How to Show Compassion

Even when you have the best interests of others at heart, showing compassion is not always easy. It’s a skill that takes time and effort to cultivate. One simple way to show your compassion for others is to listen and communicate with sincerity, empathy, and kindness. You can also show your compassion through actions, such as advocating for others or volunteering for good causes. In order to show true compassion, it’s important to cultivate a compassionate attitude.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Communicating Compassionately

1. Listen actively to others. While it may seem simple enough, listening actively and compassionately takes practice. When you’re listening to another person, give them your full attention. Put away your phone or other distractions and focus fully on what they are saying instead of thinking about how to respond. Don’t interrupt or try to offer advice unless they ask for it.^[1]
   
   • You can show the other person you’re listening by making eye contact, nodding, or using verbal cues, like “uh huh,” or “yeah.”
   • To make sure you understand what the other person is saying, try rephrasing their words and asking for clarification. For example, “It sounds like you’re struggling at school and you feel like your teachers don’t want to give you the help you need. Is that right?”
2. Offer a gentle touch if it’s appropriate. While physical touch isn’t always appropriate or wanted, it can be a very powerful tool for showing compassion and creating a human connection. If you’re talking with someone who is going through something difficult and you’re not sure whether they’d appreciate a supportive touch, ask them.
   
   • For example, you might say, “It sounds like you’re having a terrible day. Would you like a hug?” Or, “You seem really scared right now. Would it help if I held your hand?”
3. Give the person you’re talking to positive reinforcement. A few words of encouragement can go a long way towards making a difficult situation easier for someone. Show compassion by saying a few kind, supportive words to someone who needs them. Depending on the circumstances, you might focus on their strengths, their accomplishments, or their positive personality traits.
   
   • For example, if a friend is struggling to accomplish a goal, say something like, “I know it’s tough, but I’m so proud of how hard you’ve been working on this!”
4. Express your own emotions sincerely. If someone else is going through a tough time, showing your own emotions can help them understand that you really feel for them and care about what they are experiencing. Don’t be afraid to show how you are feeling with your facial expressions and reactions.
   
   • For example, if a loved one is talking to you about their grief over a recent loss, don’t be afraid to show your own sadness or let yourself shed a few tears. This will help them see that their sadness means something to you.
5. Validate the other person’s feelings. When someone is struggling with difficult emotions, denying or minimizing their feelings isn’t helpful. Even if you don’t agree with the other person’s reaction to a situation, let them know that you acknowledge their feelings and accept them as they are.^[2]
   
   • Don’t tell the other person to “get over it” or minimize their feelings by saying something like, “It’s not that bad!”
   • Instead, simply reflect their feelings. For example, say something like, “I can see you’re really angry about this.”
6. Respect other people’s wishes and boundaries. Being respectful of others is an important part of compassion. If someone asks you to keep something in confidence, don’t share it with others. If they let you know that something you’ve said or done makes them uncomfortable, acknowledge it and avoid repeating the behavior.
   
   • Always use your best judgment, however—for example, if someone tells you they're planning to hurt themselves or someone else, don’t hesitate to call emergency services or tell someone who can help. It's okay to tell a secret if it's necessary to keep someone safe.
7. Think about whether your words are compassionate before you speak. Your words can have a real impact on others, so it’s important to consider what you want to say before you express yourself. Take a few moments (or even more time, if necessary) to reflect on what you really want to say and what you hope to accomplish by saying it. Ask yourself if what you want to say follows the THINK guidelines. Is it:^[3]
   
   • True?
   • Helpful?
   • Inspiring?
   • Necessary?
   • Kind?

[Edit]Acting Compassionately

1. Treat others the way they'd like to be treated, when possible and reasonable. The Platinum Rule is one step beyond the Golden Rule—instead of treating someone how you'd want to be treated, treat them how they want to be treated. Different people have different attitudes, ideas, and desires than you do. Do your best to accommodate this.
   
