Our senses are quiet but immensely powerful. Among them, our sense of smell often goes unnoticed — yet recent science shows it might matter more than we thought. The magazine New Scientist published an article titled “Why honing your sense of smell could keep you sharp as you age”. It highlights evidence that a declining sense of smell may be an early indicator of cognitive decline, and crucially, that “smell training” might play a role in preserving brain health. (Irish Examiner)

Smell and the Brain
Our olfactory system is uniquely wired — scent molecules reach the brain’s emotional and memory centres more directly than visual or auditory signals. Studies show weakened sense of smell correlates with slower brain-volume loss when smell is preserved, and vice versa. (Verywell Health)
The New Scientist article highlights how some research now suggests that actively “training” your sense of smell (e.g., through varied scent exposure) could boost cognitive resilience. (X (formerly Twitter))
In practical terms: caring for your nose might well be caring for your brain.

Aromatherapy, Plant Oils and You
For us at Ermana, plant oils aren’t just about healthy skin — they’re about ritual, sensory connection and whole-body care. When you use one of our face or body oils, you’re not just hydrating your skin: you’re engaging your olfactory system, your nervous system, your memory centres.
Incorporating scent into your skincare routine becomes a mini brain-care ritual. For example: apply your oil, close your eyes, breathe the scent in, observe how you feel. Over time, this can build a stronger “smell-muscle”.

Practical Tips for Your Smell-Self-Care Routine

1. Set aside a “scent pause” each day —inhale and engage your whole system.
2. Rotate your scents — using different smells (e.g., coffee, lemon, lavender ) enhances olfactory engagement.
3. Bring awareness — ask yourself: how does the scent affect me? Grounded? Energised? Calm?
4. Link it to your skin ritual when applying Ermana skincare - making this part of your skincare habit strengthens both brain-care and skin-care.
5. Use it especially during hormonal transitions (pregnancy, menopause), gut-nervous system shifts, or busy work weeks — all times when your sensory system may be under strain.

Why This Matters for Women (35–60)
This age range often juggles multiple demands: career, family, hormonal shifts, skin changes, brain fatigue. A simple, sensory-rich act like a mindful inhale of a plant oil becomes a small but potent tool in your wellness toolkit. 

Closing Thoughts
So next time you apply your face oil, body oil, or even our cleansing oil or Balm, pause. Inhale. Let the botanicals do more than nourish your skin — let them whisper to your brain, your memory, your calm. Because self-care that honours your mind, body and skin all together? That’s the kind of self-care that lasts.
And yes — sometimes it really starts with a breath and a scent.