There are countless ways to nurture ourselves and ease the stress that life brings. One simple and popular method many people turn to is lighting a scented candle. Let’s explore the soothing benefits that come from this calming ritual.
Did you know lighting a scented candle can boost your mental health? The gentle aroma helps relax and soothe your mind, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Let’s look at what lighting a candle may do for our mental health.
- Candles can help improve your mood. The scent of a candle can help you relax and just enjoy the moment.
- A scented candle can help reduce stress and anxiety by promoting feelings of relaxation and calmness.
- Candles can help improve concentration due to their ability to make us calm and relaxed.
- Scented candles can create a peaceful, cozy atmosphere, thus relieving stress.
- Scented candles help soothe our minds and help us relax.
According to a site called Fervor, candlelight induces relaxation and reduces anxiety. The scented oils improve mood, promote well-being, increase energy, and improve the immune response.
According to the literature, specific scents have different effects. The Country and Home website has a list of what scents have what effect on your mind and body. See their list below. (Keep in mind that we are all different, and I would say the effects are individual. For instance, I don’t like the smell of lavender.)
- Anxiety – bergamot, chamomile, lavender, rose, sandalwood
- Grief – chamomile, rose, jasmine
- Fatigue – ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, juniper, peppermint, rosemary
- Stress – bergamot, citrus oils, lavender, rose, sandalwood, frankincense
- Tension – chamomile, frankincense, jasmine, rose, lavender, lemon
- Boosts energy – cinnamon, bergamot, eucalyptus
- Enhances sleep – lavender, rose, jasmine (put out your candle before going to sleep, please)
One scent I truly love, which thankfully made the list, is pine. During the Christmas season, bringing in the fresh smell of pine instantly brings back warm memories and helps me feel calm and peaceful. Plus, pine scent is known for its refreshing and uplifting properties, helping to reduce stress and enhance focus.
If you choose to light a candle at home, always keep safety in mind. Candles can produce soot that may darken your walls and ceilings over time. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the cozy glow without causing damage to your space.…How to Reduce Sooting in Candles
My two favorite places to buy candles are Bath and Body Works and Yankee Candle. I also like to use a candle topper to help reduce the chance of soot buildup.
I hope you have a stress-free day, but if not, you may try lighting a candle.
Take care!
KathieyV