   • For example, maybe when you were 17, you couldn't wait to move out of home and explore the world on your own. But if your 17-year-old son wants you to help him through the transition to adulthood because he's overwhelmed, then you should give him extra support.
   • The Platinum Rule won't apply in every situation. You may not always know how someone wants to be treated. Or their expectations may be unreasonable or unhealthy. (For example, just because your two-year-old wants to be the boss of the household doesn't mean she should be.) Use your best judgment.
2. Follow the Golden Rule if you can't follow the Platinum Rule. One easy way to show compassion in your actions is to follow the Golden Rule—simply treat others the way you’d like them to treat you. It’s important to stick to this rule even with people you dislike or those who do not reciprocate your kindness.^[4]
   
   • For example, even if your coworker is consistently rude and inconsiderate to you, make an effort to be polite and civil to them at all times. Greet them politely, say “please” and “thank you,” and open the door for them if their hands are full.
3. Practice random acts of kindness. Truly compassionate action is something you do in order to help others without expecting any reward or recognition. Look for opportunities in your everyday life to perform kind and helpful acts without seeking approval from others.^[5]
   
   • For example, you might shovel a neighbor’s driveway, offer to help carry someone’s groceries, or give a stranger a sincere compliment.
   • Your acts of compassion may inspire others to perform kind actions of their own.
4. Be an advocate for somebody in need. Standing up for someone who needs help is an important form of compassion. There are many ways to be an advocate, including speaking up when you see someone being mistreated or helping someone connect with resources that might not have been accessible to them.
   
   • For example, if you have a friend or family member who is dealing with a medical issue, you can be an advocate by going with them to doctor’s office visits, taking notes, and asking questions about their care.
   • Connecting with your own humanity can really help you foster empathy for other people. Try to recognize that you are a human being among other human beings on this planet, and that we all have some shared experience of being human. Try to keep that on the forefront of your mind when you're witnessing other people suffering or going through hard times.^[6]
5. Volunteer for a cause you care about. Being compassionate isn’t always about helping people one-on-one. You can also show compassion by volunteering your time or resources for larger causes. Do an online search for volunteer opportunities in your area, or reach out to charitable organizations that you care about and ask how you can help.
   
   • For example, you might volunteer to mentor kids in your area who are dealing with hardship, or spend time helping out at your local animal shelter.
   • Double-check an organization's reputation before supporting it. Some organizations, like Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Autism Speaks, cause harm and don't do as much good as you might think.
6. Model compassionate behavior for others. Studies show that compassion is contagious.^[7] By performing kind acts in front of others, you can serve as an inspiration and a role model.^[8] Set a good example for the people in your life by treating them and others with kindness and respect.
   
   • If you have kids, treating them with love, kindness, and respect will help them form a compassionate mindset that can last a lifetime. You can also set a good example for your children by treating others compassionately in their presence.
   • If you see other people in your life behaving compassionately, offer praise and encouragement. For example, “Lucy, I thought it was amazing how you stood up for Ben at school today. That took courage. I’m so proud of you.”
7. Do what you believe is right, even if others criticize you. Other people may not always agree with your compassionate choices. If someone else criticizes you for taking a compassionate action, don’t let it discourage you. You don’t need anyone else’s approval to do the right thing.^[9]
   
   • For example, if you offer to help a relative who’s struggling financially, someone else in the family may accuse you of coddling or enabling them. Say something like, “I understand your concerns, but everyone falls on hard times now and then. I think it’s really important to support Beth right now as she’s getting back on her feet.”
   • Being compassionate takes courage, especially when others don’t agree with what you’re doing.

[Edit]Cultivating a Compassionate Mindset

1. Develop self-compassion. In order to show compassion to others, you must first learn to be compassionate towards yourself. You can practice self-compassion by acknowledging and praising your strengths and accomplishments, accepting your flaws without judgment, and forgiving yourself for your mistakes.
   
