Burning incense is a practice that has been around for centuries, used for religious ceremonies, meditation, and perhaps the most popular - simply creating a relaxing and fragrant atmosphere. If you're new to incense, you might be wondering how to use an incense holder or burner.
Here's a quick guide to get you started:
What You'll Need
Incense holder: This can be a simple dish or an elaborate burner. DharmaShop burners are made from a variety of materials like wood and ceramic. Choose one that fits your style and the type of incense you'll be using. DharmaShop also carries an "All in One" incense burner which works for stick, cone, and rope incense.
Incense: Incense comes in many forms, including stick, cones, and rope incense. Choose a scent or ingredient that you enjoy and that suits your purpose. For example, sandalwood is known for its calming properties, while frankincense is often used for meditation.
Lighter or matches: You'll need a way to light your incense. Personally, I like using a longer lighter
Light the incense. Hold the flame to the incense until it catches, then gently blow out the flame. The ember should glow red.
Place the incense in the holder. Cone incense just sits on the holder, while rope hangs, and sticks are slid into the hole in the center. Make sure it's stable and won't tip over
Relax and enjoy! Sit back, breathe in the fragrant smoke, and fill your home with the Himalayas.
Tips for Using an Incense Holder
Always supervise burning incense. Never leave it unattended, especially if you have pets or children around.
Be mindful of ventilation. Open a window or door to allow the smoke to circulate and prevent the room from becoming too stuffy.
Start with a small amount of incense. You can always add more later if needed!
Experiment with different types of incense and holders. Find what you like best and create your own personalized home or office ritual.
Types of Incense Holders
There are many different types of incense holders available, each with its own unique design and function. Here are a few popular options:
Stick incense holders: These come in various shapes and sizes, with slots or holes to hold sticks upright.
Cone incense holders: These have a small platform or dish to cradle the cone-shaped incense.
Rope incense holders: These are specially designed for burning rope incense, which hang and burn upwards.
Using Incense Safely
Incense burning is generally safe, but it's important to use caution and follow these tips:
Use high-quality incense: Avoid cheap incense that may contain harmful chemicals or fillers. DharmaShop is handmade and ethically sourced, only using high elevation herbs, woods, flowers, and spices.
Be aware of allergies: Some people are sensitive to incense smoke, so start with a small amount and see how you react.
Extinguish incense properly: When you're finished, dip the ember in water or sand to extinguish it completely.
