Incense Burners Site

Incense has always played an important role in the religious ceremonies and rites of people all over the world.

Records tell us that in ancient Babylon, an immense amount of incense was burnt in offerings to the gods. It has always been an integral part in the life of the people in Asian countries where the floral perfumes were blended with sandalwood.

In the Middle East a wealth of incense ingredients was produced and to satisfy the seemingly insatiable demand, the ancient trading routes into Arabia developed and became known as the Incense Trails.

Throughout Europe, incense was to become one of the main trading products. The wealth of the kings and nobles was often seen to be measured by the extent of their stores of incense. In religious worship and in all churches including the Christian church, censing became an integral part of the ritual as it proved helpful in inducing a devotional mood in the congregations. The Bible contains specific instructions for preparation of the sacred incense recipe.

Perfumes and incense were highly developed in classical times. The Romans, through Nero’s behaviour, left us records of infamous incidents where extravagant uses of perfumes were employed in the times of unimaginable decadence.

Subsequently over the centuries, perfumed products were incorporated more and more into the general customs of people everywhere, reaching heights of popularity not only in the Middle Ages in the ecclesiastical sphere but later in France. Queen Elizabeth I was well known for her love of perfumed gloves, which were to become fashionable. The extravagant use of perfumes at the French Court, where a different perfume was used each day, caused it to become known in the 18th century as the perfume centre of the world, a reputation that persists without challenge, even today. No longer were expensive resins and oils and scented timbers being burnt by the ton in primitive rituals as in ancient days. Although incense continued to be burned to cleanse the atmosphere in times of plague and to over power smells from poor sanitation, it was becoming a cultural art of refinement, for personal use as well as providing a pleasant atmosphere in churches, homes and at public gatherings.

Today most people are familiar with the use of perfumed or essential oils employed in aromatherapy, particularly that aspect associated with massage and relaxation techniques. Professionals are developing the art of natural perfumes to assist in psychological and physical conditions requiring therapy often involving respiratory techniques. With our good fortune to have access to a wide range of natural oils from all over the world, consumers are tempted to try many delightful scents, which can be used effectively in healing simple conditions and stressful states.

However, the burning of essential oils, gums and resins is also being appreciated not only in creating a pleasant atmosphere in the home or garden setting, but also in assisting the mind in preparation for meditation. There is now a great resurgence in the knowledge of the art and it has become a very popular habit. Naturally, there is an increasing interest in learning more about why we burn incense; what to burn and for what specific purposes.

Burning incense has a direct influence in helping to eradicate negative psychic influences and some of these ritualistic practices are retained in the church ceremonies.

Generally the refined nature of sandalwood and frankincense moves a congregation to more devotional aspirations and appeals to those who wish to meditate or to create a feeling of sanctity about their own special place of peace.

It is often recommended to burn incense before moving into a rented apartment or to create a good feeling when first inhabiting a new home.

It has become common practice to burn lavender and other oils to keep insects at bay in outdoor barbeque areas and when introducing an exotic touch at a dinner party or gathering.

It was in Asia that a convenient and practical method of burning incense sticks, or joss sticks developed. It proved to be economical, safe and certainly very convenient method when compared with the elaborate preparation often followed in religious ceremonies. The practical value of the incense stick is seen over the more complex ritual of burning gums and resins as they do in the church, using charcoal as a base and having to keep supplying additional incense ingredients to replace the initial ones. It is only the really enthusiastic who set themselves up to be able to prepare their selected ingredients in this manner.

One can compromise however and rub a few drops of the essential oils into the stick before lighting in order to enjoy your personal favourite perfumes, using the plain sandalwood stick as a basis. It is best to avoid the highly scented cheap perfumes which not only are ineffectual for the spiritual purpose, but can be directly harmful as an irritant in the respiratory system, particularly for asthmatics. There are many delightful perfumed oils and essences to choose from. Remember, to inhale a few drops of the finest essential oils is better than a quantity of cheap artificial scents. Learn to enjoy them and continue searching until you find those offering you most satisfaction regarding their pleasantness as well as potential benefit. Each perfume when inhaled directly affects your brain and influences your mood in a subtle way. Rely upon your natural instincts to help you in determining the best ones for your well being. Happy explorations!

Note: Safety Factor It is obvious that there are safety factors to be aware of when burning incense. The most important is to avoid any carelessness that may leave matches available to infants and possible accidental injury. Always place your incense burner whether it is a traditional burner for charcoal and other materials. Place an incense stick in safe situation to avoid possible harm to people and animals. Be sure that there are no curtains or materials close by that may prove to be a fire hazard if a breeze should occur. Always check that the incense has burnt out before leaving the environment.

About Author

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy

Once again the Western World prepares to celebrate the Winter Solstice, which usually falls around the 21st December.

This is a magical time of the year and throughout the ages of mankind religions have gravitated toward this date to hold major ceremonies, celebrations and sacred observations.

