11 Best Candle Scents for Meditation: Aromatherapy for Relaxation

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As someone who has struggled with anxiety and stress, I know firsthand the power of a good meditation session. And let me tell you, the right scent can make all the difference in the world. It can transport you to a place of calm and tranquility, helping you let go of your worries and focus on the present moment.

But with so many scents out there, how do you choose the best candle scents for meditation? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the top scents for meditation, and how they can help you achieve a deeper sense of peace and tranquility.

Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or just starting out, aromatherapy can help you reduce stress, focus your mind, and create the perfect atmosphere for your practice. From soothing lavender to uplifting citrus, we’ll cover a range of scents that are sure to enhance your meditation experience. Trust me, once you find the right scent, you’ll wonder how you ever meditated without it.

If you’re overwhelmed by aromatherapy don’t worry. There’s a scent out there for every situation and I’ve compiled a simple list that summarizes the top eleven best scents when you’re choosing oils and candles. Take a peak at the chart below for a quick summary, or scroll further for detailed information on each scent.

Lavender is the classic OG scent for relaxation. Lavender essential oil, and buds from lavender flowers end up in a variety of products for stress relief because its well known for its calming properties. It has a sedative effect that is perfect to help reduce stress and decrease anxiety, making it an ideal choice for meditation.

A Lavender candle is perfect for those who find it difficult to quiet their minds during meditation. The scent can help create a sense of stillness and tranquility, making it easier to focus on the present moment.

Additionally, lavender has been shown to have a positive effect on the nervous system, helping to deactivate our sympathetic nervous system, the portion of our nervous system that’s responsible for fight or flight, while activating our parasympathetic nervous system that’s responsible for letting us rest and digest. This makes it a perfect choice if you have trouble with sleep as well.

Mrs. Meyer’s Lavender Soy Candle Tin

Made with soy wax, essential oils, and a lead-free wick. 12 hour burn time. 2.9 oz

• Sooths and calms stress & anxiety
• Balancing effect on the nervous system
• Sedative effect perfect for promoting better sleep

• Subtle floral scent that’s refreshing and soothing.
• Herbal notes, similar to the aroma of a lush green garden.
• Fresh and clean hence its popularity in cleaning products and soaps.

Derived from the flowers of the Jasmine plant, this is a sweet, exotic, floral scent. The smell reminds me of a sunny tropical island vacation. It’s perfect for lifting your mood and helping squash worrying. This fragrance has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. Historically it was used as a remedy for depression, anxiety, and panic.

Jasmine creates a positive uplifting atmosphere making it the perfect choice for times when you find yourself stuck in a never-ending loop of worry. Tis sweet smell can help to break out of negative cycles and shift to the positive.

With its sweet and exotic properties, its also a great smell for those who want to create feelings of love and sensuality. Its perfect for setting the mood for a romantic or exotic atmosphere in your space, making it a great choice for couples who meditate together.

Vanili Home Jasmine Scented Candle
Soy candle with essential oils and a 100% cotton wick. 20 to 25 hours burn time. 8.8 oz

• Lowers stress levels, facilitating a relaxed mind and body.
• Uplifting effect on the mood, creating a positive atmosphere.
• Can set the mood and create a romantic atmosphere.

• Combines cozy warmth with a sugary richness.
• Sweet aroma that is rich and tantalizing.
• Potent and commanding floral smell.

Patchouli is a rich, woody, musky, earthy scent derived from the leaves of the patchouli plant. It’s smell is extremely cozy, perfect for promoting feelings of grounding, stability and security during meditation.

Patchouli is known for its centering and uplifting effect on the mind and body. Inhaling patchouli has been shown to increase the production of serotonin and dopamine. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need to get out of a sad or negative rut, and get into a place of joy..

Patchouli is also good for promoting mental clarity and focus, making it great for those who want to enhance their concentration during meditation. It also promotes action. This combination of focus, clarity and action make it a great choice when focusing on your goals.

Ruby’s Light Patchouli Essential Oil Candle
Made with 100% natural soy wax, patchouli essential oil, and an all-natural cotton wick. 40 hour burn time. 9.0 oz

• Soothing and grounding, bringing feelings of stability, and security.
• Stimulating and uplifting getting rid of negative feelings.
• Helps with concentration, focus and clarity.

• Woody note, similar to the scent of aged bark or freshly cut timber.
• Musky aroma often found in men’s fragrances and luxury perfumes.
• Spicy undertone that adds an exotic kick.

Sandalwood is a sweet, woody, earthy fragrance derived from the wood of the Sandalwood tree. Sandalwood is the stereotypical “hippy” scent and always makes me think of “good vibes”. Sandalwood is known for its grounding effect on the mind and body. It’s perfect for promoting mental clarity and clearing out worry, allowing you to stay centered and present during your practice.

