Incense sticks are used all over the world for a variety of reasons. Whether you use them to relax or for spiritual and religious purposes, it is important to know how to burn them properly.
Generally speaking, you can burn most sticks by simply lighting one edge until it glows red, and gently blowing out the flame. You can also place the stick in an incense holder, such as a bowl or cup filled with sand or sea salt.
1. Light the Stick
Most incense sticks are a blend of aromatic ingredients and combustible binding materials. The specific aromatic ingredients vary by region and manufacturer, but the binding material is what holds the stick together and allows it to produce a fragrant smoke when burned.
Light the end of the incense stick using a match or lighter. Allow it to burn with the flame for about 10 to 15 seconds before blowing it out.
Once the flame is out, wait a minute or two and then check the tip of the incense stick for a glowing ember. This indicates that the incense stick is lit properly.
When it comes to burning incense, a proper burner or holder is crucial. This helps prevent fire hazards and ensures that any ashes fall into the holder instead of on your table or floor. A holder also makes it easy to transport your incense sticks and cones with you. It’s also helpful to place your incense holder on a flat surface so that it is less likely to get knocked over and catch fire.
2. Place the Stick in the Burner or Holder
Burning incense can be a great way to relax and unwind. It also has the added benefit of releasing positive energy into a space and enhancing the air quality.
Many people like to place the incense stick in a burner or holder that will catch any ashes that fall from it as it burns. These containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from wood, metal or ceramic. Some are boat-shaped while others are simple bowls with a hole for the stick.
When you are ready to put the incense stick into its holder, hold it with the uncoated end in your hand and light it. Hold the flame over the stick until the tip glows. Then, slowly extinguish the flame. Remember, never leave an incense stick burning unattended!
3. Extinguish the Flame
Whether you use incense to relax, for meditation, or just to make your home smell great, it’s important to know how to use incense properly. This way, you can enjoy the soothing aroma without worrying about the incense burning out or becoming a fire hazard.
When you’re finished using your incense, be sure to extinguish the flame. You can do this by gently blowing out the tip of the incense stick (or a piece of solid incense) until it looks ashy. You can also use a shaped censer, which is a small container filled with sand or grain, to hold your incense stick.
Alternatively, you can make your own censer out of clay. Just make sure to use a non-flammable material and fill it with grain, rice, salt, or sand. You can then shape it into a fun design or use a ceramic censer that comes in various shapes like elephants, lotus flowers, or bowls.
4. Place the Burner or Holder in a Safe Place
Aside from being a relaxing aroma, incense has been used throughout history as a spiritual ritual. It’s often used in religious temples and even at home, calming the mind and reducing stress.
When using a censer, be sure to place it on a heat-resistant surface, such as concrete or a stone bowl. Also, be sure to place it far enough away that the tip of the stick won’t fall onto a flammable material or liquid, such as a rug or wood floor.
If you don’t have an incense holder and want to burn your incense sticks, try using a binder clip. Find a binder clip that’s big enough to hold your incense stick, and cut a hole into it.
Alternatively, you can use a shaped censer, which comes in many different shapes, such as elephants, lotus flowers, and leaves. These come in a variety of materials, including metal and ceramic, and are designed to hold both cored and solid incense sticks.