Candles are a tradition in many cultures, a mainstay in many homes, and even a luxury to treat yourself and others — but are there any real benefits to burning them? In short: yes. Scented candles create a soothing atmosphere and help boost your mood, while also calming your mind and relieving stress. 

"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," says Chryssa Chalkia, an accredited clinical integrative psychotherapist and cognitive behavioral therapist. In short, certain scents can be attractive to you because of the memories you associate with them. Yet some scents trigger the same hormones over and over again in many different people, making them widely popular as calming home scents. These aromas, like geranium, lavender, and peppermint, have "proven to be useful for the treatment of various psychological and physiological disorders," Chalkia says.

She explains that ylang ylang "promotes feelings of joy and ease," while jasmine "improves positive feelings and energy levels." Meanwhile, peppermint and spearmint wake up your mind, enhance focus, and improve memory. But if you're looking for something to calm your anxiety, rosemary, lemon, chamomile, and geranium are for you.

For those struggling to maintain a positive outlook, Chalkia suggests lighting citrus-scented candles, which are proven to "lift your spirits and boost your energy." She recommends the Choisya candle by Diptyque, which smells like the citrusy fruit and leaves of an orange tree, or the zesty True Grace Wild Lime Classic Candle for a bit of energy stimulation. There's also the zingy, lemony NEOM Happiness Scented Candle, which she says could boost positivity, as its name suggests.

Traditional taper candle/decorative taper candle

Here are a few more candles with aroma notes proven to calm anxiety so you can create your most relaxing atmosphere.

Mersea Sun Kissed Canister Candle

This glass candle was crafted to bring light into your space with its bright packaging and orange, clove, and lemony cardamom aroma.

Siblings No 05

Pour your own candles in any heat-safe container with Siblings' bagged candle wax. This scent has a transportive lavender and cedarwood aroma that will bring you down to Earth.

Dehv Candle Co. Blush Seasonal Concrete Candle

Dehv's Blush scent will fill your home with geranium and peony for a delicate freshness that will uplift your mood.

 

Homesick New York City Candle

Reminiscent of "spring days in Central Park," this scent encompasses a beloved season in one of the greatest cities in the world. With notes of bergamot, jasmine, and concrete, Homesick's city-inspired scent is designed to bring you back to that place of comfort.