I think we can all agree that we like our homes to smell amazing, but did you know that different fragrances can boost your mood in different ways? Whilst scents are so closely linked to our personal memories and experiences, there are particular fragrances that are scientifically proven to initiate powerful responses in our brains.
We won't dwell on the fact that today, AKA 'Blue Monday' is reported to be 'the most depressing day of the year', and instead thought we'd round up the best mood-boosting scents to light this January, depending on your mood.
Fresh, zesty and complex, Bergamot has been proven to relieve depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders by signalling the brain to release dopamine and serotonin.
Citrus scented candles have the power to boost alertness and make you feel more energised - essential for breezing through those dreary January days.
According to Vogue, "a fragrance with notes of jasmine allows its wearer to exude confidence and a sense of allure." "It's perfect to bring your confidence levels up, and give you a power posture" says Garcia-Janin of Sillages Paris.
In a month where we're bombarded with messages indicating that our '2021 self' wasn't good enough, and that we should be t-total, gym-going, no-meat-eating superheroes, light up a jasmine scented candle to remind yourself that you're more than enough, just as you are.
Now I totally concede that the words 'rats' and 'aphrodisiac' aren't commonly used in the same sentence, but hear me out...
Whether by myth or fact, vanilla has a long association of being used to help people connect with their bodies and awaken their sensual chakras. In fact, in a study conducted in 2012, a 200mg dose of vanillin demonstrated aphrodisiac properties in male wistar rats. Sexy, huh?
“Often described as ‘black gold’ by perfumers. The scent itself is round, warm and sweet - it helps you relax as it can give a feeling of a warm hug.” Garcia-Janin, Sillages Paris.
So, whatever your 'technique' for making it through to Spring with a spring in your step (see what I did there?), paying attention to how different scents make you feel is a great way to 'train' your nose and strengthen your sense of smell. According to the Harvard Gazette, "the more you use [your nose], the stronger it gets.” Any excuse to keep lighting your favourite candles, eh?!
