Candles are scientifically proven to calm our nerves. The gentle, mesmerizing quality of their light makes them a perfect aid for any relaxation routine. We don’t typically think as an anxiety reducer is a candle. Candles can benefit a person through its aroma, sending signals through the sense of smell that help calm the brain.The candle light can also have some positive benefits in reducing anxiety.
Candles
When candles are light, it is usually to set a mood. Whether it be a romantic evening dinner with your sweetheart, the attempt to mask other odors, or just a relaxing afternoon in a bubble bath with your favorite candle lit beside you, the light is meant to set a mood.
The candlelight creates a warm, calm atmosphere that encourages the mind to slow down. It can help boost energy, relieve stress, and bring mental clarity.
Not only does the candlelight help to reduce anxiety, but so can the scent. Again, this is because of our sense of smell. When we smell a certain scent from a burning candle, our brains react by associating that scent with a memory, or concept, such as relaxation.
That being said, different scents might work for some people, but not for others. This holistic and natural approach to reducing anxiety is also dependent on personal experiences and memories.
Here is a list of scents and specific ways they can help –
Lavender – relaxes instantly both mind and body
Clary sage – lifts mood
Cinnamon – makes you feel refreshed
Orange – reduces stress
Lemon – improves mood
Apple – controls anxiety
Peppermint – wakes up your mind and enhances focus
Frankincense – helps battle anxiety and gives a great stress relief
Sandalwood – relaxes and calms body and mind
Vanilla – increases happiness levels, uplifts your mood and stimulates feelings of relaxation and joy
A lot of times you can find candles that say “stress relief,” or “anxiety relief” on them. Aromatherapy is also a popular name that will be on candles with these scents in them.