Why Do Smells Activate Strong Memories?

Why do smells induce strong memories? In this video we discuss the link between smell and memory, and why it's so powerful.

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*Nasal cavity (not naval cavity) 1:33

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Hosted and written by: Amanda Cumming

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Special thanks to: Aaron Albritton for video editing

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Brief Brain Facts:

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Sources:
-Carter, Rita. The Human Brain Book: An Illustrated Guide to its Structure, Function, and Disorders (2009). pp. 94-97.
-Goldstein, E. Bruce. Sensation and P erception (2010). 8th Edition. pp (359-365).
-Vermetten, E. and Bremner J. D. (2003). Olfaction as a traumatic reminder in posttraumatic stress disorder: case reports and review. The Journal of Clinical Psychology (64) 202-207.

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3D Brain Images Created With:

[markm.]

There are times when smell creeps into my my nose and I feel as if I'm instantly transported back in time. It feels as if I'm breathing the same air for a few seconds

[gimbatul]

Just smelled a rubber ball and it took me back. My memory felt so real being a child, going to buy these cheap toys. Memories from smells are so vivid it makes me nostalgic for those times like nothing else, and everything and everyone that's gone since then. Whenever I have these experiences, it feels so perfect and I feel a fulfilment. Then I feel the best years of my life experience is gone... Which turns me to strangely think about just dying. Nothing is meaningful every experience you have will be gone. And you won't even know it.

[cfree]

The former biology teacher in me really digs this - interesting info and very nice presentation!

[heyitssavanna]

Fantastic editing and quality! Thank you 😊👏🏻

[BienStar-Videos]

Good video. Thanks.
Smells bypass the thalamus going straight to the Limbic System, where the Olfactory Bulb, Amygdala (Emotions) and Hippocampus (memories - non-declarative / implicit, the ones gotten by experience) processing areas reside. Emotions can enhance or suppress our memories.

[michaelmelling]

It would be wonderful if someone would coin a *beautiful* term that would specifically relate to gorgeous smell memories, as to use the terms "smell" or "odor" in about any context just comes off as sounding ugly and disgusting to my way of thinking.