Many people have difficulty sleeping at night and are reluctant to take sleeping pills which can often be addictive and have a multitude of side effects. I sometimes get asked, "I can't sleep. Can you recommend an incense that can help me?" Burning incense before bed can create a peaceful atmosphere which in turn promotes a restful night's sleep.
The best incense for sleep is jasmine. I have two different varieties: Indian Jasmine (which is what you may call traditional jasmine, a deeper scent with a peppery edge) and Arabian Jasmine (known in India as mogra) which has a slightly subtler, more mellow fragrance.
In case you aren't a fan of jasmine, you can also take a look at the article I wrote on the best incense for relaxation for some alternatives. Our ability to sleep is closely linked to how relaxed we feel in general.
Besides burning incense, here are some more suggestions I've found useful for inviting good sleep:
- Don't take your phone or computer into your bedroom. Good sleep and screens don't mix - it's best to leave them in another room to avoid the temptation to check your email or social media after lights out.
- Have some quiet time before bed. Something as simple as reading a book, journalling or drinking some herbal tea can make a huge difference to how easily you drift off. The aim here is to bring relaxation to the body and mind so avoid anything which will stimulate you.
- Make your bedroom a nice place to be. You'll find it easier to relax if your room is clean and tidy. I would also recommend keeping some indoor plants in your bedroom to balance the energy and provide more oxygen.
Finally, if it's just not happening, don't try and force it. Sleep is something that we're not in control of. If you're feeling energised at night, try exhausting your creative energy by drawing, painting or even exercising lightly. It's a much better option than laying in bed frustrated or worrying about being tired the next day!