There have been many well-documented scientific studies in recent years, showing that nighttime light exposure is detrimental to our health, increasing our risk for several types of diseases. Even dim light can interfere with our melatonin production. So if you find it hard to sleep unless it’s totally dark, that’s probably not a bad thing – it’s healthier to sleep in the dark. If your room isn’t dark enough, this can be easily fixed with a good high-quality comfortable sleep mask. What’s not so easy to fix is the inability to sleep caused by other factors such as stress, anxiety, or just by having a messed up circadian rhythm. We know we should try to relax and unwind before bed but with such busy lives, sometimes we forget how.
In the light of some promising, but small, studies indicating the usefulness of lavender to reduce anxiety and aid sleep, I have been looking at the best ways we can use lavender in our nighttime routine.
The Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask by LotFancy is No 5 on my list of “Five Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep” – it’s last but by no means least.
The Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask has a super soft polyester velvet casing which is filled with organic Flax seeds and natural Lavender flowers.
It is perfect for relieving headaches, muscle tension, and migraines. A 2012 study showed Lavender may be effective in easing symptoms of migraine headaches, but it’s also great for meditation, and yoga sessions.
Not only that but the Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask will block out all light and because it has an adjustable strap – a feature that most don’t have – it will fit all sizes and is comfortable enough to wear for the whole night.
The scent is that of fresh sweet lavender so it is natural and by no means overpowering. It may, however, be a little strong when first removed from the packing. A good tip is just to leave it to air for a little while, it will soon settle and give off a natural soft lavender scent.
Where the Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask by LotFancy goes beyond most, in my opinion – apart from the adjustable strap – is that the super soft casing has a concealed zipper. This means the inner contents can be removed to allow the outer casing to be machine-washed. Or you can remove the inner contents if you wish, and just use the sleep mask on its own. You may find the using the mask without the contents more practical for regular use.
At 8.6 x 4.3″ it is a generous size, is well made with neat seams, and the addition of the extra-wide, soft velvet sides will ensure that no light seeps through.
The Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask can be used at room temperature or can be heated or cooled.
The instructions for this are the same as those for the Lavender Eye Pillow. For a cooling treatment simply place the pillow in a plastic bag and freeze for 1 -2 hours. You can even keep it in a zipper bag in the freezer. That way it will always be cold and on hand when you need it. It will retain it all its suppleness – flax seed will chill but never bunch together and freeze. Cold therapy is fantastic for reducing bags under the eyes.
You can also heat the pillow for a warming therapy if you wish. First remove the inner contents, mist the inner pillow with water and microwave for 30 seconds. Be very careful that you don’t overheat it, though. My suggestion is to press the inner pillow over the back of your hand after heating it to check for any hot spots, before putting the inner part back into the mask for use anywhere near your eyes.
Whether you want to lie back, relax and let the stresses of the day melt away, or you want to be able to sleep undisturbed by the light, the Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask by LotFancy is your perfect solution for travel or home.
To view or buy, click here.
Leave a Reply