INTRODUCTION TO SMELL · LESSON 1 OF 5
What does it mean to pay attention to a smell?
Most smells pass without being named. Attentive smelling starts by noticing that a smell is there, then asking where it comes from and what it is like.
SmellBook records smells as identities people recognise: sources such as coffee, states such as wet stone, places such as a library, and moments such as rain.
- Choose something safe and familiar, such as a coffee bean, an orange peel or a book.
- Smell it gently: bring it towards you or waft the air, rather than inhaling hard.
- Say one word for what you notice, then compare it with the Atlas entry.
Smell only things you know are safe. Never smell unknown substances, chemicals, gas, smoke from fires or anything that could be harmful, and waft gently instead of inhaling hard. If you have a smell-related health concern, ask a medical professional.
Words for smell
Introduction to Smell is free, like all of SmellBook Learn. It describes perception and cultural association, quotes scientific findings only from VERIFIED claims with their scope, and is not medical advice. Lessons on the biology of smell will be added when registered sources support them.