Here are some of the effects of lighting an incense stick when sleeping:
Relax the Body and Mind
Relieve Stress: Many incense fragrances contain chemical substances that can affect the nervous system. For example, lavender incense, which contains ingredients like linalyl acetate and linalool, can interact with neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, soothing the tense nerves and helping to reduce the stress from daily life. When people are stressed before going to sleep, this soothing effect can lower the levels of stress hormones in the body, such as cortisol, making people feel calmer.
Reduce Anxiety: Some incense with citrusy scents like lemon or bergamot can relieve anxiety. These scents can stimulate the brain to release serotonin, a neurotransmitter that makes people feel happy and relaxed. Lighting this kind of incense before bed can help adjust emotions and reduce anxious thoughts, allowing people to fall asleep with a more peaceful state of mind.
Improve Sleep Quality
Help with Sleep: Certain incenses have natural sedative and hypnotic properties. For instance, chamomile incense contains components that can regulate the body’s biological clock. Its flavonoids such as apigenin can act on the benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, which are related to sleep regulation. This makes the brain activity slow down, shortening the time it takes to fall asleep and helping people enter a deep sleep state more quickly.
Reduce Sleep Disturbances: A quiet and comfortable sleeping environment is crucial for good sleep. Appropriate incense can mask some odors that might interfere with sleep, such as a slight musty smell in the surrounding environment or other unpleasant odors in daily life. Meanwhile, the soft fragrance emitted by the incense can create a peaceful and cozy atmosphere, giving a comfortable sensory hint and reducing the interference of external factors on sleep.
However, it should be noted that when using incense, make sure there is good ventilation. Some people may be allergic to the ingredients of the incense, and if the quality of the incense is not up to standard, the smoke produced by burning may contain harmful components.
