Candles: Christmas, Birthdays, Festivals, Romance and Healing
I Love Candles. I have them everywhere in our home. I find candles relaxing and therapeutic. I buy them as Birthday and Christmas gifts. Give them to people who are unwell to cheer them up. I keep candles as decorative ornaments (they look especially beautiful in the winter at Christmas time)and I have some special ones which are keepsakes. I use candles to commemorate those I have loved and lost...
This lens is an education for me as I love candles yet I had never until now really explored all the different types, how candles are used in different cultures and ceremonies and what their significance really is.
We will also explore ear candling and how to enjoy a relaxing pamper yourself hour!
There is so much to learn about candles and the part they play in our cultures! I will be adding to this as I discover more!
If you know any interesting facts or significance or anything you would like to see covered on this lens about candles and culture please feel free to leave your comment in the guestbook at the bottom of this page.
Candle Culture List Of Contents
- Video On History of Candles.
- What Are Candles Made From?
- History of Candles
- Uses Of Candles
- Demonstrations on How to Make Your Own Candles-Christmas, Birthdays,Celebrations or just for you !
- Make Your Own Candle Books
- Festive Christmas Candles
- Create A Christmas Mood When Candles Are Not Appropriate
- Hopi Ear Candling
- Links for more on Hopi Candles and to find a Hopi Candle Practitioner.
- Ear Candling Supplies And Accessories
- Pamper Yourself with Candles
- Scented Candles
- Birthdays and Candles
- Candles And Candle Accessories To Own.
- Valentines Day Candles
- Romantic Candles
- Candles in the Christian Religions
- Candles in Buddism
- Candles in Hinduism
- Candles in Judaism
- Candles and Wicca
- Candles for Remembrance
- Candle In the Wind
- Candles For Isabella
- Alzheimer's Foundation of America National Commemorative Candle Lighting
- Candle Light Comments
Video On History of Candles.
What Are Candles Made From?
The Making of Candles Through History.
The earliest candlemaking I could find was in around 3000 BC. The Cretans and Egyptians made candles from beeswax.
The candle was also made from many other materials, some which I found quite surprising.
In many places,these earliest candles were produced using a range of products like wax which will be familiar to us and also tallow and fat.
"Tallow is a rendered form of bovine or mutton fat, processed from suet. "(Source Wikipedia)
I was very surprised to learn that the sperm whale was utilised to make spermaceti. This is an oil the whale produces. This oil made for a much better candle apparantly and was in use in the 18th century for candle making.
Also in the 18th century but later cheaper products became available like rapeseed oil and colza oil.
Paraffin was not in use until it was first made in 1830. It was seen as a cheap way of producing candles and had the added benefit of an odourless and good quality candle.
Once kerosene came into use shortly afterwards, it overtook paraffin as it was a more efficient fuel for candles.
It was around this time in the mid 1800's that candles also became used as a decorative ornament for the home.
In more recent times, resin candles, thought to burn longer; soy candles-made from soya beans-which is a renewable resource; liquid oil candles and even LED candles-safer when a lit candle could be unwise, have become more used in our homes.
Essentially people are seeking candle ingredients which make the candle which burns for a long time, burns cleanly and evenly with little smoke. Many people like a scented candle that stays true to its scent all the way through.
Increasingly safety issues(hence LED/flameless candles)and environmental concerns are high on the list as well.
For more information on this brief history of candles please follow the link below.
History of Candles
- HISTORY OF CANDLES:candles.org
- A brief history of candles. Information about the history of candles from earliest known time through until the modern day.
- Wikipedia Candles
- History and other interesting information about candles.
Uses Of Candles
Brief Note on Candle Uses For Home, Spirituality And Therapy.
These days in many countries the candle is seen as a purely decorative ornament. Traditionally lit at a romantic candle lit dinner for two, dinners out at lovely restaurants, Christmas celebrations and Birthdays.
The candle is still occasionally used for when there are electricity failures!! When I first set up home my mum gave me a box of candles "for emergencies".
It is also featured strongly in many religious, spiritual and cultural ceremonies and has great significance.
If you have a relaxing massage, beauty treatment or aromatherapy treatment you may often find the therapist lights a lovely scented candle to add to the ambience and enhance relaxation...
