Candles have been around from centuries since 3000 B.C and continue to be a part of our lives to the present day. Their traditional use has been substituted by a more modern lifestyle oriented outlook. In today’s world they are generally associated with a luxurious lifestyle, and for the purposes of décor and beauty. Historically, ancient Egyptians were the pioneers of using honey and other aromatics in the candles made of beeswax and these candles were known to have spiritual and physical benefits in their culture.
The most in-demand and desired consumption of candles currently is their use in aromatherapy, the use of scentedcandles or aromatic candles has been highlighted for past few decades. With this mass elevation of aromatherapy and use of scented candles the question arises: Do they actually have any advantages for mental well-being?
In a nutshell, absolutely yes. Growing evidence is supporting the benefits of scented candles on mental health and how candles benefit mental health.
Why & How Candles Work for Mental Health?
Scientifically it has been observed that aromatic candles or candles with essential oils have significant effect on physiological processes of mood, stress regulation, work competence, attention and overall mental health.
Our olfactory sense is one of the strongest senses and has a powerful impact in stimulating various parts of brain associated with memory and mood. Aromatic candles activate the limbic system that is the emotional center of brain and helps inducing relaxing states providing relief from anxiety, depressive states and stress.
Olfactory senses have the strongest association with memories hence using these candles in a holistic treatmentmethod, during meditation and mindfulness activities, an association develops which physiologically boosts our mood and de–stress upon exposure of the same scent anytime. This is effective due to the link our brain develops of a specific scent with an emotional state or memory.
Also, specific scents can stimulate production of neurotransmitters that soothe and relax body. Combining aromatic candles with daily meditation and mindfulness tasks can produce a profound effect. Additionally, they can be used to produce a soothing and calming environment in various places such home, work places, spas etc.
Following are Some Aromatic Candles and their Effects on Mental and Physical Well-Being:
Lavender: has prompt soothing effects on mind and body and is known to reduce anxiety.
Chamomile: relaxes, de-stresses and promotes sleep.
Vanilla: leads to an increase in sense of joy, is a known for elevating mood and reviving a happy mood.
Cinnamon: energizing and mood lifting
Clary sage: adds a sense of refreshment and has mood boosting properties.
Frankincense: causes relief from anxious states and releases stress.
Sandalwood: restoring, revitalizing, brings a state of calmness in mind & body.
Orange: belonging to the citric family it is a popular for enhancing and energizing mood instantly.
Peppermint & spearmint: causes increased alertness of mind, increases focus and boosts memory
Jasmine: Is energizing, and vitalizing and raises positive feelings.
You can use these candles and include them in your daily routine activities such as lighting them while meditating, reading a book, doing your daily stretches and yoga, studying or having a relaxing bath.
There are a variety of candles available in market buy yours now and start your journey towards a more relaxing and soothing lifestyle. To find out powerful aromas that can benefit your mental health, check our this post to find out what scent would be best for you.
