When it comes to the five senses, smell is often underrated. We talk about breathtaking views, our favourite songs, or the texture of luxurious fabrics - but scent? It quietly lingers in the background, subtly shaping our experiences and emotions. At Marsden & Whittle, we believe scent is the soul of the home - and science agrees.
The Most Emotional Sense of All
Of all our senses, smell is the most closely linked to memory and emotion. A single whiff of something familiar - fresh linen, warm vanilla, or even a smoky fireplace - can transport you back in time faster than a photograph or song ever could.
This is because the olfactory bulb (the part of the brain responsible for processing smells) is directly connected to the amygdala and hippocampus - the centres of emotion and memory. It’s a shortcut of sorts, allowing scent to bypass logic and tap straight into how we feel and remember.
How the Olfactory System Works
Let’s take a quick stroll through your nose.
When you breathe in, odor molecules travel through the nasal cavity to a patch of nerve endings called the olfactory epithelium. These nerves send signals to the brain, identifying the scent and triggering emotional and memory responses - often before you’re even consciously aware of it.
This entire process happens in milliseconds, which is why scents can feel so instinctive and immediate.
Creating Moments That Last
Because scent is so deeply tied to memory, it’s also one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting impressions. Think about walking into a beautifully fragranced home - what does that say about the person who lives there?
At Marsden & Whittle, our reed diffusers are crafted not just to smell beautiful, but to create atmospheres. Whether it’s the comforting calm of lavender and amber in your bedroom or the energising citrus notes in your hallway, scent becomes part of the story of your home - and the memories you build there.
Scent as Self-Care
It’s not just about nostalgia. Surrounding yourself with beautiful scents can help with stress relief, focus, and even better sleep. Scent has the ability to ground us in the present, shift our mood, and help us feel more at ease in our own space.
So next time you walk into a room delicately fragranced by your diffuser or light a favourite candle, take a moment. Breathe in. You’re not just enjoying a fragrance - you’re creating a memory.
Ready to make your home unforgettable?
Explore our collection of reed diffusers and let your signature scent tell your story.