   • If you struggle to treat yourself with compassion, think of the kindest person in your life. Strive to treat yourself the way they treat you.
   • Self-care is an important component of self-compassion. Caring for yourself properly can mean many things, including sleeping well, eating well, getting exercise, and doing things you enjoy.
2. Accept others’ flaws and weaknesses. Being compassionate towards somebody doesn’t mean that you have to agree with everything they do. It is important, however, to both recognize their good qualities and accept their bad ones. Remember that all people have the potential for good, even if their actions don’t always meet that potential.^[10]
   
   • While it’s okay to be critical of other people’s actions, try to avoid judging them based on your own prejudices and assumptions. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and recognize that they have their own struggles and challenges.^[11]
3. Be patient with those who are struggling. It can be terribly frustrating to watch someone make mistakes or behave in self-destructive ways, especially if it’s someone you love. However, remind yourself that in order to be truly compassionate, it’s important to offer love and kindness even if the other person doesn’t respond to it the way you’d like or continues to behave in ways you don’t agree with.^[12]
   
   • This doesn’t mean you have to put up with abuse or stay with somebody whose behavior is harmful to you emotionally or physically. Instead, focus on maintaining a loving, empathetic attitude even if you have to build stronger boundaries or completely cut ties with the person.
4. Practice mindfulness to become more compassionately aware. Being mindful can help you become more patient and more aware of what’s going on within and around you. If you find yourself feeling frustrated or upset, stop what you’re doing, breathe deeply, and try to become aware of what’s happening in your body and mind without judgment. Practicing this kind of compassionate self-awareness will help you build the skills you need to be more compassionate with other people.^[13]
   

[Edit]Tips

• While helping others is an important part of compassion, it’s also vital that you care for yourself. Compassion shouldn’t be about people-pleasing or accepting unfair treatment from others. Don’t be afraid to say “no” if you feel that someone else’s behavior is unacceptable or that what they are asking is unreasonable (or just more than you can handle right now).^[14]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Be Kind
• Be a Good Person
• Be Respectful
• Show Empathy
• Listen
• Validate Someone's Feelings

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23406/10-easy-ways-to-cultivate-compassion.html
2. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/emotion_coaching_one_of_the_most_important_parenting_practices_in_the_histo
3. ↑ https://www.inc.com/lee-colan/think-before-you-speak.html
4. ↑ https://www.inc.com/lolly-daskal/9-important-ways-that-will-make-you-treat-people-better.html
5. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23406/10-easy-ways-to-cultivate-compassion.html
6. ↑ [v161768_b01]. 9 April 2021.
7. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/the_compassionate_species
8. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/compassion/definition#how-cultivate-compassion
9. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/200911/what-compassion-is
10. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/200911/what-compassion-is
11. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23406/10-easy-ways-to-cultivate-compassion.html
12. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/200911/what-compassion-is
13. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/does_mindfulness_make_you_compassionate
14. ↑ https://www.mindful.org/compassionate-boundaries-say-no-heart/

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How to Prevent Dry Hair

Dry and damaged strands can instantly ruin your appearance, not to mention the overall health of your hair. By incorporating a few maintenance techniques to your hair care routine, you can prevent dry hair before all the washing, drying, and styling leaves your locks dehydrated and brittle.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Shampooing and Conditioning

1. Use a hydrating shampoo. There are many different kinds of shampoo on the market, but choose a shampoo that specifically contains moisturizing properties aimed at restoring dry hair. Look for shampoos that are labeled as “hydrating,” “moisturizing,” or “replenishing.”^[1] Shampoos that contain oils hydrate hair really well.
   
   • Some shampoos contain cleansing ingredients such as alcohol and sulfates that can effectively clean your hair, but can also cause your hair to dry out. Try to avoid shampoos that have sulfate ingredients or buy shampoos that specifically are labeled “sulfate free” and “alcohol free.”^[2][3]
   • You could also try using a gentle shampoo made for babies. Baby shampoo has a gentle formula that can cleanse your hair without washing away your natural hair oils.^[4]
2. Space out shampooing your hair. Frequent shampooing can wash away the natural oils from your hair that keep your strands moisturized.^[5] If you wash your hair every day, try washing your hair every other day, or even every couple of days.^[6] This will allow your hair to naturally retain its oils and stay hydrated.
   
