well-being, but we also found a place we can go when we feel overwhelmed. The Palazzi Community Center has many events similar to this one where students can find different methods and activities to feel better in times of crisis or when they are homesick. For more information, please visit: https://www.palazziflorence.com/eventi