I have not slept unaided for over 30 years. People often think I am exaggerating when I say that, but I am absolutely telling the truth. I have been tested thoroughly by a variety of doctors who believe that I really can't sleep naturally. It's not excessive anxiety or pressure or unhappiness doing it. I have none of those problems (particularly since I quit working). My brain just won't close down. There's a glitch in there.
Many years ago, I started with over-the-counter sleep aids, and gradually worked my way to prescription meds. I'm on Alprazolam now, with a bit of Amitriptyline. It's working pretty well. I can usually get six hours in. And I see a doctor every few months to work on refining my sleep meds and rituals.
For you lucky people who only have occasional sleeplessness, I've got a lovely recipe for you. In fact, you don't even need to be an insomniac to enjoy it. It's smells great and softens skin.
I call it Sleep Easy Salve. It's a very liquid concoction, so if you wish to add a bit more beeswax, go ahead. Also, your beeswax may be shredded or in pastille form.
The scents I've used may be changed up using other essential oils you find relaxing. It's all up to you. But always include lavender essential oil. It's very sleep inducing. Some others you use may include frankincense, rose and vetiver.
This recipe makes about one cup of salve and takes about 25 drops of essential oils. And you can pour the salve into one big jar or several small ones. Glass or plastic containers are fine, but make sure they are clean.
Here's the recipe:
Sleep Easy Salve
1 c. olive, almond or jojoba oil
2 Tbsp. of beeswax grated or in pastille form
Lavender, orange, cedarwood (or whichever oils you prefer)
Melt the oil and beeswax in the microwave in 20 second bursts, stirring extremely well after each burst. Don't let the mixture boil. As soon as those beeswax pieces are dissolved, remove immediately.
Now add the essential oils, 25 drops total. Mix thoroughly. Pour immediately into clean containers. Let stand until cool.
It's ready to use. This should keep about three months.
You can use this on your temples, hands or wrists. Enjoy your sleep!
If you'd like to share your own home memories or tips (or recipes), send ideas to tkwolford@aol.com. Or you can write me via traditional mail at The Farmer's Exchange, P.O. Box 45, New Paris, IN 46553.