Many invest in a wood-burning stove for more than just the wonderful heat they produce. There is something very special, hypnotic – even magical about dancing flames, which have proven to have psychological benefits. Flames don’t need to be devouring a log to promote magic, either. Gas fires can also create a stunning visual gaze, and to a lesser degree, so can some electric fires, albeit without a real flame.
Why We’re Drawn to the Flame
For thousands of years, fire has been central to our life. In the distant past, it cooked food, warded off predators, and provided warmth and light in an otherwise dark and cold world. But beyond its everyday benefits, fire holds a real psychological attraction that continues today.
The flicker of dancing flames can promote a trance-like state. A number of studies suggest that this may be rooted in our distant past. Our early ancestors attuned to fire and its protective qualities may have been better equipped for survival. Over time, and still today, this association with fire has developed into a comforting instinct.
Fires are Hypnotic
Watching a fire – whether a crackling campfire, a wood-burning stove, or even a simple candle can reduce stress and promote a real sense of calm. Research published in Evolutionary Psychology indicates that observing a fire can lower blood pressure (more of this below), increase feelings of comfort, and enhance social bonding.
The flames of a fire are ever-changing as they dance, with a range of shapes, colours, and movements that draw our attention and creates that relaxed, hypnotic feel. Neuroscience research shows that the human brain is drawn to complex yet non-threatening patterns, such as flames, as they provide a little bit of stimulation without overwhelming us. The same goes for looking at waves or seeing a bird in flight. This balance of stimulation and predictability allows us to focus without feeling anxious or bored.
Below is our Ecostar 5 wood-burning stove with a log store, which, although it is one of our smaller stoves, shows an incredible display of flames.
More About Stress Relief
We’ve established fires reduce stress. Fire offers a range of sensory experiences: its heat provides physical comfort and makes a room a much nicer place to be, its light creates a soothing atmosphere, and the gentle crackling sounds as the wood burns can be incredibly calming. These combined effects make fire an effective tool for stress relief. If you go into a fire showroom, you will almost instantly feel an increased sense of relaxation as various flames flicker away, whether that be wood, gas or electric. A fire can also help reduce blood pressure, and with reduced blood pressure comes a host of health benefits; these include a lower risk of stroke, reduced kidney and heart disease and a lower risk of eye damage associated with higher blood pressure.
It’s not just the burning of wood which promotes stress relief – gas fires can produce a stunning flame, and while an electric fire does not produce a real flame, some of the incredible effects they have can still produce a real sense of stress relief. Below is our iRange i220e electric fire; the design and lighting options show what is possible with electric.
Practical Ways to Enjoy a Fire
While not everyone has access to a wood-burning stove or similar, there are still many ways to incorporate fire into your life for its psychological benefits:
Light candles: Use them during relaxation or while taking a bath.
Go to a campfire or bonfire event: This is a great way to connect with others and enjoy the calming effects of open flames.
Install a fire feature: Small, portable fire pits or electric or gas fires can bring the benefits of fire if you don’t want to or can’t burn wood.
Fire is so much more than just a source of heat; it’s a deeply ingrained part of our psychological well-being. Its ability to calm and relax makes it an essential must-have in our busy lives.