Sandalwood is also great for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. It has a calming effect that makes you feel more at ease. This makes it a good choice if you need something to help boost your mood when dealing with stress, anxiety or depression.

With its earthy and calming properties, Sandalwood is also a great scent for those who want to create a positive, warm and welcoming atmosphere in their space. Just light a Sandalwood candle and let the warm fragrance transport you to a place of peace.

Hemlock Park Crackling Wood Wick Sandalwood Candle
Handcrafted with natural coconut wax, essential oils, and a crackling wood wick. 45 hour burn time. 8.0 oz

• Promotes emotional stability by calming the mind and easing anxiety, creating a grounding effect.
• Clears mental clutter and distractions, for better focus and clarity.
• Balancing effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting calm.

• Woody scent similar to freshly cut timber or a walk through a dense forest.
• Subtle floral notes, adding complexity to its scent.
• May have a hint of fruity undertone, contributing an unexpected freshness

Derived from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, a Ylang Ylang scented candle has a sweet, floral smell that can help you relax and unwind during meditation. You know the smell of a fancy high end spa, this is it! It has a calming effect on the mind and body. It’s known for its ability to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure, making it great for those who struggle with anxiety or hypertension.

With its soothing properties, this essential oil is helpful in coping with anger and erratic emotions. It can help you feel less overwhelmed and able to focus on gratitude, and celebrating your blessings.

This is also is a great scent to use in the evening, as it can help you wind down and prepare for restful sleep. Its is also great for those who want to enhance their self-care routine or create a spa-like atmosphere at home.

Yankee Candle Harmonious Neroli & Ylang Ylang Candle
Coconut and soy wax blend, made with essential oils, and natural fiber wick. 45 hour burn time. 19.5 oz

• Calming effect that reduces anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation.
• Sooths the nervous system, reducing irritability, and promoting calm.
• Sedative properties improve the quality of sleep and help with insomnia.

• As a tropical flower, ylang ylang has an intensely floral scent.
• Very sweet smelling, often compared to jasmine or sweet ripe fruit.
• Fruity notes, adding a fresh and vibrant aspect to its overall scent.

Derived from the roots of the Vetiver grass, it has this earthy, smoky, woody aroma that instantly makes you feel connected to the earth. Vetiver is a scent that’s like a grounding hug for your senses. It has a calming effect that can help anchor your thoughts and bring you back to the present moment.

When it comes to meditation, Vetiver is a game-changer. It’s perfect for those moments when your mind is racing a mile a minute and you just can’t seem to find your center. It’s great for a scattered mind during meditation by helping bring everything back into sharp focus.

And let’s not forget about its soothing properties. Vetiver has this unique ability to create a soothing sense of tranquility, helping to melt worries and bring a sense of calm. It’s like a mini vacation for your mind.

Calyan Wax Co Vetiver & Tonka Candle
Soy wax candle made with essential oils and a metal free wick. 50 hour burn time. 13.0 oz

• Grounding properties can reduce feelings of hyperactivity or restlessness.
• Relaxing and soothing properties relieve irritability, worry and mood swings.
• Can calm an overactive mind, restoring balance and peace.

• Unique smoky scent giving this aroma warmth and intensity
• Earthy scent similar to the smell of damp soil or a wet forest floor.
• Woodsy notes like aged bark or pine trees.

The smell of Frankincense is rich, spicy, woody, pine like scent. Frankincense essential oil comes from the sap of the Boswellia tree, and the scent that has been used for thousands of years in meditation and spiritual practices for centuries. It has a grounding effect and can reduce stress and anxiety.

This fragrance is perfect if you struggle with a wandering mind full of constant chatter. The grounding scent of frankincense can help anchor the mind and promote a sense of stability and focus.

Additionally, frankincense is a great go to if you’re struggling with grief or sadness. Its very comforting and can help calm your emotions when you’re feeling out of balance, or dealing with erratic or out of control emotions.

Hemlock Park Frankincense Candle
Handcrafted with natural coconut wax, essential oils, and a cotton wick. 45 hour burn time. 8.0 oz

• relieve stress, promoting a relaxed state of mind.
• Supports focus and clarity of thought, helping to clear mental fog.
• Encourages emotional balance, centering emotions and promoting stability.

• Frankincense has a distinct resinous or balsamic scent, reminiscent of pine sap.
• Robust woody notes that add depth to its overall scent.
• Warm spicy undertones that will remind you of nutmeg, clove, or cinnamon.

Palo Santo has been used for centuries in spiritual rituals and ceremonies for its cleansing and purifying properties. Derived from the sacred wood of the Palo Santo tree, it has a sweet woody aroma that can elevate your meditation.

When you light a Palo Santo candle, it’s like inviting positive energy and good vibes into your meditation space. It has the unique ability to clear negative energy and promote a sense of calm and tranquility. If you’ve had a long day or are feeling emotionally drained, lighting a Palo Santo candle can help release all that heaviness and bring a renewed sense of lightness to your meditation.

