FLOWER POWER: HOW FLORAL FRAGRANCES LIFT ONE'S MOOD

A GUIDE TO BLOOMING SCENTS AND THEIR HAPPINESS-INDUCING EFFECTS

Floral scents

A bouquet of flowers may be a treat for the eyes, but nothing raises a smiler swifter than the sniff of a floral scent. (Smell is the strongest of the five senses, don’t you know.) Our olfactory sensors are linked to our emotions, and floral notes like jasmine, rose and lily are particularly effective mood enhancers. ​

But of course there are myriad ways to have one’s mood lifted, and an abundance of blooms with which to do it. Which petal shall we pluck first?

 

Vra Vra Vroom

FOR FEELING CALM: LAVENDER 

 

Like a dear old friend, lavender reassures, comforts, and restores a sense of calm. It has been used since Roman times for its therapeutic powers. (And they knew a thing or two about balancing the emotions and reducing stress.) Trouble sleeping? Try a spritz upon one’s pillow before bed for a deeper slumber.​

 

SEEK IT IN: A BALM OF CALM

Candle collection

FOR AN INSTANT UPLIFT: ROSE

 

Can a rose cure a broken heart? Sadly not. But studies by certain clever folks have revealed that the rich, warm aroma of rose can indeed have an antidepressant effect. A perfume or room fragrance with rose at its heart is ideal for creating an inviting, positive atmosphere. 

 

SEEK IT IN: KUMGAN ROSE CANDLE

A BURST OF ENERGY: LILY OF THE VALLEY

 

Lily of the Valley is a lighter and fresher member of the floral family. Her scent may be delicate, but her mood-enhancing properties are powerful indeed. Known to reduce anxiety and improve mental strength, point one’s nose towards Lily in times of pressure.​

 

SEEK IT IN: CEYLON PEKOE CANDLE

Penhaligon's flower perfumes

FOR A FOCUSED MIND: JASMINE

 

One sniff of Jasmine’s sweet, intoxicating notes will sharpen the senses. Whether one seeks a burst of creativity or the clarity to make important decisions, find floral focus with this nuanced white bloom.

 

SEEK IT IN: ARTEMISA

FOR LUXURIATING: PEONY

 

The elegant presence of peony brings a sense of splendour to proceedings. This spring/summer flower’s light, slightly sweet fragrance evokes luxury and wellbeing. A spritz for special occasions, perhaps?

 

SEEK IT IN: THE FAVOURITE

FOR A HUG OF COMFORT: GERANIUM

 

There is something inherently nostalgic about the heady, full blooms of geranium. Their warm, comforting aroma can create the feeling of home wherever one is. True cosiness is to be enveloped between the petals. 

 

SEEK IT IN: HIGHGROVE BOUQET

So there you have it. For an instant mood boost, one must simply follow one’s nose to the nearest flower. Or perfume. Or candle. (We can help with the latter two.)​

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