Sex has consistently been thought to improve in quality when it engages the senses. In fact, finding new ways to incorporate our innate gifts of sight, touch, taste, smell, and sound can be a very thrilling activity for both us and our partners. For the purposes of this blog, I would like to take some time to discuss the benefits and some ideas for tapping into our sense of smell during intimacy.
Let’s begin by reviewing the science behind how the sense of smell has served us in our daily lives outside of the bedroom. This one sense has played a starring role in everything from memory, emotional connections, self-preservation from environmental dangers, and even in our selection of sexual partners. Unlike our other senses, smell also has its own express lane to the brain for interpretation. While input from our other senses often heads to the thalamus, which is the communication hub, smell input moves directly to the amygdala and hippocampus (the emotional and learning/memory centers of the brain) after it has been identified by the olfactory bulb. This direct connection to the brain has also been attributed to smells having a longer memory retention capability than our other senses.
Aromatherapy, an alternative healing therapy using essential oils or aromatics, has also been used for quite some time to help improve the quality of our sexual responses and experiences. Several cultures have used certain oils or aromas for centuries to help increase libido and sex drive. These oils and aromatics can be used in a variety of avenues such as inhalation through a diffuser or incense, addition to carrier oils for massage, or even as a perfume or cologne additive. Here are a few suggested oils for those interested in experimenting with smell in the bedroom:
- Ylang Ylang: Are you crazy for the smell of Chanel No. 5? If so, you might recognize this oil as one of its base notes. The flower petals were also commonly spread over the bed of Indonesian newlywed couples on their wedding night.
- Orange Oil: A great stress reliever…also commonly used to open and activate the sacral chakra, which is connected to sensuality and sexual pleasure.
- Rose: A flower famous for its association with romance, shown to increase sexual desire and have the calming/relaxing benefits of other floral aromatherapy.
- Lavender: Great for reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
- Jasmine: Another commonly known floral aphrodisiac, very common in perfumes and cosmetics.
- Sandalwood: One of my personal favorites! It has been used faithfully in Ayurvedic practices, and has shown some similarities to human pheromones.
- Vanilla: The compound vanillin has been thought to support blood flow
- Nutmeg: Also known as a powerful aphrodisiac in food form, this spice is nicknamed in some circles as “the female Viagra”. For men in one study, the combination scent of lavender and pumpkin pie had the greatest increase in genital blood flow (40%).
A couple quick caveats for exploration: Some essential oils can cause skin sensitivity or allergic reactions in some people, so proceed with caution and never apply oils directly to the skin. Use a carrier oil like jojoba with essential oils if they are going to come in contact with the skin. NEVER APPLY TO THE GENITAL AREAS. Like oil based lubricants, treat any massage oils as if they are NOT condom compatible.
As Always, Have Fun and Stay Safe My NeuroSpicy Friends!