Palo Santo also has grounding and centering properties. It can help you feel rooted and connected to the earth, allowing you to find your balance and focus during your practice. So, if you’re seeking a spiritual and transformative experience during meditation, Palo Santo is definitely a scent to explore.

Magnificent 101 Palo Santo Energy Cleansing Candle
Made with natural soybean wax and essential oils. Petroleum and paraffin free. 35 hour burn time. 6.0 oz

• Helps deepen meditation by promoting a tranquil state of mind.
• Positive and uplifting, clearing negativity and promoting positive vibes.
• Promotes feelings of groundedness and connection, fostering a feeling of comfort and security.

• Dominantly woody, reminiscent of freshly cut logs.
• Subtle sweet aroma with hints of caramel, vanilla, and honey.
• Distinct citrusy notes often compared to a subtle hint of lemon or bergamot.

Myrrh has a rich, warm, woody, and slightly sweet aroma that envelops you like a comforting embrace. Derived from the resin of the Myrrh tree, this fragrance has been used for centuries to produce perfume and incense as well as being used for its medicinal properties.

Not only does Myrrh have a captivating fragrance, but it also has soothing and calming properties. It can help mellow out your emotions, alleviate stress, decrease worry, and promote a sense of peace and tranquility.

It has a grounding effect on the mind and spirit, helping you find a deeper sense of introspection and reflection during your meditation. It helps to release that nervous tension that can be hard to shake off when we’re trying to concentrate, and replaces it with a sense of grounding and stability.

Tranquil Bliss Cedar & Myrrh Candle
Organic soy and coconut wax candle made with essential oils and 100% cotton wick. Phthalate free. 50 hour burn time. 12.0 oz

• Clear mental fog, thereby enhancing focus and concentration.
• Encourage emotional balance, enabling a centered approach to life’s ups and downs.
• Promote a sense of inner peace, essential for effective meditation.

• Strong, earthy and sweet musky aroma that will remind you of the most exotic perfume.
• Warm, southing, cozy, and comforting smell.
• Soft woody scent, similar to that of dried bark or fresh wood chips.

Chamomile isn’t just for tea! Chamomile is a herby, sweet, floral, smell that’s perfect for promoting relaxation during meditation. Derived from the flowers of the chamomile plant, this fragrance is known for its calming and sedative effect on the mind and body, making it an ideal choice for those who want to soothe feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm, allowing you to feel more centered and relaxed.

With its gentle and soothing properties, Chamomile is also a great scent for those times when you feel like you’re at your nerves are totally fried. When you’re emotions are on high alert. Chamomile can calm these intense emotions and outbursts and bring a sense of comfort to your mind and body.

Chamomile is also great for promoting restful sleep, making it a great choice for evening meditations. Its known for its ability to help with insomnia, and is even safe enough when used in a diffuser to calm irritable babies and cranky toddlers.

Gerrard Larriett Lavender & Chamomile Aromatherapy Candle
Candle made with soy wax blend, all-cotton wicks, and pure essential oils. Safe for pets. 40 hour burn time. 6.0 oz

• Natural relaxing properties that can reduce stress levels and promote peace of mind.
• Calming effect that can help soothe intense emotions and nervous tension.
• Sedative qualities aid in combating insomnia, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep

• Soft floral fragrance, like of a meadow in full bloom.
• Mild sweet scent of the nectar found in blooming flowers.
• Distinct herbal aroma, reminiscent of a fresh green herb garden.

So fresh and so clean! Spearmint is the smell that brings a refreshing and invigorating twist! Imagine a cool breeze on a warm summer day, gently brushing against your skin as you relax and unwind. That’s what Spearmint is like.

This scent is perfect for those moments when you need an energy boost, a little pick-me-up during meditation. Spearmint’s burst of minty freshness will awakens your senses allowing you to feel instantly revitalized.

Spearmint has this amazing ability to clear your mind. If you’re struggling with brain fog and finding it hard to concentrate, this scent can help sharpen your focus. Not only does Spearmint awaken your mind, but it also soothes your spirit. It has this calming effect that can ease anxiety and stress, creating a sense of calm and tranquility during your practice.

Aira Hand-Poured Spearmint Mason Jar Candle
Organic soy wax base, 100% cotton lead free wick, and therapeutic grade essential oils. 110 hour burn time. Organic, Kosher & Vegan. 16.0 oz

• Provide a refreshing and cooling ambiance in any room when diffused
• Invigorating, and can boost energy levels when feeling fatigued.
• Stimulating properties can boost cognitive function and increase focus.

