In the whirlwind of festivities and daily obligations, taking the time to refocus and improve one's environment can make all the difference. The soft lighting and subtle scents of candles offer much more than decoration: they create an atmosphere conducive to well-being.
According to a study published in Frontiers in Psychology (2020), aromas and olfactory associations can influence mood, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive abilities. Candles, with their scents and soothing light, become a simple and effective tool to enrich your daily life.
Here are 6 reasons to integrate the bougies in your home:
1. Establish a Soothing Atmosphere
Candles instantly create a warm atmosphere. Whether for a festive dinner or a moment of relaxation, their flickering light brings calm and comfort. Try spicy or woody candles for the perfect cozy ambiance.
2. Promote Concentration
Lighting a candle during work or meditation can enhance your ability to focus. Candles infused with scents like rosemary, mint, or lemon provide aromatherapeutic benefits ideal for keeping your mind clear.
3. Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Candles are known for their relaxing properties. A recent study indicates that natural scents, particularly those extracted from plants, can reduce nervous tension and promote a state of serenity.
4. Stimulate Positive Emotions
Long winter evenings can influence mood, but seasonal scented candles like the forest scents help to fight winter blues. Their scent often evokes happy memories, amplifying positive emotions.
5. Reviving Precious Memories
The link between smell and memory is powerful. A scented candle can evoke childhood moments, such as baking pastries. These scents awaken pleasant memories and promote a comforting sense of nostalgia.
6. Structure Your Routine
Candles can transform simple gestures into soothing rituals. Light a candle to accompany your bath or to mark the beginning of your meditation. These routines create a positive emotional anchor in your daily life.
Conclude with Security
If candles bring warmth and comfort, don't forget the safety rules: never leave them unattended and use suitable holders. Integrating candles into your home can transform your spaces into havens of peace, while supporting your well-being on a daily basis.
References:
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/346675189_Influences_of_Odors_on_Mood_and_Affective_Cognition
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Colleen Walsh, What the nose knows: Experts discuss the science of smell and how scent, emotion, and memory are intertwined — and exploited, February 27, 2020: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/02/how-scent-emotion-and-memory-are-intertwined-and-exploited/
- Hao Cai, et al, Influence of odor environments on cognitive efficiency: A comprehensive review, Nov 1, 2024, Science Direct: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724047910
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Monica Bordegoni and Marina Carulli, Smells affect Human's Emotions and Behaviour - In Reality and in Virtual Reality, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Italy, 2023: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/kansei/21/1/21_17/_pdf/-char/ja