So, you’re probably wondering, “Why should I light a candle in the morning and the evening? Isn’t one flick of the lighter enough?” Well, hold on to your coffee cup because I’m about to blow your mind with 10 benefits of lighting candles that’ll have you saying, “How have I lived without this in my life?” And, yes, some of this is science-approved!
1. Morning Zen, Baby!
Morning time can feel like a rush job on a good day, right? Lighting up that body butter candle can be your way to introduce a little morning calm. Psychology Today notes that starting your day with intentional rituals (like lighting a candle) helps your mind ease into a focused, relaxed state, setting the tone for a more productive day [(Psychology Today, 2022)].
2. “Smells Like I Got My Life Together” Scent
Let’s be real. A room that smells like lavender and citrus is a room where a queen’s running the show. Scent-based rituals have been shown to create positive associations in the brain, making it easier to feel like your life is actually together, even if the laundry says otherwise [(Herz, 2009)].
3. Feel the Ambiance Without Lifting a Finger
Candles do the heavy lifting in your space, setting a whole mood. You don’t have to rearrange furniture or hang twinkling lights—just one strike of a match and bam, instant ambiance. Studies show that lower lighting levels promote a calming effect, helping to reduce cortisol levels and provide an overall sense of comfort [(Chebat & Michon, 2003)].
4. It’s the Ultimate Me-Time Moment
Burn that candle to show yourself a little love. Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. Lighting a candle morning or night serves as a gentle reminder that you’re prioritizing yourself. Studies show that those who actively create self-care rituals are more likely to experience less stress and more emotional resilience [(Tang, Holzel, & Posner, 2015)].
5. Wind-Down Magic
You made it through the day, sis! Lighting a candle as the sun goes down is a way of signaling to your brain that it’s time to slow down. The calming effects of consistent routines have been shown to prepare your body and mind for better sleep quality, according to a study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine [(Morin & Espie, 2003)].
6. Bye-Bye, Stress!
Nothing tells stress to take a seat quite like lighting a candle. There’s actual science here—certain scents like lavender can have measurable effects on stress reduction, according to the Journal of Physiological Anthropology. So, when you light that lavender-scented body butter candle, you’re actually triggering relaxation responses in the brain [(Morris, 2002)].
7. Get That Glow-Up, Inside and Out
Light your body butter candle in the evening and treat yourself to a little skin pampering. Moisturizing? Check. Soft, supple skin? Check. Looking like a goddess who knows her worth? Absolutely. Bonus: Natural oils are not only great for your skin but also help stimulate the senses, creating a feel-good factor that’s entirely chemical-free.
8. Energy Clearing 101
Believe it or not, candle rituals have roots in energy psychology. Lighting a candle with a specific intention can be a way to release negative vibes and invite a fresh start. There’s even evidence that creating rituals helps us feel more in control and boosts confidence, according to research on ritualistic behaviors [(Norton & Gino, 2014)].
9. Natural Sunscreen Vibes
This candle is out here doing double duty for your skin! Those natural ingredients in the body butter? They’re acting as a natural sunscreen while keeping you moisturized. So next time you’re feeling outdoorsy, give yourself that boost with a touch of melted butter from your candle.
10. It’s Just Plain Fun
Honestly, who doesn’t love watching a little flame dance around? There’s something hypnotic and grounding about it. Candlelight meditation is even used in some therapy practices to improve focus and calm the mind. The Journal of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy found that visual focal points (like a flame) help with grounding techniques, which can be great for stress and anxiety relief [(Shapiro & Carlson, 2009)].
Wrap It Up: Make It a Ritual!
Incorporating candle-lighting rituals—morning and night—might just be the life hack you didn’t know you needed. Start your day with some calm vibes, and end it with a little treat for yourself. Go on, girl, grab that candle and set your vibe morning, noon, and night!
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/stronger-the-broken-places/201710/the-power-ritual
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/wild-rituals/202012/the-transformative-power-of-engaging-in-ritual