Sandalwood-scented incense sticks in a hexagonal HEM box about 25 cm long, made in India. The scent is woody, so it is a good one to try if floral incense feels like too much.
Sandalwood in India
Sandalwood has been part of religious life in India for centuries. It is burned in temples, and tradition links it with meditation and prayer. Many people light a stick in the morning before they sit down and let it burn for as long as their practice lasts.
The tree grows slowly, and it takes decades for the heartwood to become fragrant. That is why it is still one of the most expensive scented woods. These sticks bring its scent into your room.
Even without meditating, the scent is easy to enjoy. A woody scent goes well with a quiet Sunday morning, a good book or a letter you have been meaning to write for weeks.
Sandalwood or chandan
Chandan is the Hindi word for sandalwood, and HEM makes an incense under that name too. The two smell different. This sandalwood is woody, while the chandan adds a spicy note to the woody base. Choose this one if you are after the scent of the wood itself, and the chandan if you want something spicier.
In your meditation corner
Choose a steady, heat-proof holder and keep it clear of cushions and cloths. With your eyes closed you are not watching the glowing tip, so it should be one the ash cannot fall out of.
Don't leave the room while the stick glows, air the room afterwards, and put it out by pressing the glowing end into sand. If you keep pets or birds, burn it in a room where they are not.