How to Light Things Up and Celebrate
Did you know that September is World Candle Month? First established in 2013, this month recognizes the many ways that candles enrich our daily lives. If you’re ready to Illuminate Your Life, then let’s learn how candles went from necessity to everyday luxury that anyone can enjoy!
Candle with salt lamp.
A Brief History of Candle Making
By today’s reckoning, most scholars agree that candle use can be nominally traced by to the Ancient Egyptians in 3000 BCE. These wicked candles were primitive, but recognizable as candles! And, it’s well-known that the Romans were big candle users. For the most part, the antiquated world used tallow candles. These were made from animal fat. By the Middle Ages, however, innovators were learning how to use beeswax in candle making, or chandling. Despite these advances, beeswax candles were reserved for the clergy and wealthy, as they were expensive to produce.
Chakra candles for meditation.
For centuries, there were no meaningful developments. But, by the 19th century, the modern candle was finally taking shape. During the 1830s, further innovations lead to the mechanical production of candles. This severely lowered the cost, making candles available on a wide scale. And, a couple of decades later, the emerging petroleum industry learned how to separate paraffin from petroleum. Paraffin would go on to dominate as the preferred candle-making ingredient for the next century!
Things are looking good for candles, but a new development is about to shake things up. Can you guess? Yep! By the early 20th century, the lightbulb shook the candle industry to its core (wick?). Displacing candles as the primary light source in our homes, candles evolved into decoration, mood-setters, and gifts. Scented candles remain one of the most popular gifts given today. And, with new developments still occurring, there will be plenty more to enjoy.
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most from Your Candles
Today, we might use candles to mark special occasions, but that doesn’t always have to be the case! When you Illuminate Your Life, use a candle anytime you want to add a little extra pampering to your daily routine.
- Our sense of smell is strong. Perhaps the strongest of our senses, it can trigger powerful feelings like nostalgia. Find the right candle scent for you.
- And, while you’re at it, learn how scent can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and even combat fatigue or loneliness.
- Do you have a favorite candle that you want to last a little longer? Be sure to get the most out of your favorite candles.
- Don’t forget! Whenever you’re lighting a candle, be sure to follow these six candle safety tips.
Ready to Illuminate Your Life? Discover the selection of calming candles waiting for you.
Sign up today to receive exclusive news and offers from Shop LC.