Fragrance and scents are processed in the brain regions related to emotion and memory. That’s why some scents evoke strong memories and feel tied to emotion. Since fragrance is tied to memory, use this knowledge to hack your studies! May’s looming final exams require serious study sessions, late night cramming and a whole bunch of anxiety. Studying is an important challenge. Take a deep breath and incorporate these fragrance-based tips to help score high final marks.
Sniff out your learning style
Everyone learns differently. Get more out of each study sesh by identifying how you learn and organizing the information correctly for your brain. After all, you can’t fit a square peg through a round hole without a struggle.
Start with one or more self-assessments. Once you have a comprehensive understanding of how your brain processes and retains information, you can tailor your study methods to suit. There are several free options available online including the VARK Learning Style Questionnaire, the Felder-Silverman Learning Style Model (questionnaire here), Kolb’s Learning Style Inventory and Honey and Mumford’s Learning Styles. For example, the VARK (visual, aural, read, kinesthetic) model will identify whether you learn best by reading/writing, hearing, seeing images or through hands-on experience.
Prep like a professional
When your body is running at peak performance, your mind will follow suit. Eat food that’s good for your brain, get adequate sleep and find time for self-care and a bit of physical activity. Here’s how to approach those simple concepts so you can study like a pro:
Eat nutrients that support brain health like foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high in protein and full of antioxidants. Salmon, walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, eggs, turkey, beans, nuts, berries and dark green veggies all make great choices. Reward your brain and soul with some dark chocolate.
A bit of exercise gives your brain and body a chance to compile all the information you’ve been cramming in there. Shoot some hoops, go for a neighborhood walk or do a bit of gardening. A run and pumping iron can also do the trick.
Your brain needs time to process without additional stimulation. Get restorative sleep by breaking away from all electronic screens at least an hour before bedtime. Use this time for self-care, like slathering on some rich, scented moisturizer after a relaxing shower. If you must have extra study time before bed, go with classic and effective low-tech flash cards, and add a mood-enhancing fragrance nearby.
The nose knows
Research shows that scents are processed in the front section of the brain that sends information to other parts of the body’s control center. Fragrances are directly sent to parts of the brain regulating memories and emotions.
Choose a fragrance you can find in multiple forms. For example, find a scent you can use in your home fragrance system, body products and even what you use to clean your study area. Be consistent using this fragrance during your study sessions and throughout your daily routines. Then, when you take an exam, use a lotion or have a sample on hand with the same fragrance. It will activate and enhance your memory!
- Citrus scents: Lemon increases memory function and encourages high levels of concentration. Try Scentsy’s Sunkissed Citrus.
- Florals: Lavender and rose boost word recall and learning pathways. Try Provence Lavender or Jammy Time.
What are your best study hacks? Share them in the comments or on social media with #scentsy.
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