Review
I have loved incense since I was a child. I still remember my parents lighting incense at home every now and then, Indian fragrances, patchouli, typical of their magical ‘60s generation.
I started using them myself as a teenager, mainly bindi and classic Nag Champa: the magical and mysterious aromas that accompanied me every Saturday afternoon at Fiera di Senigallia in Milan, Italy, the wonderful alternative culture market that I hung around in for years, first as a goth, then as an alt-girl, then as a fortune teller.
The sense of smell is my most developed sense, I am very sensitive to aromas and their nuances, and over the years my taste has become increasingly refined. I have tried countless brands, essences, and formulations, which have accompanied me in meditation and more simply in creating a welcoming and atmospheric environment at home.
Incense is intrinsically connected to the element of Air, therefore perfect for purification and smudging rituals, both in the winter season of the Wheel of the Year of Avalonian tradition which I follow – where the North corresponds to the Air element – and in every moment of our lives.
© Wendy Andrew
The incense tradition is very ancient, and there are many forms of incense and essences, sticks, cones, resin, paper, powder, loose herbs and wood. For this blog, I have decided to focus on incense sticks, certainly one of the simplest and most usable forms for everyone.
But let’s see in detail the 3 best incense sticks that I have ever used!
The first ones I mention are definitely those by Stamford London, a British brand specialised in high quality incense, handmade with natural ingredients, cruelty free, and coming from fair trade and sustainable practices. The range I love the most is Mythical Hex, which includes some of my absolute favourite incense: first and foremost Wizard Spell, with its sweet and magical aroma inviting me to a dip in the enchanted realm. The range also includes other incense that I adore, including the esoteric Dragon’s Fire and Vampires Kiss, and the very unique Witches Curse. All 12 types can be purchased in a single box… which I highly recommend you do!
© Stamford London
Another incense that enchanted my soul at the first wave of smoke is the wonderful Happiness by Elements, from the range designed by the talented witchy artist Lisa Parker. Look No Further! Warm and sparkling and enveloping and magical: I believe I have bought Happiness at least 50 times. On the box there is also a little intention spell to recite: “Light the incense and affirm: As I embrace joy in all I see, many happy blessings follow me”. Try it too: you will never go back.
© Elements
Ultimo ma non ultimo, un altro incenso meraviglioso: Super Hit del classico e famosissimo brand indiano Satya, produttore dei celebri Nag Champa. Vi lascio alle stesse parole con cui viene descritto: rispecchiano perfettamente l’essenza del suo profumo inconfondibile che vi guiderà in profondi viaggi nel mondo dei sogni. “Mood/Inspiration: The warmth and nurturance of the morning’s first sun rays. Description/Key Notes: Activating Uplifting Sweet. Use: The Super Hit blend helps open up your core to abundance and positive energy as also helps uplift your mood.”
Last but not least, another wonderful incense: Super Hit by the classic and world famous Indian brand Satya, producer of the well known Nag Champa. I leave you with the words with which it is described: they perfectly reflect the essence of its unmistakable aroma which will guide you through deep journeys in the world of dreams. “Mood/Inspiration: The warmth and nurturance of the morning’s first sun rays. Description/Key Notes: Activating Uplifting Sweet. Use: The Super Hit blend helps open up your core to abundance and positive energy as also helps uplift your mood.”
© Satya
I’m curious: what is your absolute favourite incense? Have you ever tried an aura cleanse with incense? Contact me to find out more and book your smudging!
