Aromatherapy - the Magic of Scented Candles

Picture a romantic dinner for two, or even a quiet evening after a harried, stressful day, one feature is common in both of them, the flickering flame of candles along with their sweet fragrance.

We are stressed, there is no getting away from this. Our jobs, the commute to work, the current global meltdown, incompetent service providers all create tensions that affect both our minds and bodies. I like to unwind with a long soak in the bathtub in a darkened bathroom lit up with scented candles. For me it is the best aromatherapy ritual, one that I look forward to the whole day.

Just what is aromatherapy?

To put it simply, it is the use of essential or volatile oils sourced from plants and natural sources to cure emotional and physical illnesses. Aromatherapists believe that properly applied, this can cure deadly ailments like diabetes and cancer too. I know for a fact that it can relax a person, but would shy away from such tall claims.

Using scented candles is becoming more and more popular in today's world. A person using the candles to create ambience for a perfect romantic evening, or to reduce stress and anger should ensure that the candles are made of substances that are natural, so that they are more effective.

They are easily available in holistic stores or online, easy to store and use. Prior to making a purchase, one should check if the candles contain natural plant essences and not chemicals.

I also urge you to try and ensure that the wax is also natural, so that when burning, it releases more healing aromatic smoke.

I prefer beeswax candles, they are pure and full of natural fragrance. Beeswax has been proven effective in cleansing the air. It is an excellent detoxifying agent and its sweet smell creates a very mellow mood.

The other option is to use paraffin candles, these are slow burning and long lasting, but since they are petroleum bases, most aromatherapists do not approve of them

Recently when I went to shop for candles for a party we had at home, I was surprised to see soy candles. They are natural, biodegradable and non-toxic. They are also aromatic. Of course they are not a patch on beeswax candles, which is something I love. But they are much more economical and clean burning.

Feng Shui Candles are also nice, they are available in different colours and are made as per the Chinese beliefs of achieving proper balance and cleansing the Chi or life energy

Scented votives candles are also good. They can be used in prayers or also used to decorate a room or create a good ambience. Their small size and circular shapes make them easy to use and tuck into small corners and niches to create a lovely atmosphere.

This world is harsh and chaotic and stress is a major cause of health problems. I really enjoy the calmness I gain from the wonderful fragrances of natural, organic candles and their mellow flickering lights.