We’ve all experienced the way a certain scent completely changes the atmosphere of a room. Certain scents can bring a relaxed aura to a space, while others can make us feel energized and focused. The science behind how scents can affect our moods is truly fascinating, and the subject of many studies, but did you know that you can use the way our brains associate scents to your advantage when crafting your own home atmosphere?
How scent connects to mood
The right scent can trigger memories of cozy nights spent with family and friends or warm summer days spent at the beach. But how does it work, and why? It turns out that scent is the only one of our senses that connects directly to the emotional center of the brain where our amygdala and hippocampus are stored. This means that scents have a direct line to where we process emotions and memory, which is why scent is so strongly linked to memories. The right scent can transport you to another time and place and trigger the emotions associated. This is one of the reasons your favorite scents can feel so deeply personal. Scents also trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, or endorphins. These neurotransmitters have a powerful effect on our moods in conjunction with the positive associations that we form towards certain scents.
Ways to set the mood at home
There are a number of ways that you can use the science of scent to create the exact right vibe for you and your guests at home. One of the more popular methods is obviously candles, which not only provide a variety of scents, but also offer a visual warmth to your space. After all, who doesn’t love the golden glow of flickering candlelight? Choose non-toxic candles so you can enjoy the scent and atmosphere without adding extra chemicals to your home.
If you’re a bit nervous of open flames, there are other options you can use. Diffusers are popular with people who know aromatherapy and the benefits it provides. The use of essential oils has been proven to be beneficial in creating atmosphere and offering positive mood boosts, going so far as to be used in spas, hotels, and even certain medical settings.
What scents to go for
Whether you’re using candles or diffusers, it’s clear that scent plays a powerful role in creating that perfect atmosphere you’re looking for, but how do you choose which scents to go for? Deciding on the scent to invest in can depend on what vibe you’re trying to create. You might even choose your scents based on the season, going for light and floral scents during Spring and Summer while switching to warmer slightly spiced scents for Fall and Winter. If you’re having trouble choosing a scent, these are our favorite suggestions based on the mood you’re trying to create.
Calm and Relaxing
If you want to create an almost spa-like experience of tranquility and relaxation, we suggest scents that trigger positive feelings known to reduce cortisol levels and even help release serotonin. Scents like lavender and chamomile can create a soothing atmosphere. Both have been proven to help promote relaxation which is exactly why they’re common scents in spas. A diffuser filled with chamomile oil in the bedroom will help you sleep, or try lavender in your bathrooms to make you feel like you’re at the spa.
Bright and Energizing
If you want to create a sense of energy and well-being, you can’t go wrong with citrus scents. Scents like grapefruit, orange, or lemon have been shown to stimulate energy and make people feel more awake. There’s even science to suggest that wearing citrus as a signature scent can make people perceive you as being younger. These scents create a bright open atmosphere with an air of freshness. A grapefruit candle is perfect for the kitchen or a home workout space.
Cozy and Inviting
If you’re looking for an atmosphere that makes your guests feel instantly at home, you can’t go wrong with warm inviting scents like vanilla and cinnamon. Whether it’s the positive association with baked goods or something else entirely, these scents will leave you feeling as though you’ve just curled up with a warm blanket. We’d recommend using scents like these in the living room to make it feel extra cozy. Lighting a vanilla cinnamon candle is also perfect for holiday occasions or as a seasonal option for Fall and Winter.
Focused Calm
Scents like peppermint and eucalyptus have been shown to help promote focus and improve mental clarity, which makes them perfect for your workplace or home office. They can also be a great choice for a meditation space, to help you focus your mind and leave you feeling wide awake and ready to take on the day.
Whichever scent you go for, keep in mind the power of association when it comes to using scent to draw out positive memories, and pick something that ultimately feels right for you.