Our modern age strangely sees us returning to the age-old customs of noting and paying respect to the sacred cycles of nature and the part we play in it, for we are intrinsically tied to these cycles of nature whether we like to admit it or not, influenced by the stages of the moon with its ebb and flow of energy. The sun ‘ the life giver ‘ marks the days of death and decay back into regeneration and growth. None of us that live on this planet can escape Mother Nature, the Goddess and her womb, or Father Time, the God and his creation of all life from the elements. Light and dark, all is one, all religion, all life blessed be!

RETURN OF THE SUN/SON!

Winter Solstice is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It marks the gradual return of the sun and signifies birth when new seeds of life will spring forth. Similarly, Christianity uses this time of year to mark the birth of the son, signifying life eternal for all who partake of the light and become the body of Christ.

A good way to remember this special Solstice is, as the hours of daylight grow, so too, we can let our inner light of understanding, love and intuitions grow. Allowing both the dark and the light to resonate within us, for it is part of us and we can practice new beginnings of unity, compassion, empathy and global love.

PREPARE FOR THE WINTER SOLSTICE

Spend the Solstice in candlelight, meditation, reflection and look forward to new dawn. Prepare some seasonal incense and an appropriate meditation for the magical night of dreams ahead. Decorate your home with the colors of winter; white to represent the winter snow, dark green winter foliage, red winter berries and fruits, gold to represent the returning energy of the sun and silver for the delicate frost that settles all around at this cold time of year. A Winter Solstice incense blend:

Fill A heatproof bowl with about an inch of sand or salt. Metals, stone & ceramics are ideal that have feet to hold them safely above a surface, or you can buy purpose made incense burners. Beware of hot ash falling when the incense burns, keep safe. Prepare by crushing the ingredients together.

CITRUS SOLSTICE

1 tbsp dried Orange Peel, 1 tbsp dried Grapefruit Peel, 1 tbsp dried Lemon Peel, 1 tbsp dried Tangerine Peel, 1 tsp Orange extract, 1 tsp Lemon extract.

WINTER SOLSTICE

One part Pine Needles, One part Cinnamon, One part Apple Rine, One part Myrrh, One part Frankincense

Experiment and find a blend you like!

SEVEN REFLECTIONS WINTER SOLSTICE MEDITATION;

There is an Old Russian divination that took place on the evening of Winter Solstice where - usually a young lady - would set up two mirrors and two candles into a position that they would reflect each other. One should then peer into one of the mirrors and seek the seventh reflection, where she would catch a glimpse of her future or her one true love!

Find a comfortable place where you are least likely to be disturbed. Get your mirrors and candles ready, be sure to position them facing each other with the candles reflecting in each - use a stable, fireproof surface. Please take care that you cannot fall into the mirrors or candles as meditation can have a very hypnotic effect! Position them safely & far enough away.

You should sit facing the mirrors so that you can see into either mirror with the reflection of the other, if in a chair sit with your feet flat on the floor or sit in your usual meditation position. Sit upright but comfortable. Try not to hunch as this is not a relaxing position. Rest your hands lightly on your lap. Start the sound session.

First, concentrate yourself fully on the following breathing technique (do this about five - ten times, you don’t have to count ‘ do what feels right);

Breathe in deeply, expanding your abdomen to fill your lungs. Hold then very slowly let the breath out all the way until your lungs are empty.

Now begin to look into one of the mirrors, whichever one is up to you, search for the seventh reflection. After a while the image may change in the mirror, other faces may be seen or other images. Allow your mind to go along with the experience and always write the details in a diary immediately afterwards - this is for later reflection and things may make sense later that were not obvious at the time.

THE LAWS OF ATTRACTION MEDITATION

Before beginning the meditation, read the following reading I personally got during meditation regarding ‘THE LAWS OF ATTRACTION’ and try to understand the message contained within.

“Every negative word, deed, glance, thought, and action will come back to you. It is the indisputable law, the law of attraction. If you play with it, study this in earnest, you will find it, without doubt, to be true.

Imaging you are communicating with the physical world via a mirror. The person who stares back at you is the equivalent of every other person in the world. Frown at the person in the mirror, the person frowns back at you. Become angry at the person, see what comes back to you, look at the anger on that face and look into the eyes. How does that make you feel ‘ good? Bad? Imagine a child being confronted with that face, those eyes, that anger. Imagine if that small child was you!

Smile and you receive the same, laugh and the image laughs with you. This is how we create our world, by reflection. This is a warning so don’t discard it. Keep it with you and discover it!

But what if you are a child? You didn’t yet throw anything into the water to cause a ripple. You were born in innocence! No! You chose to be a victim for a short time. You agreed in your ancient wisdom to become the effect of a cause and those who peer into the mirror will see you. Your reflection will call to action better judgment, better discernment and a better future for all.”

NOW, get your mirror ready and find a comfortable place where you are least likely to be disturbed. You should sit in a chair facing the mirror with your feet flat on the floor. Sit upright but comfortable. Try not to hunch as this is not a relaxing position. Rest your hands lightly on your lap. Start the sound session.

