COMBINING SLEEP POSITIONS AND ESSENTIAL OILS FOR UNINTERRUPTED SLEEP

 

Whether we're aware of it or not, our bed is sometimes our safe place. It's the place we sometimes think about during a hard day and can't wait to lie down, finally rest, and recharge. We believe that, like many others, you often have trouble sleeping and constantly struggle to find the right position.

 

However, the solution to this problem may be simpler than it seems. By combining the power of different sleeping positions and soothing essential oils, you can "create" a true sanctuary that promotes deep and well-deserved rest that we all deserve. We'll reveal how essential oils of lavender, frankincense, peppermint, and lemon can help you sleep well and soundly.

 

WHY IS THE POSITION IN WHICH WE SLEEP IMPORTANT?

 

It may seem silly, but the position in which you sleep greatly and often affects how well you sleep. Of course, we all turn during the night and can't be sure in which position we sleep, but there are several optimal sleeping positions that, according to experts, significantly encourage better sleep.

 

SLEEPING ON YOUR BACK

 

Sleeping on your back is a position often recommended by experts when it comes to sleeping positions. The reason is that sleeping on your back helps align the spine, reducing the risk of back and neck pain. It would be best to sleep with your head slightly elevated, as this adds extra support to the curve of your spine.

 

Also, this position is useful for reducing acid reflux. However, sleeping on your back has its "disadvantages." These disadvantages will be most felt by those who have apnea, which can worsen if they sleep on their back.

 

SLEEPING ON YOUR SIDE

 

Sleeping on the side is one of the favorite sleeping positions. Research has shown that more than 70% of respondents prefer to sleep on their side, and if that is not the position in which they primarily fall asleep, they almost always wake up on their side.

 

It is believed that sleeping on the side can alleviate snoring and is the best sleeping position for pregnant women, but also beneficial for people with apnea. However, if not done correctly, i.e., if we hunch too much and twist the spine, sleeping on the side can contribute to shoulder and hip pain.

 

SLEEPING IN THE FETAL POSITION

 

It should come as no surprise that one of the good sleeping positions is exactly the one we were all in as babies. Sleeping in the fetal position can reduce snoring and be helpful for people with herniated discs or spinal stenosis. However, often sleeping in this position and excessive bending can limit breathing and cause discomfort.

 

SLEEPING ON YOUR STOMACH

 

Many will agree that they love or really dislike sleeping on their stomach. However, if you are considering trying to sleep in this position, here are the advantages and disadvantages. When it comes to sleeping on the stomach, it can alleviate snoring and mild sleep apnea. Also, in some cases, it can reduce the risk of developing apnea itself.

 

However, sleeping in this position can strain the neck and spine, which undoubtedly leads to the development of pain and discomfort.

 

If you have been "struggling" with choosing the right sleeping position for some time, know that you are not alone. However, we advise you to try different positions and determine which one suits you best. It all revolves around your individual preferences and health, as not all people can sleep in the same way.

 

IMPROVING SLEEP WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

 

After briefly discovering which positions are good for sleeping, we will also focus on the impact of essential oils on good sleep. Essential oils are known for their therapeutic properties, so it's not surprising that they can help improve sleep.

 

However, there are several essential oils that are absolute favorites when it comes to this topic, namely lavender, lemon, frankincense, and peppermint essential oils. Below we reveal why these essential oils are good for improving sleep and how to use them.

 

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

 

 

One of the most popular essential oils in the world is that of lavender. This plant is known for its sedative and calming properties and can reduce stress and anxiety, creating a peaceful atmosphere for sleep. You can use it by dropping a few drops of essential oil on a pillow or adding it to a diffuser in the bedroom.

 

Also, lavender essential oil reduces symptoms of anxiety, helps heal wounds and relieves pain and sleep disorder. It also helps improve brain function, and experts point out that it can alleviate insomnia and reduce symptoms of fatigue and depression.

 

LEMON ESSENTIAL OIL

 

 

While lemon is often associated with freshness and energy, its citrus aroma can stimulate a positive mood and help reduce stress. Use it by mixing a few drops of lemon essential oil with a base oil. Then massage it into the temples or wrists before bed.

 

This essential oil is beneficial for your health because it acts like a painkiller, can reduce anxiety and depression, but also make the skin healthier. Also, it helps in treating superficial wounds and helps you breathe easier, a problem many of us struggle with during these cold months.

 

PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL

 

 

Peppermint essential oil has invigorating properties that can clear the mind and relieve tension, both in the body and mind. It can be especially helpful for those prone to headaches, which are a particular nuisance when we go to sleep. To use it, you can add a drop or two of essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam before sleeping.

 

It will help you because it has, and is known for, its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also rich in antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and in addition to people with headaches and migraines, it can help those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.

 

FRANKINCENSE ESSENTIAL OIL

 

 

Although this essential oil is not used as often as the previous three, experts do not question its beneficial properties. This essential oil is known for its ability to promote relaxation and improve focus. Dilute it with a base oil and apply it to the bottom of the feet or spray it in the bedroom.

 

In addition to promoting relaxation, frankincense essential oil can improve asthma, alleviate arthritis, improve stomach function, and maintain oral health.

 

CREATING A SLEEP RITUAL: COMBINING POSITIONS AND ESSENTIAL OILS

 

To take advantage of the combined benefits of optimal sleeping positions and essential oils, consider creating a ritual that includes both elements. Start your routine by adopting a comfortable sleeping position that is in line with your preferences and health needs.

 

Then include essential oils. Experiment with different combinations to create the perfect one for you. For example, for the perfect balance, you can combine the soothing aroma of lavender with the invigorating scent of lemon. Or, peppermint and frankincense, which will completely calm you down in combination, and you will feel very peaceful.

 

 

As you settle into your chosen sleeping position and inhale the soothing scents of selected essential oils, allow your mind and body to relax. Let go of the tensions of the day and embrace the peace of the night. With a thoughtful combination of optimal sleeping positions and the therapeutic power of essential oils, you will be well on your way to achieving the deep and rejuvenating sleep your body craves.