Why are we so obsessed with candles?
Doesn’t it feel so good to head over to your local Marshalls, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods or Bath & Body Works – and walk straight to the candle isle and sniff for the next three hours?
How about lighting a candle once you’ve cleaned your entire apartment or taken a relaxing bath?
Why do candles make us feel soooo good?
Here are the top four benefits of candles and why we love them so much!
1. Helps Reduce Anxiety
Scented candles help improve our limbic system, a part of our brains that involves our emotions. Scents such as jasmine were found to increase brain activity and help “increase a positive mood state.”
Scents such as lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties, like reducing stress and feelings of anxiousness. Chamomile also helps with sleep and relaxation.
2. Increases Productivity
Our limbic system also includes our memory which is stimulated by scented candles as well. Better memory means better time management, better focus and better learning.
Researchers found that lemon (lemon essential oil is often used in candles) increases the brain chemical norepinephrine which is linked to easier decision-making and increased motivation.
3. Makes Your Environment Comfy
Candles can help create a clean smelling, cozy environment. They also bring an awesome feeling of warmth and comfort over extended periods of time.
Candles also help you escape.
Today you can create a spa in your bathroom with a lavender scented soy candle.
Tomorrow a rose garden with a light floral scent.
The next day, you can lay on the beach.
You can curate the cozy comfort environment you want for any occasion.
4. Essential Oils and Aromatherapy
Essential oils are known for their therapeutic benefits and many candles include various essential oils that release the same energy and scents. Here is a list of additional essential oils and their benefits:
Sandalwood helps improve focus and calm nerves
Peppermint helps with digestion and boosts energy
Tea Tree helps fight infections and boost immunity
Ylang-Ylang helps treat skin conditions and headaches
Bergamot can help treat eczema and reduce stress
