Discover the story behind Smelling Pink—where scent, colour, and care intersect to redefine olfactive medicine and sensory wellness.

What does it mean to be Smelling Pink?

Recently, I was asked why I chose the name Smelling Pink. To me, the answer felt simple—rooted in personal experience, science, and purpose. But I quickly realized the name is wonderfully perplexing to others. This is the story behind it—a story of sensory connection, healing, and the unseen power of scent.

Table of Contents

• What Is Smelling Pink?
• The Science of Smelling Colours
• From Concept to Creation
• Why Pink?
• Smelling Pink Today
• FAQ
• Other Articles

What Is Smelling Pink?

At its core, Smelling Pink represents the intersection of scent, colour, and human experience.

It is inspired by the concept that our senses are not always separate—they can blend, overlap, and even transform how we perceive the world.

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The Personal Beginning

Years ago, I had the privilege of attending a seminar at the University of Toronto on synesthesia—a rare neurological condition where sensory pathways intersect.

Individuals with synesthesia may:

• Hear shapes
• Taste sounds
• Or even smell colours

This idea stayed with me.

Scent as Vibration

In perfumery, scent is often associated with colour in branding and emotional storytelling. But there is something deeper:

• Scent is a vibration
• Colour is a vibration of light

If both are vibrational, then the idea of “smelling a colour” becomes more than poetic—it becomes possible.

The Science of Smelling Colours

The concept of Smelling Pink is rooted in both neuroscience and sensory design.

How It Shows Up in the Real World

Before COVID, I created an immersive exhibit at Toronto Pearson International Airport called Smelling Colours.

Designed especially for travellers who were sensory-sensitive or on the spectrum, the exhibit allowed individuals to:

• Experience scent through colour
• Engage with sensory input in a calming, controlled way
• Explore scent beyond traditional expectations

It took months to develop—and the response was powerful.

Even after the airport installation closed during COVID, the impact remained. People understood that scent could be experienced differently.

From Concept to Creation

The journey didn’t stop there.

While writing my second book, Why the Nose, the world was in the middle of COVID-19—a time when losing the sense of smell became a frightening and very real symptom.

This moment changed everything.

It led to:

• Deeper research into olfactive science
• The creation of a non-profit focused on scent and recovery
• A renewed focus on the healing power of smell

Smelling Pink became more than a name—it became a mission.

Why Pink?

The word pink was not chosen at random—it carries meaning.

Symbolism of Pink

• Communication
• Compassion
• Care
• Emotional intelligence

Through my research, I discovered that the majority of professionals in long-term care are women—leaders who embody these very qualities.

Pink represents:

• Their strength
• Their empathy
• Their ability to connect

A Colour That Speaks Without Words

In many ways, pink reflects what scent does:

• It communicates without language
• It evokes emotion instantly
• It creates connection

Smelling Pink is about recognizing that connection—and elevating it.

Smelling Pink Today

Today, Smelling Pink represents a natural evolution of an idea:

A philosophy that brings together:

• Olfactive medicine
• Sensory care
• Person-centered therapy
• Emotional and cognitive support

It is about using scent intentionally—to support memory, behavior, and well-being.

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FAQ

What does “Smelling Pink” mean?

It represents the connection between scent and colour, rooted in sensory science and emotional experience.

Is smelling colours real?

Yes. In conditions like synesthesia, individuals can experience blended senses, including associating scents with colours.

How is Smelling Pink used in care?

It is applied through olfactive therapy to support individuals with dementia, sensory loss, and cognitive changes.

Why is scent important in wellness?

Scent is directly linked to memory and emotion, making it a powerful tool for calming, stimulation, and connection.

Related Articles

Scent Therapy and the Brain’s Energy Reward System

Scent Therapy for Isolation in Seniors

Body, Mind, and Spirit: Jasmine Scent as a Floral Powerhouse for Well-Being

Scent Therapy in Long-Term Care: Raising the Bar with Quality Care

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