As a psychotherapist my approach to working with client’s issues is to work with all aspects of the person: mind, body and psyche. This entails using a variety of methods to access the core of the problem and work through it. Talking therapy is assisted by holistic and alternative methods to support healing such as the use of scented candles in the therapeutic room. Candles are scientifically proven to soothe us. My aim as a therapist is to support the person that I have in the room to feel comfortable and relaxed so he can open up and discuss whatever is on his mind.
Scented candles have been used for centuries in all manners of rituals as they promote healing, enhance meditation and cleanse energies. The gentle, mesmerising quality of their light makes them a perfect aid for any relaxation routine. Melt takes the science of candles one step further though; creating scented candles proven to transform your mood. Our sense of smell is incredibly powerful and shouldn’t be underestimated. The smell of the scented candle stimulates the part of your brain which is connected to memory and mood. From boosting energy through to relieving stress or even enhancing mental clarity, the healing properties coming from a lighted scented candle can deliver psychological effects. Thus, the use of candles in talking therapy can even unlock the royal road of the unconscious.
A study conducted by Keville and Green (2009) report that imbalances of psychological wellbeing such as depression can be improved with the use of scented candles and oils. For example, they are certain scented candles that help reduce feelings of fear, anxiety, reduce stress and lift mood. Some scented candles that I use in my practice to support clients struggling with anxiety or stress are
-Lavender relaxes instantly both mind and body, -Clary sage lifts mood, -Cinnamon makes you feel refreshed, -Orange reduces stress, -Lemon improves mood, -Apple controls anxiety, -Peppermint wakes up your mind and enhances focus, -Frankincense helps battle anxiety and gives a great stress relief, -Sandalwood relaxes and calms body and mind, -Vanilla increases happiness levels, uplifts your mood and stimulates feelings of relaxation and joy.
Have you ever thought that by understanding the different effects of various scents, you can take control of your mood and light the candle you need to affect your mood?
My recommendation to those who want to increase their sense of calm is to try one of the following:
-Meditating daily, enhancing their space with candlelight.
-Popping on their favourite relaxation scent and winding down with a lovely book.
-Incorporating candlelight with a relaxed exercise routine such as mindfulness, tai chi or yoga.
Why don’t you try yourself after a long and stressful day to distress by lighting a candle and allowing its scents to travel you to a soothing place where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the day. Try one next time you are having a stressful day—you won’t regret it!