Sleep

We all know a good nights sleep can make a big difference and equally a sleepless night can leave us feeling, well, a bit rung out and not at our best!  There are lots of things that can affect a restful sleep including, stress, worry, noise, pain or caffeine.   But there are many things you can try to help yourself sleep well.  Here are a few suggestions:

?  Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine (lets you unwind and sends a signal to your brain that it’s time to sleep)
?  Create a restful environment: dark, cool and quiet makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
?  Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day.
?  Exercise regularly but avoid vigorous exercise near bedtime if it affects your sleep.
?  Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. (They can stop you falling asleep or reaching a deep sleep)
?  Screen times, TV -smartphones and tablets in bed. Everyone is different but it might be worth leaving screens off in bed. The light               from screens can have a negative effect on sleep, Social media, news and games can all stimulate your brain and make you feel                  anxious.
?  Write down your worries if you lie awake worrying about tomorrow. This can help put your mind at rest as you have acknowledged               them.
?  If you can’t sleep, don’t worry. Get up and do something relaxing like listening to music or reading until you feel sleepy.
?  If sleep problems don’t respond to self-help, talk to your doctor. It may be worth keeping a sleep diary for 10 days before your visit              so you can explain the problem.

Yoga can also help relax you into a restful sleep.  Try this great yoga nidra video below from our lovely Yoga instructor Nicole.