I’ve had a busy day off. Up at 6am for new washing machine delivery, then a dash to yoga for a quick relaxation (yes, the irony is not lost) before shooting to the supermarket, followed by intense dance workshop, zoom meeting, urgent lawn-mowing – it had shot up to two feet whilst my back was turned – then a whizz through urgent emails, and before I knew, it was 8pm and my day off had disappeared. Frankly, I’m exhausted.

I’ve prepared something to eat (if taking a ready meal from freezer to microwave counts as food preparation – listen, I was tired) and now I’ve collapsed on the sofa and feeling a desperate need to be kind to myself.

So thank heavens for Northumberland Candle Company. They do an incredible variety of wax melts, covering pretty much any gift theme you could imagine.

I chose the Meditation Melt Selection Box. Even the box is simple, beautiful and calming with a sweet Buddha seal. As I opened the inner wrapping, embossed with buddhas, Aum, lotus and other symbols of Eastern spirituality, I caught the gentle aromas of the wax melts, five different scents. The stress of the day was already melting as I chose Nag Champa, placed it on my burner, sank back and let my mind drift to another place, far away.

My room is still pervaded with that wonderful perfume as I write, sandalwood infused with frankincense, geranium and rosewood, and I can’t wait to try the other fragrances too – Lemongrass & Ginger, Tranquility, White Patchouli and Seawood & Juniper.

Their Spa/Relaxation selection is another fabulous remedy for a stressed lifestyle, with Sweet Pea, Tranquility, Arabian Silk, Lavender Spa and Melon & Cucumber. At just £15 for each selection box of 25 melts these are such thoughtful and welcome gifts, particularly for someone who’s life is going through a few bumps.

But the Northumberland Candle Company doesn’t restrict itself to calm nurturing, lovely though that is – there’s so much more, from Girl Power to Molton B to Cake selections – yes, really. You can even buy a Mystery box reduced from £15 to just £10.

So whatever your mood Northumberland Candle Company have a wax melt selection for you, or a deserving friend, but you first. Do take a look.

By Dr K Thompson, author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q

http://faitobooks.co.uk

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.