Why Some People Prefer Candles Over Incense (And How to Blend Both)

Let’s be real—not everyone is #TeamIncense.

Some folks just vibe better with candles, and that’s okay. Maybe it’s the smoke. Maybe it’s the scent. Maybe it’s just… childhood memories of grandma lighting too much sandalwood in a tiny room 🫠

Whatever the reason, if incense hasn’t been your thing, candles can still carry powerful spiritual energy. And the best part? You don’t have to pick sides.

Let’s explore why some people prefer candles, how to work around incense blocks, and how to blend both for the ultimate vibe.

🕯️ Why Candles Feel Safer for Some People

There are legit reasons candles win for certain people:

1️⃣ Less Smoke = More Comfortable

Some folks are sensitive to smoke—especially in smaller rooms or shared spaces. Candles are low-smoke, gentle, and less likely to trigger irritation.

2️⃣ Scent Control

Candles usually have softer, more familiar scents. If you’re not into earthy, herbal, or resinous notes (which incense often brings), candles feel safer.

3️⃣ Cultural Vibes

Let’s be honest: some people grew up with incense as part of strict religious rituals or family customs. That can create emotional resistance. Candles might feel more neutral or comforting.

4️⃣ Clean Aesthetic

Visually, candles are minimalist and soft. Some incense setups feel “messier,” especially when burning powder or rope incense. (We love the chaos, but not everyone does.)

🧘 But Wait—Incense Still Has Its Magic

While candles are gentle, incense brings powerful energy shifts. The ritual of smoke is centuries old for a reason.

If you’ve been unsure about incense, here’s how to experiment without overwhelming your senses:

• Start with cones (less smoke than sticks)   sticks less smoke than cones-note by ting
• Try grounding blends like Sera Serene
• Burn in a ventilated space
• Don’t force it—just observe how it makes you feel

💡 How to Blend Candles and Incense in Rituals

This is the fun part. When you use them together, you get the best of both worlds:

🔁 Blending Ritual

1. Start with incense – use it to cleanse the energy
2. Add a candle – use it to ground the intention
3. Hold space – meditate, journal, or visualize while both are burning
4. Extinguish with care – blow out the incense gently, then snuff the candle to seal

Want to explore both in one ritual?
Try our Perfectly Imperfect bundle—it’s a great way to test out incense types while keeping your fave candle close by.

🌿 Final Thoughts

You don’t have to pick incense or candles.

You can be:

• Candle-only on weekdays
• Incense-only on full moons
• A layering goddess when the energy calls for it 🔥

Ritual is personal. You get to choose what feels right.
No judgment. Just intention, awareness, and maybe a little smoke + glow.