Five Simple Ways To Practice Mindfulness to Live Happier
Gabrielle Mastronardo
May 9, 2024
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In the midst of life’s chaotic demands, creating moments of relaxation is essential for nurturing our well-being. For me, that means lighting a soy candle at the end of a long day to create a cozy environment and utilize the power of aromatherapy to unwind.
This little ritual gently nudges me to start turning my mind off of the million things going on and to turn inward. These conscious moments are key to mental wellness, but picking the wrong candle could actually be harming your well-being.
Traditionally candles have been made with paraffin wax that comes from Petroleum. Needless to say, inhaling the byproduct of petroleum isn’t exactly good for our well-being— but it’s actually more harmful than you might think.
Toxic Emissions: When paraffin wax candles are burned, they release potentially harmful substances into the air, such as benzene and toluene. These chemicals are known to be carcinogenic and can cause respiratory issues when inhaled, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities may experience further discomfort due to the soot and particles emitted by paraffin candles.
Petroleum Byproduct: Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable fossil fuel. The extraction and processing of petroleum have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing paraffin candles, we contribute to the demand for unsustainable and environmentally damaging practices.
Non-Biodegradable: Paraffin wax is not biodegradable, which means that the candles and their residue can persist in the environment for a long time. When discarded, paraffin candles contribute to waste accumulation and can have adverse effects on ecosystems.
Unsustainable Production: The production of paraffin wax often involves practices that are not aligned with sustainable principles. This includes the use of chemical additives, energy-intensive refining processes, and the overall reliance on finite fossil fuel resources.
Natural and Renewable: Soy candles are made from soybeans, which are a natural and renewable source. In contrast, paraffin candles are made from petroleum, a nonrenewable resource. By choosing soy candles, individuals can support local agriculture and farmers, as soybeans are grown by local farmers in many regions.
Cleaner Burning: Soy candles burn cleaner than paraffin candles, releasing less soot into the air. Paraffin candles often produce black soot that can accumulate on jar surfaces, walls, and other home surfaces. Soy candles, on the other hand, produce minimal black soot and are non-toxic, making them a healthier option for indoor air quality.
Longer Lasting: Soy candles tend to last longer than paraffin candles of the same size. The slower and cooler burning temperature of soy wax contributes to its longer burn time. Although soy candles may have a higher initial cost, their longer-lasting nature reduces the need for frequent candle replacements.
Better Scent: Soy candles are known for their ability to hold and release scents effectively. They work well with essential oils, gradually releasing the scent as they burn. This gradual release creates a more pleasant and subtle atmosphere compared to the immediate strong scent often associated with other types of candles. Additionally, soy wax holds color well, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the candles.
Environmentally Friendly: Soy wax is biodegradable and derived from a renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Choosing soy candles supports sustainable practices and reduces the reliance on nonrenewable resources. Soy candles are also vegan and cruelty-free, as they are free from animal products and not tested on animals.
Now that we know why soy candles are a better option than their petroleum-based counterpart, let’s get to the fun part: selecting the soy candle that’s right for you.
Since there are hundreds to choose from, I’ve Narrowed it down to the five coolest soy candle brands of 2023.
Vigyl Candles, a Montreal-based candle company, offers a captivating collection that encapsulates modern moods and artistic influences.
With a commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability, Vigyl Candles invites you to embark on a sensory journey, where the gentle flicker of their hand-poured creations intertwines with your moments of solace.
This candle company understands that scent is a powerful conduit for emotions and connections. Drawing inspiration from universal feelings such as pleasure, community, and discovery, Vigyl Candles curates bespoke fragrances that evoke a wash of emotions, coloring your days with a contemporary approach to self-care.
Each scent is carefully formulated to capture a moment, allowing you to observe, contemplate, and meditate as you immerse yourself in their enchanting aromas.
P.F. Candle Co., a brand that’s already known to anyone who frequents Urban Outfitters, specializes in creating a captivating ambiance.
Each candle is thoughtfully designed to elevate your home’s atmosphere and enhance your daily rituals, making every moment truly special. With a wide range of scents to choose from, P.F. Candle Co. brings the art of fragrance into your space, allowing you to curate an environment that reflects your unique lifestyle and taste.
Their candles are crafted with a blend of locally-grown soy wax, ensuring a clean and long-lasting burn that envelops your surroundings in a delightful aroma. The brand’s commitment to using vegan and clean ingredients means you can enjoy their candles with peace of mind, knowing that no harmful substances are being released into the air.
In full transparency, CandaScent Labs candles aesthetics are not my favorite— but what they lack in “cool looks” they make up in quality and attention to detail in their candle making— there’s truly no other soy candle brand doing things on their level.
They fuse science and scent to provide whole-body wellness through their innovative aromas. Founded by Véronique Lee, the company focuses on empowering consumers with ingredient transparency and knowledge, delivering products that are free of synthetics and aroma enhancers.
Their creations feature organic, therapeutic-grade essential oils and botanical extracts, carefully selected for their beneficial properties.
The brand harnesses the power of aroma and the olfactory system to promote overall health and well-being .
They emphasize the significance of our sense of smell in caring for our mental and physical wellness, demystifying the science behind it.
Key to their formulations is beta-caryophyllene, a unique aromatic molecule known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
This molecule interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, helping to restore balance and promote a natural state of well-being.
EMME is a brand renowned for its unique collection of natural candles. Formerly known as Emme Essentials, their candles are meticulously crafted to provide a toxin-free, cruelty-free, and vegan fragrance experience.
By embracing high-quality ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals, EMME ensures that their candles create a warm and inviting ambiance while prioritizing the well-being of their customers.
The EMME candle collection offers a diverse range of captivating scents, each inspired by the rich aromas found in Asian culture, like Lychee and Singsu.
From soothing and serene fragrances to invigorating and uplifting blends, EMME candles cater to a variety of preferences and moods. They’re the type of candles that will have anyone walking into your house saying, wow it smells good in here.
The philosophy behind Enlighten Candles revolves around the belief that candles have the power to illuminate not just physical spaces but also our inner selves.
Each candle is meticulously crafted with a blend of natural waxes and infused with carefully selected fragrances that transport you to a state of tranquility and serenity.
The attention to detail in every aspect of their candles is evident, from the exquisite packaging to the thoughtfully curated scents.
Whether you’re seeking a calming aroma to unwind after a long day or a refreshing fragrance to invigorate your space, Enlighten Candles offers a wide range of options to suit every preference and mood.
Beyond their captivating scents, Enlighten Candles also believes in the power of intention and mindfulness. Each candle is infused with positive energy and carefully chosen affirmations, encouraging moments of self-reflection and personal growth.
Enlighten Candles is more than just a candle brand; it is a testament to the transformative power of scent and the importance of self-care rituals.
Love a brand that didn’t make the list? Tell us who it is in the comments below!
However, living consciously means acknowledging the importance of self-care and understanding that our own health and happiness are essential for a balanced life. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of self care, and share some practical tips to help you prioritize your well-being.
How we start our morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. If we start with a simple morning ritual that eases us into the day, we can start our day feeling relaxed and at peace. Spending the first moments of the day for ourselves is not only a great way to practice living consciously but also it’s essential for our overall wellbeing.
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