SoulWood: How to Use SoulWood Agarwood

1. Fire Safety
Stable, Non-Flammable Holder: Always use a proper incense burner or holder made of ceramic, metal, or glass that is designed to catch falling ash.  Ensure it is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
Clearance from Flammables: Keep the burning incense at a safe distance (at least 1 foot/30 cm) from curtains, bedding, papers, books, and any other flammable materials.
Never Leave Unattended: Do not leave burning incense unattended.  Extinguish it if you leave the room or go to sleep.  It is a fire hazard.
Keep Out of Reach: Place the burner where it cannot be knocked over by children, pets, or accidentally by yourself.

2. Ventilation & Health
Well-Ventilated Area: Always burn incense in a well-ventilated room.  Open a window or door to allow fresh air to circulate and smoke to dissipate.  This prevents the buildup of smoke and particulate matter.
Avoid Inhalation: Avoid directly inhaling the smoke.  While the smell is pleasant, smoke contains combustion byproducts (e.g., particulate matter).

3. Quality of Incense
Choose Natural: Opt for incense made with natural ingredients like wood powders (e.g., sandalwood, agarwood).  These typically produce a cleaner, less acrid smoke.
Avoid Synthetic Fragrances: Be wary of very cheap incense.  It often contains synthetic fragrances and chemical additives that can produce harsher smoke and are more likely to cause headaches or irritation when burned.
Look for a Bamboo Core (or lack thereof): Many low-quality incenses have a thin bamboo core dipped in synthetic perfume.  Higher-quality incenses are often solid throughout (no core) and made from a paste of natural materials.

4. Mindful Usage
Intentional Use: Burn incense mindfully and for a purpose—to create a calm atmosphere, for meditation, or to scent a room briefly.  There is no need to burn it constantly all day.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Be aware of your own and others' sensitivities.  Certain scents, even natural ones, might trigger headaches or allergic reactions in some people.
Respect Residue: Incense burning leaves behind ash and a scent residue.  Regularly clean your burner to prevent buildup.  The scent may also cling to fabrics and walls over time.

5. Proper Extinguishment
Never Use Water: Do not use water to put out an incense stick.  This can create steam, cause the stick to break, and make a mess.
Correct Method: Gently tap the burning tip against the inside of your incense burner or a designated ash tray until the ember falls off and is extinguished.  Alternatively, you can snuff it out by pressing the tip into the ash or a special snuffer.