• Prominent minty smell that’s cool and crisp.
• Incredibly refreshing like a cold breeze on a hot day.
• Distinctly sweet smell like fresh crisp fruit.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Meditation Candles

Let’s explore how to choose the best candles for meditation. Here are some key factors to consider when looking for the your perfect candle:

Wax Type

First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the type of candle wax. The type of wax the candle is made of can greatly affect the quality and burn time of the candle. Choose candles made from a natural wax to ensure that they are safe and non-toxic. Natural soy wax is a popular option. When shopping for natural candles soy candles are very easy to find. Natural soy wax candles are non-toxic, natural, eco-friendly, and burn cleanly. Plus, soy wax is known for its long burn time, so you won’t have to worry about replacing your candle too often. Coconut wax is also becoming a more popular option. Beeswax candles are another natural option, but it can be more expensive, and you’ll want to make sure the beeswax is ethically sourced. On the other hand, paraffin candles should be avoided as the paraffin wax can release harmful chemicals when burned.

Wick Material

The wick material is another important consideration to make sure you are choosing non-toxic candles. Make sure your candle comes with a natural wick material. Candles made with cotton wicks are a popular choice, as they burn cleanly and evenly. They’re also less likely to produce soot or other harmful byproducts when burned. Wood wicks have also become a popular natural option. They burn cleanly, and do a good job of throwing scent into the air. On the other hand, wicks made from metal or other synthetic materials should be avoided, as they can release toxins when burned.

Scent (Essential Oils vs. Fragrance)

When it comes to choosing the right candle, it’s important to go for one naturally scented with natural essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances. Pure essential oils are derived from plants and have aromatherapy benefits that can enhance the benefits of meditation. Fragrances, on the other hand, are often made from synthetic chemicals and can cause headaches and other adverse reactions.

Shape & Size

Finally, you’ll want to consider the size and shape of the candle. Some people prefer larger candles that can burn for several hours, while others prefer smaller candles that can be used for shorter meditation sessions. Additionally, the shape of the candle can affect the way it burns and the way it looks, so it’s worth considering your preferences here as well. Also, don’t forget to pick a beautiful candle that brings you joy when you look at it.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose the perfect candle that will help you relax, focus, and find your center.

Benefits of Using Scented Candles in Meditation

As we go through our busy lives, it’s important to carve out time for self-care and relaxation. Meditation is one effective way to do so, and using scented candles can greatly enhance the experience. Candles have been used in spiritual practices for centuries, here are some of the key benefits of using candles for meditation:

Increase Focus

It’s natural for your mind to wander. Thoughts and distractions can easily take you away from the present moment, making it difficult to stay focused. This is where candle meditation (aka trataka meditation or candle gazing meditation) can be helpful. A candle provides a visual anchor to keep your attention centered in the present moment. A point of focus like a candle flame, with its gentle flickering, is the perfect point to concentrate your attention on. By focusing on the flame, you can train your mind to stay present and focused, reducing your chances of getting distracted.

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Meditation is already a powerful tool for reducing stress and decreasing anxiety, but the using the right scented candle can take this benefit to the next level. There’s actually science behind the fact that the soothing fragrance of a candle can create a calming atmosphere. Inhaling the scent of a candle can activate the olfactory system, which is closely linked to the emotional center of the brain. This can help you feel more grounded, centered, and at ease.

Soothing Lighting

Candles are also great for providing the perfect light source. Unlike harsh artificial light, the soft, warm lighting of a candle can create a peaceful ambiance that’s better for a calm and tranquil environment. The gentle flickering of the flame can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels. Plus, the warm glow of the candle can create a cozy and comforting environment, making it easier to let go of tension and unwind.

Overall, the use of scented candles can greatly enhance your meditation practice. By creating a peaceful, calming environment, you can reduce stress and anxiety, increase focus, and promote tranquility. So the next time you settle in for a meditation session, be sure to light a candle and see how it can enhance your practice.

How to Use Aromatherapy Candles for Meditation

Now that you’ve chosen the right scent, let’s explore how to meditate with candles. Here are some key tips:

1. Create a Relaxing Environment

Before you begin your meditation practice, take some time to create a relaxing environment. Dim the lights, play some gentle music, and remove any distractions that might interfere with your focus.

2. Prepare Yourself for Meditation

Take a moment to center yourself and set your intention for your practice. If you need to wind down, try some gentle stretches before your session. You could also choose to repeat a mantra or affirmation, or simply focus on your breath.

3. Choose the Right Candle Scent

Select the scent that aligns with your intention for your meditation practice. Light your candle and allow the fragrance to fill the room.

4. Meditate

Sit comfortably and focus on your breath, you can also use the candle flame as a focal point to anchor your attention. Allow the scent of the candle to enhance your meditation practice and promote relaxation.

Try If For Yourself

Using scented candles for meditation can greatly enhance the benefits of this practice. By choosing the right scent, you can create a peaceful, calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and reduces stress and decrease anxiety. Follow the tips outlined in this article to find the best candle scents for meditation.