INTRODUCTION:
Burning fragrant woods, barks, resins and gums as an offering to the Gods is perhaps one of the most ancient ritualised spiritual practices. Our ancestors regarded fire as a sacred medium of transformation - an inexplicable phenomenon that has the power to change solid matter and release the etheric essences contained within as smoke. Scent, the most volatile and immaterial aspect of matter, was regarded as the food of the Gods.

As spiritual beings, the Gods cannot partake of the physical aspects of sacrificial offerings, but instead gorge themselves on the etheric aspects that rise to heaven in the form of smoke. Fragrant resins, barks and flowers offered to the Gods as incense was regarded as their sacred ambrosia. It acts as a vehicle for prayers, which by power of sheer delight finds access to the hearts and graces of the Gods. Keeping the Gods happy of course was the fundamental purpose of ritual and of primary concern of humankind, who are dependant on their blessings.

Scent powerfully influences the mind and can lift the spirit beyond the level of material concerns to the realm of the sacred. Burning incense is still widely practiced for spiritual purposes in most religions.

Star Child Incense is prepared in accordance with these ancient concepts and traditions. They contain all natural substances, such as barks, herbs, flowers, seeds, resins, gums, pure essential oils and absolutes, each appropriate according to their associated deities and magical properties. To add an extra magical dimension to our potent blends certain herbs are collected from various sacred sites in accordance with the cycles of the sun and moon.

USE:
Star Child Incense can be used for all kinds of meditations, ritual and ceremonial purposes, or simply for pleasure. Traditionally, incense plays an important role in purification rites, commonly referred to as “smudging”. The smoke is used to “wash” away negative energies and thought forms, thus cleansing and enhancing the atmosphere of any given space. Similarly it is used to purify the hearts and minds of people as they prepare themselves to partake in sacred ceremonies and rituals.

HOW TO BURN INCENSE:
Place a self-igniting charcoal disc on a fire-proof surface, away from flammable objects and light it. Be aware that these discs may occasionally sparkle profusely upon ignition. Allow sufficient air to flow around the charcoal to ensure burning. Some people prefer to open the window whilst it is igniting as it gives off smoke. Once the charcoal disc has finished sparkling it will start to glow, usually first on one side, slowly spreading over the whole disc. When the entire disc is glowing red hot it is ready for adding the incense.

CARE FOR YOUR INCENSE:
Incense keeps well and often improves with age if kept in a cool and dark place. Charcoal has a tendency to absorb moisture from the air. Once the packet has been opened keep it in an airtight container to prevent it losing its self-igniting properties.

CAUTION:
Keep incense and charcoal out of reach of children. Charcoal discs are highly flammable. Exercise due caution when igniting your charcoal disc. When the disc has been lit do not handle as it will cause a burn. Do not dispose of the ash remains in a waste paper bin as this may cause a fire. Do not hold the disc in your hand when lighting or when burning.