The True Powers of the Senses

We are taught about our senses at a very young age, but not about all their powers. For example, we know about the power of sight and its effect on stirring the mind and heart. And we know about the power of smell on stirring or repelling our appetite – or in physical attraction. We also know how the power of touch and the power of hearing (music) can both heal, yet we have not been taught about the healing powers of smell vs. taste (or digestion).

In medicine, we are often given pills or fluids to help remedy illness. Yet little has been taught to us about the power of smell to do the exact same thing. It is known that the scent of fresh rosemary increases the memory, but this cure for memory loss is not divulged by doctors to help the elderly. I also know that the most effective use of the blue lotus flower is not from its dilution with wine or tea – but through scent. To really maximize the positive effects of the blue lily (or the pink lotus), it must be sniffed within minutes of plucking.  This is why it is frequently shown being sniffed by my ancient ancestors on the walls of temples and on papyrus. Even countries across the Orient share the same imagery. The sacred lotus not only creates a relaxing sensation of euphoria, and increases vibrations of the heart, but also triggers genetic memory - and good memory with an awakened heart ushers wisdom (see the article I posted before this one). Therefore, the meaning of the Egyptian lotus is wisdom. The same applies to all eastern schools of thought, and explains why wise people are often illustrated holding a lotus flower in their hands. We often see it and know its correlation, but many people do not know exactly why.

In an article published in 2006 by Eleonore von Bothmer in the American Scientific Mind, she notes that, “The human sense of smell is often seen as insignificant. But this sense is keener and more influential on our species than many people realize.” And also, in a BBC article published in 2008, it was noted, “It's commonly known that we have five senses - sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell. Smell is potentially the most powerful.” Yet the most neglected. 

So why is mankind not educated on the powerful effects of smell vs. our other senses? It could be because most cures for many of our ailments are already found freely in nature. However, the system wouldn’t benefit from us if we made trips to the forests and lakes for natural medicines - instead of continuing to make trips to the doctor’s office to fill Big Pharm’s fat pockets. Negative side effects? Who cares as long as they are making money and forcing us to keep coming back to also cure those side effects. 

I would also like to add that I do believe that we have more than five senses. Apart from the basic five, we also have the gut and the third eye. The gut being the seat of all feeling, and the third eye being the seat of intuition (foresight).  But what can we expect from science, which is incomplete and flawed? How can science be called the study of nature without it acknowledging the soul? Or the ether? If science did study both these two crucial elements, which I feel are at the very heart of nature, then it would be forced to also acknowledge organized design in nature – which would then lead one to discover the heart of the universe. The core of all existence, of all vibrations, of all matter. By doing so, would ultimately bring one to acknowledge cause and effect, and ultimately - the conscience. But never mind this “esoteric” ideology that could bring about world peace and the unity of all mankind. If man knew how connected he was to all things and how the effect of his every action has an impact on all things, then we would no longer be able to convince him that some life on earth is meaningless to justify war.

In closing, the point of this article is to encourage all of you to go out and experiment with nature. But do remember, that not all fish in the sea are meant to be eaten, just as not all plants are to be used as remedies. Nonetheless, I do believe that every living thing was created with a purpose. So please, use the process of elimination to get to the root of every breathing thing’s existence.  Mankind has yet to discover half of earth’s true wealth. If you are a teacher, take your students out to the woods to collect some flowers and herbs. Dedicate a day to each plant. Have them list every sensation they experience after sniffing each one - by the minute, hour, and the rest of the day.

(9/12/2014)

Copyright 2014, Suzy Kassem. All rights reserved.