Incense is one of the most loved aromatic products around the world; its herbal smoke is cleansing to the air and to the mind. In many parts of Asia, incense is used for ceremonial purposes to clear away negative energies and harmful spirits. By using incense in your own daily life, you can usher this same positive energy into your day and clear your consciousness of negative thoughts.
The Basics of Incense
Incense is any substance that is burned to release a beautiful aromatic scent. The root of the word incense actually comes from the Latin word meaning “to burn.” Incense has been used for thousands of years, with some of the first historical mentions of incense as early as 3300 BCE.
Although incense sticks are the most popular form of incense, incense actually comes in many different types. Incense can be formed into cones, made into sticks, or burned as loose herbs in a bowl. Incense can be made from a wide range of herbs, and depending on the herb used, it will have its own unique effects.
The Benefits of Incense
No matter what form of incense that you use, you will gain innumerable benefits to your body, mind, and soul. The fragrance alone is wonderful as a simple air freshener, and depending on the type of incense you use, you can further increase these benefits.
See below for the top 10 benefits of incense:
- Relaxes the mind
- Eases your meditation practice
- Cleanses the energetic field
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Promotes a connection with spirituality
- Increases focus and concentration
- Improves sleep quality
- Releases negativity within you
- Enhances inner peace
- Reconnects you with a higher power
Incense is a powerful spiritual tool for accessing deep healing and cleansing powers. The most potent aspect of incense is the herbal smoke itself. As this smoke enters your space and your body, it stimulates the release of positive energy and cleanses any negativity that comes along its path.
How to Use Incense
Incense is one of the simplest ways to practice aromatherapy. Incense sticks are a great way to start in the world of incense. All you need is a pack of incense sticks, an incense stick holder, and a lighter. Simply light the tip of the incense stick and allow the cleansing smoke to enter your room and your body in no time.
Some of the most popular types of incense are sandalwood, patchouli, and palo santo. At Cedar and Myrrh, we have a beautiful set of hand-rolled palo santo incense sticks that are naturally made, providing greater benefits to the body, mind, and soul. Along with our handmade ceramic or teardrop incense holders, you are perfectly on your way to accessing the healing benefits of incense sticks.
Summary
Incense is a simple yet effective way to cleanse your energy and providing healing for the body, mind, and soul all at the same time. As you begin to explore the wonderful world of incense, keep in mind the beautiful history of this product and the ritualistic energy that it contains. By honoring the light of the incense, the connection with higher energies will deepen within you as well.
