Busting the Biggest Sleep Myths: What Science Really Says

At Durance, we know just how important sleep is. It really is the foundation of better health, mood, and wellbeing. But with so much advice floating around – from “quick fixes” to “grandma’s remedies” – it can be tricky to know what’s fact and what’s simply a sleep myth.

That’s why we’re taking a closer look at some of the biggest misconceptions around sleep, and uncovering the truth about what really helps you drift into restful slumber.

Along the way, we’ll share how adding small rituals, like a soothing Pillow Spray or calming Diffuser, can transform your evenings into a serene retreat.

Your Brain Switches Off When You Sleep

It’s tempting to imagine your brain shutting down at night, but the truth is quite the opposite. During sleep, your brain is actively working – repairing cells, consolidating memories, and regulating vital functions.

In fact, your body uses this time to restore itself, which is why good-quality sleep leaves you feeling sharper and more energised the next day. So, rather than being a passive state, sleep is one of the most active healing processes your body goes through.

Screens Don’t Really Affect Sleep

Scrolling through your phone before bed might feel harmless, but the blue light emitted from screens tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime. This suppresses melatonin, your natural sleep hormone, making it harder to fall asleep.

To help your body ease into rest, try creating a screen-free wind-down routine. Swap your late-night scrolling for a gentle ritual – like dimming the lights, reading, or surrounding yourself with a Lavender Room Spray to signal to your brain that it’s time to switch off.

Alcohol Helps You Sleep Better

It’s a common belief that a glass of wine will help you nod off, but while alcohol can make you drowsy, it also disrupts the deeper, restorative stages of sleep. The result? You may fall asleep faster but wake up groggy and less refreshed.

If you’re looking for a natural way to unwind instead, try infusing your evening with Durance scented candles in calming notes like Cotton Flower or Provence Lavender. They set a relaxing atmosphere without compromising your sleep quality.

The Older You Get, The Less Sleep You Need

Many assume that older adults require less sleep, but studies show that most people still benefit from around 7–8 hours regardless of age. What changes is sleep quality, as circadian rhythms shift and nights can become more fragmented.

If you’re finding sleep elusive, focusing on comfort and routine can help. A consistent bedtime ritual, perhaps accompanied by a Reed diffuser with soothing notes of Camellia or White Tea, can create the perfect cue for your body to wind down.

Napping Can Replace a Full Night’s Sleep

A quick nap may give you a short-term boost, but it can’t replace the benefits of a full night’s rest. In fact, long or late naps may make it harder to fall asleep when bedtime comes around.

Instead of relying on naps, aim for steady, good-quality night-time rest. Setting the scene with a Pillow Spray – delicately scented to relax the senses – can help your body associate bedtime with calm, restorative sleep.

Quantity Matters More Than Quality

We often hear people obsess over “8 hours,” but it’s not just the number of hours that matters – it’s how restorative those hours are. Poor-quality sleep, even if it’s long, leaves you feeling drained.

Building a bedtime ritual helps improve quality. Think low lighting, gentle stretches, and scents proven to promote relaxation. our range of fragrances can transform your bedroom into a sanctuary that nurtures deeper, more restful slumber.

Make Sleep Your Sanctuary with Durance

Sleep myths can be confusing, but the truth is simple: creating the right environment and habits is key. A relaxing ritual, free from screens and stress, and enriched with the calming power of nature’s scents, can make all the difference.

That’s why Durance’s Scent to Sleep collection – from lavender pillow mists to soothing candles – is perfect for creating a nightly routine that helps you unwind, relax, and drift into restorative sleep.

Because when you sleep better, you live better. 

Conclusion

At the end of the day, sleep isn’t about following old wives’ tales or quick hacks – it’s about understanding what your body truly needs. By busting these myths, we can see that quality sleep is achievable when we nurture the right habits and environment.

So, forget the myths, embrace the science, and create your own calming bedtime ritual. Whether it’s turning off screens an hour before bed, skipping that nightcap, or surrounding yourself with the comforting scents of Durance’s Home fragrances, you can set the stage for deeper, healthier, and more restorative sleep.

Sweet dreams start with truth – and a little ritual