As a busy mom, I struggle to set aside special time to pray daily. Instead of a dedicated hour first thing in the morning like I would prefer, my prayers typically happen in short bursts of requests, thanksgiving, and intentions throughout the day. Yet, I know that God hears me and is patiently waiting to listen and respond. I can imagine him walking around the house with me from room to room just listening all day long, so attentive and sensitive to my role as a mother that he meets me wherever I am.

One ritual that I love and have found helpful to encourage a sense of peace and prayer throughout the day is to light a candle or turn on my diffuser. I have a candle flicker mode on my diffuser which is my favorite setting. Some days, I do get to sit with the scent of frankincense and Stress Away wafting out of the diffuser while I pray my Rosary, and it makes that time so sacred and special. On days when the stillness is lacking, I still turn on the diffuser or light a candle because I find that my senses are drawn to the routine of prayer which brings me into that sacred space. God has gifted us with so much beauty in creation, and he knows that it will delight us and bring us that much closer to him when we can use our senses to aid our worship. 

Ingredients

• 1 lb. beeswax pastilles
• ½ cup coconut oil
• 15 ml pure essential oils (I use frankincense and Stress Away blend)
• candle wicks
• saucepan, plus  a pan with a pouring spout or double boiler
• glass jars
• hot glue

Instructions

• Glue the wick to the bottom of the jar leaving plenty of length past the top rim.
• Place the pan with a pour spout into the saucepan with water. Add beeswax and coconut oil to the pan with the pouring spout.
• Heat over a medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the wax and oil are fully melted.
• Add in essential oils and stir.
• Immediately pour wax into the prepared jars (this recipe makes about 16 oz.)
• Use a clothespin or pencil to secure the wick in place on the top of the jar.
• Allow the wax to cool for about 2 hours.
• Remove the clothespin or pencil, trim the wick, light, and enjoy!