Sleep
Sleep
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Medical research is increasingly showing how essential sufficient sleep is for us all, to lead healthy, happy lives. Please take a look at the resources below to see how they could help you improve your sleep pattern
Medical research is increasingly showing how essential sufficient sleep is for us all, to lead healthy, happy lives. Please take a look at the resources below to see how they could help you improve your sleep pattern
The one stop shop for all you need to know about sleep.
If you’re looking for advice on how to sleep better, would like tips on tweaking your routine or help to understand the science behind your sleep patterns, you’ll find it all here
If you're having sleep problems, there are simple steps you can take to improve your sleep pattern, get into a daily routine and ease those restless nights. Find out how to get to sleep and how to sleep better
Through science-backed meditation and mindfulness tools, Headspace helps you create life-changing habits to support your mental health and find a healthier, happier you
Calm is "dedicated to adventures in mindfulness, the power of a good night's sleep, and cultivating a healthier and happier life"
Top Tips on how to get to sleep
If you have difficulty falling asleep, a regular bedtime routine will help you wind down and prepare for bed. Your routine depends on what works for you, but the most important thing is working it out and then sticking to it. Most adults need between six and nine hours of sleep every night
Make sure you wind down and relax
A warm bath (not hot) will help your body reach a temperature that's ideal for rest
Writing "to do" lists for the next day can organise your thoughts and clear your mind of any distractions
Relaxation exercises, such as light yoga stretches, help to relax the muscles. Don't exercise vigorously, as it will have the opposite effect
Reading a book or listening to the radio relaxes the mind by distracting it
Make your bedroom sleep-friendly
Your bedroom should be a relaxing environment. Experts claim there's a strong association in people's minds between sleep and the bedroom
However, certain things weaken that association, such as TV's and other electronic gadgets, light, noise, and a bad mattress or bed
Your bedroom ideally needs to be dark, quiet, tidy and be kept at a temperature of between 18c and 24c
Fit some thick curtains if possible. If you're disturbed by noise, consider using earplugs
Keep a sleep diary
It can be a good idea to keep a sleep diary. It may uncover lifestyle habits or daily activities that contribute to your sleeplessness
If you see your GP or a sleep expert they will probably ask you to keep a sleep diary to help them diagnose your sleep problems. So taking one you've already done with you could save time
A sleep diary can also reveal underlying conditions that explain your insomnia, such as stress or medication
If you need more ideas, you can get help and advice from your GP
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