How to Co-Create Your Reality Through Your Sense of Smell
In a world where many people feel like passive participants in their own lives, what would it look like to actively shape your reality instead?
In this conversation, quantum physicist Andreas Mershon explores the surprising relationship between perception, consciousness, smell, memory, and emotional regulation — offering a perspective that blends science, mindfulness, and human experience.
His insights challenge us to reconsider how we move through the world and how our senses may play a larger role in shaping our lives than we realize.
About Andreas Mershon
Andreas Mershon is a quantum physicist, researcher, and author with more than two decades of experience at MIT. He currently serves as Chief Science Officer at RealNose and is the author of Perceptual Engineering and co-author of How Olfaction and Other Senses Create Reality.
His work focuses on machine olfaction — often referred to as “sniff tech” — and explores how smell and sensory perception influence memory, emotion, and even physical health.
By combining scientific research with broader questions about consciousness and perception, Andreas offers a unique lens into how humans experience reality.
The Idea of Co-Creating Reality
One of Andreas’ central ideas is that we are not simply reacting to life — we are actively participating in the creation of our experience.
According to him, our thoughts influence our emotions, behaviors, and ultimately how we interpret the world around us. Becoming aware of this dynamic can help shift us from feeling powerless to feeling more intentional and grounded.
Shifting Your Perspective
Developing a greater sense of awareness begins with noticing your internal patterns.
This may include:
• Becoming more aware of your thoughts and emotional reactions
• Recognizing that you can choose how you respond to situations
• Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or grounding techniques
• Creating intentional pauses before reacting automatically
Andreas explains that many people have been conditioned to operate on autopilot. Learning to become more conscious of our internal world can help reduce stress and create a stronger sense of agency.
The Connection Between Smell, Memory, and Emotion
One of the most fascinating aspects of Andreas’ work is his focus on smell and its deep connection to memory and emotion.
Unlike our other senses, smell is directly tied to parts of the brain associated with emotional processing and memory recall. A single scent can instantly transport us back to a moment, emotion, or experience from years ago.
Despite this, smell is often one of the most overlooked senses in everyday life.
Using Scent as a Grounding Tool
Andreas believes scent can become a powerful tool for emotional regulation and self-awareness.
Some simple ways to explore this include:
• Using essential oils or calming scents intentionally
• Identifying smells associated with positive memories or feelings
• Incorporating scent into mindfulness or breathing practices
• Becoming more aware of how environments affect your mood and energy
By engaging intentionally with scent, people may be able to create stronger emotional grounding and connection to the present moment.
The Importance of Deep Engagement
Another key theme in Andreas’ perspective is the importance of deep engagement.
He believes people gain a greater sense of clarity, creativity, and control when they immerse themselves fully in activities they genuinely care about — whether that’s work, art, research, movement, or personal interests.
Finding What Resonates
Deep engagement often starts with curiosity.
Andreas encourages people to:
• Explore new interests without pressure or judgment
• Allow themselves to become immersed in meaningful activities
• Reflect on what creates energy, excitement, or flow
• Notice what experiences feel naturally engaging
This type of immersion can help unlock creativity, expand awareness, and strengthen connection to self.
The Future of Smell, Technology, and Healing
Andreas’ research in machine olfaction has also contributed to emerging advancements in healthcare and diagnostics.
Scientists are increasingly exploring how smell-based technologies may support the detection of diseases, emotional states, and neurological conditions. His work highlights the growing intersection between technology, sensory science, and human well-being.
Potential Applications
Areas of exploration include:
• Biofeedback tools that measure physiological responses
• Olfactory therapies for stress, PTSD, and anxiety
• Early disease detection through scent analysis
• Technologies that enhance sensory awareness and health monitoring
While much of this field is still evolving, the research points toward exciting possibilities for how sensory understanding may support healing and wellness in the future.
Key Takeaways
• Your thoughts and perceptions shape how you experience reality
• Smell is deeply connected to memory, emotion, and awareness
• Mindfulness and intentional engagement can increase clarity and emotional grounding
• Deep involvement in meaningful activities can unlock creativity and fulfillment
• Emerging technologies are expanding our understanding of sensory health and healing
In a culture that often prioritizes speed and distraction, Andreas Mershon’s perspective offers a reminder to slow down, pay attention, and reconnect with the senses that shape our daily lives.
By becoming more intentional about our awareness, emotions, and environment, we may discover new ways to navigate life with greater presence, creativity, and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does smell influence emotions?
Smell is closely connected to areas of the brain responsible for memory and emotional processing. Certain scents can instantly trigger emotional responses or vivid memories.
Can scent help with stress or anxiety?
Many people use scent-based practices such as aromatherapy, essential oils, or mindful breathing to support relaxation, grounding, and emotional regulation.
What does it mean to “co-create” reality?
The idea of co-creating reality refers to the understanding that our thoughts, perceptions, emotions, and behaviors influence how we experience the world around us.
Why is deep engagement important?
Immersing yourself in activities you genuinely care about can increase creativity, focus, self-awareness, and fulfillment.
