Incense Project | Fatema Nadeem

Role

Personal Project

Timeline

1 week 2022

Incense Clock

Introduction to Concept

Incense Clock is a mindful timekeeping tool that blends the ancient practice of burning incense with modern needs for relaxation and focus. In a world dominated by productivity-driven schedules, this project reimagines how we experience time. By combining fragrance and timekeeping, the Incense Clock encourages users to slow down, engage their senses, and create moments of mindfulness in their daily lives.

Subject Research

In today’s fast-paced world, time often feels like an enemy. We’re constantly racing against the clock, juggling endless tasks, and feeling the weight of time anxiety—the persistent fear that we’re not doing enough or that time is slipping away. This project was born from my own struggle with time management and the desire to find a more mindful way to relate to time.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, these feelings became even more pronounced. The blurring of days and weeks, coupled with heightened stress and uncertainty, made it clear that we needed new ways to connect with time—not just as a measure of productivity, but as a source of calm and presence."

The Incense Clock is designed to be a multisensory experience. Each incense block represents a segment of time, and as it burns, the fragrance fills the space, creating a calming atmosphere. The color and shape of the blocks help users identify different tasks or intentions, while the scent anchors them in the present moment.

For example, a lavender-scented block might be used for relaxation, while a citrus-scented block could help with focus and productivity. As the incense burns, users are encouraged to pause, breathe deeply, and reflect on their intentions. The experience is both practical and meditative, offering a tangible way to engage with time that feels less rigid and more human.

The Process

Research Methodology:

Subject Research: I explored the concept of time anxiety and its impact on mental health, particularly during the pandemic. I also investigated the connection between smell and memory, recognizing how fragrance can evoke emotions and anchor us in the present moment.
Historical Inspiration: I drew from ancient practices like stone stacking and incense burning, which have long been used for relaxation, mindfulness, and spiritual cleansing.
Ideation: I developed the concept of using incense blocks to represent time, with each block’s color, shape, and fragrance corresponding to a specific task or intention.

Prototyping and Testing

I crafted my own incense blocks, experimenting with different herbs and scents to align their energetic properties with specific moods or tasks.
Over two days, I observed how the fragrances influenced my focus and willingness to engage with tasks.
The pauses between fragrances became a key feature, allowing for moments of reflection and adaptability.