Demonstrations on How to Make Your Own Candles-Christmas, Birthdays,Celebrations or just for you !
Fancy Making Your Own Christmas Candles? Watch These Videos for some tips.
Watch the videos and have a go at making your own Candles for Christmas!!
Make Your Own Candle Books
Learn Candlemaking skills and make your own personalised candles
Why not make your own candles for Christmas , or even give any you r homemade candles as Christmas gifts?
Amazon Error: Could not open remote connection
Sorry, there are no results available from Amazon.Festive Christmas Candles
Candles are a great gift at Christmas and lovely in the home.
I love to receive and give candles. Candles are a great Christmas or celebration gift as you can get so many different ones to suit everyone, some are pretty others more practical, some candles you wouldn't want to burn they are so beautiful, others you would use regularly.
Candles may also be found on Advent wreaths and contribute to the beauty there.
Before the advent of electricity candles were often used to light up Christmas trees. They may still be placed on Christmas trees as decoration but less commonly lit now in homes due to safety concerns.
At Christmas and all throughout the wintertime candles are lovely to have around. I think it is especially lovely to have those scented with vanilla, spices and woody tones as they lend a comforting feel about them.
Where I live by the time Christmas comes it is dark and cold by half past three in the afternoon and you really do need some comfort and warming feel to make you feel warm and cosy.
I always have festive candles all over the house at Christmas and they give it a homely and festive feel. I especially like to have candles burning during the Christmas dinner as part of a centrepiece.
Create A Christmas Mood When Candles Are Not Appropriate
Have you considered LED candlelight at Christmas?
Create Your Own Winter Wonderland
The "Spectacle of Lights" presented by Sylvania at Disney MGM Studios may take the cake for the biggest and brightest holiday display, with five million lights dancing to music. Yet, when it comes to decorating your own home, sometimes less really is more. You don't need thousands of lights to create a spectacular effect. Simple changes like swapping out standard bulbs for crystal halogen bulbs (they are energy efficient and cost less to run) or adding lights to a wreath on your front door or fireplace mantle can really change the mood of your room. The newest craze in holiday lighting is light emitting diodes or LED's. LED lights bring beautiful light that's energy-efficient and safe into your home. They remain cool to the touch and can be a safer replacement for tea lights in candle holders. The result is a display that's not only stunning, but kid-friendly. Finally, be sure that your lights and extension cords carry a UL seal and your decorations are rated for indoor or outdoor use. ______________________ Produced for Sylvania
Runtime: 1:33
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1 Comments:
Hopi Ear Candling
Therapeutic Ear Candling Treatments
From my research the origins of Hopi Ear candling are from ceremonies of the Hopi native American indian tribe. (Hopi means peaceful people. I think that is lovely...) It appears to have been used for medical reasons.
The therapist uses a candle like a cotton tube which has therapeutic oils mixed with beeswax and honey.
The use of Hopi Ear candling includes help with colds and sinus probelems, hearing issues, inner ear problems, wax, tinnitus, hearing difficulties and colds.
The non burning side of the candle is actually inserted into the persons ear as they lie comfortably on their side. Usually they are asked to remove jewellery and to be in comfortable clothes. Generally the person the just lies still for approximately 10 minutes then turns over and the other side is repeated. I have not had this treatment myself but I am told it is very soothing nad relaxing and really helps clear the head and relieve stress and pressure.
It works as there is a gentle heat from the candle which with the oils produces a sucking action which draws out impurities.
As I have had bouts of sinusitis all throughout my life, this may be something I need to try! My friend certainly recommends it.
Links for more on Hopi Candles and to find a Hopi Candle Practitioner.
- EMBODY FOR YOU .COM
- Treatment with Hopi Candles
Ear Candling Supplies And Accessories
Candles and Accessories
White Egret Earomatherapy Ear Candles, Peppermint, 50 candles
Amazon Price: $65.95 (as of 12/04/2008) 
Ear Candling In Essence
Amazon Price: $36.00 (as of 12/04/2008)
Paraffin Ear Candles
Amazon Price: $3.96 (as of 12/04/2008)
Ear Candling:products
More about ear candling and do it yourself ear candling.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Pamper Yourself with Candles
Enjoy a relaxing pampering session- music, bath oils and candles.
