Ear Candling 101

What does living a healthy lifestyle mean to you?   I always suggest that people try new types of exercise, stress reduction techniques and practices that add health and value to our lives.   If we rotate through a variety of treatments, it keeps our bodies well rounded and overall healthier.   Many health enthusiasts have found their way to yoga, massage, pilates or a favorite core workout. In a similar way, I’d like to encourage you to try non-exercise types of healing techniques.

Its possible you’ve heard about neti-pots and colonics. Today I’m thrilled to introduce you to a therapy called Ear Candling.   I learned about this ancient remedy from a Russian woman who put a hard-boiled egg on her head to remediate a headache!   She was filled with home remedies, and ear candling is the one I savored the most.   Ear candling is quite relaxing and a lovely technique that unwinds you any time you’re in need of a little R & R.

A long, hollow candle gently inserted into the ear sends warm air and light rhythmic sounds down through the hollow chute, gently massaging the ear canal via small vibrations, as the candle burns.   You know the calming sound you hear when you put a seashell next to your ear?  Ear Candling provides a similar soothing experience.

Helping a loved one enjoy an ear candling session is a great way to connect.   Each candle takes about 15 minutes to burn down, so it’s a perfect treat to allow yourself this time to just lay, breathe and let your mind drift.   Take turns helping each other during the super soothing experience.

Ear candling is a calming, holistic practice that is used to melt away stress and daily frustrations. The benefits extend way beyond the ear.  Total body & mind relaxation is my favorite part of this technique.   Ear candling helps to reduce stress and achieve tranquility in the entire body.   In Chinese medicine, it is said that the ears and the kidneys mimic each other. So, if you’re providing some TLC to your ears, I am sure your kidneys will happily receive some love too.

Numerous spas and wellness centers offer ear candling as an add-on treatment.  It is also possible to purchase the candles and do them at home yourself (with a mirror) or with a loved one.   I recommend trying this every 3 to 6 months, similar to how often you might rotate through a detox program.   Ear Candling is another tool in your holistic medicine chest.   Enjoy!