How a Sent Can Change Your Mood (and Maybe Your Life)

Today I want to touch on what makes a space inviting. As the child product of an interior designer, I have learned a few tricks of the trade—but the one that sticks out the most is scent. Growing up I would invite friends over to our house and the first thing they always said was “wow your house smells amazing” or the classic “you smell just like your house.” The power of scent is very real and can create more than just an inviting space but ignite your subconscious into energy charged moods.

So let’s dive in, shall we? First, let’s think about what a scent really does for your brain. Psychology Today notes that olfactory is the most primal of all the senses and often is the first warning or indicator of safety or danger, friend or foe and so on.

It's ironic that most people undervalue the power of scent. Fragrances have the ability to evoke both positive and negative psychological states of mind and reactions in milliseconds. 

From an evolutionary standpoint, a negative smell, such as a dead animal, can trigger an instantaneous reflex to take flight. A positive smell, such as burning wood or baking cookies, can trigger a sense of security and the urge to tend-and-befriend while you rest-and-digest. 

-Psychology Today

Likewise, have you ever caught a whiff of a scent that took you back to a memory once forgotten? That is the power at work—your subconscious will intake scent and attach it to memorable moments based on the intensity of the scent itself. Put simply, it’s not a coincidence but more so your subconscious being triggered.

So why is this important in your space? We know now that a scent can define a lot more than just a pleasant aroma but can alter your mood, brain and energy levels. Choosing a scent should be more than a design element but should be taken into consideration of your overall wellness. Creating an environment that is all your own can be immensely beneficial to your daily life, and in a season where we are spending more time at home than ever this becomes more of a necessity. So the next time you find an expensive candle or oil remember that you are not just investing in your space but in your overall health as well.

Check out the below for some of my favorite scents and where to find them!

Currently Burning: Mahogany Coconut from Bath and Body Works

Biggest Splurge: Boy Smells Pride Votive Set

Fan Favorite: Cannabis, Neroli and Otto by MALIN + GOETZ

Best for Sleep: Lavender + Cedarwood from Bath and Body Works

Strongest Scent: NEST New York

What scent are your loving right now? Drop them below—we are always looking for new ideas!