First, concentrate yourself fully on the following breathing technique (do this about five - ten times, you don’t have to count ‘ do what feels right);

Breathe in deeply, expanding your abdomen to fill your lungs. Hold then very slowly let the breath out all the way until your lungs are empty. Keep your breathing deep and regular and begin to stare at your reflection in the mirror, focusing on your eyes. Imagine that every other person in the world reflects the image that stares back at you.

Notice the expression, smiles, frowns, anger, study what comes back at you through the mirror.

Now allow yourself to absorb the powerful sounds and simply stare at the mirror. After a while the image may change, other faces may be seen or other images. Allow your mind to go along with the experience and write the details in a diary immediately afterwards Allow yourself to adjust when your meditation finishes and drink a fresh glass of water.

About Author

To use our powerful audio sessions to amplify and induce deeper meditations visit us at RELAXMP3 - Click Here

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When you think of incense burners, you probably think of the most common ash catcher style, a flat piece of wood with simple drilled holes to hold the incense. These simple incense burners are classic, and a great way to hold your incense, but there’s a whole world of beautiful and unusual incense burners to choose from.

Incense burners come in every shape, style, and color imaginable. There are incense burners for stick incense, coil incense, and resin incense. You needn’t store incense burners away or hide them in a corner. The burners themselves can be great focal points in your decor. There are incense burner boxes, bowls, statues, bottles, carvings, and hangings. From intricately detailed, to sleek and simple, there’s an incense burner to match your decor and set the perfect mood.

Of course, the most beautiful incense burner is one you can make yourself. Simply choose a heat-resistant bowl in whatever material and design appeals to you most. It can be a simple terra cotta bowl or a detailed carved bowl. Fill the bowl with enough sand to hold up an incense stick. Then decorate by placing any non-flammable material on top of the sand. Seashells, river rocks, and sea glass are all great choices for decorating your incense bowl.

Use the incense burner and the incense together to set the mood. Want a calm, soothing effect to relieve stress? Choose sandalwood incense in a lotus flower-shaped burner. Need a pick-me-up for your mind? Use a lavender or rosemary scented incense in a burner box which releases the smoke in unique patterns through the top. Feeling irritable? Try ocean or spring scented incense in a burner shaped like your favorite animal.

So when you want to set a mood with incense, don’t forget the visual delight added by a great incense burner.

About The Author

Johann Erickson is the owner of Online Discount Mart (http://www.onlinediscountmart.com). Please email the author and include an active link to this website if you’d like to use this article.

marketing@4intrepid.com

Benefits of incense range abundantly. Scent, a most primordial sense, often moves us beyond reason to experiences including psychological rejuvenation and enhanced sensory reception. Scents also capture and recall pleasant memories increasing the desire for nostalgic fragrances.

Quality incense makes a perfect gift for a house-warming or birthday party, anniversaries or even weddings. Naturally incense would make the perfect complement to any home. Choose a scent you enjoy to enhance the mood and atmosphere you wish to create.

Continuing with the creative theme, incense fragrance is deemed a note. Incense scents evolve throughout the burning process. No stagnant scents or one-notes here. The top note starts it off progressing to the middle note and finishes with the base note. Each note carries a distinct fragrance and intensity which persists for predetermined length of time. The notes’ evolution enhances the overall experience of the incense.

The top note is the introductory fragrance; high and strong yet short lived. Top notes are emited prior to burning. A dry stick or cone carries the top note until lighting commences. The top note fades quickly once burning begins and is referred to as low-persistence.

The medium note mingles the top and base notes, lasts longer than the top note though is less persistent than the base note. Medium notes surface shortly after the incense begins burning. Slowly the medium note melts into the base note, a perfect harmony playing for the senses.

Base notes linger long after the incense has burned to ashes. This remaining scent is often woody and earthy, creating a tranquil atmosphere for spiritual and mental relaxation. The note combinations vary from one fragrance to another, allowing the individual to select and personalize each sensory experience.

Selecting incense utilizes an array of senses and preferences. From the style of incense, be it stick or cone, coil or otherwise to burner selection, simple or intricate, artistic or novelty, individuals create the experience. Uses of incense are about as abundant as scent selection, including religious and spiritual uses, perfuming a space or even for meditative or relaxation purposes. Memories derived from a specific sent can influence scent style as well.

Consider offering incense for any number of reasons: aromatherapy, inspiration, or as an introduction to your favorite scents. Burn incense to boost your environment. Give incense as a gift you can share. Compliment incense with a selection of burners and incense styles. Incense’s versatility makes it the perfect gift for all occasions. There’s no better gift than a healthier environment, a sound mind, and a nostalgic air. Our ancestors embraced the power of incense, a tradition hundreds of thousands of years in the making can’t be wrong!

About the Author
Kristen Owen writes for ContentWorth (http://www.contentworth.com) and freelance. She is a work-at-home mother with a broad spectrum of writing, from SEO to incense, child bearing to viral marketing. For details or to contact Kristen please email kowen[at]contentworth[dot]com.