The holidays are upon us, and with it comes snuggle season on the sofa and lots of candles. If I think of Christmas in Germany, we have candles everywhere. We light them on the Advent wreath, use them as part of table decorations, place them on window sills, and my mum always adds a few real candles to her tree because it makes it feel “more authentic.” I’m sure it’s similar in the rest of the world.
There’s just something about candles that instantly creates a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. Like when you run yourself a bath after a long day and light that expensive candle you splurged on because it smells divine and transforms your bathroom into a spa-like haven.
Sound like a dream? Maybe, but here’s something you might not know: most candles on the market are sneaky little culprits, filling your air with nasty toxins. They’re made with petroleum-based paraffin wax and loaded with synthetic dyes that release carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde when burned. Even worse, they emit ultrafine particles so tiny they can bypass your lungs’ defenses and enter your bloodstream, causing inflammation and oxidative stress which are the basis of many chronic diseases.
Research has shown that burning paraffin candles can release the same harmful chemicals found in diesel fuel. Studies indicate that frequent exposure to these pollutants indoors may increase the risk of respiratory problems and even cancer.
What’s Really in That Candle?
And then there are the artificial fragrances that make candles so tempting. They can be a real problem—especially during menopause, when our hormones are already all over the place. Many scented candles are loaded with endocrine disruptors, which are chemicals that interfere with your body’s delicate hormone balance. The stronger the scent, the more likely it’s full of synthetic fragrances designed to linger in the air – and in your system.
I think of this every time I walk through IKEA’s candle aisle, when I’m struck by that overwhelming mix of cinnamon, vanilla, and berries that hits you long before you’ve left the kitchen accessories section. You know what I mean?
It’s shocking but candles are largely unregulated, hiding toxic substances behind vague ingredients like “soy blend”. Studies have shown that when you light these candles you are liberating a significant number of hazardous chemicals into the air.
Is this the end of festive vibes and Christmas lights? Absolutely not!
Here’s how to make your home cosy and safe this season:
1. Choose Safer Wax: Look for 100% beeswax or soy wax candles, not blends that may still contain paraffin. Beeswax candles not only burn cleaner, they also release negative ions, which may help purify the air by neutralising toxins, dust, and allergens, leaving your space feeling fresher and healthier.
2. Stick to Natural Scents: Essential oils are your friend. Steer clear of artificial fragrances.
3. Mind the Wick: Choose cotton or wooden wicks to avoid toxic byproducts.
4. Say No to Dyes: The more natural the look, the better – bright colours are often achieved with toxic dyes.
5. Ventilate: Always burn candles in a well-ventilated space to reduce indoor air pollution.
While you’re sprucing up your surroundings, why not give your body a little care too? Especially during your menopausal years, when hormones can feel like they’re running the show, detoxing your environment and your body can help you feel lighter, clearer, and more in control.
Take the first step toward feeling like yourself again by exploring The Midlife Reset. It’s a step-by-step guide to balancing hormones, releasing toxins, and restoring your energy—without missing out on the pleasures of life.
