Jan
28
Written by:
Jane Bridgeforth
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
We already know what insomnia means, don't we? It's the inability to sleep whether it's going to sleep or staying asleep on a regular basis. Stress and depression are 2 major causes of insomnia.
What is aromatherapy? Most of us know about aromatherapy through the use of scented candles, scented soaps, or potpourri. Did you know that aroma means fragrance and therapy means healing? With that in mind, aromatherapy can be defined as the use of plants and plant parts, such as seeds, nuts, herbs, spices, roots, etc., in the form of essential oils to help heal conditions in the body.
There are 2 essential oils that are considered to be very effective for insomnia - lavender and sandalwood. Lavender is an herb with an analgesic (pain relieving) effect. Sandalwood actually comes from the wood of an evergreen tree and has a sedative effect. These essential oils can be blended together or used separately during your regular massage. However, if there is another essential oil, like chamomile, neroli, or clary sage, that helps ease you to sleep, they can also be incorporated into your massage session. Try an evening massage and begin the process of getting your fair share of quality sleep.