Nice try, but if the candles you are burning are made from paraffin wax, what you're actually doing is releasing toxins and chemicals into the air, which actually isn't very sophisticated at all, we hate to point out.

The solution is to opt for natural, organic candles instead and we really like the Nadur Organics range, which are toxin free, environmentally friendly and burn for 50% longer than the paraffin kinds. Most importantly of all, they smell gorgeous and all three varieties . . . Sooth, Awaken and Cleanse . . . contain high concentrations of essential oils so you can also benefit from their mood enhancing qualities. They cost 31.99 and check www. nadurorganics. ie for a list of stockists.