improving sense of smell: 3 posts

Did you know that smelling is one of the most effective brain exercises? Studies indicate that olfactive training “improved verbal function and subjective well-being. In addition, results indicated a decrease of depressive symptoms.” The latest research reveals that regular scent training can improve cognitive function and quality of life because it can enhance all your senses. Olfactive training can improve attention, memory and language functions and reverse cognitive decline. Since 2020, I have been working with healthcare professionals studying anosmia and the gradual loss of the sense of smell. Having researched the subject of olfaction, both as a perfumer and health industry consultant, I have created a tailored program based on my learning and discoveries. In contrast to my other courses that emphasize the appreciation of fragrances, this masterclass will focus deeper on how you develop your sense of smell and its effect on your well-being. I will share powerful techniques to:

• improve your sense of smell
• boost your ability to memorize aromas
• help you create daily habits that promote long-term cognitive health
• heighten your enjoyment of scents in food, wine, tea, and of course, fragrances

The masterclass will take place online and it’s an interactive experience, in a casual and comfortable setting. Since the class size is kept small, everyone will have my input into their uniquely adapted smell training program. You will have free access to support and guidance from me after the masterclass.

We will use readily available fragrant materials for our class exercises, such as citrus fruit and spices. You’ll receive the full instructions before the start of the class.

Location: Zoom
Class duration: 1.5 hours
August 18, Sunday, 1:30pm-3:00pm CET
August 24, Saturday, 6pm-7:30pm CET (12pm-1:30pm EST)
55€ SOLD OUT

For more information on Bois de Jasmin classes and other course offers, please visit the Perfume Classes page.

I’ve made a video explaining how professional perfumery training is organized. My explanation is based on my own experience as a perfumer student at IFF. I will also point out a few tips that anyone can use to develop a sharper, more acute sense of smell.

Ever since I’ve posted the video, I’ve received several comments to continue the series, so the next video on the topic of professional training will be on the Jean Carles method of learning raw materials.

I hope that you like the videos, and if you have any specific topics that you would like me to cover, please let me know.

In Workout for the Nose : How to Improve Your Sense of Smell I outlined several exercises that will improve your sense of smell. They are guaranteed to give results if you devote at least some time to smelling consciously. But  as I’ve found in my own training, the best results come from doing these exercises with someone else. Not only do you get more motivated to follow through, but you also learn from the observations of others.

So, let’s devote this week to the most basic–and the most effective–smelling exercise. It involves noting the scents you encounter in your day-to-day life and writing them down at the end of each day this week. We can then comment on each other’s fragrant experiences, share our own, and learn to use our noses more often.

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