National Sense of Smell Day 2024

2024-04-27

National Sense of Smell Day 2024

I view national days in honor of any of the senses to be somewhat of a far reach. Not that I don't view them as important. After all, the senses are something we all have under normal conditions and there are aromatic and other sensory input versions considered "good" or "bad" with most.

Aristotle is said to be the first to write about the act of smelling things. Somebody must have inadvertently pulled his finger.

Since 1994 the day is held on the last Saturday of April and is allegedly a vehicle for starting a conversation surrounding the sense of smell. It is held under the auspices of the Sense of Smell Institute which in turn is the research division of The Fragrance Foundation.

The sense of smell may be a source of enjoyment. It may also be a source of the objectionable to varying degrees. It also can allow you to detect dangers.

Now, I am not too big on sniffing everything in my midst for the experience.

There is said to be a decline in olfactory acuity as we age.

Hyperosmia is a condition marked by the loss of the ability to smell.

Then there is hyperosmia where individuals smell so acutely that much in the way of aromas may make them sick.

Indeed, there are various olfactory nirvanas I'd just as soon avoid. Suffice it to say that if you stir my crap I might let you smell it.

Happy National Sense of Smell Day. Oh brother.