8 TIPS for better sleep

Sometimes a good night's sleep can feel like an elusive mirage, and as much as we try and function without it, sleep deprivation can have a huge impact on our overall well-being.

As Naturopaths, there are many beautiful herbs we can use to support sleep maintenance and onset. But first, making sure you have good sleep hygiene will help to set you up for a night of good zzz's. If you find that you are doing everything you can to create a sleep-inducing environment, and are still struggling with your sleep or experiencing insomnia, feel free to reach out or book a 1:1 consultation with me to investigate the causes and receive individualised treatment. In the meantime… here are 8 tips to improve your sleep hygiene and indulge in a good night's sleep.

1. Fuel Your Night: Opt for nourishing dinner choices with quality protein, complex carbs, and essential fats. A well-fueled body promotes uninterrupted slumber.

2. Cut The Light: Switch off bright lights after 6pm. Let softly lit lamps or candles take over. This helps to trigger melatonin, the sleep hormone.

3. Embrace the Dark: Invest in block-out blinds to shut out disturbances. A serene, quiet sleep space invites deep rest.

4. Fresh Sheets, Fresh Sleep: Wash and change your sheets weekly.

5. Create An Oasis: Transform your room into a haven. Unwind with a post-dinner shower infused with calming essential oils. Breathe deeply and practice some mindfulness.

6. Comfortable PJs: Slip into cosy, soft pyjamas for a sense of security and comfort, inducing peaceful sleep.

7. Screen Curfew: Switch off screens by 8pm. Give your mind a chance to unwind before bed.

8. Rituals: Craft a nightly wind-down routine that signals your brain it's time to sleep. Consistency forms neural pathways, reinforcing the bedtime cue.

If you are still struggling with falling or staying asleep despite having the best sleep hygiene, there may be more to the story. Feel free to reach out for extra support or chat to your practitioner for further investigation.