Which Candle To Light For Peace?

Lighting candles has long been a meaningful ritual across cultures to promote inner peace, prayer, reflection, and connectedness. In today’s often rushed and stressful world, taking time to light a candle can provide a welcome opportunity to slow down, center yourself, and reflect on what’s most important.

A candle’s warm, gentle flame emits a soothing glow that immediately sets a tone of tranquility. The act of lighting a candle signifies taking time for spiritual reflection or contemplation. Sitting with a lit candle invites mindfulness, with the dancing flame being an ideal focal point for meditation. Lighting a candle connects us to the present moment.

Candles are also used in prayers or ceremonies to focused intention. Lighting a candle represents sending positive thoughts or energy toward a specific purpose – whether it’s praying for peace, sending healing vibes to a loved one, remembering someone who has passed, or simply setting an intention. A candle’s flickering light is the perfect accompaniment for peaceful thoughts.

Given their universal associations with peace, reflection, spirituality, and mindfulness, candles are an ideal way to create an oasis of tranquility in today’s hectic world. Let’s explore which candles are best for inviting a sense of serenity and inner stillness.

Colors and Their Meanings

Candles come in a wide array of colors, each with their own symbolic meanings and associations. Here’s an overview of some of the most common candle colors and what they represent:

White – White candles symbolize purity, peace, truth, and spiritual awakening. They are ideal for rituals about clarity, focus, and new beginnings.

Blue – Blue is associated with calm, relaxation, intuition, and emotional balance. Blue candles can aid in relieving stress, promoting restful sleep, and encouraging inner wisdom.

Yellow – Yellow represents joy, optimism, intelligence, and energy. Light yellow candles when you need extra cheer, mental stimulation, or creative inspiration.

Green – Green corresponds to growth, health, prosperity, and balance with nature. Use green candles for rituals about personal goals, finances, or environmental healing.

Red – Red symbolizes passion, love, strength, courage, and vitality. Red candles help energize, stimulate passion, and boost confidence and willpower.

Purple – Purple represents spirituality, imagination, wisdom, and mystery. Purple candles aid in increasing psychic abilities, magic rituals, and deep meditation.

With so many colors to choose from, you can find a candle to enhance just about any intention or ritual. Select colors based on the symbolic meanings connected to your purpose or desired outcome.

Candle Materials

The materials used to make candles impact their sustainability, scent, and burn quality. Three of the most common candle wax types are beeswax, soy wax, and paraffin wax. Each material has its own pros and cons to consider.

Beeswax candles are made from beeswax produced by honey bees. Beeswax is all-natural, sustainable, and biodegradable. The honeycomb smell provides a light, sweet honey aroma while burning. Beeswax candles have a low melting point and burn brighter and cleaner than other waxes. However, beeswax candles are often more expensive and can be prone to dripping because they become liquid at lower temperatures.

Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil. It’s renewable and biodegradable. Soy wax burns cleanly without producing smoke or residue. It holds fragrances well and has a higher melting point than beeswax, so soy candles retain their shape better when burning. However, the natural scent of soy wax can compete with added fragrances. Soy wax also burns more quickly than other waxes.

Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct made from crude oil. It’s the most commonly used candle wax due to its low cost. Paraffin wax provides a bright, consistent flame with good scent throw. However, paraffin wax produces more soot than natural waxes when burning. Paraffin candles are not biodegradable or renewable. Some consumers also dislike the use of petroleum products.

Candle Shapes and Sizes

Candles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each serving different purposes. Some of the most common candle shapes are:

Votive

Votive candles are short, cylindrical candles that are approximately 1-3 inches tall. They are designed to sit in small, flat holders called votive cups. Votive candles are ideal for votive displays, centerpieces, and ambient lighting.

Pillar

Pillar candles are tall, thick candles that can stand on their own. They typically range from 3-12 inches tall with a diameter of 2-6 inches. Pillar candles last a long time and are perfect for candleholders, centerpieces, and decorative displays.

Taper

Taper candles are long, skinny candles with a tapered shape. They are generally 8-12 inches tall and require being placed in a candle holder. Taper candles are elegant and work well for dinner tables, mantles, candelabras, and candlesticks.

Choosing the right candle shape depends on factors like how much light is needed, aesthetics, duration, and purpose. Votive candles provide mood lighting, pillar candles give steady illumination, and taper candles create a formal ambiance.

Candle Scents

The scent of a candle can have a powerful effect on your mindset and mood. When choosing a candle to promote peace, opt for calming floral or herbal aromas like lavender, chamomile or sandalwood. Avoid strong scents like citrus, spices or coffee which can be overstimulating.

Lavender is one of the most popular scents for relaxation. Its floral sweetness elicits feelings of tranquility and wellbeing. Vanilla is a warm, comforting scent that evokes security and satisfaction. Jasmine provides a delicate floral aroma that uplifts the spirit. Sandalwood has an earthy, woody fragrance that is both grounding and serene.

Chamomile, rose, and ylang ylang are also wonderful floral options for candles promoting peace. Herbal scents like sage, lemongrass, and eucalyptus can have clarifying and centering effects. Look for candles with essential oil blends crafted specifically for relaxation or meditation.

Avoid fruity scents which tend to energize more than calm, as well as spicy or gourmand options like cinnamon and baked goods. The aroma of coffee can also be too invigorating for relaxation. Instead opt for subtle floral and herbal scents to light your candle for peace.

