Like a lot of people, you probably never get to the end of your to-do list. There’s always something more to be done – be it the never-ending laundry or an important work phone call, there’s always some call on your attention.
The danger is that this starts eating into time that you should be using to ease yourself into your night-time routine and a good night’s sleep. According to the Great British Sleep Survey, 51% of the population has problems getting to sleep at night and women are more likely to be affected by insomnia than men.
Sleeping badly can cause a multitude of problems, including, according to NHS online:
- Lowered immunity
- Weight gain
- Difficulty conceiving
- Depression and anxiety
After losing an hour’s sleep yesterday thanks to Daylight Savings Time, now is the best time to focus on how you can improve your sleep.
- Regularity is key. Much as you may want to sleep in until lunchtime on a Sunday, this doesn’t help with your 6am start on a Monday morning! If you have a regular bedtime and wake-up time, your body will adjust. Your body prefers good habits to varying schedules!
- Is it your room? A simple thing like temperature can have a big impact on your ability to sleep and sleep well. Ideally your bedroom should be cool, quiet and as dark as possible – try sleeping with black-out curtains and you’ll never go back!
- How old is your bedding? You should aim to change your mattress every 10 years, particularly if you share a bed, to ensure you are comfortable and supported.
- Get in touch with your circadian rhythms. Lower the lighting in your living spaces in the evening and throw open your curtains for a blast of sunshine first thing.
- Start a night time routine. Again, your body likes good habits and regularity. Help your body understand when it’s time to get ready for bed by adopting the same nightly routine. Perhaps that’s a cup of chamomile tea and a few pages of a book or a lavender scented hand cream. Create a routine that is just for bedtime, something quiet and calming after the rush of the day.
Sleep is one of the most important things you can give your body. It gives you time to heal after illness and time to recharge after a long day. The best way to face a big day is after a good night’s sleep – so get that night time routine in place!
