Hoping for better sleep tonight? We all know quality sleep is important, it impacts our energy levels, mood, hormones and overall health! As it’s national bed month, we thought we’d run through some top tips for a better night’s sleep. Here are a few changes you can make to your sleep routine to ensure you wake up feeling refreshed.
Keep a regular bedtimeA regular bedtime and wake time (where possible) helps to strengthen your circadian rhythm. This programmes your body to sleep better.The Flip clocks are a stylish wake up alarm!
Get outsideGet out into natural light as soon as possible in the morning. Sunlight and fresh air helps to reset your internal body clock and makes you more alert.
Keep Electronics AwaySay no to the electronics before bedtime – put away phones, tablets, gaming devices and switch off TVs. The blue light in these devices hinders melatonin production, keeping you awake.
Have a cosy bedroomMake sure the bedroom is cool, dark and quiet and features a comfortable, supportive bed. Fresh bedding and a tidy room also help.Check out our range of solid wooden beds and luxury mattresses if you’re in need of an upgrade!
Cut back on CaffeineConsider cutting out that evening cup of coffee. Caffeine affects us all differently, but if you’re sensitive to it, avoid for 8 hours before bedtime.Try a Camomile tea or other decaf option.
Relaxing RoutinesRunning a hot bath, lighting a soothing scented candle or curling up with your book are all sure to help relax you into a deep slumber.You can find a range of luxury toiletries to help you unwind here.
Drink AlcoholUsing Alcohol as a sedative may make you sleepy, but it has a dramatic impact on the quality and quantity of your sleep.A mocktail made with fresh cherry juice contains melatonin, which can aid sleep and still feels like a treat!
Exercise before bedRegular exercise is great for sleep, but avoid at least 2 hours before bedtime.Try gentle stretches or massages to help you wind down.
Go to bed uncomfortableDon’t go to bed full, hungry or thirsty. Ensure you’re eating healthy meals at regular times throughout the day and are staying hydrated.If you need a snack before bed, bananas contain potassium and magnesium, which can help with muscle relaxation.
Watch the clockThis only increases anxiety levels when you can’t sleep and prevents you from drifting off. Try and focus on your breathing instead – relaxed and awake, but drowsy, is better than wide awake and stressed!
Go to bed when you’re not readyGoing to bed when you’re not feeling sleepy can lead to you trying to force sleep, which unfortunately, cannot be done! Go to bed when you feel tired and use your awake time for a relaxing activity like reading or listening to soft music.
Nap During the dayOf course, naps are perfectly fine on the odd occasion, but if you’re regularly struggling to sleep during the night and relying on naps during the day, you could be preventing yourself from falling asleep when bedtime comes!
I hope you’ve found one or two tips to help you sleep better tonight! If you think you’re in need of a bed or mattress upgrade, get in touch or visit our Sheffield showroom – our team would be happy to talk you through the process! You can also pick out a new bedding set, pyjamas, scented candles and more in store or online.
Of course, we’re all different and what works for some may not always work for others. If you’re having ongoing problems with insomnia, we would always recommend speaking to your doctor.