Everyone knows the popular ways to relax like meditation, tai chi, yoga, and breathwork, but did you know that bathroom candles are also effective?

Melt away Stress

There is nothing quite so relaxing as the flickering light and warm glow that candles so effortlessly emit. It’s the perfect ingredient for creating a romantic feel, or simply a relaxing atmosphere to help you unwind after a busy day.

Candles are also a great way to signal our brain that it’s time to sleep. When the light is dimmed and the flickering of candles is present, our brains receive signals that it is time to relax and wind down. This is why proper lighting in bathrooms is so important. 

Nevertheless there is actually a lot more to it than simply buying some matches and a couple of tea-lights. If you want to really pull it off properly then read on for a few hints and tips to help you set the best possible scene.

Style

You’re probably thinking: “a candle is a candle”, right? Well, there is much more to it. Candles can create beautiful aromas, warming coloured glows and they can even look great when they are unlit. This is why many people opt for a variety of candles to style out their bathrooms.

• If you have a more traditional bathroom then you should go for candles with a more classical look. Generally candles in glass can look elegant, yet simplistic so as not to be too overpowering.
• For those of you with a more shabby-chic and rustic bathroom then you would do well to add a few earthy candles to your bathroom. There are a large variety of candles on the market in a wealth of creative styles that will compliment your rustic theme wonderfully.

• For the boutique bathroom opting for bright colours is an excellent choice. You will be able to find a variety of rainbow and brightly coloured options.
• If you have a vintage bathroom then candles are definitely a must if you would like to create that old-time relaxing bathroom. There are a number of antique style candles that breathe a throw-back aura and really do well to create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

• Finally, if your bathroom is an ultra-modern décor, then you could potentially opt for a more industrial look; opt for metallic style candles in this case.

Smell

One of the main advantages for having candles in your bathroom is the aromas that you can have circulating in the air, on top of the warmth and glow. Certain scented candles such as lavender and jasmine have been proven to promote relaxation.

Moreover, if you ever need to calm yourself down, there are several  candles that can reduce your anxiety. Such fragrances that have proven to do so are peppermint, sandalwood, frankincense and vanilla.

However, you don’t want to pick anything too overpowering.  As you are relaxing in a hot steamy bath, you don’t want something that will over stimulate your senses. 

Depending on how your bathroom has been decorated you can opt for a number of different bathroom candle scents, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. I could sit here and recommend more earthy aromas for a rustic, shabby-chic bathroom, though what good would that be if you don’t enjoy those scents.

Presentation

You can arrange your candles in a number of ways, one of the most effective however is to arrange a cluster before a mirror. This creates a more dramatic display and is perfect for elevating the relaxing aura in your bathroom. If you want to get a bit more creative and artistic with it, then try lighting your candles at varied elevations – ie; one various shelves and window sills, storage units, or even on the baths edge. You can also buy a ceramic candle holder to elevate it even further and give it that luxurious feel if you’ll like!

Treat Yourself to the Best at-Home Spa Day Ever!

You don’t really have to go to some fancy spa for a relaxing experience, when you could just enjoy one right at home! Just go out and buy some bathroom candles ( maybe those beautiful pillar candles) that evoke certain aromatic fragrances such as bergamot, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, cedarwood etc and light one up! There is really nothing better than having a candle, your favourite book, and maybe some jazz music in the background.

Once the atmosphere is set, why not then draw yourself a warm bath? Throw in some rose petals and a generous helping of your favourite bubble bath or bath bomb, light some more candles around the edge of the tub, and sink into its warmth until you feel truly relaxed. A glass of your favourite beverage can really enhance the moment, too!

Slather on A Rich Moisturiser

Having a body care routine as part of your bubble bath experience can be very beneficial for your overall self care. Not only can this bath ritual help improve the physical health of your skin, but it can also have a positive effect on your mental wellbeing. 

For example, adding essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus to the water can help you relax and feel more at ease. Taking the time to massage in a luxurious body scrub or nourishing oil will leave your skin feeling supple and moisturised after your bath. 

How about Eco-Friendly Candles?

Sustainable candles are becoming increasingly popular as people become more and more aware of the effects that traditional paraffin and petroleum-based candles can have on our environment. Sustainable candles are made from natural materials such as beeswax, all natural soy wax candles , coconut wax, and other plant-based materials. These materials are not derived from fossil fuels or other such non-renewable sources, meaning they are much more sustainable than traditional candles.

In addition to being better for the environment, these candles also burn cleaner and longer than standard paraffin candles. So if you’re looking for a way to light up your bathroom without burning through your  harm to the planet, sustainable candles are the way to go. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to help save the bees! Who knows? Maybe you can even start a sustainable candle revolution! Now that would be wick-ed cool.

Perfect for Gifts

For a unique gift that will last and be remembered, consider giving a handmade candle. 

They make wonderful gifts for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s to commemorate an anniversary, birthday, or any other special day, the warm glow of candlelight can bring a feeling of comfort and peace.

Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also come in many shapes, sizes, colours and scents; perfect for anyone who loves the ambiance of a burning flame in their bathroom or anywhere else in their home.

Tip: Percentage of scented oil in the wax is also an important factor to consider when choosing a candle as a gift. The higher the percentage, the more fragrant and long-lasting it will be. 

At the end of the day, I could sit here and ramble on about the benefits of candles, the different styles, smells, designs and presentation, though ultimately you need to find the perfect fit for you. What is important is that you mix it up and try a few different looks until you find the match for you. Once you’ve started buying and lighting candles during bath-time there will be no turning back. Again, there is nothing quite as soothing as a long, hot bath by candlelight. Enjoy!