Incense can have powerful effects on people. It calms the nerves and stimulates the brain and body’s “relaxation response”. It promotes deep relaxation, increases focus and concentration, and elevates your mood. It can also be used for purification and protection. It is often used as a tool for divination and shamanic journeying.
Many people enjoy the sense of spirituality and peace that it provides. Some people say they get a “lift” from using it and others have reported improved health. It is also easy to use.
Types available
There are many different types available, including:
- Direct lighting: these are available in sticks (the most popular), coils (have a long burning time for larger areas) and cones (suitable for scenting a room in a short period of time).
- Heating: aromatic wood (creates a pleasant atmosphere), kneaded (traditionally used for Japanese Tea Ceremonies, has a nice sweet and creamy scent) and In-koh (pressed, it releases its scent when heated with charcoal).
- Non-heating or burning: Sachets (scents clothing and repels insects from clothing).
Scents available
There are many scents that you can choose from, depending on your preference and needs. For instance, sandalwood and lavender have a calming effect on the mind and body, rose has a soothing effect, vanilla has a pleasant scent and citrus scents like lemon and orange can give you an energy boost.
Where can I buy it?
Incense is available for purchase from Pagan specialty shops and from some larger superstores that carry a variety of spiritual supplies. It can also be found in two-dollar shops in the candle section.
The good news is that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get the benefits.
How do I use it?
All you need is a smudge stick (usually made of bamboo) and some incense. You can burn it in a burner or use a candle.
Here are 9 simple ways to use it:
- Use it as a room freshener. Burn a stick or two every now and then to keep things smelling pleasant.
- Burn a couple of scented sticks in the air conditioning vent for a few hours on hot Summer days. It will make your car smell fresh and clean after a long day at work.
- It can help to freshen the air, especially helpful if you have pets or if you work in a stuffy office.
- Use it to enhance your meditation practice. Burn a stick or two of incense before you sit down to meditate. The smoke will clear your mind and prepare it for focusing on the inner journey.
- Use it as an aroma therapy. Burn a couple of sticks before you get out of bed in the morning. The smoke will wake you up, freshen up your room and help you start your day.
- Burn one stick as you begin your daily workout routine. It will give you a little extra boost of energy and help you exercise longer without getting tired.
- Use it when studying for an exam. Burn a stick or two before you start reading so you’ll have a little extra energy to stay focused.
- Use it when watching a movie. The scent will enhance your experience and make it more enjoyable.
- Use it when writing that sales pitch or report. The aroma will energise you, clear your mind and give you a fresh, creative start.
Summary
Incense is used in many different ways in modern Wicca. It can be burned as an offering to the gods and used to consecrate a space or an activity.
It can be burned as an act of devotion, or to cleanse and purify a person or an area. Incense can also be used as an aid to meditation, to enhance psychic abilities, or simply to add a pleasing aroma to a room.
The scent can do wonders for the soul, give it a try!
