Health & Life

The Art of Incense Offering on Lunar New Year: A Guide for Families with Young Children

Incense smoke can adversely affect one's health if inhaled in excess. During the festive season, families with young children should be mindful of this and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration.

Administrator

26 July, 2024

Incense burning has become an integral part of East Asian culture, especially in Vietnamese families with a belief in worshipping ancestors and deities. However, the smoke produced from burning incense can have certain health implications, particularly for young children.

1Impact of Incense Smoke on Children’s Health

Fine Dust Pollution

Fine dust pollution is an issue of growing concern, as it is not just an outdoor problem but also prevalent indoors, posing a high risk of air pollution.

Sources of indoor air pollution include cooking fumes, tobacco smoke, and incense smoke, all of which can adversely affect respiratory health at any age.

Increased Emissions

Burning incense in enclosed, narrow spaces can lead to increased emissions, mainly carbon monoxide (CO). Inhaling CO can cause headaches, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and dizziness.

Impact of Incense Smoke on Children’s Health

Effects on Respiratory System

The impact of incense smoke on health is similar to that of cigarette smoke. Prolonged exposure to incense smoke can increase the risk of respiratory diseases and exacerbate existing conditions.

Additionally, some other potential effects of incense smoke on children include an increased risk of nasal and throat cancer, contact dermatitis, asthma, coughing, and developmental delays.

2Ways to Minimize the Harmful Effects of Incense Smoke on Children’s Health

Refrain from burning incense when infants, young children, the elderly, or individuals with respiratory conditions are present in the room.
Opt for higher-quality incense sticks that produce minimal or no smoke.
Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows, turning on exhaust fans, or using a range hood when burning incense.
Designate a separate room for worship, preferably away from the children’s play and living areas.
Avoid lighting multiple incense sticks simultaneously or doing so continuously.

Ways to Minimize the Harmful Effects of Incense Smoke

This article has provided insights into the impact of incense smoke on children’s health and suggested ways to mitigate its harmful effects. By being mindful of these risks and taking preventive measures, parents can better safeguard their children’s well-being.

Source: Helino

Frequently asked questions

Incense offering is a traditional practice during the Lunar New Year celebrations, especially for families with young children. It is believed that the aromatic smoke from burning incense purifies the air, drives away evil spirits, and brings good luck, health, and prosperity for the coming year.

Families should involve their young children in the process to teach them about tradition and culture. First, prepare a tray with three types of incense: sandalwood, agarwood, and cinnamon. Light the incense and place it in a censer or incense holder. Families should then bow and pray together, wishing for good health and happiness. Finally, parents can teach their children how to properly extinguish the incense and dispose of the ashes.