Drifting Off

A good night’s sleep is delicious and essential for our mental and physical health. Sometimes we’re so wound up we can’t manage to drift off, and the minutes tick by as we lie awake. Just as you’d prepare for waking activities, try preparing for sleep. Make time to soothe yourself. Sleep can’t be forced; relax as you approach.

What you’ll need: lavender and chamomile essential oils, candles, towel
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Relaxing Baths:
Draw a warm bath. Do not make it too hot. You should be able to enter the bath comfortably and remain in it for half an hour. After the bath fills, add 10 to 20 drops each lavender and chamomile essential oils, and agitate the water with your hand to mix. Light some candles around the tub and turn off the lights. Enter the tub and lie back. Close your eyes and slowly run your thoughts through your mind. Whenever you find tension, consciously try to release it. Soak for 30 minutes, letting go of every day stress.
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Deep Belly Breathing:
This kind of breathing can be very calming. After one of your baths; lie comfortably in bed on your back. Breathe in deeply through your nose, filling your lungs to the full capacity; your upper chest should rise as your lungs fill. Exhale through your mouth. Listen to your breath as you exhale. Next, as you inhale through your nose, focus on breathing into your abdomen as well as your chest. Exhale through your mouth. Repeat this pattern for up to 100 breaths, or until you fall asleep.
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Sleep Inducer:
Soak in tea instead of drinking it before going to bed. Steep four bags each of tangerine lavender and chamomile tea in a pot of boiling water. Add this mixture to your bath and submerge yourself in the tub. Close the room up to seal in the steamed aroma. Relax for ten minutes or more as you inhale the scents. You’ll be able to fall asleep sooner after the sleep inducer bath.