Five ways to uplift your everyday with incense

Incense has long been used in various cultures and traditions around the world, the act of burning incense provides not only a beautiful aromatic scent but many other uses, purposes and engagements. We explore 5 uses for burning incense in the home.

1. Mindfulness / Reflection / Intention setting: (Palo Santo)

Setting intentions is an important part of our reflection process. A new week, day or month is the perfect example of a time to reflect and set intentions. We can also do this throughout the year during new beginnings or even as part of our routine by setting an intention for the week ahead. Palo Santo is one of the most fragrant woods and is believed to release purifying properties when burned. Its earthy, citrus and sweet aroma can transform the energy of a space making the perfect accompaniment to mindfulness and reflection. Burn Palo Santo in your favourite space with a journal, reflect on the positives and areas of growth and write down 1 - 3 intentions for the new period ahead.

2. Promote a sense of Calm: (Australian Sandalwood)

Our sense of smell can help in regulating our nervous system. When overwhelmed with feelings of stress or anxiety, the use of soft scents can have a calming effect. Australian Sandalwood promotes an uplifting sense of calm and is perfect to burn on in the morning when sunlight is streaming in through a window or when curling up on the couch with a pot of warm tea. Incense can help to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere that aids in relaxation and introspection.

3. Evoke creativity: (Vietnamese Agarwood)

The burning of incense can help create an environment that encourages creativity, ideas and productivity. Vietnamese Agarwood, an aromatic spicy scent,  is ethereal and stimulating- burning incense can create a meditative atmosphere which can further enhance creativity, help to enhance focus, clarity and inspiration, all of which are important when allowing your mind to create. .

4. Aid Meditation: (Korean Red Cedar)

Incense has been used for centuries as an aid to mediation. The fragrance of incense can help to create a peaceful and tranquil environment that is conducive to deep relaxation and introspection. Incorporating incense into meditation allows you to calm thoughts while also transporting you into a deeper focus and heightening your senses. The burning of incense has been widely used in religious practices to uplift one's spirit during meditation- and watching the smoke rise can be a meditative practice in itself. Korean Red cedar it is perfect for promoting relaxation and an air of comfort- it is both woody and resinous.

5. Aromatherapy: (Taiwanese Hinoki)

One of the most common uses of incense in modern times is for scent in the home. The burning of incense can transform your space and have a calming and relaxing effect or invigorating and energising impact. Hinoki has a fresh, yet deep woody scent which is familiar and clean - perfect for instilling a sense of calm and relaxation in the home.