Do this for a better (beauty) sleep tonight

A deep, skin-rejuvenating sleep might seem a challenge right now but it’s worth spending a little time to create the best possible atmosphere conducive to a beautiful slumber.  An ultrasonic diffuser is the answer, trust me. 

I asked aromatherapy specialist Pat Princi-Jones to share her sage advice: 

1. What oils could we use throughout the day which will help us (45+ women) sleep better at night? 

“My favourite oils for women making emotional and physical adjustments include geranium - hailed as an endocrine regulator and known to reduce adrenal fatigue and balance unruly hormones - lavender, clary sage and Roman chamomile. My personal favourite is neroli - its bitter-sweetness is at once cooling and soothing to frayed nerves and hot flushes. Peppermint, grapefruit and bergamot can also help reduce hot flushes and even provide a boost in vitality. And if you feel desire levels are quite low then ylang ylang, jasmine absolute and mandarin can give a much-needed boost in self-confidence.”

2.How long should I use my sonic diffuser for?

“Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids – 70 times stronger than the plant they are sourced - so less is more in aromatherapy. I diffuse for three hours at most and would never leave the diffuser running all night, especially in a child’s room.”

3. Are the most well-known essential oils for sleep - lavender and chamomile - universally sedative? What if you don’t like these?   

“Because smell is such a personal experience and sensory response, not all people like the aroma of the same oil. If you are one of the few who dislikes lavender or Roman chamomile, then I suggest you try helichrysum, sweet marjoram or neroli in their place.”

Health coach Samantha Lee Carbone  (IG @samanthalee.carbone) agrees that, just like children, we too would benefit from a night-time routine. 

“Begin to incorporate sleep-inducing products like lavender and magnesium into your daily routine. These supplements can help with relaxation and sleep quality when combined with other strategies. Diffusing oils in your room before you get into bed is a great way to help you relax before falling asleep. 

Sam uses Oil Garden’s 3-in-1 Ultrasonic Diffuser $39.99 with its Sleep Assist Essential Oil Blend (a combination of sweet orange, lavender, marjoram and German chamomile) 

“Magnesium cream rubbed behind the legs is also a great way to help you wind down. Try incorporating these relaxation techniques to help improve your sleep quality; listen to relaxing music, reading a book, taking a hot bath, meditate before or in bed, focus on your deep breathing while visualizing your happy place in your subconscious. I would also reduce screen time but most importantly stop a few hours before bedtime. If you are someone who watches TV or is on your mobile device before bedtime, maybe try reading a book in bed, or listen to relaxing music or the radio before sleep with dim or no lights on.” 

I use the InEssence Midnight Ultrasonic Diffuser, $59.95, (inessence.com.au/products/midnight-diffuser/) with a few drops of ie: sleep (a combination of lavender, mandarin, roman chamomile and valerian), $34.95 inessence.com.au/products/ie-sleep-oil-blend-25ml/ 

NOTE: I’m not paid to endorse any of these products. I only recommend what I know really works.