March is National Bed Month. Sleep is important, in fact, the average person spends around 26 years sleeping in their lifetime, including a shocking seven years trying to get to sleep!
A good night’s sleep plays an essential role for a healthy mind and a healthy body. But it can be difficult for a lot of people especially in these uncertain times. The seven years is an average, so it could be much longer for some people.
Here are some tips from the Sleep Council, to help you get the best night’s sleep, and some interesting facts about sleep from around the world.
Invest in your sleep with a comfortable, supportive bed
What you sleep on plays a huge part in how well you doze. A bed with the correct support, comfort and space will ensure you wake less, move about less, aren’t disturbed by your partner as much and are less likely to wake up feeling tired or aching. If you’re not comfortable in bed your sleep won’t be as deep.
Avoid clock watching
Instead of staring at the clock and stressing over lost hours of sleep, hide the bedside clock or cover it with something. Checking the time only increases stress.
Don’t focus on how much sleep you’re getting.
There’s no ideal quota and one size doesn’t fit all! Instead look at how you feel the next day. Too many people focus on sleep quantity but what’s important is that the sleep you do get is of good quality so make sure you regularly assess that and your comfort levels.
Write a to-do list before bed
Worry and anxiety are key factors in what keeps us awake at night. Often, we get into bed with our mind racing or buzzing with the things that are troubling us or what we need to get done. Keep a notepad and pen by your bed and write down worries or jobs that need to be tackled. It really does help to clear the mind for sleep.
Watch your diet
Avoid over-eating before bedtime and choose foods with sleep-promoting chemicals such as chicken and turkey, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, peanuts, beans and milk. Equally, limit stimulants such as alcohol and caffeine which reduce sleep quality and prevent you feeling rested.
Establish a bedtime routine
Our bodies thrive on routine so establish and prioritise a bedtime routine and, where possible, stick to it. This could be something as simple as putting PJs on, washing your face and brushing your teeth. A bedtime routine signals the brain that it’s time for sleep.
Like proper nutrition and exercise, sleep fulfils a vital role in keeping us healthy and happy. We need a good night’s sleep to ensure we’re feeling fit, thinking sharply and generally to give us the appetite and enthusiasm to make the most of everyday living.
Did you know…
Siesta time
Historians believe siestas date back thousands of years. The Spanish tradition of an afternoon nap originated to give farmers time to rest in the hot Mediterranean climate.
Many people naturally get tired early afternoon and some sleep experts recommend siestas in other countries, not just Spain.
Cat nap
In America over 70% of pet owners allow their pets to sleep with them. It can disturb the owners sleep patterns, but research shows that the pets provided, happiness, relaxation and warmth. Not sure if that applied to owners of snakes though!
Praying for a good night’s sleep
In Mexico, a survey found that over 60% of Mexicans said they prayed or meditated in the hour before going to sleep. The quiet and calmness can help induce sleep.
Nodding off in public
Inemuri is the Japanese practice of sleeping while present. It is acceptable practice to take a quick nap on a train, a park bench even at a dinner party or in a meeting!
It is taken as a sign that the person is tired from working hard, but still wants to participate in their current situation.
At Newlands everyone can sleep easy in the knowledge our helpful concierge team of dedicated and friendly staff, our chefs, professional chauffeur, gardener and handyman are always available to make your individual wishes a reality. And should your future needs change, bespoke care, hospitality and domestic services on hand in our stunning Cotswold community.
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