So, you’re curious about incense. Maybe you’ve seen it in a yoga studio, or perhaps you’re just looking for a way to make your home feel a little more like home. But standing in front of the options—sticks, cones, coils, sandalwood, agarwood—can feel a bit overwhelming.

Don’t worry. You don’t need to be a Zen master to enjoy incense. Think of it as a simple tool to change the atmosphere of a room instantly.

Here is your step-by-step guide to starting your first incense ritual.

Step 1: Choose Your Scent

Scent is personal, but here’s a cheat sheet for beginners:

• Need to Focus? Go for Sandalwood. It’s woody, creamy, and grounding. It doesn’t distract you; it clears the noise.
• Need to Sleep? Try Agarwood (also known as Oud). It has a deeper, more profound aroma that signals your body it’s time to rest.
• Need to Refresh? Look for herbal or floral notes. They are like opening a window on a spring day.

Step 2: The Setup

You don’t need fancy equipment.

1. The Holder: You need something to catch the ash. A simple ceramic bowl with sand or a dedicated incense holder works perfectly.
2. The Space: Place it on a stable surface, away from curtains or anything flammable. Open a window slightly—incense is best enjoyed with a little airflow.

Step 3: Light It Up

1. Light the tip of the incense stick with a match or lighter.
2. Wait 5 seconds. Let the flame burn for a moment.
3. Fan it out. Don’t blow on it! Gently wave your hand to extinguish the flame. You should see a glowing red ember and a wisp of smoke.

Step 4: The Pause

This is the most important part. Don’t just walk away. Take three deep breaths. Watch the smoke rise. Use this moment to set an intention for your day (or night).

Ready to start? Explore our Discovery Kit to find your perfect match.