“It is scientifically proven that scented candles can play an essential role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, working capacity, and overall mental health,” Chryssa Chalkia, an accredited clinical integrative psychotherapist and cognitive behavioral therapist, said.

Burning candles releases volatile organic compounds and particulate matter into the air. Particulate matter is a mixture of extremely small liquid droplets and particles that can enter your lungs. There’s concern that extended exposure to particulate matter can lead to heart and lung problems.

The biggest issue with candles are toxic wax and, in the case of older candles, toxic wicks. Besides endangering your health and that of your family, soot from paraffin wax can cause significant damage to the inside of your house, plus your computers, electrical appliances, and ductwork.

Sense of smell: There are a variety of scented oils and candles one can use to relieve stress. The combination of both strong scented candles and oils is known to increase the effectiveness of anxiety reduction. Make sure to use scented candles/oils that are appealing to you and your senses.

Types of Candles

• Pillar candles. These cylindrical candles are moulded from wax that’s rigid enough to burn free-standing, which means they can be displayed alone, inside a hurricane lamp or on a decorative heat-resistant plate.
• Taper/dinner candles.
• Votive candles.
• Tea lights.

How to burn a candle correctly

1. Trim the wick. Every.
2. Let the wax melt all the way across. Once your candle’s lit, DON’T blow it out until the top layer of wax has melted all the way across.
3. Only burn your candle for 4 hours at a time.
4. Buy multi-wick candles.
5. Keep the flame away from moving air.
6. Dip your wicks to extinguish the flame.

Only use candles in a well-ventilated room. Don’t burn a candle all the way to the bottom of the container. Use a snuffer to extinguish the flame, not water. Extinguish lit candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

Candle jars usually come with a lid, which can be used when it’s time to extinguish the flame. Simply blow out the candle gently and then cover immediately with the lid to prevent dust and dirt from getting on the wax and wick. It also helps trap the smoke.

It’s also called olfactory hallucination. The smells may always be present, or may come and go. They may be temporary or last for a long time. Smelling smoky or burning smells — including burnt toast — is a common type of phantosmia.