   • If you’re concerned about your hair being oily looking, consider using dry shampoo in between your washes.^[7][8] Dry shampoo can liven up the look of your hair without having to shampoo it.
3. Condition your hair after shampooing. Conditioning your hair after you shampoo is an easy way to add extra moisture to your hair. Conditioners, by nature, are meant to add hydration to hair, but look for conditioners that are specially formulated for dry hair.^[9]
   
   • Be sure to focus adding the conditioner to the ends of your hair; the part of your hair that is most likely to be dry and damaged.
4. Apply a deep conditioner to your hair. Using a deep conditioner a few times a month can add even more moisture to your hair. Deep conditioners contain natural ingredients like oils but also contain man-made ingredients like proteins and polymers that help hydrate hair.^[10] Before shampooing, add a deep conditioner to your hair, and use your hands and fingertips to completely cover your hair, especially the ends. Leave the deep conditioner on your hair for at least 15 minutes, then rinse out the conditioner.^[11]
   
   • Deep conditioners work especially well for adding shine to previously dull and damaged hair.
5. Apply a natural ingredient hair mask. A hair mask works much in the same way as a deep conditioner. The mask is used to coat the hair for a period of time, adding moisture and nutrients to your strands. Hair masks can be made out of all sorts of natural ingredients like eggs, yogurt, bananas, mayonnaise, avocado, and pumpkin, just to name a few.^[12] Coating your hair with different natural oils, butters, and teas can also help hydrate and soften hair.
   

[Edit]Protecting Your Hair

1. Be gentle when drying your hair. Rather than intensely rubbing your hair with a towel, or immediately blow drying your hair, consider trying to squeeze most of the water out, then letting your hair air dry.^[13]
   
   • You could also try drying your hair with an old t-shirt, as a t-shirt fabric is gentler to your hair than a towel. Drying your hair roughly with a towel can cause damage to the outer layer of your hair strands.^[14]
2. Protect your hair before using hot tools. The heat from your styling tools can cause significant damage to your hair, ultimately making your hair dry and brittle. Protect your hair from the heat by adding a protective product to your hair before using your hot tools.^[15] Heat protectants can come in sprays, serums, and gel-like formulas.
   
   • This protective protect will lend a barrier between your hair and the heat from the styling tools.
3. Trim your hair regularly. Since the ends of your hair are most likely to be dry and damaged, keep your ends healthy by getting regular hair trims every few of months. Cutting the last ½ inch off from the ends of your hair can help your hair look even and healthy, reduce split ends, and remove the most damaged portion of your hair.
   
4. Rinse out harsh chemicals. Swimming in chlorinated pools and bodies of salt water can significantly dry out your hair. Be sure to rinse your hair after swimming in these water environments so the chemicals don’t sit on your hair and suck out the moisture.^[16]
   
   • Consider wearing a swim cap if you are going to be swimming in pools with chlorine, or salty bodies of water.
5. Shield your hair from the sun. Before going outside to spend the day in the sun, spray a protective sunscreen onto your hair so the sun’s intense heat and UV rays don’t dry out and damage it.^[17]
   
   • Or, you could try keeping your hair covered with a wide brim hat.^[18]
6. Incorporate a balanced diet. Consuming foods that are high in protein, vitamins, and healthy fats is a good way to promote healthy hair from the inside out. Foods like leafy greens, fruits, fish, and wholes grains contain essential fatty acids and vitamins that help to nourish not only your body, but also your hair.^[19]
   

[Edit]Avoiding Drying and Damaging Practices

1. Avoid brushing wet hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your damp hair.^[20] Since hair is more fragile when it’s wet, brushing your hair with the bristles of a brush increases the chances of breaking your hair.
   
   • If you do brush your hair, brush your hair when it’s dry, and use a boar bristled brush.^[21] Boar bristled brushes do a good job of bringing hair oils from the top of your head downward, effectively moisturizing dry ends.
2. Avoid using hot tools. The temperature from styling tools can cause heat damage to your hair. Try styling your hair in other ways that don’t require you to use a blow dryer, flat iron, or curler. Consider styling your hair in braids, buns, or twists so you can give your hair a break from the heat.^[22]
   
   • If you must use hot tools to tame your hair, consider lowering the heat settings. Some hot tool heat settings go all the way up to 450°, which is significantly high considering water only has to reach 210° to boil.^[23]
3. Avoid damaging hair treatments. Any kind of chemical hair treatment (including dye jobs, highlighting, lowlighting, perms, relaxers, etc.) causes damage to your hair.^[24] This chemical damage can, in turn, cause your hair to become fragile and dry. If you can, avoid chemical treatments altogether, especially if your hair has had more than one treatment at a time.
   
