Stylish Slumber

Your bedroom is your sanctuary within your home; the place you retreat to after a busy day, and your own private space to relax. Here we show a range of styles to inspire you, with some helpful advice on getting a better night’s sleep.

According to the Sleep Council, getting fitter and eating better are common promises we make ourselves – but sleep is often overlooked despite the effects it has on our health.

The Sleep Council has produced a tailored 30 Day Better Sleep Plan and a Sleep Diary which can get your resolution started. They have also produced some quick tips for getting a better night’s sleep:

How much sleep?

The average amount of sleep an adult might expect to get is around seven to eight hours a night. However, there is no ‘normal’ length of time – whatever is natural for you. We all feel tired at times but it is important that it is not disruptive to your daily life and general health.

Is it time for a new bed?

Do you ever wake up with neck or back ache? When lying in bed, do you feel springs or ridges beneath the surface? Even if they still look ok, beds begin to deteriorate after a few years and offer less support than a new one. So seize the January sales opportunities to invest in a better night’s sleep, especially if your bed is seven years old or more.

Rate your routine

Going to bed and getting up at roughly the same time every day will programme your body to sleep better. Choose a time when you are most likely to feel sleepy.

Cut the coffee – and the wine!

Cut down on stimulants such as caffeine in tea or coffee – especially in the evening. They interfere with falling asleep and prevent deep sleep. Have a hot milky drink or herbal tea instead. As we’re all starting our new year’s diets, over-indulging might not be as big of an issue in January, but too much food or alcohol just before bedtime can also play havoc with sleep patterns. Alcohol may help you fall asleep initially, but will interrupt your sleep later on in the night.

And if you really can’t sleep…

…don’t lie there worrying about it. Get up and do something you find relaxing until you feel sleepy again – then go back to bed.

Try having a warm bath, listen to some quiet music, read a book or do some yoga – these all help to relax both the mind and body. Deal with worries or a heavy workload by making lists of things to be tackled the next day.

For more information, visit sleepcouncil.org.uk

Read more in the February issue…