By Natasha Dunn
Have you ever had one of those nights where you just can’t get to sleep? You’re physically exhausted, but your mind won’t stop racing? Yeah, me too! Well keep reading as I may have a few solutions to this very problem, and don’t worry it doesn’t include counting sheep.
Natural Sleep Aids
Lavender- According to Healthline, ‘Lavenders soothing fragrance is believed to enhance sleep’ and they go on to explain that studies have shown that lavender oil may help the quality of your sleep. So perhaps pop a little lavender oil onto your pillow at night and let the charming scent lead you into dreamland.
Alternatively try applying and massage in your legs and arms with this amazing Body Butter infused with Organic Lavender before going to bed.
Melatonin- As explained by the NHS, melatonin is actually a hormone ‘that occurs naturally in your body. It helps control your sleep patterns’. In the UK melatonin tablets are only available on prescription and are generally used for people aged over 55 years. But it can be extremely helpful for those suffering with conditions such as Insomnia. This remedy might not be for everyone, but if you are someone who is really struggling with sleep, ensure to consult a doctor.
If you wish to try a natural alternative this Blästa Henriet Lavender Mist is great aid and can be sprayed on the pillow 30 min before going to bed.
Exercise-This one seems fairly obvious to me, exercise should wear you out and therefore you will sleep better, but you do have to get your timings right! John Hopkins Medicine advises that exercise improves how much deep sleep you get in the night. However, they insist upon avoiding it within two hours before you head to bed, as the release of endorphins may energise you and that is not what you need when you’re trying to get some shut eye!
If you don't manage a visit the gym try a 15 min online stretch and relax routine to help your body relax or a simple 5 min meditation session on one of the Natural Exercise Mats.
Other Remedies to Help you Sleep
White Noise- It’s probably not breaking news that white noise maybe a method for achieving better sleep, but do you know why? Healthline explains that ‘since white noise contains all frequencies at equal intensity, it can mask loud sounds that stimulate your brain.’ So how can one create the white noise effect? Well, how about a Snooz White Noise Sound Machine! Or as illuminated by Healthline, TV static or a fan can do the trick.
Sleep Apps- And last but certainly not least, what about a sleep application that can easily be downloaded on your mobile phone? I often drift off with a podcast playing, but there are specific apps designed for sleeping. One of the most famous would have to be Calm, which includes meditations designed to help you drift off easily, sleep stories and music, all in the pursuit of a more relaxing night in bed! However this isn’t the only application available, there are many others including Aura and Slumber.
With all that’s going on in the world sleep can be illusive and sometimes we just need a little extra help to ensure we get our 8 hours a night. Now hopefully the article itself hasn’t sent you snoring, but maybe you’ve been able to find a solution which will!