The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep

I was gifted a Simba Hybrid Mattress for the purposes of this post. All words and opinions expressed are my own.

Since turning 40 I have made a conscious decision to try and improve my overall wellbeing. I have spent too long neglecting myself, and the bad habits I used to get away with now have a really detrimental impact as I get older. 

I have got back into running, and am managing to keep up the consistency. I (rather belatedly) also now understand the importance of strength training, so I do a couple of sessions a week. I’ve been going to the gym and making sure I do plenty of stretching to help my flexibility. I have also been spending plenty of time outdoors and have been trying to cut back on my unhealthy snacking habit (that’s very much a work in progress!)

This is all helping my physical wellbeing, but even more important is the positive effect on my mental health. I find that when I am being active and taking care of myself, I’m happier, feel more confident and make much better choices in all aspects of my life. 

By taking a more holistic view, I feel that my life has a better balance and I feel more in control. One big piece of this jigsaw is making sure I have a good night’s sleep. I struggle to sleep well and I know all too well that tiredness leads to bad decisions. 

I work alternating shifts and so it can be hard to get into a routine as one week I’m up at 5am everyday and the next I am working until 10pm. It’s especially hard during the winter when the lack of daylight makes it feel like I’m getting up in the middle of the night when I’m on an early shift. 

I’m not an expert, but here are a few things that work for me and help me get a good night’s sleep.

A Quality Mattress

It might seem obvious but, considering how long we spend in bed, a good quality mattress is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. Whether you go for foam or spring mattress, or a hybrid mattress for the best of both worlds, make sure that you choose one that suits your needs and preferences.

I also find that it helps to make the bedroom as nice an environment as possible. I like it cool, dark and very quiet with a big duvet all to myself.

Stop Scrolling

One of my worst habits that I am trying to improve is scrolling on my phone before going to sleep. It is so bad for you, as the blue light suppresses the production of melatonin (the hormone that regulates sleep) and can also raise your stress levels and overstimulate your brain. Instead, put your phone away an hour before you go to bed and try to implement a consistent wind down routine. You might like to read or have a bath, whatever makes you feel relaxed and doesn’t involve a screen is ideal. It’s also a good idea to avoid any stimulants, like caffeine for example and opt for a calming herbal tea instead.

Mindfulness

When I am really struggling to get to sleep, I like to listen to a sleep story or some meditation on my health app. I find this a really great way to slow everything down and relax my brain. It never fails to help me fall into a deep sleep. I am trying to incorporate more mindfulness into my day on a more regular basis to help with stress levels, again it’s a work in progress but so far it is helping and contributes to a better sleep.

Do you have any fail safe tips to help you get a good night’s sleep?