A ‘Smell Walk’ Has Surprising Mood-Boosting Powers
You may observe the sights, sounds, and weather while taking a leisurely walk in the neighborhood. But some people suggest that you should also take the time to appreciate and experience the various scents around you. Best Life, a lifestyle site says that engaging in a “smell walk” can actually enhance your mood and significantly reduce your stress levels.
But what exactly is a smell walk?
A “smell walk” is basically just taking a walk and really getting into all the different smells around you. “When we give our attention to specific sensory input such as the smells in our environment, we are naturally focused on the present rather than the past or future,” clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly, PhD, tells Best Life. “The experience of a smell walk allows us to detach from the racing, busy mind and focus on the various scents in our environment.”
According to the site, if you find traditional meditation challenging, a smell walk can be a more active alternative. It still allows you to attain a similar state of mindfulness. They say it’s a great way to engage in the practice and experience its benefits.
According to Olivia Dreizen Howell, one of the site’s experts, our sense of smell is directly connected to the brain’s limbic system. It plays a role in our emotions and memories. This connection means that the scents we encounter during a smell walk can actually influence our subconscious mind.
If you’re wanting to try a smell walk, they suggest simply getting outside. There’s no need to seek out the perfect spot. Whether you’re in the city, by the beach, or surrounded by nature in the woods, any location will do. The best part is your walk can be as short or as long as you like—totally up to you.
Once you’re outside, just immerse yourself in the experience. Tune into your surroundings and let the aromas guide you.
Take a look at the full breakdown and science behind a smell walk here.
10 Most Unusual Smells People Love
Nail Polish
It could be due to its association with nail salons. It’s where many people find a moment of relaxation.Your Significant Other’s Hair
Should you thank their hair care routine for this? Or maybe you’re a fan of their pheromones? Let’s just call it a chemically compatible match.
Tennis Balls
Some people enjoy the smell of recycled rubber, glue, and a slight hint of petroleum.
Sharpies/ Markers
It’s probably not because it can make you high. It may have more to do with nostalgia. Sharpies and markers tend to smell like childhood to some people.
Chlorine/ Bleach
It makes sense that some people like the smell of chlorine. Most people are reminded of memories by the pool. Or maybe an abundance of laundry.
New Books
It may be something with the smell combination of fresh paper and book adhesive, mixed with the excitement of getting a new book.
Your Own Body Odor
Do you ever catch a whiff of yourself and actually don’t mind it? Maybe, it’s because it’s your own scent. Some studies show that we’ve adapted to like our own odors, to help us maintain proper hygiene.
Freezer Burn/ Frozen over-freezer
It has that “cold” smell that’s similar to when the AC blows in the car.
Cow Manure
Some people like it because it “smells like the country.” The smell is supposedly associated with fresh air and fields of farmland.
Blown Out Candle
Someone loved this scent so much that they created a crowdfunding site for a candle that “always smells like it’s not actually burning while it’s burning.” They described the smell as a “warm, smoky aroma.”
