Sleep masks and aromatherapy: the ideal combination for relaxation

Long day? Brain won't shut off? You're not alone. Many people lie awake at night, even when they're exhausted. Your body might be tired, but your brain doesn't always get the memo. Stress, screens, and constant stimulation keep your mind active long after the day's over.

This is where a sleep mask and aromatherapy can help. Combined, they do more than make your bedroom feel fancy. They guide your body and mind into rest mode. No special tools or apps needed. Just your senses and a bit of intention. Here's how the combo works and how you can work it into your nightly routine.

Light messes with sleep. An eye mask can fix that.

Light tells your brain it's time to be awake. Even small amounts, like the light from your phone charger, can interfere with melatonin, the hormone that helps you fall asleep. A sleep mask gives your brain the opposite message: "Lights out, time for restful sleep."

But not all masks are created equal. Some press on your eyes. Others slip off mid-night. And the cheap ones? They don't block out much. If you want one that stays on, feels soft, and blocks light completely, get a silk one that fits snugly but comfortably. Drowsy silk sleep masks are made with mulberry silk and an adjustable strap. They feel good, stay put, and actually keep the light out for a good night's sleep.

Smell something relaxing before bed

Smell is powerful. Your brain processes scent through the limbic system, the part that handles emotions and memory. That's why a familiar smell can comfort you or take you back in time to a specific moment. Aromatherapy uses this to your advantage.

The right scent can soothe your nervous system, slow your heart rate and aid your body in transitioning to rest-and-digest mode. Here are different essential oils that work wonders before bed:

• Lavender: Probably the most popular. Backed up by several studies, lavender oil can even improve sleep quality in people with mild insomnia.

• Chamomile: Most popular as a tea, but folks find the scent calming, too.

• Sandalwood: Warm and grounding. Good if you don't like florals.

• Bergamot: A citrus scent that helps reduce anxiety and stress.

You don't need a diffuser. Just add a few drops of essential oil to a tissue near your pillow or use a roll-on oil on your wrists or neck to soothe your senses before bed.

When your brain doesn't chill, this helps

You know those nights when your body's tired, but your brain's still racing? That's where this combo really shines.

• The sleep mask helps by blocking out light and any distractions around you.

• The scent gives your mind something gentle to focus on.

It actually pulls you out of the stress loop and into your body. That shift out of your head and into your senses is how you unwind naturally. It's like giving your brain a signal: "You're safe. You can rest now."

Do it the same way every night

Your brain loves patterns. A consistent bedtime routine offers quality sleep-wake cycles and uninterrupted sleep. Over time, your body starts to relax automatically when it senses that the routine is starting. This might look like:

• Washing your face with a calming cleanser: It's more than just hygiene. Using a gentle cleanser, like the one from Drowsy's Sleep Hygiene Essentials collection, helps you reset after the day. Warm water opens your pores and relaxes your muscles, signalling that the night is here and it's time to wind down.

• Putting on your Drowsy sleep mask: As soon as you slip on your Drowsy silk sleep mask, you block out light and set the stage for sleep. The soft, breathable silk feels like a gentle hug for your face, helping you shut out distractions and settle into a peaceful state. It's lightweight, comfy, and stays in place all night.

• Lighting the Drowsy candle: Scent plays a big role in how your brain feels. The Drowsy candle fills your room with a subtle woody, musky aroma. It's calming without being overpowering. Let it burn while you go through the rest of your routine, then blow it out right before bed.

• Spraying your pillow with Drowsy's S.O.S. spray: A few sprays of the Drowsy Pillow Spray on your pillow, sheets, or eye mask adds a layer of calm that sticks with you as you fall asleep. Over time, just smelling it can start to make you feel sleepy.

• Taking your Drowsy natural sleep supplements: If you want extra support, try one of the Drowsy Beauty Sleep Clinic Supplements. They're made with natural ingredients like magnesium, L-theanine, and herbal extracts, designed to help you relax without grogginess in the morning.

• Getting into bed, no phone, no scroll: This might be the hardest part, but it's worth it. Leave your phone on the dresser or put it on "Do Not Disturb." Give your senses a break. Your brain has already had enough input for the day. Now, it just needs time to rest in a relaxing environment.

Small habits, big difference

You don't need to overhaul your entire life to enjoy restorative sleep. Just a few simple tools—a good sleep mask, a relaxing scent, and a steady routine—can change how your nights feel. So, try the mask. Light the candle. Spray your pillow. And let your brain finally catch up with your body because rest isn't a luxury; it's something you actually need. Don't know where to start? Let Drowsy help you!