Incense Uses and Meanings

Burning incense is an ancient practice, used alongside prayer, to ward off negative energies and purify spaces. Today, it’s just as common in yoga studios and wellness offices as it is in our own homes. It is also an important part of many rituals and ceremonies that can help us feel more centered, relaxed and at peace. In fact, it’s been shown that the scent of certain flowers, herbs and resins can have therapeutic properties that help with everything from stress to depression to anxiety.

In essence, incense is an aromatic biotic material that releases fragrant smoke when burned. It comes in different forms including sticks, strands and coils. Each type has its own unique incense uses and meanings. Western incense is generally made from gum resins found in tree bark. Often it’s mixed with spices or dried herbs to produce the aroma. Eastern incense, on the other hand, is usually a blend of dried herbs and spices that are ground together and pressed into a rope-like form. It is then rolled, twisted and doubled over, producing a long incense stick with two ends that are meant to be lit.

Another popular form of incense is the sage bundle, which is simply a bundle of small sage leaves that are wrapped tightly and tied. This incense is burned to bring clarity and focus to meditation, or when you want to clear your mind of any negativity. It’s also a great incense for clearing and smudging a space to remove previous energies that may be lingering there.

Incense can be used to set the mood for any occasion. For a relaxing evening at home, you can light a few stick incense sticks that have sweet or floral aromas to create a calm atmosphere. When entertaining guests, you can choose a deeper aroma like patchouli or sandalwood to create an exotic atmosphere.

The mystical and ceremonial use of incense dates back to India and Southern Asia as early as 3300 BC. It was used to perform prayers, purify and sanctify spaces, and even to attract business. The art of incense burning then spread to China, where it was used for everything from smudging and cleansing to warding off negative energy and spirits.

Today, incense can be found all over the world and is still an integral part of many religions. It is also used in the workplace and in our own homes to help us relax, refocus, and feel more at peace. The scent of certain incense sticks can even help us to sleep better by calming our nervous system. It’s no wonder that this natural and ancient tradition is such a staple in our lives.