Achieving a restful nights' sleep.

I have recently been quite a restless sleeper so thought I'd make a post on how to really wind down before bed and get yourself rested properly. These tips are what I have picked up from working in aromatherapy and also from different clients and how they tend to drift off. So far they seem to be working!

Sleep is so important for a variety of things including: 

- Lowering stress levels

- Improving memory 

- Helping you become more alert

- Regenerate body cells 

- Can aid in weight loss

- And Of course, improved skin condition.

Below I have compiled a list of things to do and not to do before bed and shown some products which will help you fall in to a wonderful sleep.

                                                                   (Image not mine)

Pretty much anything with Lavender in will already ensure you will be on your way to dream land.

Lavender is excellent for calming and soothing both mentally and physically due to it's super relaxing scent. It is also good any inflammation, easing pain, soothing nerves or stress and can help relax muscle spasms. It is one of 2 essential oils which can be applied neat to the skin (the other being Tea Tree). To be honest I could preach about how great Lavender is all day but let's move onto the products! 

- Lavender Oil - You will have already read the benefits of Lavender but here is how to use. Invest in an oil burner, you can get them cheap enough from places such as ebay and are amazing for filling your house with wonderful aromas. In this case, place it on your bedroom and fill the dish with water. Add around 5-10 drops of Lavender oil depending on how strong you want the smell. Place a tea light underneath and light about an hour before bed. Lay and inhale and exhale with a few deep breaths and feel the effects take over.

-Pukka Night Time Tea Sachets - including oat flower, lavender & limeflower tea for a peaceful sleep. " A unique blend of soothing herbs to help you unwind. Drink in the evening to prepare you for a deep, restful sleep". Herbal tea is great as it has no caffeine and herbs have been used for thousands of years to support health. Other great teas include Peppermint or Chamomile and Honey.

- Lush:

 "A French Kiss" - An all time favourite Bubblebar of mine. Infused with Lavender Oil and Coconut oil this beautifully scented bubble bar promotes peaceful sleep and produces mounds of bubbles aswell as moisturising and nourishing the skin. 

"Hoppity Poppity" - A Limited Edition bunny shaped bath ballistic for Easter. Not only is this the cutest thing ever but this herby ball of goodness also holds a little surprise! 

- Pillow Mists -These are great if you don't have an oil burner and are readily available from places like Boots. The more natural the product is the better. Spray straight onto the pillow or as a room spray.

If a shower is more your thing: 

Try using products from the Dr Organics range which uses the finest natural and organic ingredients wherever possible. The products are Paraben Free, have no animal ingredients, have no mineral oils and use bio-active ingredients. I have recently picked up the Lavender Body Wash and Skin Lotion. There are also many other products available and in different ranges too.

If you do choose to shower, keep the water as warm as you can to relax the muscles and try not to use anything invigorating or stimulating. 

My final tip for a peaceful sleep is try not to use electrical products before bed! Turn your phone/ Tv/ iPod off at least an hour before bed so you aren't stimulating your brain.

Of Course you may not be a fan of Lavender but if you can find any of the following oils in similar products, these will also aid sleep:
- Ylang Ylang
- Sandalwood
- Marjoram
- Chamomile
I'm not suggesting you have to do ALL of these in one night, but try mix and match a few things and see what works for you.

I hope this helps if any of you have been struggling with sleep.
Sweet Dreams xx