Incense is a substance that can be burned to create an aromatic scent in a room or indoor space. It has been around for thousands of years and was used in religious rituals in ancient Egypt. Incense is typically made from plant-based materials and can include flowers, seeds, barks, roots and resins. Some popular ingredients are frankincense, patchouli, myrrh, sandalwood, musk and cinnamon. The combustible material used is what causes the incense to burn and to produce smoke. Wood powders and charcoal powders are commonly used as these combustible materials. Some popular reasons that people burn incense are as follows:
- To set a mood
Incense can help create a calm and serene environment. Some types are believed to enhance romantic or sensual energy. Other types elicit a pensive or meditative energy. Whatever mood you are looking to set, there is an incense to help achieve that mood.
- Enhance spirituality
For thousands of years, incense has been used in religious ceremonies and spiritual practices. It can help you to search out clarity and peace of mind or to seek out a connection with ancestors or traditions of your forefathers. In olden times, incense was burned to pay homage to gods, saints and spirits. If you are looking to connect to a higher level of consciousness, burning incense is a good place to start.
- Foster emotional release
Many incense enthusiasts say that inhaling their favorite scents makes them feel motivated and inspired. Certain types of incense are designed to foster feelings of joy and tranquility. Citrus flavored incense is thought to open the depths of the imagination and foster clarity and creativity. Human beings need methods of emotional release, and burning incense has proven time and time again to help accomplish this in a healthy way.
- Recall cherished memories
Have you ever closed your eyes and thought of one of your favorite places. Be it the beach, the mountains or even your grandmother’s backyard, no matter where you are when you envision the place, you can seem to smell it. The sense of smell is very closely associated with our mind and recalling memories. Burning incense while experiencing euphoric emotional release or clarity of mind will help you recall those moments of emotional and spiritual growth the next time you smell those scents.
- Fresher air in your space
Aside from all of the spiritual, mental and emotional reasons to burn incense, there is the seemingly simple benefit of having pleasant aromas wafting through your home. Different times of year might call for different flavors to be burned. Certain events or celebrations might warrant different flavors as well. Through experimentation and repetition, you can find the scents that speak to you most pleasingly.
There are many benefits to burning incense, which is why it has been in practice for thousands of years. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and see what benefits it brings into your life and home environment.
