Create A Sensory Self-Love Ritual
Valentine’s Day is often framed as a celebration of romance, but what if we reframed it as a day to nurture the most important relationship of all—the one we have with ourselves? Love, after all, begins from within. And what better way to honor self-love than through the senses—taste, smell, and the rituals that nourish us from the inside out?
How Certain Smells Unlock Our Deepest Memories
Smell has an uncanny ability to transport us through time, resurrecting moments with a clarity that other senses struggle to match. But why does this happen? And why do some scents summon entire chapters of our past while others barely leave an imprint?
The Mechanism of Hypoarousal and Depression: A Neurosensory Perspective
From a neuroscientific and sensory perspective, hypoarousal is a state of diminished physiological and psychological activation. It is often linked to depressive disorders, dissociation, and even trauma-related conditions, where the body and mind retreat into a low-energy state as a survival mechanism. Unlike the hyperactive, anxious distress often associated with depression, hypoarousal presents as lethargy, emotional numbness, and cognitive slowing — what many describe as feeling “shut down” or “disconnected.”
How Our Brain Processes Scents: A New Look at Olfactory Neuroscience
A new study found that our brain does not process scents in isolation—neurons in the piriform cortex and amygdala also respond to related visual images
Eleanor Maguire: Pioneering Neuropsychologist and Memory Researcher
Eleanor Maguire, a distinguished neuropsychologist renowned for her groundbreaking research on human memory, has passed away. Her innovative work, particularly the study involving London taxi drivers, significantly advanced our understanding of the brain’s capacity for spatial navigation and memory.
Non-GMO Project Launches New Certification to Address Ultra-Processed Foods
The Non-GMO Project, best known for its rigorous verification of non-genetically modified ingredients, has expanded its focus with the introduction of the Non-UPF Verified Program. This initiative aims to help consumers identify food products that steer clear of excessive processing—a growing concern in today’s health-conscious market.
The Untapped Power of Sensory Health in Sports
As the Super Bowl approaches, the world is once again captivated by the raw power, precision, and endurance of elite athletes. Every player on the field has fine-tuned their body to perform at peak levels, leaving no stone unturned when it comes to optimizing recovery, nutrition, and mental well-being. But amidst the conversations on diet plans, sleep cycles, and injury rehabilitation, one essential factor is still missing: sensory health.
New Study Finds Smell Loss A Warning Sign for More Than 100 Medical Conditions
The extensive range of conditions correlated to smell loss suggests a deeper, more fundamental connection between our sense of smell and overall health.
Call for Papers: Barcelona Perfumery Congress 2025
The Barcelona Perfumery Congress (www.perfumerycongress.com) has announced a deadline extension for its Call for Papers for its sixth edition scheduled for June 18-19, 2025.
Looking for a Better Life?
A recent article in The Guardian, “The Big Idea: Looking for a Better Life? Follow Your Nose,” delves into the profound role our sense of smell plays in shaping our emotions, memories, and overall well-being. Despite being one of our most powerful senses, olfaction is often overlooked in daily life. The piece highlights how certain scents can evoke vivid memories, alter mood, and even impact decision-making.
How Cancer Treatments Affect Taste and Quality of Life
February 4th marks World Cancer Day, a time to reflect on the progress made in cancer treatments and the lives saved through medical advancements. Breakthroughs in oncology have transformed cancer from a once-terminal diagnosis into a manageable disease for many, with improved survival rates and innovative therapies. However, alongside these successes, the long-term effects of treatment on patients’ quality of life remain a critical yet often overlooked issue.
The Science of Taste, Smell, and Love in Valentine’s Day Traditions
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and nothing evokes deep emotions quite like food. The act of sharing a meal has long been a symbol of connection, romance, and sensory delight. Across cultures, flavors and aromas play an essential role in how we express affection, reinforcing the profound link between food, memory, and emotion. But what is the science behind this connection, and why do certain foods become synonymous with romance?
Celebrating Lunar New Year’s Eve: A Feast of Traditions and Good Fortune
Around the world, the start of the new year is marked by traditions that center on food, family, and hope for the future. Whether you’re savoring dumplings, slurping long noodles, or sharing a toast, the act of gathering together is universal. What ties these traditions together is a shared spirit of optimism—a collective wish for happiness, connection, and prosperity in the year to come.
The Rise of the ‘Not Ultra-Processed’ Certification
In a world where grocery store shelves are awash with labels like “natural,” “organic,” and “clean,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, amid this sea of claims, one of the most pressing issues remains largely obscured: the ubiquity of ultra-processed foods.
Why Innovation is a Must in Today’s Food and Beverage Industry
In today’s food and beverage world, innovation isn’t optional—it’s the catalyst for thriving in an ever-changing market. With consumer preferences shifting faster than ever, and powerful trends like plant-based eating, sustainable sourcing, and personalized nutrition reshaping the landscape, companies must evolve continuously—or risk falling behind.
Exploring the Next Chapter of Multi-Sensory Dining: New Insights from Menu Matters
Recent insights from Menu Matters reveal a fascinating shift in how diners are more sensorially engaged with their meals.
Awaken Your Senses: The Science and Practice of Smell Training
Smell training is a science-backed method for improving olfactory function, whether you’re recovering from anosmia, navigating parosmia, or simply aiming to refine your sense of smell.
Calling for partners: HITLAB’s Alzheimer’s Disease research study
Our friends at HITLAB is conducting an innovative Alzheimer’s Disease research study focused on developing novel diagnostics and monitoring solution. They are seeking neurologists and independent clinics for collaboration.
The Future of Mouthfeel: Innovations to Watch in 2025
In 2025, mouthfeel innovation is poised to redefine our sensory engagement. Here are some emerging trends with WTSA Co-Founder Mindy Yang’s insights into how they are transforming the food and beverage landscape.
OPPORTUNITY: curatorial fellow Opportunity at MOFAD
MOFAD is seeking a curatorial fellow to assist with the research and curation of our next exhibition. This is a part-time, six-month, grant-funded position ($15,000) beginning in early 2025 (ideal start date early February). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and accepted through the end of January.
