As a hobby, I have enjoyed making candles in my off time for the past few years. Selling my product for others to enjoy was merely a thought on the back burner for the majority of that time.

Comfort Measures Candle Co. has come to fruition through years of inspiration, sweat, tears, some blood, and the highs and lows of working in healthcare (most notably through the infamous times of 2020).

Being a new grad on orientation is difficult, I'm sure nearly every nurse can attest to that. Years ago when I began my career in the Emergency Department, I was humbled beyond belief and my confidence in both my skill set and abilities as nurse plummeted. As many can relate, my mental health suffered and I began experiencing somatic symptoms. Candle making was my outlet, it was a newly discovered hobby to express creativity and produce something both I and others could enjoy. Burning the finished product felt like a small victory. It was a moment of peace created by my hands and a reminder to slow down and breathe. This little hobby helped to define the line between work and fun, and remind me that I can and should shut off my nurse brain when I am not at work. Learning how to leave work at work was the biggest game changer for my mental health.

These candles are inspired by processes of nursing, common inside jokes among departments, and playful mannerisms intended to put a smile on another healthcare worker's face. Connecting these thoughts with a scent, and furthermore completing the overall product has brought me so much joy, and I can only hope others will share the same sentiment.

Thank you for supporting a dream that has spent so much time in development. I have spent roughly 10 years in healthcare in a variety of departments, beginning as CNA and currently practicing as an RN. While I've learned to create a hard boundary between work and home life, this crossover of healthcare inspired candles has boosted my spirits immensely. I am so happy to be sharing my craft with other healthcare workers who may need a small pick me up after a long shift.