Some relaxing candle suggestions
In the Bath.
Get those little tea light candles and if you have a ledge around your bath place them carefully on there. If you do not have a ledge or feel that is not safe enough then place the candles on a windowsill. THen turn tohe lights down or off and preferably have some lovely gentle relaxing music playing, relaxing lavender oils in the bath and just r-e-l-a-x. Bliss
While watching a great film.
Get all cosy in you r most relaxing nightwear. Lock the door, close the blinds or curtains and light the room only woth candles. Scented ones of you r choice are ideal but any will be good. Makes a lovely atmosphere. Of course if Horror films are your thing it might be more erie and less pampering but thats your choice!
Massage.
A massage is lovely anytime but create the mood with some gorgeous scented candles. Make sure the room is nce and warm, have lots of fluffy towels around, some gorgeous massage oils and your candles. You do need enough light so the person massaging you can see but keep it low for full relaxation.
Scented Candles
Candles with Scent...Beautiful.
Birthdays and Candles
Candles on the Birthday Cake.
I grew up with the tradition that if it was your birthday, the cake would be brought in to the room and everyone would sing
"Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to You
Happy Birthday dear(name of the birthday boy or girl)
Happy Birthday to you !!
Then the Birthday person would have to try to blow out all the candles in one go and then make a secret wish. If you ever told anyone what you wished for it would not come true! Babies and toddlers usually got some help from their parents :)
Of course the older you got the more candles there were and the harder it was to blow them all out!!
Most of us after we are 21 tend to not add many more candles to the cake for risk of Fire or lung injury in trying to blow them all out!! (LOL)
"So many candles.. so little cake."
A birthday saying for those getting on in years"
Candles And Candle Accessories To Own.
Gift Shopping For Candles
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byValentines Day Candles
Candles are Part Of Valentines Day.
Wherever you go you may well find candles play their part inducing a warm, hazy flattering glow and romantic atmosphere...
For Valentines Presents as well you may consider a lovely scented candle as a gift.
Romantic Candles
Candles and romance
Seda France Classic Toile Collection FRENCH TULIP Pagoda Candle
Amazon Price: (as of 12/04/2008)
List Price: $32.00
Used Price:
Romantic Candles...you can make yourself (Craft Book)
Amazon Price: (as of 12/04/2008)
List Price:
Used Price: $4.94
Lover's Choice Bed of Roses Gift Set
Amazon Price: $19.99 (as of 12/04/2008)
List Price: $19.99
Used Price:
Votivo Aromatic Poured Candles 50 Hours Lavender Chamomile Pear 10
Amazon Price: $22.99 (as of 12/04/2008)
List Price: $20.99
Used Price:
Seventeen Candles
Amazon Price: $1.99 (as of 12/04/2008)
List Price:
Used Price:
Candles in the Christian Religions
The role of candles in Christanity.
Alongside prayer, a Votive candle can be used and lit. The candle is lit in front of icons in Orthodox and other churches. A special candle known as a Paschal candle is present in some churches, which is only lit at special times such as Easter, funerals and Baptismspecifically represents Christ.
The end of the season of Epiphany is signified by Candlemas in some denomintions.The significance of the candle here is that the priest blesses the candle which is to be used in worship for the following year.
In Sweden (and other Scandinavian countries), on the 13th December, St. Lucia Day is celebrated. In terms of the role of the candle on that day, a young girl is crowned with a candle ring.
Candles In Christianity.
- Christian Symbolism
- From the page..."The Candles symbolize that Our LORD was the Light of the World. ..."
Continues to discuss the symbolism of candles
To learn more please click onthe link.
Candles in Buddism
In Buddism the light of the candle is reflective of the light of Buddahs teachings. There may also be flowers, incense and food placed there as well.
Buddist Ratchathani Candle Festival
Buddism and candles
- Ratchathani_Candle_Festival
- Wikipedia article about the Ratchathani Candle Festival where candles are used as an intergral part of the festival.
Candles in Hinduism
In religious occasions the oil candle lamps which are ritual lamps known as Terracotta diyas are used. Traditionally made of terracotta with oil and a cotton wick. However now sometimes waxes may be used as well.
