What Causes ‘Smell Memories’ and Why Are They So Strong?

Imagine your brain is like a magical book that stores memories. Smell is a special kind of magic, it can open the exact page you remember, even if you don’t think about it first. That’s why smells sometimes make us feel like we’re back in time.

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Examples

You smell your mom's perfume and suddenly you're back at her house on a rainy afternoon.
The scent of burnt toast makes you remember your dad’s morning routine from years ago.
A flower shop reminds you of the first time you met your best friend.

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Categories: Psychology · memory,olfactory system,nervous system