How Incense Can Boost Mood

As the days grow shorter and the light fades earlier, many people begin to feel the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that typically arises in the fall and winter months due to reduced sunlight exposure.

The good news? There are simple, natural ways to help manage these seasonal shifts in mood. From movement and sleep to scent and social connection, small lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference.

At Floré Canadian Incense, we believe in a holistic approach to well-being. Incense can play a supportive role in stress relief and mindfulness, but it works best when paired with healthy daily habits. Let’s explore six key areas that can help you lift your spirits and stay balanced this season.

Your environment has a profound effect on mood. Keep your space comfortable, tidy, and infused with scents that promote well-being. Our Soothing Incense Collection, including Lavender, Cleansing, Cypress, Cedar, Amber, and Sweetgrass, is designed to help create a calm, inviting home.

Other mood-boosting options from our lineup include Canadian Forest (pine) and Sage, known for helping to improve mental clarity. Citrus scents can be a mood booster as well, so try Lemongrass, Bliss, or our Love incense to elevate your everyday environment.

Scientific studies have shown that essential oils like bergamot, geranium, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, mint, orange, peppermint, pine, rosemary, sage, and ylang-ylang contain aromatic compounds that can positively influence mood, energy, and stress levels [NCBI source].

Exercise helps release endorphins, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality, all crucial for combatting the effects of SAD. You don’t need a gym membership to start moving. Try stretching, walking, or following a free home workout like this one from Nerd Fitness.

To enhance your routine, burn incense during your yoga practice or cooldown. Scents like Cedar or Cypress can help create a grounded, calming environment that makes your post-workout moments feel restorative.

A consistent sleep schedule can dramatically affect mood and energy levels. The Sleep Foundation recommends creating a relaxing bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed.

Lighting a stick of Lavender or Amber incense before bedtime can help you unwind, just be sure it’s completely burned out before you fall asleep. The soothing aroma can signal your body that it’s time to rest.

Spending time with friends and loved ones in person is one of the most effective ways to counter feelings of isolation during winter. The psychological benefits of friendship include higher happiness levels, stronger resilience, and reduced stress.

If you’re hosting a get-together, our Crowd Pleasers Collection, featuring popular scents like Egyptian Musk, Sandalwood, and Vanilla, helps set a warm, welcoming tone for any gathering.

Nutrition plays a major role in mental health. Research shows a strong connection between diet and well-being, as described by Canada’s Department of National Defence. Balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s can help stabilize mood. Talk to your doctor about vitamin D, a nutrient you may become deficient in during the winter months.

Pair your dining experience with complementary incense scents, Lemongrass for meals with Asian-inspired flavours, or wood-based incense like Cedar for a cozy, campfire-like ambiance.

Creative activities and leisure hobbies can help keep your mind engaged and your spirits high. Whether it’s reading, painting, cooking, or doing puzzles, having something to look forward to is essential for mental balance. As Utah State University Extension notes, hobbies stimulate the senses and promote joy outside of work or chores.

To accompany these activities, choose incense fragrances that inspire you. To find out what appeals to you, consider trying our Best Sellers Incense Collection, containing 6 unique blends: Abundance, Protection, Cleansing, Guidance, Egyptian Musk and Sweetgrass.

Boosting your mood through the colder months doesn’t have to be complicated. By combining movement, rest, nutrition, connection, creativity, and mindful scent rituals, you can naturally support your emotional balance.

For extra inspiration, explore these helpful reads:

• 15 Ways to Boost Your Mood – Tenet Health
• How to Relieve Stress: A 6-Step Plan to Feeling Good – Johns Hopkins Medicine

Small habits add up. Whether you’re lighting Lavender incense to relax before bed or enjoying a social evening surrounded by Sweetgrass and laughter, these mindful moments can help turn winter’s chill into a season of comfort and calm.