Here are the functions of lighting an incense stick while reading:
1. Create a Focus – enhancing Atmosphere
The soft and steady fragrance of the incense can help you concentrate better on the content of the book. For example, a cedar – scented incense can fill the air with a woody and earthy aroma. This kind of fragrance can block out distractions such as background noises and other odors, allowing you to immerse yourself more deeply in the world of the book.
When you light incense, it also serves as a kind of signal to your brain that it’s time to focus. The familiar smell can act as a cue, similar to a conditioned reflex. Every time you smell the incense while reading, your brain associates it with the activity of reading and concentration, helping you to enter a more focused state more quickly.
2. Relax and Relieve Stress
Reading is often a way to relax, and the incense can enhance this relaxation effect. Incenses with lavender or chamomile scents have natural calming properties. The essential oils in these incenses can interact with your body’s nervous system. For example, lavender incense contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which can reduce the levels of stress hormones like cortisol and promote a sense of calm and well – being.
As you read, the gentle aroma of the incense can soothe your nerves, making you feel more at ease. This is especially beneficial when you are reading after a long day or dealing with a lot of stress, as it allows you to unwind and enjoy the reading process more.
3. Set a Cozy and Comfortable Mood
The fragrance of the incense can transform the reading environment into a more cozy and inviting space. A warm and sweet – scented incense like vanilla or cinnamon can make the room feel more like a haven. The pleasant smell creates a kind of psychological comfort, making you feel as if you are in a more intimate and enjoyable reading nook.
It also adds a touch of ritual to the reading experience. Lighting the incense before you start reading can become a habit, a small ceremony that makes reading a more pleasurable and meaningful activity. You can look forward to the combination of the book’s content and the pleasant smell of the incense, making the reading time more memorable.
