Did you know that scent has the power to impact and alter our emotions, mood and our sensuality? Well, it can. Perhaps one of the most powerful of our senses, scent has the ability to transport us to another place, recreate memories and see our feelings change.
Whether for the good or the bad, the same part of our brain that works on our sense of smell also stores our memories. Which is why we often think of certain people or memories when we smell something familiar. I can’t be the only one who has had to do a double take, so sure that their ex-boyfriend just passed them in a hallway.
The link between scent and emotion isn’t some clever marketing tool that’s been crafted by perfumeries or romantics, there’s real science behind this.
So, while perfume remains something extremely personal, and you may feel you need to wait for the shops open back up before purchasing a new bottle, you can still work on improving your mood at home with several options.
Homesick Love Letters Candle
The story behind Homesick is pretty incredible. They play directly into the science that our minds react to certain scents and we transport ourselves to another place when we smell a particular fragrance.
They capture the spirit of memories in a way that makes them feel personal to everybody. They visit local attractions, collect samples and discuss childhood memories with local Texans to why books smell incredible with librarians and discuss the beauty of a donut with Dunkin’ superfans. There are almost 200 products in their vast range, that represent American states, significant occasions, precious life moments and more.
This particular candle holds memories of torn photographs tucked into an equally tatty shoe box, full of love and softened by the fragrance of delicate flowers. One that is perfect if you’re missing somebody special right now.
Boy Smells Slow Burn
For me, music is a huge part of my life and I feel a big hole in my social life not being able to attend concerts at the moment. Similarly, I often feel just as sentimental about particular songs, as I attach them to important people or moments in my life.
One of my favourite albums of all time is the beautiful and psychedelic Golden Hour by Kacey Musgraves. And, one of my favourite songs is Slow Burn, the opening track on the album that talks about taking the slow lane in life in order to watch all the beauty around you. Very que sera, sera.
This beautiful candle is full of incense and peppery wood, with the feeling of embers crackling in the distance. It encourages us to be present but not rush. You can really feel like you’re here simply to enjoy the now.
Floral Street scentschool™
I’m a big fan of flowers, and I mean huge. Especially peonies – there’s something spectacularly wonderful and extravagant about them that makes me feel special. So, of course I love everything about Floral School.
Floral Street have shaken things up in the world of fragrance with their new first to market, one-of-a-kind experience that includes being led through a world of colours, moods and smells by their fragrance experts. You get a discovery set that contains 8 of Floral Street’s cult-favourite fragrances, blotters and details of each scent, along with a code to book your slot. Then, you have the option to add a gift voucher to purchase your favourite fragrance.
I know I said it doesn’t have to be about perfume, but these are so small and include getting to try out the product first, that I couldn’t resist. They also make a lovely gift, to enjoy a virtual experience with a loved one.
Sun.day The Mini in Beyond the Pines
This brand’s story began in a small town surrounded by mountains, wild herbs and botanicals where a family made salves, teas and soaps for the locals. That family has passed their story and talents down through generations that have transferred into home fragrances.
This beautiful, mini candle is three time scented and uses aromatherapy grade pure essential oils. This piney scent reminds me of walking through snowy forests, a loved one by my side and my wellingtons crunching on the crisp grass. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon with a cup of tea.
Scentered Love Therapy Wellbeing Ritual Aromatherapy Balm
This mini aromatherapy balm is packed with a romantic blend that stimulates emotions to enhance emotional connectivity and sensuality. It’s the perfect trick for when you need some soothing self-care or want to feel connected to others. I tend to dab some on my wrists and pulse points before a video call with a special someone so that I can feel more connected.
It’s the perfect size to fit in your bag, so you can carry it around with you. You can use it as part of your wellbeing ritual or nighttime routine too.
Prismologie Sapphire & Oud Candle
A wellbeing expert, Terrence the Teacher, put together a relaxing ritual that has been designed to go hand in hand with this Prismologie candle, and it’s perfect for soothing the soul.
The candle has another function, too – once melted, the wax can be poured onto your skin to give a gentle massage that you can practice on yourself or somebody else.
It may have a more luxurious price tag, but comes with a luxurious experience. It’s one of the most decadant fragrances I’ve smelt in a candle, and has a deep, unisex quality to it that’s comforting.
NEOM Organics Perfect Night’s Sleep Pillow Mist
This pillow mist is the best out there. Full of only 100% natural fragrances, and including 14 essential oils including English lavender and chamomile to calm, this is the perfect scent to help you feel calm enough to drift off to sleep.
You can layer the mist with other NEOM products, such as the Perfect Night’s Sleep Scented Candle before bedtime and you’ll really feel the benefit.
Just a few spritz on your pillow spray truly will help you drift into a dreamy, deep sleep. It’s fortunate that something that works so well smells so amazing too.
Marks & Spencer Neroli, Lime & Basil Twin Diffuser Set
The blend of neroli, lime and basil is the perfect combination for uplifting your mood. So, with a set that contains two diffusers, you can place them in different rooms such as your bathroom and kitchen where you want to feel energised and recharged.
The scent is peppery, sweet and perfectly ripe, so having it around you will make you feel ready for the day.