   • Giving your hair a break from the chemicals will allow your natural hair to grow out which should be healthier and more hydrated.
   • If you must dye your hair, consider using a dye with either low amounts of ammonia, or no ammonia at all.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Diet and lifestyle are also a part of keeping healthy hair.
• Consult your hairdresser for some more hints on how to prevent dry hair.

[Edit]Warnings

• If you are allergic to any ingredients, make sure your hair products don't contain those ingredients.
• Don't use too much of any product, that can make your hair look greasy and weigh down your hair.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Remove and Prevent Split Ends
• Prevent and Treat Dandruff

[Edit]References

1. ↑ http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/807453/5-tips-to-keep-hair-hydrated
2. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/beauty/hair-styling/scalp2tip-13/dry-hair?page=1
3. ↑ http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/807453/5-tips-to-keep-hair-hydrated
4. ↑ http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/27017/medical_conditions/top_7_tips_to_treat_and_prevent_dry_hair.html
5. ↑ [v161652_b01]. 25 November 2020.
6. ↑ http://www.elle.com/beauty/hair/tips/g8239/dry-hair-repair/?
7. ↑ http://www.elle.com/beauty/hair/tips/g8239/dry-hair-repair/?
8. ↑ [v161652_b01]. 25 November 2020.
9. ↑ http://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/dry-hair-remedies-you-can-do-yourself
10. ↑ http://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/dry-hair-remedies-you-can-do-yourself
11. ↑ http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/807453/5-tips-to-keep-hair-hydrated
12. ↑ http://www.homeremedyshop.com/37-proven-home-remedies-for-dry-hair/
13. ↑ http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/807453/5-tips-to-keep-hair-hydrated
14. ↑ http://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/dry-hair-remedies-you-can-do-yourself
15. ↑ http://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/dry-hair-remedies-you-can-do-yourself
16. ↑ http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/27017/medical_conditions/top_7_tips_to_treat_and_prevent_dry_hair.html
17. ↑ http://www.matrix.com/Blog/How-to-Moisturize-Hair-28-Tips-on-Preventing-Dryness-and-Hydrating-Hair
18. ↑ http://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/dry-hair-remedies-you-can-do-yourself
19. ↑ http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/807453/5-tips-to-keep-hair-hydrated
20. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/beauty/hair-styling/scalp2tip-13/dry-hair?page=1
21. ↑ http://www.matrix.com/Blog/How-to-Moisturize-Hair-28-Tips-on-Preventing-Dryness-and-Hydrating-Hair
22. ↑ http://www.matrix.com/Blog/How-to-Moisturize-Hair-28-Tips-on-Preventing-Dryness-and-Hydrating-Hair
23. ↑ http://www.matrix.com/Blog/How-to-Moisturize-Hair-28-Tips-on-Preventing-Dryness-and-Hydrating-Hair
24. ↑ http://www.matrix.com/Blog/How-to-Moisturize-Hair-28-Tips-on-Preventing-Dryness-and-Hydrating-Hair

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How to Candle Flame Meaning

The spirits are talking, and your candle knows what they’re saying

Fire. It’s mesmerizing to watch, but did you know that the flicker of a flame could be more than a pretty light? Candle flames have been interpreted by witches and spellcasters for centuries. Some believe that a flame's height, dance, and color can say many things about an individual’s life or spiritual practice.^[1] So, what are the spirits saying about you? Light a candle and keep reading to find out!

