Come On, Baby, Light My Fire

photo by Anastasiya Leskova on Unsplash

We love a good candle: the flickering light, the gorgeous scent, the hygge. And while there’s definite romance in lighting candles—candlelit dinners are a “thing” for a reason—there’s actual science too. Here’s how it works: There’s a direct connection from our noses (olfactory bulb) to the part of our brain that helps regulate our emotion (the limbic system).

You know what else the limbic system is responsible for? Sexual stimulation. And while that’s plenty of reason for firing up the wick, we can take this candle-lit love a step further to tell you that sex can boost creativity.

That means, according to our math: more candles = more sex, romance, creativity, warm feelings, and regulated emotions. We think we’ve made our case.

So here are our favorite candles that smell divine, are handcrafted by indie brands, and are affordable enough that you won’t freak out about burning them. Light and enjoy.

KSM Candle Co

Notes of fennel, ginger, and cardamom accentuate mid notes of rich amber, cedar, clover, and lavender, this all natural candle by Baltimore-based KSM Candle Co is one to light all winter long.

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Julia Washington Candles

The bibliophile in us loves these literature-inspired candles from our very own Julia Washington. The hand-poured Royal Holiday has notes of blue spruce, while Celie smells of lavender, amber, and plum. You just know Oprah would love the nod to The Color Purple.

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Gunner & Lux x Jennifer Vallez

The title of this one kind of says it all. This candle is best for times when you’re feeling fiery. Light and enjoy the warm vanilla scent of liberation. Bonus: 10% of all sales will be donated to the ACLU.

get it

Hey, are you a Jen X member?

If so, join us for a online live event December 21, 2023 at 3 pm est. We’re celebrating the shortest day of the year by getting cozy! We’re hosting a live zoom chat about Hygge with our contributor Alisa Stamps. Alisa will share more about this not-so-secret to finding happiness during the darkest time of the year. Come for the comfort, stay for the community love.

click here to register

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Jen X members receive free tickets to monthly events, special discounts on brands we love, and exclusive content like all issues of the magazine!

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