October 31, 2024
We’re all running at full speed towards the end of the year and lately it seems like it’s inevitable. Whether it’s balancing projects at work, relationships, or just trying to stay on top of life, it’s so easy to constantly feel like you just don’t have the time. Finding a creative outlet that helps you relax, have fun, and actually make something beautiful may be the perfect outlet for relieving the seasonal (or everyday) stresses. Think of candle making as a mini-meditation session. You’re focusing on one thing, letting go of distractions, and creating something with intention. Who doesn’t enjoy a “me dayâ€?
Here’s why candle making has become a go-to self-care ritual for many guests this year:
1. Getting Out of Your Head and Into Your Senses
In a world where we’re constantly staring at screens, candle making is the perfect way to get back to the real world—no notifications, no pressure. When we engage multiple senses, it activates different parts of the brain, helping us focus on the moment and enter a state of mindfulness. In candle making, your hands are in motion, your eyes are on the wax melting, and your nose is picking up subtle notes of different fragrances. The textures, colors, and scents come together to make us feel more present. It’s a natural form of sensory therapy, grounding us in the now and relieving the stress we carry from the day.
2. Activates Feel-Good Chemicals in the Brain
Research shows that working with our hands and creating something tangible releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and satisfaction. The feeling of accomplishment and control in making your own candle—from selecting scents to pouring the wax—is a form of creative release that naturally lifts your mood. In this way, candle making can be compared to other forms of hands-on art therapy, known to help manage stress, anxiety, and even depression.
3. Aromatherapy Benefits
Aromatherapy has long been used to promote emotional well-being, and in candle making, the scents you select play a huge role in the therapeutic experience. Scents like Lavender and Eucalyptus are known to reduce cortisol levels (our stress hormone) and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the body and mind. Fresh, citrusy scents like Volcano and Lemon can stimulate energy and improve mood, while earthy scents like Sandalwood or Bourbon Vanilla provide grounding effects, which can feel deeply soothing.
4. Creative Expression for All Generations
Candle making allows you to express yourself creatively, which in itself has proven benefits for mental health. It’s truly for everyone— no matter your age, it’s a chance to be curious, make something personal, and bring your vision to life. Plus, since each candle tells a story unique to the maker, it’s the kind of experience that feels both timeless and fresh, appealing to anyone who’s looking to add a little more creativity to their day.
5. The Comfort of Ritual and Routine
The step-by-step nature of candle making—the melting of the wax, adding fragrance, pouring, and setting—mirrors the benefits of familiar rituals. It’s a calming process that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Much like the way people turn to yoga or cooking as a form of meditative practice, the ritual of candle making can provide a structured, comforting escape from the busyness of life. There’s something powerful about being able to say, “I made this.â€
Ready to Try Candle Therapy?
If you’re curious to see how therapeutic candle making can be, we’d love to welcome you to one of our Cork & Candles locations. Bring some friends, your favorite drink, and let’s create something together that’s all about feeling good.
