French women have long practiced the tradition of spritzing on a fragrance before going to sleep and scenting their sheets as part of their bedtime routine. This practice helps signal to the body that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. One popular scent choice is Aqua Universalis by Francis Kurkdjian, which has a classic and clean-smelling aroma that helps promote feelings of cleanliness and wellbeing. Kurkdjian aimed to create a scent that evoked a sense of feeling good and happy, rather than simply smelling like soap. The fragrance is now available in a linen mist formula specifically designed for bedding, which can instantly create a calming environment in the bedroom.
Mathilde Thomas, creator of Caudalie, also utilizes the power of scent to relax before bed by spraying a blend of chamomile, basil, lavender, and mint on her pillow. This practice of using scent as a way to separate day from night can be an effective part of a pre-bed ritual. This concept is known as “scent-scaping”, which involves creating defined olfactory spaces within the home to improve wellbeing. By using specific scents to separate different areas or activities, it can help improve mental health and create a positive atmosphere in the home. When it comes to scenting the bedroom, it is recommended to avoid citrus or energetic fragrances and instead opt for floral notes like jasmine or neroli, as well as vanilla, amber, and incense.
In addition to scenting the air in the bedroom, it is important to show some love to your sheets in order to create a relaxing and inviting sleep environment. Linen specialists recommend using mild detergents and softeners to wash bedding at a maximum temperature of 40C, and ideally drying them outside. Taking care of your sheets and incorporating fragrance into your bedtime routine can help improve the overall quality of your sleep and enhance your relaxation before bed. French women have long understood the importance of scent in creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere, and by following their lead, you can transform your bedtime routine into a soothing and rejuvenating experience.
