A Good Night's Sleep!

You will notice that some of my posts are going to be about makeup, hair, fashion, etc. but NOT all. Hopefully that doesn't disappoint because it's the case today-- I woke up feeling refreshed and well-rested for the first time in at least two weeks and I want to share what (I think) the reason is. Lately I've had a lot on my mind... That stress, coupled with the physical pain I experience on a somewhat regular basis (from neck and shoulder issues,) has kept me from enjoying a decent night's sleep.

What happened last night was especially miraculous because when I laid down to go to sleep, I was feeling the pain in my neck and shoulders more than usual. When I go to bed with pain it's almost certain that I'll wake up with more since I'm a side-sleeper. No matter how hard I try to sleep flat on my back I always roll onto one side, then the other, during the night. So most mornings I wake up feeling stiff and achy in my chest, neck and shoulders from the pressure of having them "cramped up" all night. Last night was an exception even though I slept on my side!

I remembered, just before bed, that certain essential oils are supposed to promote relaxation and sleep- so I figured I'd give it a try. A while back I bought a diffuser which aromatically releases the oils into the air- when we inhale the oils we receive the benefits of them- known as aromatherapy. Also, I've been slowly stocking up on some high-grade (therapeutic grade) essential oils from doTERRA. Last night I diffused a few drops of lavender with a couple drops of rosemary and let it run for about an hour while I was lying in bed reading. After about 30 minutes I got drowsy and put down the book.

When I woke up this morning- after sleeping for about 9 hours straight- I felt refreshed. The best part was that I noticed NO pain or stiffness in my neck, shoulders or chest, like I usually experience daily! This is so great! I'm going to test it out again tonight, but I'm sure that it was the aromatherapy that did the trick. I've been taking a couple calcium/magnesium supplements before bed, as calcium also promotes relaxation, but I haven't noticed a big difference like I did with the oils last night. I'm sure the supplements are helping also though-- plus, I get my calcium for healthy bones, joints, muscles, etc. when I take them.

I'd recommend aromatherapy to anyone who's having trouble sleeping, or experiences chronic pain. There are some other oils from doTERRA that I've used for my pain as well-- ones that are applied topically- and they have really helped me (wintergreen, deep blue, and past tense.)