I’m continuing with the theme of “Sleep” because it has become a disrespected component of good health (guilty as charged right here, too!) And of course, it’s just odd that we do that because it could be one of the easiest to fix!
In my previous two posts, Sleep Struggles and We Make Melatonin Later!, I mention diffusing essential oils as one way to help improve sleep quality and duration. Today I will share with you quickly how essential oils work and a few good oils to try tonight!
Essential oils are aromatic compounds found naturally in flowers, shrubs, trees, leaves, stems, roots, and other parts of plants. They are carefully extracted through a distillation process that works best for each plant they originate from.
The essential oils contain specific constituents, unique to each one, which help make them effective tools for us to use on our wellness journeys. Essential oils can be used in three ways: aromatically, topically, and internally. This is where it becomes important to always use a high-quality essential oil! Alway read the label before using as well.
Diffusing at night fills the bedroom with wonderful smells that can promote relaxation and sleep. The nose breathes in the oil which triggers the olfactory nerve. This sends a signal to the brain in the area near the limbic system. Smell is the only sense that is connected to the limbic system–which is one great reason why essential oils are so useful! Emotions, memories, hormones, and the central nervous system of our bodies are all linked to this specific part of the brain. This means we can use essential oils to reset and recharge ourselves, especially with sleep.
The Pink Lily Pad and Two Tadpoles 