The most common question we are asked at Breathe Natural Health is
“Do you have anything to help me sleep?”
So many people seem to be battling with sleep at the moment, whether it’s falling asleep, or disturbed sleep during the night, it’s still a problem because good sleep is essential for maintaining healthy brain function and physical health. In children and teens, sleep also helps support growth and development.
For those seeking better sleep, natural remedies can be an effective solution. Here are some popular options:
1. Herbal Teas: Chamomile, valerian root, Lemon Balm, Passionflower and lavender teas are known for their calming effects, promoting relaxation and better sleep.
Valerian Root has sedative properties and can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve sleep quality.
Chamomile is popular for its calming effects, which can help reduce anxiety and promote sleep.
Lavender is known for its relaxing properties that can aid in better sleep.
Lemon Balm can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
Passionflower can help increase the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces brain activity and helps you relax and sleep better.
2. Essential Oils: Aromatherapy with essential oils like lavender, Roman Chamomile, cedarwood, and bergamot can help induce sleep. Using a diffuser or applying diluted oils to the skin can be beneficial.
Lavender Oil has calming and sedative properties, can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Diffuse it in the bedroom or apply a few drops to your pillow.
Roman Chamomile Oil has calming effects that can help induce sleep. Use it in a diffuser or in a warm bath before bed.
Bergamot Oil helps reduce anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation and sleep. Can be diffused or applied topically with a carrier oil.
Cedarwood Oil promotes the release of melatonin, helping regulate sleep. Diffuse it or apply it topically with a carrier oil.
3. Magnesium Supplements: Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters involved in sleep. Foods rich in magnesium or supplements can aid in improving sleep quality.
4. Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, can improve sleep quality. However, intense workouts should be avoided close to bedtime.
5. Meditation and Yoga: Mindfulness meditation and gentle yoga can reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
6. Warm Baths: Taking a warm bath before bed can help relax muscles and prepare the body for sleep, especially if you add Epsom salts. It is a good part of a healthy relaxation routine! Try listening to soothing music while in a warm Epsom salts bath, it’ll help you wind down and relax before bed.
7. Healthy Diet: Eat meals on a regular schedule and avoid late-night dinners or snacking.
Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bed. The blue light from screens can interfere with melatonin production.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime as they can disrupt sleep patterns.
Heavy Meals and Spicy Foods: Eating large or spicy meals close to bedtime can cause discomfort and indigestion, making it difficult to fall asleep.
These natural remedies can support better sleep without the need for medication, fostering healthier sleep habits and overall well-being.

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Corner Henley Drive & Ewelme Road, Henley on Klip, South Africa