The Powerful Connection Between Memory and Scent

Embers Candle Bar believes there is nothing more important than building meaningful memories that last a lifetime, and what better way to create memories than through the power of scent? Throughout history, so much has changed and evolved. Yet, what has stayed the same is the powerful connection between memory and scent. In the following article, Embers Candle Bar takes a look at this powerful connection and how scent, memory, and emotion are all linked together.

The Science Behind Memory and Scent

science behind memory scent

There is a science behind memory and scent. The two are closely related and connected because of the brain’s anatomy and how the brain is wired. For example, as you are walking through your home and start to smell the delicious chocolate chip cookies you put in the oven, that warm, yummy smell travels through the nose and into the brain's olfactory bulbs. While in the olfactory bulbs, the scent is formed into a shape that the brain can understand. 

The brain cells transfer the scent from the bulbs to a small part of the brain called the amygdala, where emotions are created. Continuing from the amygdala, the scent travels to the connected hippocampus, where learning and memory development happens. 

Did you know that scents are the one and only sensation that travel directly to the emotional and memory parts of the brain? That is why scent and emotion, and memory are all so closely linked together. 

Scent and Emotion

Have you ever walked into a room with a scent that carries you back in time and results in the feeling of nostalgia? Maybe the smell of pine and cinnamon takes you back to your childhood Christmases. Or, your palms start to sweat when you catch a scent of a strong disinfectant as you walk into the doctor’s office. These are prime examples of how scent and emotion are so closely connected. 

Let’s take a look at the top scents that trigger emotions. 

Top Scents That Evoke Emotions

Lavender

Lavender is one of the most popular scents for a reason. For years and years, lavender has been used for aromatherapy. So if you’re looking for a calming scent and a scent to reduce stress levels, lavender is an excellent choice. 

scent memory lavender

Jasmine

Comparable to lavender, Jasmine is another calming scent known for its relaxing properties. Research shows jasmine is able to help relieve stress and boost your mood, all at the same time. 

jasmine scent

Lemon

The refreshing and calming scent of lemon is powerful, especially in the workplace. In addition, lemon is known to improve your mood and help you focus. So, if you’re taking on a big project or needing a mood booster during the workday - lemon is the perfect scent for you. 

lemon benefits

Peppermint

For a workplace, peppermint is such a good scent to have around. Peppermint is a scent that is known to be used for brainstorming, used to stimulate the mind, and to promote engagement. 

emotion behind peppermint scent

Patchouli

Patchouli is most commonly used for insect repellent, but did you know that patchouli is one of the top scents to ease stress and evoke emotion? That’s right. Patchouli has been shown to increase confidence and productivity.

Rose

Rose is a scent that most people relate to love and romance. However, the rose scent evokes other emotions as well, including helping people solidify information they are learning. A soft rose scent can help set memories as people are learning new skills and information.

Using Memory and Scent to Your Advantage

Have you ever been walking along the street and caught a scent that draws you into a store or restaurant? Scent and emotion are so closely linked together, and the perfume and candle industries are built around this strong connection. Perfumers develop scents and fragrances meant to draw you in and exude emotions and feelings from relaxation to desire.  

Like the perfume industry uses memory and scent to their advantage, so can you. Elevate your brand to the next level with a private label scent. Scent branding is such a powerful way to make your brand not only stand out but be recognizable by more than just a logo. Furthermore, scented environments are beneficial for a variety of reasons: 

  • Increase the amount of time clients and customers spend in store

  • Improve the impression of product quality

  • Boost average unit sales

At Embers Candle Bar, we can help you create your very own private label scent for your company, event, or even your wedding! 

Making Memories at Embers Candle Bar

At Embers Candle Bar, get ready to not only create a unique scent that is filled with everything you love but to also make memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity to spend quality time with the people you love or if you’re ready to take your brand and business to the next level with a custom scent, it is time to schedule a reservation to pour a candle at Embers Candle Bar. 

Because of the powerful connection between memory and scent, creating a custom candle with Embers Candle Bar will not only be a fantastic way to spend a date night or a girls night, but when you light the candle at a later date, it will take you right back to the fun times at our custom candle bar. 

“So much fun! Perfect for a date night! I came here with my boyfriend for our second anniversary, and we loved it! All of the employees are so kind! 10/10 recommend.” - one of our beloved customers. 

What are you waiting for? Experience the powerful connection between memory and scent today! So schedule a reservation to pour a candle and get ready for a custom candle experience like no other.