The practice involves igniting a chosen aromatic substance, typically incense, and allowing it to smolder slowly within a designated receptacle. The burning process releases fragrant smoke that permeates the surrounding environment. For instance, one might light a stick of sandalwood incense and place it in a holder, allowing the fragrant smoke to fill a room.
This procedure offers various potential advantages, including creating a calming atmosphere, masking unwanted odors, and serving as an aid to meditation or spiritual practices. Historically, the utilization of fragrant materials for ritualistic and therapeutic purposes dates back millennia, spanning diverse cultures worldwide.