Evaluation of the Relaxation Effect of Different Candle Lights by Fingertip Plethysmograph

Abstract

In modern society, recession and restrictions on going out have affected the quality of life; stress-related illnesses, such as depression and psychosomatic disorders, are increasing, and spending time alone in one's room has become a cause for concern. Candles have been used as sources of light for a long time; in recent years, a large proportion of women use candles as indirect lighting in public spaces as well as in their own rooms for relaxation. However, there is growing concern that candles may cause fire accidents; therefore, the use of electric candles has increased. In this study, the differences between the relaxing effects of electric candles with and without fluctuations are examined via fingertip plethysmography by assuming a windless space. Pulse waves and questionnaires were used for evaluations. We also examined whether similar relaxing effects could be achieved for gender differences. The results showed that fluctuating electric candles were expected to have relaxing effects. The responses to the impression evaluation questionnaire showed that there were no significant differences between the effects achieved with electric and wax candles.