Scents of calm

Craving peace of mind? Spray these clever new perfumes to soothe your soul and boost your mood

DEALING WITH overwhelm is a must-have skill in 2017. Our ‘always-on’ culture coupled with an often alarming news agenda is making us all seek out personal solutions to the very important job of unwinding. Whether through an app, a reflective podcast or a healing sanctuary on a Bali beach, the ways we now unravel our stresses come in all shapes and forms. So if you’re a perfume lover and feeling the strain of everyday angst, may we suggest it’s time to connect these two worlds?

Experts are keen to explain that fragrance directly impacts our subconscious – ‘Perfumery is a game of associations,’ explains Palvinder Mann, fragrance manager for Estée Lauder. ‘Emotions are stored in a part of the brain called the limbic system, which also supports a person’s behavioural tendencies and abstract feelings such as “motivation” and “arousal”. This is also the same part of the brain that evaluates scents. Ergo – I smell, I feel.’

As it happens, the latest fragrance launches are more sensorial than ever, wrapping you in ingredients chosen to manipulate and tend to your most deep-rooted feelings. These mindful scents can boost confidence, as well as achieve calm and courage – pretty convenient, given our current state of play.

We’ve picked the perfect tonics to smooth anxiety spikes, rekindle courage, refresh your mind and motivate your mojo.