JANUARY 2, 2025
Welcome to THE BIOLOGIST, your weekly dose of inspiration at the intersection of fragrance and culture. Each week, we’ll share stories and discoveries that connect the science of scent with the world around us—from art and design to food, travel, and creative expression. Come explore as we uncover how fragrance shapes our experiences and creates memories that stick with us long after the moment has passed.
FUNCTION:
SENSORY DECLUTTERING TO START A NEW YEAR
The start of a new year is a great opportunity to declutter and get organized. But decluttering doesn’t need to just be visual. The practice of sensory decluttering considers how your space smells and feels.
Start with a simple “scent audit”—walk through each room and note lingering odors from cooking, laundry, or pets. Then remove scent clutter: toss expired products, swap synthetic air fresheners for natural alternatives, and open windows to create fresh airflow. The goal isn’t to eliminate all scents but to be intentional about the ones that remain. A clear olfactory backdrop lets you fully appreciate the fragrances you choose to introduce, whether it’s fresh herbs in the kitchen, a signature candle, or your favorite rollerball.
TRANSPORT:
RESET RITUALS
What about clearing our mental space? Scent can be a powerful tool for hitting the reset button. Think of it as creating olfactory checkpoints throughout your day—moments that transport you from one mental state to another.
Japanese forest bathing guides often talk about “sensory mapping”—the practice of focusing on one sense at a time to ground yourself in the present. Try this with scent: Choose one fragrance as your anchor point for the next month. Let it be your signal to pause, reset, and reconnect with the moment, especially during times of stress or transition.
Want to pair fragrance with the practice of meditation? Here are some tips for using meditation to feel energized:
-
Find a quiet space and light a calming incense or apply a grounding fragrance.
-
Focus on slow, intentional breathing while letting the scent guide your mindfulness.
-
Use the same fragrance each time to train your mind to associate it with peace and clarity.
BOND:
THE CHEMISTRY OF NEW BEGINNINGS
Just as molecules come together to create something entirely new, January offers us a chance to explore unexpected connections. This month, we’re intrigued by contrasts: the sharp clarity of winter air mixed with the cozy warmth of indoor spaces. The excitement of a fresh start balanced with the comfort of familiar rituals. Consider how seemingly opposite elements in your life might actually complement each other.
Try this: Pick two contrasting scents from your collection. Wear one in the morning and one in the evening, noticing how each shapes your mood and energy differently. Or layer them together to create your own signature blend for 2025. Sometimes the most interesting discoveries happen when we let seemingly opposite elements interact.
