Sleep better to feel better
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If you do not make some time for wellness, then you will be forced to make time for illness
I used to have the view that once a week I could do something for myself and that would cancel out the gins, the late nights, the pent-up emotion. It turns out that I was mistaken. You can’t sweep things under the carpet and expect a soak in the bath & an early night to remedy the situation.
At the time I had been suffering with chronic hand eczema that had started to spread. I was burning the candle at both ends, and I had prioritised growing my business alongside being a ‘better pandemic mother than last time’. There simply weren’t enough hours in the day; something needed to change.
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Make sleep your first priority
The first change I’ve made is to prioritise my sleep. Sleep better , for longer, and your body will recover quicker. So, whenever I don’t have a commitment I will start to prepare for bed, for sleep, as early as I can. My aim is to be in bed for 9.30pm and asleep by 10pm.
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Establish a bedtime ritual
Take time to bathe. I begin my evening ritual by having a bath or a shower. Bathing in the evening means I have more time to relax rather than racing to just get clean.
Always moisturise. I always follow by moisturising my body because I wouldn’t wash my face then not moisturise it and my body is no different. Remember, it will soon be time to pack away the jumpers and unleash your limbs to the world.
Apply a sleep-inducing blend & make yourself a comforting drink. Once I’m out of the shower I then apply my Night Time Remedy to Roll and get a hot drink. It’s sometimes a herbal tea, sometimes a decaf tea. Either way it’s hydrating and caffeine free and a part of the bedtime routine that I look forward to. Sitting down and having a rest. I’ll then reply to any messages or emails at this stage.
Put your phone away and free your mind. I have to put my phone down & away so that I can finish getting ready for bed and keep my thoughts to a minimum. I often read or listen to an uplifting or inspiring podcast up until 10ish. The Night Time Roll On induces sleepiness in me so I just go with it and when I feel myself wanting to close my eyes I spritz some Goodnight Pillow Mist, lie down and slip off.
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Consistency is key
You wouldn’t go to the gym once and expect an instant result; I believe that sleep is exactly the same. By prioritising sleep and winding down 1.5 hours before bedtime I’ve worked out that I am getting at least 7 hours more sleep each week. Not every night allows for this routine but together with adding a supplement to my diet, eating plenty of fruit & veg, not drinking alcohol and taking daily fresh air & exercise, I am feeling physically & emotionally so much better.