The five senses are the means by which the brain processes our surroundings. The senses are connected to the brain physically and are translated into feelings, report researchers at the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. The five senses are sight, touch, smell, taste and hearing. Sensory stimuli provided in the form of a gift, for example, can trigger feelings associated with that stimulus and provoke feelings of well-being or stir negative reactions. So be careful about giving sensory gifts.
Chocolate
Chocolate evokes taste and smell responses. Chocolate connoisseurs at the Gourmet Chocolate of the Month Club report that chocolate originated from the Aztecs in Mexico where the delicacy was considered an aphrodisiac. Throughout history, cultures embraced or vilified the sweet, bitter, light and dark treats. The passion stirred by chocolate remains undeniable, which is why it is the gift of love most popular on Valentine's Day. A surprise birthday gift of fine chocolate will most always provoke feelings of love when given as a birthday gift. A few brands chosen by the Gourmet Chocolate of the Month Club as worthy of their passion include Nirvana Chocolate Truffles, Lake Champlain Assorted Chocolates and Creams and Green Mountain Chocolates.
Scents
According to Alan Hirsch, founder of the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, the olfactory sense is most intertwined with the limbic system that regulates emotional responses. Hirsch reports that smells strongly influence the way people feel. Bad smells provoke negative feelings, while pleasant smells induce positive reactions and feelings of well-being. His studies have shown that scents are one of the quickest ways to change someone's mood and elicit a certain response. There is a range of birthday gifts that could serve as aromatic mood elevators. Scented candles and potpourri are available everywhere. Perfumes, lotions, soap and other body rubs make great sensual gifts for her, especially when the giver offers to apply them. Aromatherapy products that range from infusers to oils are widely available. A gift might entail a gift certificate for a session with an aromatherapy consultant who can help her find the scents that arouse her.
Massage
The art of rubbing, or massage, dates to ancient times when massage was used to relieve stress, relax and revitalize, report researchers at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Massage taps into the sense of touch to provide a sensual experience for those being rubbed. A gift certificate for a massage, series of massages or a couples' massage makes a thoughtful and sensual gift. A day at the spa usually is a much-appreciated sensual birthday gift. While triggering pleasurable feelings from the actual touch of the therapist, other senses also come into play. Most massage therapists use scented oils designed to relax and rejuvenate when rubbing down clients. They often burn incense or fill the air with aromatherapy diffusers. Many play soothing music that moves the hearing senses to feelings of well-being.