Candles In Hinduism:Diwali Festival Of Light.
- Diwali
- From the page..."Diwali (Sanskrit D%u012Bpãvali, "row of lights"), also transliterated Deepavali or Diwãli (contracted spelling) is a Hindu festival of lights lasting five days."
Click on the link to learn more..
Candles in Judaism
During the eight day holiday of Hanukkah a candle is lit in a special candelabrum which is called a Chanukkiyah. This is to commemorate the dedication of the altar in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Candles are also used in menory of a loved one who has passed away. This is especially observed on the anniversary of their death with a 24 hour candle.
There is also a day of remembrance where a candle is lit to remember all those who perished in the Holocaust.
Judaism Festival Of Lights
- Judaism:Festival Of Lights
- From the page..."Chanukkah, the Jewish festival of rededication, also known as the festival of lights, is an eight day festival....
The only religious observance related to the holiday is the lighting of candles. The candles are arranged in a candelabrum called a menorah (or sometimes called a chanukkiah) that holds nine candles: one for each night, plus a shammus (servant) at a different height."
Click on the link to learn more...
Candles and Wicca
Candles are also placed in the four corners of a ritual circle to represent Fire, Earth, Air, and Water. In addition, candles are used for meditation purposes.
Types Of Candles In Wicca
- Types Of Candles In Wicca
- Article about the different types of candles used in Wicca and their purpose.
Click on the link to learn more...
"A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.
James Keller"
Candles for Remembrance
Candles and remembering loved ones.
To this day every Christmas we light a candle for each of our parents who have passed and one for our dog Goldie.
We light the candles in silence and then say a private prayer and have a few momments in peace and stillness to pray and remember.
The candle to me signifies that although they are no longer physically with us their spirit lives on, still burning brightly...
We always find it a very touching and emotional thing to do...
Below see two touching videos how Candles and music come together in the remembrance of those people have loved and lost...
Candle In the Wind
"Goodbye English Rose"
Elton John adapted the original words of the song "Candle in the Wind " to make it a memorial song to Diana.
Goodbye England's Rose (Candle in the Wind)
A gripping video version by Sir Elton John during Princess Diana's funeral in London. The pictures speak for themselves One wonders how Elton kept his composure during this incredible tribute to England's Rose, Princess Diana. Bernie Taupin re-wrote the lyrics for Diana from the original tribute to Marilyn Monroe
Runtime: 4:03
163256 views
10 Comments:
Candles For Isabella
Very Touching Tribute to Isabella
Alzheimer's Foundation of America National Commemorative Candle Lighting
Candles to Commemorate
November 13th 2008
- Candles Of Care
- National Commemorative Candle Lighting is a nationwide event sponsored by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America to remember and honor Americans who have been or will be affected by Alzheimer's disease or related illnesses.
Local organizations hold inspirational ceremonies in their communities on the same day, uniting individuals from coast to coast as they light "candles of care."
National Commemorative Candle Lighting is an annual event, held each November in recognition of National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.
Together, let's show how much we Care.
Candle Light Comments
What do Candles Mean To You?
Do candles light up your life? Do they have significance for you or do you just like to pamper?
I would love to know who dropped by so please feel free to leave a comment.
kiwisoutback wrote...
We still use candles in case the power goes out, too. They warm up the house in the winter by a degree or two if you have several lit -- at least jar candles do. Nice work on this lens! Gave it a lensroll to our Candle Moods lens.
Posted October 27, 2008
The_Homeopath wrote...
YAY! Another candle lover! I've got candles literally EVERYWHERE in my house. I love them. Lensrolling this to my tarts page (I think they go quite well together). My favorite candles are a couple that a friend made for me scented with Dragon's Blood with holographic eyeballs on the side and no, they're not just for Halloween, I keep them out year-round!
Posted October 20, 2008
bbug wrote...
Everyone I know loves candles, I find them romantic and relaxing. Thanks for the great lens.
Posted July 26, 2008
clouda9 wrote...
Drawn to this lens because I too love candles. You have added some great information here! I am waiting for my 'gonna be new obsession'...a Scentsy warmer and bars. Thank you for sharing :-)
Posted July 18, 2008
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