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Candle flames can flicker to the north, south, east, and west if a spirit is trying to tell you about the effects of your spell.^[2]
• Crackling or popping candle flames could mean spirits are arguing or trying to communicate with you, so listen closely.
• A blue candle flame shows that a spirit is near and willing to hear your prayers.
• The larger and brighter a candle burns, the more powerful your spell or manifestation will be.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Common Interpretations

1. Dancing Candle Flame{endbold} If your candle flame moves to and fro, it could be because it holds too much power. A spell cast over a dancing flame can go tremendously well or terribly wrong, so always exercise caution when your candle’s flame waves.^[3]
   
   • The higher a flame jumps, the more resistance it’ll have against a spell.
   • The shorter the flame, the easier casting the spell will be.
2. Jumping Candle Flame{endbold} A jumping flame is a sign of hesitation. Like the flame, your energy is unpredictable and may go against your intentions. So, be cautious before casting a spell, as it may not go how you intend.
   
3. Small Candle Flame{endbold} A small, low flame could be from a lack of energy. This is because the spirits are reminding you to be patient. Keep a watchful eye on your candle before you cast a spell, as the bigger the flame, the more power your spell will have.^[4]
   
   • A steady but low flame can still produce magic if your intentions are strong.
4. Big Candle Flame{endbold} A high, steady candle flame may be a sign that you’re feeling confident. Your power is at its fullest, and your spell work will reflect that. This tall flame is a message from the spirits that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.^[5]
   
5. Flickering Candle Flame{endbold} The direction your candle flickers in could be a message from a spirit. If you’re wondering whether or not a spell has worked, notice if your candle’s flame is flickering. This could be a spirit trying to send you a message about your power.^[6]
   
   • If the flame flickers north, your spell has made a physical mark.
   • If the flame flickers south, energy still surrounds you.
   • If the flame flickers east, a mental part of your spell has taken effect.
   • If the flame flickers west, strong emotions are tied to your spell.
6. Crackling Candle Flame{endbold} A popping or crackling flame could signify a spiritual argument. If you’ve asked the spirits a question, this indicates a negative response. Perhaps multiple spirits are fighting with one another, or a single spirit feels ill will toward you.^[7]
   
   • A crackling flame could also be a sign that you’re personally dealing with communication issues. Take a moment to reflect on your social connections and ask the spirits for guidance.
7. Steady Candle Flame{endbold} If the flame appears normal, everything is going as planned. The steadier the flame, the more likely your spell will take hold. If a candle’s flame is solid, the universe is in your favor, and the spirits are ready to answer your call.^[8]
   
8. Sputtering Candle Flame{endbold} If your candle’s flame keeps going out, it may be a sign that you’re running out of energy. This is the spirit world’s way of telling you to slow down. Take a moment to recharge and return to your spell work later.^[9]
   
   • If a flame suddenly goes out on its own, it could be a sign that your work is complete and the spirits have received your prayer.^[10]
9. Bright Candle Flame{endbold} An abnormally bright flame may happen when spirits want to capture your intention. Perhaps you’ve cast a spell with lots of power or asked a specific question. Either way, the spirits are letting you know that they’ve heard your plea.
   
10. Heart-Shaped Candle Flame{endbold} If your candle molds and bends into the shape of a heart, a loved one is thinking of you. Perhaps it’s a family member from the spirit world or a friend living far away. Either way, someone is sending you love.
    
11. Dual Flames{endbold} A candle that burns with 2 flames indicates split energy. If more than 1 flame comes from 1 wick, it could be a sign that a spirit or energy source is divided.^[11]
    
    • Coincidentally, some also believe that 2 flames are a sign of 2 spirits working together. This may happen when 2 witches or spellcasters perform a ritual together.
12. Smoking Flame{endbold} A flame making a significant amount of smoke may be a sign that things aren’t as they seem. In spirituality, smoke and fire relate to air, and air is the element of communication; therefore, a smoking flame could signal that you’re looking at things from the wrong perspective.
    