Candle Holders

Candle holders come in a wide variety of materials, styles, and origins. Some popular materials for candle holders include glass, ceramic, wood, metal, and stone. Each material lends itself to certain styles and creates a different ambiance.

Glass holders let the candlelight shine through for a warm, cozy feeling. Tinted glass holders also cast colored light. Glass styles range from simple votives to ornate stands with crystalline embellishments. Handblown glass holders are particularly prized for their artisanal craftsmanship.

Ceramic and porcelain holders come in every shape and color imaginable. From basic terra cotta pots to intricate painted porcelain holders, the variety is endless. Ceramic holders work well for both casual and formal decor. Unglazed terra cotta absorbs scent, making it ideal for aromatherapy candles.

Wood holders often have a rustic, earthy appeal. Carved wood, bent wood, and lined wood boxes can all make attractive holders. Wood warmly complements candles while adding natural texture. Twigs, logs, and tree stump holders evoke cozy cabin vibes.

Metal holders range from sleek and modern to ornate and vintage in style. Wrought iron, tin, copper, brass, and silver holders showcase the gleam of each material. Metal conducts heat, so glass inserts are recommended. Candle lanterns and antique candelabras are classic metal holder designs.

Stone, crystal, and geode holders align with holistic practices. Selenite, rose quartz, and agate gently amplify a candle’s energy. Marble, slate, and pedestal holders add solidity. Sandstone, limestone, and alabaster create soft, naturalistic glows when lit.

Candle holders come from all over the world. Moroccan lanterns, Italian hurricanes, and Chinese cloisonné each represent diverse artistic traditions. With such variety, there is a meaningful holder to complement any space, mood, or candle intention.

Candle Safety

Fire safety is paramount when burning candles. Never leave a lit candle unattended. Keep candles away from flammable materials like curtains, paper, furniture, etc. Make sure to put candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces. Don’t burn candles near drafts which can cause the flame to flicker and spread. Trim wicks to 1⁄4” before lighting to avoid high flames. Allow melted wax to completely pool before relighting a candle. Make sure candles are fully extinguished before leaving a room.

Consider using battery-operated flameless candles which provide ambient lighting without fire hazards. Young children should not be left alone with lit candles. Make sure you have working smoke detectors in your home. Have an emergency plan in case a candle fire does occur. With proper precautions, you can safely enjoy the comforting ambience of candlelight.

Mindfulness Rituals

Lighting a candle can be a powerful ritual to promote mindfulness, inner reflection, and prayer. The simple act of striking a match and watching the flame flicker to life focuses our attention. The dancing light of the candle’s flame creates a calming, hypnotic effect that quiets our busy minds.

As we observe the candle burning, we can bring a gentle awareness to our breath and body in the present moment. The candle flame serves as a visual anchor to let go of distracting thoughts and enter a more meditative state.

For many spiritual practices, a candle symbolizes our inner light or connection to the divine. Lighting a candle with intention allows us to set aside everyday concerns and open our hearts in prayer or devotion. We can state what we want to manifest or let go of as we light the candle.

Creating a routine of lighting a candle at the same time each day trains the mind to become more conscious and mindful. The candle reminds us to take pause, reflect inward, and appreciate the small joys around us.

Global Traditions

Candles hold deep meaning in cultures and faiths around the world. Lighting candles often signifies prayer, protection, guidance, and bringing light to darkness. Here are some examples of candles used globally:

– In Christianity, lighting candles represents Christ as the light of the world. Churches often have votive candles to symbolize prayers offered in faith.

– In Judaism, candles are lit on the Sabbath and festivals as a sacred ritual. Candles welcome the Sabbath bride and represent the presence of God.

– In Wicca and Paganism, different colored candles have unique meanings and magical properties. Candles are used in spells, rituals, and meditation.

– In Buddhism, lighting butter lamps or candles represents the Buddha’s light shining wisdom into the darkness of ignorance.

– In Hinduism, lighting oil lamps or candles can be an offering to deities and symbolize knowledge.

– In Mexico’s Day of the Dead rituals, the candle flame guides the spirits of ancestors to visit loved ones.

– In ancient Egypt, the Temple of Amun Re lit candles to honor the sun god Ra’s victory over darkness.

– In China, red candles are often lit for good luck and protection during holidays like Chinese New Year.

– In Kwanzaa, the kinara holds seven candles representing the Seven Principles celebrated by African heritage.

Which Candle Promotes Peace

When choosing a candle to light for peace, there are a few main factors to consider: color, scent, materials, and shape/size. Based on the symbolic meanings and mindfulness benefits, here is the recommended candle to light:

A white or light blue colored candle in a glass holder. White represents purity, innocence, and new beginnings – perfect for setting a peaceful intention. Light blue evokes openness, calm, and serenity. For materials, natural soy or beeswax candles have an organic, earthy scent that promotes tranquility. Avoid artificial dyes or fragrances which could be overpowering.

In terms of shape, a classic cylinder or pillar shape allows the flame to burn steadily upwards – visualizing your hopes rising. A 4-6 inch size gives a nice glow without being too big. For safety, place it in a stable glass holder on a heatproof surface.

Before lighting, take a moment to focus on your intention to invite peace – into your heart, home, and world. As the candle burns, breathe deeply and imagine the flickering flame filling your space with calming, positive energy. Let it be a comforting ritual, a reminder we all share the universal desire for peace.