Whether you toss and turn all through the night, or just can’t drop off some evenings, lack of sleep can really take its toll. Before you resort to sleeping tablets, try some of these natural solutions. From aromatherapy oils to bedtime tea, they could help you to relax, unwind and get some much needed zzzzs.
Aromatherapy oils to help you sleep
Lots of people swear by aromatherapy oils* for getting a better night’s sleep. Lavender is usually the first to come to mind, but valerian is also a good choice, and rose, frankincense and chamomile can also help to calm your senses.
If you fancy giving aromatherapy a go, Tisserand is a good choice. All their essential oils are 100% pure, and sustainably sourced. The Tisserand Little Box of Sleep includes dream catching pulse point roller balls - Breathe Deep, True Comfort and Sleep Better. It really is a dreamy combination.
The Weleda Lavender Relaxing Body Oil is another good choice and great value for money. It leaves skin feeling really soft. The oil isn’t too greasy, it sinks in well and the fragrance lasts for quite a while, so it’s lovely to use just before bed.
Trouble switching off
It can be difficult to switch off sometimes, particularly if you struggle to stop overthinking. You could try keeping a notebook beside your bed, to make a note of anything that’s worrying you. Sometimes just getting it down on paper can help your mind to stop thinking about it.
You could also try massaging some Badger Sleep Balm into your temples and pulse points, and adding a little just under your nose. Breathe deep and let the lavender, rosemary and bergamot help quiet your thoughts and soothe you to sleep. If you’re not a fan of lavender, try Hurraw Night Treatment Lip Balm instead, which has a really comforting vanilla scent.
Unwinding before bed
While many people turn to a cup of cocoa as a bedtime treat, the sugar may actually be keeping you awake. Try switching to Pukka Night Time Tea. It’s naturally caffeine free and 100% organic. Lavender, chamomile and valeria root make this brew ideal for helping you to unwind and get to sleep. And it tastes really rather good too.
A bath before bed can help you to relax. Try lighting some candles and playing some calming music. A capful of Kneipp Valerian & Hops Sweet Dreams Herbal Bath may be just the thing you need to get good and sleepy. Kneipp is quite a new find for us, but the brand has been going for more than 100 years.
The magic of fresh air
Exercise has been proven to significantly help with insomnia. Lots of people also swear by fresh air for helping them to get their eight hours. So why not try having a long walk or bike ride late afternoon, ideally in amongst nature. A too warm bedroom can keep you awake, so knock the temperature down a degree or two and crack a window open if you can.
Helping your child to sleep through the night
Many of the products we’ve recommended are suitable for children, though do check the descriptions, just in case. Try to make their bed as comfy and cosy as possible. Make sure there are no drafts and that they’ve had a drink of water and been to the loo before bed. You might also want to cut out any sugary food and drink, including juice, for a few hours before bedtime.
A rewards chart and nightlight can also help.
If you do decide to try any of the products we’ve recommended, we’d love to hear how you get on. Here’s hoping you’re soon enjoying a much better night’s sleep.
*Please remember that some aromatherapy oils aren’t recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Lavender is usually safe in moderation, after the first trimester.