    • Black smoke is a sign of negative energy and bad luck, while white smoke indicates positivity and good luck.^[12]

[Edit]Candle Flame Colors

1. Blue{endbold} If your candle has a blue flame, a spirit is near. Blue candle flames are the universal symbol of spiritual entities. Maybe a fairy, angel, or demon is in your presence.^[13]
   
2. Red and yellow{endbold} A red or yellow flame represents mundane energy. These flames are fueled by emotion, whether that’s passion, grief, or anger. The energy is high and unpredictable, which may affect the outcome of your spells.^[14]
   
   • Red is a spiritually passionate color often linked with passion, desire, and anger.
     • Santa Muerte, the Mexican folk saint of death, is often worshipped with red candles to invoke love and heal a broken heart.^[15]
   • Yellow represents the Earth’s energy and symbolizes spiritual nuances.
3. White{endbold} It’s a good sign if your candle suddenly burns white. White is the spiritual color of purity; therefore, a white flame indicates peace, healing, and prosperity. So, if you’ve cast a spell or asked the spirits a question and the candle burns white, good things are coming your way.
   
   • Some spiritual rituals honor Santa Muerte with a white candle to bring gratitude and peace.^[16]
4. Black{endbold} If a flame burns black, be warned. A black candle is indicative of negative energy or spirits. These flames hold darker meanings of mystery and peril. A dark presence or misfortune may be near.
   
   • In Mexican culture, a black candle or flame could be a sign that the saint of death, Santa Muerte, is near.^[17]

[Edit]What is the spiritual meaning of a high flaming candle?

1. High flaming candles are a sign of spirituality. If you light a candle and it grows bigger and bigger, it may be because you’re surrounded by positive energy. This high-flickering candle is a good omen and can be interpreted in many ways, depending on your intentions or spell.
   

[Edit]Best Practices for Reading Candle Flames

1. Take in your environment before interpreting a candle flame. Notice if there’s a draft, fan, or breeze in your space. Outside elements could affect how your candle burns.^[18]
   
2. Make sure your candle’s wick isn’t too long. A long candle wick could result in black smoke and throw off your reading. As a general rule, trim your candle’s wick to be about before lighting.^[19]
   
3. Set an intention before lighting your candle. As you set up your spellcasting space, ask yourself, “What do I want from this candle?” The reasoning or intention behind your spiritual work fuels your energy, and in turn, fuels your candle.^[20][21]
   
   • Continue meditating on your intention as the candle burns.
   • Keep your intention specific but not too detailed. For instance, say you want to manifest love. Make sure to state what type of love you're after (romantic, platonic, self-love, etc.).

[Edit]Expert Interview

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[Edit]References

1. ↑ [v162054_b01]. 25 May 2023.
2. ↑ [v162054_b01]. 25 May 2023.
3. ↑ https://www.groveandgrotto.com/blogs/articles/the-candle-signs-dictionary
4. ↑ https://www.groveandgrotto.com/blogs/articles/the-candle-signs-dictionary
5. ↑ https://www.groveandgrotto.com/blogs/articles/the-candle-signs-dictionary
6. ↑ https://www.groveandgrotto.com/blogs/articles/the-candle-signs-dictionary
7. ↑ https://www.pagangrimoire.com/candle-signs-flame-meanings/
8. ↑ https://www.pagangrimoire.com/candle-signs-flame-meanings/
9. ↑ https://www.pagangrimoire.com/candle-signs-flame-meanings/
10. ↑ https://www.pagangrimoire.com/candle-signs-flame-meanings/
11. ↑ https://www.thepeculiarbrunette.com/candle-flame-meaning/
12. ↑ https://www.thepeculiarbrunette.com/candle-flame-meaning/
13. ↑ https://youtu.be/mqkpX_MBCuU?t=49
14. ↑ https://youtu.be/mqkpX_MBCuU?t=60
15. ↑ https://libres.uncg.edu/ir/asu/listing.aspx?id=35721
16. ↑ https://libres.uncg.edu/ir/asu/listing.aspx?id=35721
17. ↑ https://libres.uncg.edu/ir/asu/listing.aspx?id=35721
18. ↑ https://youtu.be/BVrtP4oGXbo?t=477
19. ↑ https://youtu.be/6UCO4oM-E9k?t=235
20. ↑ [v162054_b01]. 25 May 2023.
21. ↑ https://youtu.be/6UCO4oM-E9k?t=88

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