Hey Everyone,
As I'm sitting here writing this, I have not just one, but two scented jar candles burning on the other side of the room. You see, fragrance and candles happen to be two of my guilty pleasures. However, lately I have been reading and listening to several presentations that say candles, fragrances, and fragranced items are bad for your health.
I've tried flameless candles, but I find the flicker of a real live flame to be much more comforting (makes me think of Pentecost and the flames of the Holy Spirit,) and I've tried going without scent, but I just feel like something is... missing. Other sources will say certain kinds of candles are healthier (soy, pure beeswax, etc.,) but if I can be honest, I go with what I can afford (and usually find on sale,) which usually isn't the most health-expert-approved.
I understand that some experts will say I am choosing to inhale toxic chemicals (to lessen this, I always have the windows open when I burn candles,) but it's something I have yet to give up. I guess I try to tell myself that mankind has been living by fire for thousands of years, so what difference do a few little candles make! There are times when certain fragrances do give me headaches so I cut them out, and of course, if I were around anyone who was sensitive, I would have to cut back or eliminate whatever was bothering them.
But along with candles, I also choose to use scented lotions, sprays, and hair products throughout the day, and there are countless articles telling us we should not be slathering these chemicals all over our skin.
I am always contemplating what balance should look like within the Christian life. God wants us to take care of our bodies... So what are the lines between taking care of ourselves as temples of His Spirit, and yet enjoying these small things that are possibly detrimental?
I am curious as to how other Christians feel about this, especially since we live in a world in which everything is either already declared toxic, or next in line for being labeled as such.
Some other examples might include:
* Incense, fragrance cones, oils, waxes, and air fresheners.
* Those little scented cardboard trees we dangle from the rear-view mirrors of our vehicles.
* Perfume, cologne, after shaves, lotions, and scented products we use on our face, bodies, and hair.
What about in your own life?
* How do you feel about exposing yourself to things like flames (purely for recreation) and scents?
* Have/are you trying to eliminate them from your life and what tips do you have for doing so?
* Do you feel that God would see using these product as sinning (choosing to expose yourself to possibly harmful substances?)
This thread is definitely not meant for anyone to try to tell someone else what they should or should not do. I was just wondering how other Christians feel about such products for themselves and their families, and what their experiences have been, especially if they have had health issues, and have had to change their routines. For example, does a parent who has had cancer now change both their own and their familie's routines when it comes to such products?
I'm just a Christian gal who loves sweet-smelling things, and was wondering how/if others enjoy these things while finding a healthy Christian balance.
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