Calming Scents for Better Sleep and Less Stress

Scent goes straight to the parts of the brain that handle emotion and memory, which is why a familiar fragrance can calm you faster than any app. While candles aren't medicine, many people find certain fragrances help them slow down at the end of the day.

Fragrances people find calming

• Lavender — the classic. Soft, herbal and clean.
• Sandalwood — creamy and grounding.
• Chamomile — gentle, apple-like and soothing.
• Vetiver (khus) — earthy and cooling, a summer favourite in India.
• Soft florals — jasmine and rose in small amounts.

A simple evening routine

1. An hour before bed, dim the lights and light a calming candle.
2. Put your phone in another room.
3. Do something slow — read, stretch, journal, have a warm drink.
4. Blow the candle out before you get into bed.

Our Lavender Sleep Ritual Kit bundles a lavender candle, pillow mist and eye pillow for exactly this.

What to avoid at bedtime

Bright citrus and mint are uplifting — better for mornings. Very heavy gourmands or oud may feel too stimulating for some people at night.

Read more in building an evening wind-down ritual.