With National Fragrance Week just around the corner, what better time to explore the power of scent.
Despite its ability to impact our wellbeing, it’s still one of the most underrated of the senses. For years, companies have been using scents to create unique customer experiences in stores, restaurants and even on planes to subtly accentuate their brand values.
We all have certain #scentmemories that can take us back in time and make us feel nostalgic. Our sense of smell is incredibly powerful, so a hint of something familiar can evoke emotions before we even realise what we're smelling. You might, for instance, recall the feeling of walking into a spa and feeling instantly more relaxed.
When we smell, the odour molecules travel through our nose (and mouth) and get translated into brain signals. On this journey, they pass through the emotional part of our brain, provoking strong memories and that nostalgic feeling.
Through art, individuals like Michael Pinsky have harnessed the power of scents to help drive massive changes in policy and legislation. Shown in London last year, and at the first Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, Pinsky created five domes titled Pollution Pods, representing five key polluted cities. Visitors were taken on a journey through the immersive environments, to impact their views on climate change.
Products such as candles and sprays utilise specific ingredients to evoke a certain emotion or effect on the mind and body. According to perfumer and Fragrance Foundation Board Member, Roja Dove, “Fragrance is one of the best things you can buy to make you feel good, as each ingredient works on our subconscious, releasing hormones, which amongst other things give us energy, lift us from glumness, or enhance sensations of pleasure.” So, using a similar practice to that of Pinsky and his Pollution Pods, you can harness the power of scents to drive a change in your own wellbeing.
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Here are some common ingredients to look out for, to help you create your ideal mood and environment:
Productivity
Mint and Eucalyptus are great for helping you to feel more energised and alert, making you more productive throughout the day.
Relaxation/Sleep
Ingredients such as Lavender, Chamomile, Ylang Ylang, Rose and Jasmine are perfect for helping to calm a busy mind as they help promote relaxation.
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Mood-boosting
Sandalwood, Geranium and Vanilla are known to uplift and boost the mood, helping you to stay more positive.
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Energising
Citrus notes, such as Lemongrass and Mandarin along with Ginger, are often used in products to revive and boost vitality. The ingredients can provide a burst of energy, which in turn inspires creativity.
You can share your own memories involving the sense of smell via #ScentMemories on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, or email info@fragrancefoundation.org.uk.
Loved learning about fragrance? Brands are running masterclasses and workshops across the country in support of National Fragrance Week 2019 (18-24th March 2019) – find an event near you.
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