Snug Points
About Candles, Wellbeing
What is the best candle to combat anxiety?
Candles have been used for centuries to create a calming atmosphere and reduce anxiety. Today, a wide variety of scented candles are available that can help you relax and enjoy the moment. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is best for reducing anxiety? In this article, I will discuss the best types of candles available and their benefits, along with tips on choosing the most effective candle for anxiety relief and how to use it effectively. With this knowledge, you can find the perfect candle to help you destress and bring peace into your life.
Using Candles for Anxiety Relief
Candles have a soothing effect and can be used to create a peaceful ambiance at home. The subtle glow of light, the pleasant scent, and the gentle crackling sound of a wick all help to relax the body and reduce anxiety. Studies (references below) show that essential oil candles are especially effective for this purpose due to their natural fragrances, which help evoke a sense of well-being. The process works through the limbic system, which controls emotions and memory, allowing aromas to affect stress levels and anxiety positively.
How to Choose the Right Candle
If you’re looking for relief from anxiety, selecting the right candle is essential. Here are a few factors to consider:
Candle Type
For a healthier and safer option, select aromatherapy candles made with natural waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax. Unlike paraffin candles, which can release toxins, natural waxes are non-toxic and burn cleanly, so you can enjoy the ambiance of your favorite scents without any potential harm to yourself or those around you. Beeswax candles have the added benefit of releasing negative ions, which can purify the air, and wooden wick candles produce a gentle crackling sound that enhances relaxation.
Essential Oils
Research shows that certain essential oils have both aromatherapeutic and therapeutic benefits, which can effectively combat anxiety symptoms. Common scents include lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood, but other beneficial options include bergamot, frankincense, and vetiver. Some of the best essential oils to look for are:
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular scents that has been used for centuries to relieve anxiety. It has a wonderful calming effect on the mind and body, often used to reduce stress and tension. Studies have also shown that lavender essential oil can help improve the quality of sleep, which benefits people suffering from anxiety disorders [1, 2, 3].
Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile essential oil has calming and soothing effects. Research suggests that this oil can help to reduce both physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety, in addition to reducing stress levels. Studies have found that inhaling chamomile essential oil could significantly reduce heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure [4].
Sandalwood Essential Oil
Sandalwood essential oil is known to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. As one research suggests, this oil can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep quality. The pleasant, woody aroma of sandalwood is calming and grounding, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to relax and reduce stress [5].
Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary Sage essential oil is another popular choice for reducing anxiety. It has a sweet and earthy aroma that can help induce relaxation, reduce stress levels and calm the mind. One research found that inhaling clary sage essential oil can help reduce feelings of anxiety and lower heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels [6, 7].
Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang-ylang essential oil is often used to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. This oil has a sweet and floral aroma that can help to calm the mind and relax the body. Conducted research suggests that inhaling ylang-ylang essential oil can positively affect cortisol levels, reducing feelings of stress and improving overall well-being [8, 9].
Sweet Orange Essential Oil
Sweet Orange essential oil has a bright and uplifting aroma that can help to reduce stress and calm the mind. Research suggests that this oil can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Sweet orange essential oil is often used in aromatherapy treatments to promote relaxation and well-being [10, 11, 12, 13].
Bergamot, Frankincense, and Vetiver Essential Oils
Bergamot is energising yet calming, frankincense is grounding and meditative, and vetiver has a deeply earthy aroma that promotes relaxation and focus.
Tips for Using Your Candle Effectively
Once you have selected the right candle for your needs, there are some tips to keep in mind when using them at home:
Scent Strength and Room Size
Consider the strength of the scent and the size of the room where the candle will be used. For smaller rooms, lighter scents may be more suitable, as strong fragrances can become overwhelming. For larger spaces, you might want to use multiple candles to ensure an even distribution of the aroma.
Situational Recommendations
Think about when you’ll be using your candle. For instance:
- Lavender or chamomile candles are great before bed.
- Sweet orange and bergamot can be refreshing in the morning.
- Sandalwood or vetiver is grounding and ideal for meditation or mindfulness practices.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Opt for candles that avoid synthetic fragrances and additives. Natural, non-toxic candles ensure a cleaner burn and are safer for frequent use. Additionally, consider using recyclable or eco-friendly packaging candles to minimize environmental impact.
Once you’ve selected the right candle, keep these tips in mind:
- Placement and Safety
Place your candle in a safe, stable location, away from flammable materials, pets, and children. - Enhance Relaxation with Mindfulness
Spend a few minutes taking deep breaths, focusing on the scent and the candle’s warm glow. Allow yourself to be fully present, allowing the aroma to calm your mind and reduce stress. - Combine with Relaxation Techniques
To maximize the effect, try combining candle use with other calming activities such as meditation, journaling, or deep breathing exercises. This holistic approach can heighten the relaxation benefits and create a nurturing self-care ritual. - Blow Out the Candle Safely
When done, always blow out your candle and never leave it unattended. - Ambient Lighting
Use additional candles or dim lights around the room to enhance the cozy, tranquil atmosphere. Soft lighting helps prepare the mind and body for relaxation, supporting stress relief.
Conclusion
With the right candle and mindful usage, you can create a calming atmosphere that helps reduce anxiety. From choosing the best essential oil scents to considering candle type and usage practices, each element contributes to a more effective relaxation experience. By incorporating natural, therapeutic candles into your routine, you can enjoy the many benefits of aromatherapy and bring a sense of peace and well-being into your life.
