Q&A with Louise Baker - Wellbeing and The Power of Scent
Q: Smell is often described as one of our most ancient senses. What does that really mean?
Smell is one of our oldest biological languages. Long before humans developed words, we relied on scent - a direct pathway to the parts of the brain responsible for memory, emotion, and our sense of safety. It’s an instinctive system that has shaped human behaviour for thousands of years.
Q: How does this understanding influence your work with Made for Life Organics?
Made for Life Organics has a deep appreciation for this biology. Their products aren’t simply designed to smell beautiful; they’re crafted with the knowledge that aroma is information. Each blend reflects the meeting of chemistry and consciousness, created to support the whole person's wellbeing rather than just the skin.
"Wellbeing begins with the smallest, most human of experiences."
Q: There has been new scientific research into the sense of smell. What have scientists discovered?
A recent paper in Current Biology has mapped far more of the human olfactory receptors than ever before. The research identifies hundreds of receptor-odorant pairings, showing just how finely tuned our noses are. Each scent triggers its own pattern in the brain - a kind of neural choreography that can lift mood, calm the body, or surface a long-held memory.
Q: How does this scientific insight translate into a wellbeing spa or treatment environment?
This is where modern neuroscience meets the spa room. When someone enters a treatment space and encounters a scent they love - rose, lavender, neroli - their nervous system is already beginning to shift. These initial signals travel directly to the limbic system, preparing the brain for ease, openness, and emotional settling. Touch then builds on that groundwork.
Q: What does this tell us about scent as part of everyday wellbeing?
It shows that scent is a tool available to all of us. A cherished balm, a calming oil, or simply breathing in something beautiful can form a meaningful part of a personal wellbeing routine. These moments influence how we feel within seconds.
Q: How does this connect with the way Made for Life Organics creates its products?
It reinforces something Amanda Winwood and the Made for Life team have always recognised: when ingredients are crafted with care, and when scent is pure and intentional, it does more than smell good - it supports the whole person. The products honour ancient pathways, while modern evidence continues to explain why they are so effective.
Q: And finally, which are your favourite products?
I love how the Skin Solve Balm and Lip Balm work together to protect my face from the weather lashings it gets. Living up on the North Shore of Bude dog walking takes it toll on the skin - this combination is a game changer for me!
Louise Baker
Louise Baker is an Applied Neuroscience Specialist with nearly a decade of experience in applying neuroscience insights to behaviours, business, and personal change.
Louise is also an Ambassador for Made for Life Organics.
