We use cookies to give you the best possible online experience. See our cookie policy for more information on how we use cookies and how you can manage them. If you continue to use this website, you are consenting to our policy and for your web browser to receive cookies from our website.
Breathwork and aromatherapy: Exploring mental health therapy with Vietnam broker partners
It’s estimated that approximately three million young Vietnamese people suffer from mental and psychological problems in Vietnam today, not to mention the prevalence of anxiety and depression among older generations.
While it’s well documented that breathwork — which involves varying the depth and speed of our breathing to calm the central nervous system — can help people manage anxiety and depression, the beneficial effects of scent on mental well-being are also widely understood.
With the aim of using the mood boosting properties of scent to show how aromatherapy can be used to help control stress, anxiety and depression, Aetna International recently hosted a series of presentations for select broker partners in Vietnam. “As studies have shown that essential oil aromatherapy is a safe and inexpensive way to reduce pain and lift your spirits, we brought this therapeutic experience to our broker partners in conjunction with Aetna’s Fit for Duty campaign and to celebrate our long-standing partnerships,” said Ms. Minh Nguyen, Country Manager of Aetna International in Vietnam.
Held at Morico Contemporary Japanese Lifestyle Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, the sessions explored the art and alchemy of perfumery, and provided guests with the opportunity to develop their own bespoke scents. A perfume artist gave a talk about scents and breathwork, as well as how essential oils and fragrances can be incorporated into a daily routine.
The event spanned three afternoons and was attended by more than 60 guests from broker partners including Aon, Jardine Lloyd Thompson, Mercer Marsh Benefits, and Willis Towers Watson. Feedback from the attendees was also positive, with many enthusing that the event was useful and interesting, both from a personal and professional standpoint.
Today, Aetna’s award-winning Summit health plans for employers offer a built-in Employee Assistance Program (EAP) — at no additional cost — to help companies support the mental well-being of their employees. With the program, Aetna members get access to confidential counselling from behavioural health experts in 200 countries around the world; by phone call, email, web and even chat messaging via an app.
