Candles are to mental health what apples are to physical health. In other words, a candle a day keeps the stress away!
The association between candles and relaxation has existed for a long time. Whether they are used to create a relaxing atmosphere, to meditate, or simply to unwind after a long day, candles can play a crucial role in promoting self-care and overall well-being.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why candles are great for self-care and discuss the common types of candles for self-care. Lastly, we’ll talk about how to integrate candles into your routine.
Why candles are great for self-care
Even if you’re winding down on a weekend or dealing with post-holiday blues, it’s essential to relax and pamper yourself. Lighting candles is a great way to do that, and below are the reasons why.
Aromatherapy
Lots of candles are infused with essential oils that can help reduce stress and anxiety when burned. The scent of lavender, for example, is known to promote relaxation and calmness. Meanwhile, ginger and citrus scents are perfect for revitalizing energy.
Ambiance
The soft light of candles creates a warm and cozy atmosphere that can help to soothe the mind and body. Candles are not only great for romantic dinner dates but also for some me time after a long day at work.
Mindfulness
Taking a moment to light a candle and focus on the flame can help you increase mindfulness and relieve stress. This simple act of being in the moment can help you to feel more relaxed and focused.
Types of candles for self-care
Below are the most popular candles used for self-care.
Aromatherapy candles
Aromatherapy works by activating the part of our brain responsible for memories and emotions. Aromatherapy candles contain essential oils and are designed to promote relaxation and stress-relief through engaging our sense of smell.
Soy candles
Soy candles are made from natural soy wax and are known for their long burn time and clean burn. Most soy candles are also eco-friendly and made without using harmful chemicals.
Massage candles
Massage candles contain ingredients that melt into a warm and nourishing oil, which can be used as a massage oil. This type of candle is ideal for a relaxing self-care routine since it combines the benefits of aromatherapy and a good massage.
Beeswax candles
Beeswax candles are made from natural beeswax and are known for their long burn time and natural fragrance. Beeswax candles are also known for producing negative ions when lit. These ions are said to help neutralize the positive ions that can cause stress and anxiety.
Integrating candles into your self-care routine
Now that you know which candles to buy, the next step is to use them. Here are the steps to incorporating candles into your personal care routine.
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Set aside time for self-care
Decide on a time each day or week that you can dedicate to your self-care routine. This could be before or work, on the weekends, or any other time that works for you. Whether it’s ten minutes or two hours, it’s crucial that you set aside a specific time for taking care of yourself.
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Choose a suitable candle
Pick a candle that you love and that fits your self-care needs. If you're looking for relief, choose an aromatherapy candle. Additionally, if your goal is to create a relaxing ambiance, choose a candle with a soft, warm light.
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Create a tranquil atmosphere
Aside from a dedicated time, it is also good to allot a specific place for your self-care process. Set up your self-care space to make it as calming and relaxing as possible. Light a candle, turn off the lights, and put on some mellow music.
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Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about improving your emotional wellness. So, empty your mind, take a few deep breaths, and focus on the flame of the candle. Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings, and let go of any stress or anxiety.
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Use candles whenever you’re unwinding
Candles don’t have to be the center of attention in order to be effective. When you're taking a long shower or bath, reading a book, or simply meditating, you can use candles to add value to your self-care activities. They can provide an extra oomph in the form of a modified ambiance or a pleasant scent.
Light a self-care candle today
Incorporating candles into your self-care routine is a good way to bring down your stress levels, create a serene environment, and support mindfulness. Whether you choose beeswax, aromatherapy, or soy candles, you can reap the benefits of adding candles to your routine. Start by dedicating time and space to your self-care habits and setting up the ambiance. Next, be mindful of your emotions and try to use candles in your down time more often.
Visit Skin Alchemists if you’re interested in buying self-care candles or learning more about how to love yourself better.
This Un Common Conversation was written by Katie Pierce.
Katie Pierce is a teacher-slash-writer who loves telling stories to an audience, whether it’s bored adults in front of a computer screen or a bunch of hyperactive 4-year-olds. Writing keeps her sane (most of the time) and allows her to enjoy some quiet time in the evening before she walks into a room of screaming kids (all of whom she loves dearly) the next morning.