A candle is much more than a fragrant piece of decor. A candle is many things -
an olfactory object of expression, a time-machine, a therapeutic tool.
It's true. The mental health benefits of burning candles are real, according to researchers. Though it might seem silly, the science of candles for health is rooted in the practice of aromatherapy.
There are about 300 active olfactory receptor genes "devoted to detecting thousands of different fragrance molecules through a large family of olfactory receptors," according to a study published in the peer-reviewed journal Scientia Pharmaceutica in 2016,
"The sense of smell plays an important role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, and working capacity," the study researchers wrote.
Candles emit scents that create specific feelings in the mind and body.
Using an electroencephalograph to record brain activity, the research "clearly revealed that 3 fragrances significantly modulate the activities of different brain waves and are responsible for various states of the brain. Further, a number of studies have scientifically supported the beneficial use of various aromatic plants in aromatherapy."
The warm glow of a candle has numerous benefits for someone working to improve their sleep hygiene, too. The flame of a candle is a much better alternative to the blue light of a smartphone.
Though it's no longer a cultural necessity, living by candlelight in the evenings is helpful for quieting the mind and giving the eyes a necessary digital reprieve.
By introducing scents and notes into our space, we control the energy of our mind and pace of
our environment.
As a sensory form of mental health therapy, here are a few reasons to keep burning candles:
Candles transform an atmosphere through scent, changing the way we feel in space. Lighting a
candle for meditation, a bath, a date or any other intention is a beloved practice for setting an
ambiance anywhere.
Floral and herbal aromas, like geranium, lavender, and peppermint, have been proven to be
useful for the treatment of various psychological and physiological disorders through the
burning of aromatherapeutic candles. Candles for depression and anxiety are particularly
popular.
Scented candles can induce calm and help to alleviate symptoms of stress, with the ability to
lower cortisol. Certain candles are crafted specifically to activate chemicals in the brain, like
serotonin and dopamine, to support a positive mood.
Specific scents in candles can stimulate memory in the brain. The limbic system is the part of
the brain that is home to our memory and emotions. Scent, emotion and memory are
inexplicably intertwined, according to The Harvard Gazette.
In the 21st Century, candlelight evenings are incredibly beneficial for maintaining natural sleep
rhythms. Practicing good sleep hygiene means limiting blue light by disconnecting from
technology at a certain time each day.
Burning candles can become a personal ritual to commit to reflection and relaxation.
Psychologists say candles have a positive effect on mental health, and can be paired with other
wellness activities like journaling and doing yoga by candlelight.
We take pride in offering eco-friendly candles and packaging. All of our candles are made with electric instead of gas. This leads to fewer emissions for our dear planet.
Once the wax has completed its cycle, please use our glass bottles as pen holders, decorations, or any other decorative visions you may have. If you see no fit for a decorative piece, PLEASE recycle this jar at your local recycling establishment.
All of our shipping materials are also recyclable! Please throw this packing right in the recycling bin or drop it off at your local recycling establishment. Let's keep our planet clean!