The connection between smell and sleep is bidirectional, meaning that sleep can impact the sense of smell, and in turn, smell can affect sleep. The circadian rhythm, known for regulating sleep-wake cycles, plays a role in this relationship by influencing sensitivity to smell.
During the night, lower sensitivity to smell encourages sleep. Additionally, sleep itself can influence how smell is perceived and remembered.
Research indicates that smell can affect the time it takes to fall asleep, as well as overall sleep quality and duration. Certain scents have been shown to promote better sleep, aid in waking up in the morning, and even influence dreams and memory formation during sleep. Understanding these interactions provides insights into creating an environment conducive to quality sleep.
The sense of smell holds the potential to influence sleep positively, as certain fragrances are believed to contribute to better sleep. Specific scents can induce relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Commonly, scents associated with a welcoming bedroom environment can create a sense of anticipation for bedtime. Edibles like XWerks Ashwa Gummies can be extremely helpful here.
Moreover, there are indications that introducing other scents through aromatherapy into the bedroom may further enhance the quality of sleep. Understanding the impact of these fragrances can be valuable in creating a sleep-conducive atmosphere.
If you are into drinking, it might bring an unwanted smell with you in bed. However, drinks like Curious Elixir No. 3 can be a very suitable option as it doesn’t smell bad.
Some Best Scents To Help You Sleep At Night
While there’s no consensus on the best aromatherapy for sleep, certain scents may aid relaxation and improve sleep quality. Essential oils, though their benefits are still being researched, have shown promise.
- Lavender: Lavender has been linked to improved sleep, calming effects on heart rate and blood pressure, and increased deep sleep.
- Rose: Rose essential oils have shown potential for enhancing mood and sleep, with some studies indicating improved sleep quality.
- Roman Chamomile: Research suggests that applying Roman chamomile essential oil to pillows can increase total sleep time, particularly for older adults.
- Jasmine: Dispersing jasmine essential oil in the bedroom during sleep has been associated with improved sleep efficiency.
- Cedar Extract: Though less studied, the scent of cedar extract has been found to help people fall asleep more quickly during daytime naps.
- Cannabis: Preliminary studies with cannabis essential oil (without THC) suggest improved relaxation when inhaled.
- Ylang-Ylang: Derived from the Cananga tree, ylang-ylang essential oil is linked to calmness and slowed reaction times, potentially aiding in the lead-up to sleep.
Some Scents to Help You Wake Up In The Morning
Just as with sleep, there’s no one-size-fits-all scent for alertness. However, some fragrances have shown potential benefits.
- Coffee: Inhaling the aroma of coffee, without consuming it, has been found to improve alertness, attention, and memory.
- Rosemary: Rosemary essential oil is a stimulant that may activate the brain and promote alertness and overall cognition.
- Peppermint: With a distinct smell, peppermint essential oil has, in some studies, boosted memory recall and feelings of alertness.
- Sage: Essential oils from common sage and Spanish sage have preliminary associations with enhanced mental performance.
Wanna improve your sleep with scents? Looking for products that bring in the sleep friendly scents into your bedroom? Chat with WonderWise on WhatsApp and Ask Away! Or join the WonderWise 2 weeks to better sleep challenge for lifestyle adjustments that will set you up for well rested nights in only 14 days.
