Let's Make A Fresh Start On Monday
They don’t call it beauty sleep for no reason. Failing to get adequate sleep will not only make you the office grump, it is also scientifically linked to weight gain, dull skin, a weaker immune system and that foggy feeling you get when your body has simply had no time to reboot. But if you have failed to make sleep a priority for long enough to have thrown your sleeping patterns out, there are changes you can make which don’t include a visit to the doctor. Why not try these 7 tricks first ...
Swap your exercise routine
We all know that exercising early in the morning is not always a priority so we are not about to give you a hall pass and tell you to ditch your evening workout. We’re about to tell you to swap it out. Ditch your late night cardio session for a weights session to promote a deeper sleep.
Ditch technology
Even for the self-proclaimed night owl who finds inspiration in the middle of the night, ensuring you spend an hour away from your laptop and mobile phone before you go to bed is essential to a good nights sleep.
Do write a list
If you have a busy day ahead, are simply overwhelmed with work or have worries on your mind, put it all to paper. Writing a list will not only help relieve stress but will also give you something to do before bed that is productive but doesn’t include and LCD screen. Keep a notepad and pen next to your bed at all times for those nights your mind runs wild and you need to put it into writing.
Swap your tea for golden milk
Here is the truth about coffee. Sure it will keep your heart racing throughout the night but it won’t make you any more productive. Once your body has hit a plateau, you simply need to get in some sleep. Drinking coffee 3 hours before bed will ensure a restless night even if you fall asleep straight away. Swap it out for golden milk instead.
Eat a heavier lunch and opt for a lighter dinner
Eating a heavy dinner, especially close to bedtime will make you feel sluggish while also promoting a restless night’s sleep. This is because eating heavy, greasy foods, which are hard to digest forces our bodies to work over time causing discomfort while we sleep.
Ditch the emotional baggage
Grandma didn’t lie when she said don’t go to bed angry. Having a bickering session with a loved one, getting wound up, reading negative news or even watching emotionally draining television before bed will prevent you from getting a good nights sleep. Instead engage in calming activities such as reading an inspiring book, listening to relaxing music and sending someone a positive message. Being nice is free so spread the love accordingly.
Swap your shower for a bath
Go back to your roots and have a warm, relaxing bath. It will give you an opportunity to wind down and if you throw some Epsom salt into the mix it will help your muscles relax after a busy day. There is a reason parents give their babies a warm bath before bedtime after all.