WORKING SCENTS

Break away from stress and monotony with a whiff.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Break away from stress and monotony with a whiff.

My Reading Room

A spacious corner office with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of the CBD would offer little reprieve when you have a stack of documents demanding attention.

Here’s where scents come in.

More than pseudoscience, the sense of smell is directly linked to the brain’s emotion and memory connections – scents can help you recall delightful experiences and leave you feeling relaxed, says Kelvin Tay, trainer at beauty and fragrance boutique Escentials.

Unpleasant odours can also create discomfort, thus clearing the air with scents makes for a more tranquil environment. For instance, natural essences from vanilla and saffron and even fresh-cut grass (simulated from sap of fig trees) can evoke a sense of calm. Essential oils such as chamomile and lavender are more neutral options for sensitive noses.

These scents are offered in various forms of dispersions. Scented candles offer lasting fragrance, while a few spritzes from a room spray is a quick pick-me-up.

Electronic diffusers offer a more consistent infusion with the air.

Still, in an office space, you don’t want to remain relaxed for too long. Tay adds: “Get back in the game and stay alert by switching out to some stimulating spicy scents such as cardamom, patchouli and vetiver.”

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