Sensory Coherence in a Dissonant World

This week, I was part of a 'Futures of Smell' discussion, which brought together architects, interior designers, scientists, and makers from around the world. A noticeable theme was how scent can help us find harmony in a world of increasing cognitive dissonance.

Part of the answer lies in how our minds work. Neuroscience shows that our brains form cross-modal connections, where input from one sense influences our experience of our other senses. These connections aren't just interesting neural quirks—they're fundamental to how we construct our reality. When sensory inputs align and reinforce each other (aka "sensory layering"), it's easier for our brains to process information, creating a sense of coherence and calm.

This explains why combining complementary sensory experiences feels so deeply satisfying. Pairing a vase of green stems with a spring-scented candle isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it's neurologically soothing, easing the cognitive load on our overtaxed brains.

Wishing you scented harmony,
Emx