5 ways to sleep better with aromatherapy

Aromatherapy uses essential oils to treat a variety of ailments and conditions. When inhaled, certain essential oils stimulate the olfactory system, which is connected to parts of the brain that regulate emotions and stress responses (mainly the amygdala and hippocampus). This article lists ways to use essential oils to relieve stress and get a better night’s sleep.

There are three easy ways to combat stress through aromatherapy.

1. You can also add 2-3 drops of essential oil to a diffuser or mix a few drops of essential oil into a carrier oil (such as coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil) for a relaxing massage.
2. You can also add a few drops of your favorite calming essential oil to your bath water.
3. You can also apply a drop or two of your favorite essential oil to pulse points such as your wrists, neck, and temples.

Relaxing Oil: Lavender and ylang-ylang essential oils are known to release the “happy hormones” serotonin and dopamine, which help reduce stress and anxiety.

For uninterrupted sleep

Aromatherapy can also be used to improve the quality of your sleep. Here are 5 ways you can use essential oils to help you sleep better.

1. Diffuser: This is a common and safe way to use essential oils. Place a relaxing essential oil in your diffuser along with a carrier oil. The soothing scent of the oil will relax you and help you fall asleep. For better sleep, we recommend using lavender, neroli, and chamomile oils. If you use a diffuser with candles, make sure to store it in a safe place to prevent accidents.
2. Massage: Mix essential oils with a carrier oil and gently massage all over your body or just your pulse points. Take a drop or two of lavender essential oil and mix it with coconut oil and gently massage your scalp in circular motions. Alternatively, you can mix a few drops of cedarwood essential oil with jojoba oil and apply it to your feet. This will instantly relax you and help you sleep better.
3. Pillow Spray: Sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil on your pillowcase a few minutes before you go to bed. If you’re interested in a DIY recipe, making a pillow spray is super easy. Just add 10-12 drops of ylang-ylang essential oil to a spray bottle and mix it with water. Voila! Spray the liquid onto your pillowcase or bedspread before you go to sleep.
4. Bath water: Add a few drops of sandalwood essential oil or neroli essential oil to your bath water. You can also add aromatherapy bath salts. A warm, relaxing bath can help relax your muscles and your mind.
5. Inhalation: You can inhale essential oils before going to bed. Simply place 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil on a cotton ball or tissue and inhale deeply. You will feel instantly relaxed. You can use essential oils such as lavender, sandalwood, and clary sage for this purpose.

Please remember that aromatherapy is a complementary therapy and not a replacement for medication. If you have any medical conditions, please consult with your doctor.

Blossom Kochhar is an aromatherapy pioneer and founder and chairperson of the Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies, Delhi.