Simple Tips to Getting Better Sleep

I find it can take at least 1 to even 2 hours before I drift off to sleep. I am bit of an insomniac/night owl and deep thinker. Bad sleep can wreak havoc with your functionality the next day and your moods. I have been trying to switch into a better evening and night time routine to get better sleep.

Some tips:

1. Limiting screen time (this includes tv, laptops and mobile phones) in the evenings and not taking your phone to bed – try and switch off screen time at least one hour before bed. I am guilty of night-time mindless scrolling on my phone. Get in to a habit of placing your phone far away from your bed before you go to bed.

2. A cup of decaffeinated herbal tea or camomile tea in the evening- can help you relax and de-stress.

3. Avoid eating a heavy meal in the evening - the later you eat the less your body will be prepared for sleep. I try to avoid any heavy meals post 8pm.

4. A shower or bath just before bed using a lavender infused shower gel/lavender essential oil – lavender is believed to assist with relaxation, anxiety, restlessness and insomnia.

5. Avoid exercising just before bed – I find this a lot easier now the gyms are closed due to COVID. I was a big fan of a late night gym session pre-COVID. The later we exercise, the less our body is prepared for sleep.

6. Light a candle and dim artificial lights – creates a nice ambience. I am a fan of soy, beeswax and coconut wax candles as they are more eco-friendly (albeit more expensive), than paraffin wax, which can emit harmful vapors into the air. Don’t forget to switch the candle off before you sleep although!