Aromatherapy Is the Answer to Better Sleep
Your body’s self-healing depends on you getting enough sleep regularly. In the short term, lack of sleep can lead to impaired memory, stress, mood swings, and reduced alertness. The long-term effects, however, are much more serious. That’s why using aromatherapy to improve your sleep can lead to a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, balanced hormones, and improved glucose tolerance. Here’s a simple guide to help you get a good night’s sleep and improve your overall health.
Disclaimer: keep in mind that this guide is a recommendation only, it’s not medical advice. It’s always advisable to discuss these matters with your doctor.
Give Meditation a Try
Meditation is a great remedy for sleepless nights. By doing conscious breathwork, you can focus your mind, slow down your breathing, and lower your heart rate. This can help you fall asleep faster. Try meditating by lying flat on your back and breathing from one to three as you inhale and exhale.
Essential Oils Do Wonders
It’s a known fact that plants have superpowers. Using the natural properties in their oils can stimulate alertness but also improve relaxation and soothe the mind. Lavender and camomile are especially good for calming the body and helping you fall asleep. You can even spray a few drops of lavender on your pillow.
Ever Heard of Binaural Beats?
Sometimes, no amount of essential oils and meditation can help relax you. That’s where binaural beats come in. These are sound frequencies that create an auditory illusion in our minds. Studies have shown that they can recreate the same state you get into when meditating. Binaural beats in the delta range (1 to 4 Hz) help with deep sleep and relaxation.
Use Bath Salts
We can’t talk about aromatherapy without mentioning bath salts. The trick to falling asleep is lowering your body’s core temperature. Prepare a bath with your favorite natural bath salts (keep in mind that Epsom salts relax the muscles) and let them soothe you.
Aromatherapy 101: Burning Incense
Similar to the effects of essential oils, incense helps create that soothing spa experience we all crave. Incense can act as a natural sedative that can help you fall asleep faster and prolong your deep sleep state. Scents like lavender and sage are associated with better sleep.