Candles in Samhain Traditions
It all begins with an idea.
Candles played a central role in the observance of Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival in which Halloween is rooted. This warm, flickering light was not only believed to guide ancestral spirits back to the mortal realm but also served as a beacon of hope in the face of encroaching darkness.
Here are 6 interesting reasons why candles were so important in the Celtic tradition!
1) Guiding Ancestral Spirits
Samhain is a time when it's believed that the veil between the physical world and the spiritual realm is at its thinnest. Candles were lit to provide a source of light to guide the spirits of departed ancestors back to the mortal realm. This act was seen as a way to honor and welcome them.
2) Symbol of Light into Darkness
As Samhain marked the transition into winter, days grew shorter and nights longer. Candles served as literal and symbolic sources of light during this dark time, representing hope, warmth, and the triumph of light over darkness. Irish Wildflower beeswax candles emit a warm, golden light that resembles the natural spectrum of sunlight. This sun-like glow makes them perfect for combatting the approaching long, dark evenings!
3) Protection and Warding
It was believed that during Samhain, malevolent spirits and otherworldly entities were more active. Candles were used as a form of protection, as their light was thought to ward off negative energies and unwanted influences.
4) Ritual and Ceremony
Candles played a central role in Samhain rituals and ceremonies. They were lit to signify the beginning and end of specific rites, acting as a representation of the sacred fire.
5) Aid in Divination and Reflection
Samhain was considered a powerful time for divination and seeking guidance from the spiritual realm. Candles provided a focal point for meditation, scrying (a form of divination), or other practices aimed at connecting with intuition and gaining insight.
6) Decoration and Ambiance
Just like today, celts used candles as a form of decor. Candles contributed to the overall atmosphere and aesthetics of Samhain celebrations. They created a cosy, mystical ambiance that enhanced the sense of connection with the spiritual world. To replicate this snug atmosphere in your home this Samhain, why not try our beeswax candles today!
Difference between beeswax and paraffin candles
It all begins with an idea.
What is beeswax?
Beeswax is a renewable, all-natural wax made by honeybees. Because of its non-toxic qualities, it is ideal for use as a bright, clean-burning fuel source in candles. Beeswax candles burn cleanly and produce very little soot when lit properly. To burn properly they need to be kept away from drafts and the wick needs to be trimmed after each burn.
What is paraffin?
A non-renewable wax produced as a by-product of crude oil, coal, or oil shale is called paraffin wax. To make paraffin into a product that can be used, it is chemically processed and finely refined. It is not a fuel source that burns cleanly or brightly.
5 reasons why beeswax candles are better than paraffin
Beeswax candles are natural and non-toxic, while paraffin candles are made from petroleum and release harmful chemicals into the air when burned.
Beeswax candles burn longer and cleaner than paraffin candles, as they produce less soot and smoke.
Beeswax candles have a natural sweet scent, while paraffin candles often contain synthetic fragrances that can be irritating to some people.
Beeswax candles have a beautiful, warm glow that can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
By choosing beeswax candles, you are supporting beekeeping and the important role that bees play in pollinating our crops and ecosystem.
In summary, burning paraffin candles excessively can release soot and chemicals into the air, which can accumulate on walls and ceilings, causing discoloration and potentially damaging the paint or wallpaper. In addition, the chemicals released can negatively affect indoor air quality and can be harmful to breathe in, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Ultimately, it's best to limit the use of paraffin candles and opt for natural alternative like beeswax or sustainably sourced soy candles.
Irish Wildflower Candle’s vision is to produce fair and ethically sourced products that is both healthy for the customer and the environment combined to keep a sustainable world and ecosystem.
5 Ways To Keep Yourself Warm and Cozy This Autumn
It all begins with an idea.
It's coming towards that time of the year again where the temperatures plummet, fevers become more prominent, and gas and heating bills stagger! As we approach these seasonal changes I thought we'd share some tips on how to stay warm and cozy, in a more sustainable way!
1) Bring the Outside Environment Inside
If you are an outdoorsy person who loves to be surrounded by nature the cooler and darker days can feel gloomy. They don't need to be! You can introduce plenty of nature into your home through botanical prints and plants. Displays of warm-toned seasonal flowers such as dahlias and mum flowers are perfect for introducing some Autumn styling. Also, dried plants such as pampas grass and wheat mixed with flowers are a great long-lasting sustainable option.
2) Baking Your Favourite Treats
The Autumn and Winter months are an ideal time to wind down and bake! Not only do you get to indulge in your artisan baked goods, it's also quiet therapeutic to bake, especially on a cold or wet afternoon. Imagine the smell of a freshly baked apple tart, a warm pudding dessert or your favourite bread. That's proper comfort food!
3) The Treasure of Beeswax Candles
Candles generate a fair amount of warmth, but most importantly add that extra special presence of light to your home! As referenced in the introduction, heating bills are skyrocketing. Candles can help to add a warm ambiance to your home. Irish Wildflower Beeswax Candles give the warmest glow. In fact, beeswax candles emit light that is similar to the light spectrum of sunlight!
Mc Nutt of Donegal
4. Warm & cozy fabrics
Covering yourself with a quality throw will help regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm and cosy during the Autumn and Winter. Check out Mc Nutt of Donegal, they sell a beautiful range of soft soft merino lambswool throws with lots of warm tones. Wearing Slippers and wool socks are another way to add coziness or hygge in your home! Check out these sustainable wool slippers from Reuzi
5. Introduce warm and comforting scents
When it comes to Autumn, earthy, citrus and spicy scents come to mind. You can introduce warm scents through a diffuser or scented candles. We're currently working on new scented candles for the upcoming season and we are really excited to showcase these products to you! If you would like to be the first to know when we launch these new scent additions subscribe to our newsletter below.