Better Sleep Through Lavender

A couple years ago, I started struggling with sleep. I blame the kids. And my husband. It certainly can’t be my fault, right? I would be up in the middle of the night with my brain running nonstop. It became a real struggle for a couple hours. I remembered that a friend of mine had given me lavender to rub on the bottoms of my feet when I was pregnant with our first kiddo. So I went back to that routine and it has helped me significantly. On days that I am feeling more anxious, I will use the roller ball attachments (makes life easier) and roll the lavender essential oil on the bottoms of my feet, on my wrists, and on the back of the neck. I have found that it has cut down on my middle of the night awakenings. I keep it next to the bed and if there is a time that I wake up, I can easily roll on the oil and it helps me go back to sleep.

Why Lavender Oil Promotes Deep Rest
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is famous for its soothing aroma. But its benefits are rooted in science, not just folklore.  Pure lavender essential oil contains high levels of linalyl acetate and linalool. These natural plant constituents interact with the olfactory system to signal the brain to slow down, reduce tension, and enter a state of relaxation.

Not all essential oils are created equal. Many grocery store oils or things you find on Amazon are stretched with synthetic fragrances or chemical fillers. Young Living’s strict Seed to Seal quality commitment ensures you are breathing in 100% pure, therapeutic-grade lavender. There are no synthetics, no toxins, no shortcuts, and no compromises.

Below are some of the ways I’ve used lavender to help improve my sleep. I hope it can help you! For me, I get the best results when I start the sleep routine 30 minutes before my head hits the pillow.

1. Fill the Air (Aromatic)
Diffusing is the easiest way to impact the environment of your entire bedroom.
The Method: Add 5–8 drops of Lavender oil to your Young Living diffuser.
Pro Tip: Turn it on 20-30 minutes before bed and close the bedroom door so the room is ready for you.

2. Create a Weighted Pillow Mist (DIY Spray)
This is a great way to mist your linens so you breathe in the calming aroma every time you move.
The Method: Mix 10 drops of Lavender oil, 1 teaspoon of witch hazel, and 2 ounces of distilled water in a glass spray bottle.
The Routine: Lightly shake and mist your sheets and pillows before climbing into bed.

3. Apply to Pulse Points (Topical)
Applying oil topically allows your skin to absorb the benefits while providing a constant personal scent bubble.
The Method: Mix 2–3 drops of Lavender with a pump of Young Living V-6 Vegetable Oil Complex.
The Routine: Rub it on the bottoms of your feet, your wrists, and the back of your neck.

4. Sip a Calming Evening Tea (Ingestion)
This is a nice idea, but if you’re like me, finding a few minutes for a calming tea amidst the daily struggle is almost impossible. But if you have the time, internal support can ground your body from the inside out.
The Method: Use Young Living Lavender Vitality oil (labeled specifically for dietary use).
The Routine: Add 1 drop of Lavender Vitality and 1 teaspoon of honey to a warm mug of chamomile tea.