I went to meditation at the Koyasan Tokyo Betsuin today. I began to get notes of a bitter metallic barbershop with whiffs of ashtray--this was perhaps exacerbated by actual incense burning in the temple. I noticed a slickly made-up young woman two cushions from me--I suspected she was the culprit, with her projectile sillage. A scent from my past, I think, Paco Rabanne PH, maybe? How did I ever like this? But beyond the fact that I don't like it, any strong scent is unacceptable in a meditation hall, whether incense is burning or not. I could applaud her originality of choice, but any frag is completely inappropriate in this context. I think the best approach for group meditation is to be as scent-neutral as possible. Take a shower (I use a normally function-scented soap, not Guerlain L'instant shower gel or anything like that) or at least put on clean clothes, or at least clean socks. Easing up on the garlic and gassy foods a bit in advance will also be appreciated by your fellow meditators! 
