The Power of Fragrance
Did you know that some studies show that fragrance can directly affect and change your mood? It can reduce stress, boost self-confidence, improve sleep and contribute to physical and cognitive performance, too. While it feels magical, it comes down to science - we shape what our fragrances do through our life experiences with them.
According to Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience (2020), smell is the strongest sense, affecting our limbic system, which controls emotional processing, motivation, pleasure and fear. Another leading study shows that 75% of emotions we experience throughout the day are due to smell, going way beyond mood and memory. Other research shows that scent can affect how alert and calm we feel, helping to sharpen our focus, lead us to feel more generous, provide relief from anxiety or fatigue and improve physical health or brain power. The list goes on and on!
How Can Perfume Affect Your Mood?
Many fragrances have an aromatherapy like quality and effect that can work to alter your mood. Because of this, many fragrance connoisseurs work to produce new fragrances that will promote positive mood benefits, including increased alertness, better energy levels, more romantic feelings, improved confidence and a more adventurous spirit.
Increased Alertness
Many scents can help you stay focused and active, improving task performance, including peppermint, lemon and cinnamon.
Boosted Energy Levels
Some scents can promote a more casual and energized feeling, such as orange, mandarin, lemon, grapefruit and bergamot.
More Romantic Feelings
There are fragrances that inspire romance, including jasmine, tulip, gardenia, tuberrose, lily of the valley, magnolia and jasmine, among many others.
Improved Confidence
Some fragrances can directly boost your feelings of confidence and assertiveness, including vetiver, pine, sandalwood, cedarwood and patchouli.
A More Adventurous Spirit
Other fragrances can boost your spontaneous and playful side, such as oakmoss, mint, sage and lavender.
