Burning incense is one of the oldest and simplest methods to utilize the power of smell to boost wellness and wellbeing. Using incense can be relaxing and spiritually rewarding. 

Most individuals tend to overlook the power of smell. Have you ever caught a whiff of something and instantly teleported back to a memory? When we smell, the scents take a direct route to the limbic system which houses our emotions and memory. Our sense of smell is extremely influential and positive smells can promote good health.

Follow our guide to see how you can incorporate incense into your wellness routine. 

What is incense?

For those unfamiliar with this antique aromatherapy, the word 'incense' derives from the Latin word 'incendere,' which means to burn. The use of incense dates back to ancient Egypt, where it had numerous applications of use, including temple rituals, scenting bodies, purifying spaces, and medicinal activities. Incense is still popular today and continues to be cherished for its calming impact on the mind and its alluring, lingering fragrance.

Incense is commonly made with aromatic materials including plant matter, essential oils and resins. Once lit, a gentle ember produces fragrant smoke which disperses throughout a space. The effect of pleasant aromas produced from incense has been shown to raise serotonin within the brain. This boost creates a feeling of happiness and wellbeing which can promote good health.

Choosing the right aroma

Before you spark up, take the time to choose an incense aroma that aligns with your smell preferences and wellness goals. Incense fragrances are diverse not only in smell but also in aromatherapy. For example, jasmine is great for encouraging creativity, while juniper is very calming and protective. With so many incense aromas on the market, think about which scents will benefit your overall wellness and wellbeing.

Adding incense to your wellness routine

• Washing off the workday 

One of the most convenient places to add incense to our wellbeing rituals is at home. After a long day in the office, it can be a lovely idea to light up a calming aroma in your bathroom. The incense combined with a bath can create a relaxing spa ambience. Burning a fragrance such as frankincense can de-stress the entire body, which allows you to mentally and physically wash away your workday.

• Meditative mindset

For thousands of years religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity have incorporated incense into meditations and ceremonies. Traditionally, the passing of time during meditation was measured by a set length of incense sticks. Incense can be used to deepen attention, heighten senses, and open the spirit during meditation. Next time you’re in a meditative mood, consider burning incense just before your meditation so you can fully immerse yourself in the moment. 

• Stimulating concentration and creativity

If you are struggling to stay productive while working from home or on a creative project, try lighting incense to improve focus. Certain scents can stimulate the mind and  lift your spirits. A study found that happy employees are up to 20% more productive than unhappy employees. Make your space a happy place and light up an aroma such as sandalwood to kindle happy thoughts. A well-scented experience while working can enhance your abilities, stimulate productive ideas, and improve mental performance. 

• Unwind time

Nothing is worse than tossing and turning in bed throughout the night. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a major increase in sleep disorders worldwide. More than ever, people are struggling to get a good night's rest. Burning fragrances such as rose and lavender are extremely tranquil and relaxing. Lighting incense before bed can keep your stress low so that you can enjoy a peaceful drift off when the time is right.  

• Solo date 

There is no better feeling than slipping into a soft white robe and switching off your phone for the afternoon. Many wellness centers and spas offer services that incorporate incense into their relaxation activities. Incense brings focus to the mind and calms the body, which creates an irresistible aromatic atmosphere for relaxation. Consider trying out an aromatherapy yoga class or enjoying a muscle-relaxing massage with incense burning. 

Enhancing wellness with incense

Start your fragrant adventure and don’t be afraid to discover what aromas motivate, relax, or enlighten you. Here at ripple⁺, we have a unique mix of incense droplets to help you start your incense journey.

Discover the power of incense and experience how it can alter your frame of mind in seconds. Once you find the perfect blends, decide on ways to incorporate incense into your daily wellness routine. Witness the improvement in your overall mental and physical wellbeing.