Sleep is essential for our bodies but when we become parents it seems in short supply!  Here are some tips to help guarantee a good night’s sleep.

Choose The Right Mattress

Always do your research before picking a mattress.  It’s a big decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly.  But there is a lot of choice so it’s hard to know where to start!  Do you go for pocket spring mattress, memory foam mattress or a latex mattress? Read the pros and cons for each and opt for one that most suits your needs.  We currently have a memory foam mattress which is great to relieve the pressure on my joints.  As I am getting older that has become more of a priority when getting a good night’s sleep.  My hips can get quite achy.

Some companies like Bed Guru have their own resident sleep specialist so you know you are in good hands with their products.  Plus, if you want to dig more deeply into the subject of sleep, they have lots of useful articles to read.

Get Into A Routine

The NHS recommend going to sleep at regular times and making sure you wake up at a similar time too.  Your sleep routine can easily be disturbed otherwise.  Train your brain and your internal body clock so it adjusts to that routine.  It’s something we prioritise as parents, making sure our children go to bed by a set time.  But how often do we apply the same rules to ourselves.  Get into a good bedtime practise, however, don’t panic if you have the occasional late night.  Just make sure most of the time you stick with your routine.

Cut Back On Blue Light

Hands up if you tend to use your mobile phone in bed.  Really you need to avoid using phones or watching TV two hours before you go to sleep.  I am guilty of not following this recommendation.  Not all hope is lost you can download an app that blocks the blue light when you set your phone to night mode.  If you find you can’t give up on the mobile phone use at least get hold of the app Blue Light Filter to mitigate the impact.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol impacts your night-time melatonin production.  I found that when I added more drink free days I actually slept better.  Often you might find a few drinks makes you go to sleep quicker but the reality is that you have less deep sleep.  Deep sleep is vital so you feel refreshed and energized.

Clear Your Mind

Writing a to do list can help you go to sleep quicker.  Otherwise you tend to panic about everything you need to do and that can stop you sleeping soundly!  I find when I have lots of blog deadlines it helps to take this approach as it makes me worry less.