How Does Scent Affect Mood?
A good fragrance, scented candle, or bath bomb isn't just about how it smells but how it makes you feel, the memories it conjures up, and, most importantly, the emotions it evokes. And, trust us, this isn't advertising; it's science.
Many studies suggest that the olfactory stimulation of scents produces changes in physiological parameters, including muscle tension, pulse rate, brain activity, and blood pressure. Strangely enough, these changes also correspond with your mood.
Clearly, a smell can influence our mood. To gain a more comprehensive insight into "how does scent affect mood," see the below:
The psychology of smell
Learning the psychology of smell is incredibly important as this sense accounts for 75% of the emotions we generate daily. It can enhance love, intent, and mood when implemented in real-life situations.
The primary reason for this is the strong relationship between smell and memory. As we smell through our limbic system, olfactory neurons connect scents to memories. Therefore, making the perfect link between a fragrance and a memory can directly impact mood.
For example, let's say your first date with your other half was in a blossoming orchard. In this environment, they'll be a natural odor of a fruity blend with a light floral twist. Subconsciously your mind will attach this significant memory to this scent.
As you grow older, you might forget about this. However, when the same odor is introduced to your limbic system, it triggers a memory response allowing you to recall the event. As a result, you can influence the feeling of love by revisiting the memory of your first date.
Scents that transform your mood
Smells are all around us. However, they don't all offer the same outcome. Though some can be attached to memories, some scents influence our mood, even when it doesn't recall anything. These are:
- Lemon - Promotes concentration and has clarity properties
- Lavender - Helps control emotional stress through calming properties
- Jasmine - Commonly used as an anti-depressant because of its uplifting capabilities
- Rosemary - Enhances memory retention and helps fight against mental fatigue
- Cinnamon - Improves concentration and the ability to focus for long periods
These are a small selection of scents that have been proven to impact our moods positively.
Improving experiences with scent
Smelling is a genuinely spectacular bodily function. Because of its psychological impact, it can change our moods. But that isn't all. It can also improve an experience.
As gathered above, scents attached themselves to memories. Therefore, if you link a smell to an experience, it prolongs the enjoyment. And, because of its scientific backing, people have utilized this sense to enhance experiences.
This particular practice is called signature scenting and is usually used in retail. Normally, the brand uses a one-of-a-kind signature with a good customer experience. By matching these together, the smell will always be associated with their shopping experience.
Summary
After reading the above, you should better understand the important question, "How does scent affect mood." With the power of the limbic system, scent can influence or get attached to a memory that changes the mood. To experience this today, find a scent in our store and reek the benefits of the psychology of smell.