AND
If you find it hard to fall asleep, you’re not the only one. Lots of Kiwis have this issue and if quality of life is a priority for you, it’s worth finding a solution.
Sleep is vital to our well-being: the more we get, the better equipped we are to fight off illness and handle any mental or physical challenges our day might throw at us.
Here are some ideas to help get you to the sleep zone. Don’t attempt to do all of them, it’s not the Sleep Olympics and too many pre-bed tasks can overstimulate you. Just pick one or two things to incorporate into your evening routine.
Aesthetic Check
- Check if your space is a sleepy one, a quiet, dark room is best.
- Fresh air is good, and slightly cooler is better. Make sure the mozzies can’t get in.
- A clean bedroom can help to clear your mind and help you to feel more in control.
- Avoid electronics before bedtime and angle your timepiece away from you so you’re not clock-watching.
Power Downs
- Get primed for sleep with a relaxing bath or shower.
- Incorporate some sleepy scents like lavender or jasmine.
- Switch alcohol or coffee for a relaxing herbal tea like vanilla or chamomile.
- Unwind with a good book, or switch on some sleepy tunes.
Prepare for snooze
- Try some simple breathing exercises, while focussing on something positive.
- Try a sleep app, podcast or playlist. Find one that works for you; music, guided meditation, or nature sounds to distract the mind.
- If you’re lucky enough to have a special friend in your bed with you, intimacy is a great precursor to sleep, releasing hormones that help you feel more connected, relaxed and sleepy.
