The Sensories of Seasonal Candles: Why do we reach for those candles every Fall?

September 16, 2024

We’ve emerged from the humid heat of summer to gracefully move into the months that end in ‘-er.’ And if you’re feeling the urge to open that closet to dig out your seasonal candles, you’re not alone. This time of year sparks this instinct in many of us, but why exactly are we so drawn to seasonal scents?

Core scents are core memories

One of the primary reasons we are attracted to seasonal scents is their strong connection to memories and emotions. The olfactory system, responsible for our sense of smell, is closely linked to the limbic system, the part of the brain that handles emotions and memory. When we encounter a particular scent, it can instantly transport us back to a specific time and place.

GoodLight commonly infuses core scents into our candles, like spices, citrus, and flowers, which invoke core memories of the respective seasons. And for many, fall scents are synonymous with our childhood: family gatherings, holidays, and the comforting rituals of the season. The smell of freshly baked goods, warm spices, and outdoor adventures in the changing leaves can evoke powerful feelings of nostalgia and happiness. We like Vanilla Nutmeg Cardamom for capturing this essence, combining the sweet and spicy notes that remind us of home and hearth.

‘Hygge’-happiness

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, we naturally seek ways to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in our homes. Lighting a candle with a rich, seasonal scent can instantly transform a space, making it feel warm and welcoming. Our go-to for curating this insta-cozy vibe is our Orange Clove Cinnamon, which blends citrus and spice to fill the room with comfort and cheer.

This desire for coziness is deeply ingrained in us. In fact, the Danish concept of "hygge" has gained worldwide popularity, emphasizing the importance of creating a warm and pleasant environment, especially during the colder months. Scented candles play a crucial role in this practice, as they enhance the ambiance and make any space feel like a haven.

A natural escape

Fall is a season of transition and transformation in nature. The air becomes crisper, leaves change color, and there is a distinct shift in the natural world around us. Seasonal scents help us connect with these changes on a sensory level, bringing the outdoors in and allowing us to experience the beauty of fall even when we’re indoors.

The scent of Desert Juniper, with its fresh and earthy aroma, captures the essence of autumnal landscapes and evokes the feeling of a stroll amongst the conifers. This connection to nature can be grounding and calming, helping us to appreciate the natural rhythms of the season.

Hailing the Holidays

Finally, fall scents often herald the approach of beloved holidays and traditions. The smell of spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg are closely associated with festive preparations, from Halloween to Thanksgiving. These scents not only remind us of delicious seasonal treats but also build anticipation for the celebrations to come.

Lighting a GoodLight candle in a seasonal scent can be a simple, yet powerful, way to mark the beginning of this special time of year. Whether it’s the rich, spicy notes of Vanilla Nutmeg Cardamom, the vibrant warmth of Orange Clove Cinnamon, or the fresh, woodsy scent of Desert Juniper, these fragrances help set the stage for a season filled with joy, reflection, and connection.

Our attraction to seasonal scents is deeply rooted in our memories, emotions, and natural instincts.

As we transition into fall, embracing these scents through GoodLight’s thoughtfully-crafted, plant-based candles can enhance our experience of the season. Our homes feel cozier, our hearts fuller, and our connection to nature stronger. So, light a candle, breathe in the fragrance, and let the magic of fall envelop you.