Incense has been around for centuries and is known for releasing fragrant aromas that are appealing and soothing to the senses.
By definition, incense is "an aromatic gum or other substance producing a sweet odor when burned." The word derives from the Latin word incendere, which means to "set on fire" or "to burn."
Incense comes in a variety of forms, such as sticks, cones and powders. The most common way to burn incense is with a thin bamboo stick coated in scent-infused material (a combustible paste made from coal and a binding agent). The thickness of the material is distributed evenly, allowing for a gradual release of the aroma over an extended period of time.
Cones, on the other hand, does not have a supporting center and the material is pressed into a small cone so that it can sit upright upon burning. However, these do not last as long as incense sticks, although the dense part of the cone produces a strong scent.
Incense is used for religious, spiritual and cultural purposes. For example, the Catholic church uses incense as a means to venerate and sanctify the church space. According to Adoremus, the visual imagery and sweet scent of smoke from the incense helps "reinforce the transcendence of the Mass linking Heaven with Earth, allowing us to enter into the presence of God."
Another reason why incense is used is to accompany a meditation practice or session. Since incense is often associated with yoga, especially meditating, incense can be burned to ease stress and increase focus.
I have a different reason for burning some incense sticks. Usually, I light up at least one incense stick at the end of the day as a signal that my busy day is winding down. I also like to light up an incense stick so that my room smells nice.
Popular incense scents include frankincense, myrrh and sandalwood. I tend to stay away from scents that are too overpowering or too overwhelming for my senses. So, I prefer to stick with scents that are subtle and give me a sense of homeness.
When I go out to buy my supply of incense sticks (Hem is the most common brand for incense sticks), my favorite scents are frankincense, myrrh, musk and amber.
Of course, I make sure to prioritize safety when using incense sticks. When I light up an incense stick, I prefer using one in my bathroom because it makes the cleanup easier. I also have some aluminum foil underneath my incense stick holder in case any ashes fall outside the holder.
I also make sure to light up some incense sticks in a well-ventilated area. My bathroom has a window that I leave slightly open, which is why I choose to burn incense sticks from there.
All in all, incense brings a sense of calm and relaxation in the home. It also stimulates the senses, especially the sense of smell. That can be helpful when practicing meditation or trying to calm down whenever you feel anxious.
Find four or five aromas you like and burn away.
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