How Incense and Yoga Can Help Relieve Stress, Depression, and Anxiety
Yoga is the divine unity of the body and spirit. Originating in ancient India around 5000 BC, yoga harmonizes your physical, mental, and emotional states through mindful movement and breathing. In recent decades, it’s gained massive traction worldwide—especially as more people turn to yoga for stress relief, yoga for anxiety, and even yoga for depression as holistic alternatives to medication.
From improved flexibility and posture to emotional resilience, yoga offers an array of mental and physical health benefits. And when paired with the right incense fragrances, your practice can become even more therapeutic.
This Yoga Day (June 21), discover how combining incense and yoga for stress management can elevate your well-being and create a deeply grounding experience.
5 Easy Yoga Asanas for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Relief
If you're new to the mat or just looking for a calming ritual, try these beginner-friendly yoga poses known for relieving emotional tension and promoting relaxation.
-
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)
The sun salutation asana is the most common in yoga poses. Its a foundational series of 12 postures that boosts blood circulation, enhances flexibility, and helps combat anxiety and depression. Practicing this dynamic flow with steady breathwork improves energy levels and brings mental clarity.
-
Simhasana (Lion’s Pose)
Known for releasing internal tension, this pose involves a forceful exhalation and expressive facial stretch. It’s a fantastic practice to tap into inner strength while easing frustration and calming the nervous system.
-
Balasana (Child’s Pose)
One of the best poses to practice when overwhelmed, this gentle forward fold helps soothe the nervous system. It’s ideal for practicing yoga for anxiety and stress, offering a deep sense of security and calm.
-
Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
Often used at the end of a yoga session, this posture allows complete surrender. When paired with yoga nidra for anxiety, it can guide you into deep relaxation, reduce cortisol levels, and promote restful sleep.
-
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
This aasana releases mood-enhancing hormones, relieves tight muscles, and can be practiced regularly as yoga for anxiety and depression. Focused breathing while in this pose can help stabilize emotions.
The Role of Aromatherapy in Yoga for Stress Management
Fragrance is powerful. It influences mood, memory, and even your ability to relax or focus. That's why most yoga studios are scented with calming aromas that set the tone for mindfulness and stillness. When practicing yoga to calm anxiety, the addition of natural incense can be incredibly grounding.
Combining incense and yoga for stress relief creates a multi-sensory experience that enhances each asana and helps you stay present.
Best Incense for Yoga and Their Benefits
Looking for the best incense for yoga? Choose scents that align with your mood and intention:
-
Lavender – Eases anxiety and stress, enhances calmness
-
Sandalwood – Promotes emotional clarity and uplifts the spirit
-
Frankincense – Ideal for spiritual grounding and inner peace
-
Bergamot – Balances mood, reduces nervous energy
-
Tea Tree – Clears mental fatigue and boosts focus
-
Vanilla – Soothes the mind, aids in sleep
-
Rose – Increases self-confidence and emotional strength
- Myrrh – Supports circulation and revitalization
Tips for Using Incense While Practicing Yoga
To get the most out of your aromatherapy-infused yoga session, keep these safety and usage tips in mind:
-
Ensure proper ventilation to avoid overpowering scents.
-
Light your incense 10–15 minutes before starting your yoga practice.
-
Use a proper incense holder and place it away from valuables and flammable materials.
-
Be cautious when practicing around children, pets, elderly, or pregnant women.
Read our detailed blog on how to burn incense sticks for more safety tips, do’s and dont’s
Incense sticks will burn from 30 - 45 minutes each depending on the length and thickness. Beginners can try our mini incense series that burn for just 15 mins. Check out our collection of incense sticks and choose the incense that goes well with the purpose of your yoga and the duration of incense burning that suits you.
FAQs: Incense and Yoga Practice
1. Can incense help with yoga for stress relief?
Yes! Using calming scents like lavender or sandalwood during your practice enhances relaxation and helps deepen your breath, making your yoga for stress relief even more effective.
2. Is it safe to burn incense while doing yoga indoors?
Absolutely—as long as the room is well-ventilated and you’re using natural, low-smoke incense. Avoid burning incense if you have respiratory issues or allergies.
3. What's the best incense for yoga and anxiety?
Lavender, frankincense, and bergamot are top picks when using incense for anxiety and depression. These fragrances calm the nervous system and encourage emotional balance.
4. Can I use incense with yoga nidra for anxiety?
Yes, pairing a soothing incense like vanilla or rose with yoga nidra can help deepen the meditative state and promote restful sleep.
5. How do I choose the right incense for my yoga routine?
Match your incense to your goal. Want to relax? Go for lavender. Need mental clarity? Try sandalwood. For grounding, frankincense is ideal.
![7 Chakra Incense Set With Brass Holder [ 7 packs ]](http://incensesticks.com/cdn/shop/files/Chakra_incense_set_1_medium.jpg?v=1748844638)
