How to sleep better: 6 expert sleep tips

Sleep better with these tips from sleep expert Lisa Artis of The Sleep Charity. Whether insomnia is keeping you up or you’re feeling just a little out of sync, Lisa explains that a few adjustments at bedtime can make the world of difference...

1. Routine is key

Lisa says: Going to bed and getting up at roughly the same time every day will programme your body to sleep better.

We say: It may be tempting to stay up late and watch one more episode of the latest Netflix series, but there’s always tomorrow night.

2. Like Goldilocks, you’ll want to find just the right sleep environment

Lisa says: Find a bed that’s not too hard and not too soft, and a room that’s not too hot or not too cold.

We say: Our perfect duvets and pillows are not only incredibly comfortable, but they will keep your body at the ideal temperature. We also suggest keeping the room dark, quiet and clutter free and definitely devoid of grizzly bears!

3. Exercise regularly

Lisa says: Moderate exercise such as swimming or walking will make you feel rested and release the day’s stresses and strains.

We say: Exercising too close to bedtime may keep you awake, so do your workout first thing in the morning, tick the box and feel smug all day.

4. Less is more

Lisa says: Too much food or alcohol can play havoc with your sleep pattern.

We say: That third glass of Chianti may make you feel sleepy, but it will interrupt your sleep cycle in the middle of the night, so save it for Friday night.

5. Make your bedroom an electronic free zone

Lisa says: Exposure to even the weakest glow an hour before bed and in the night can play havoc with your body’s circadian rhythms.

We say: As tempting as it may be to perch in bed checking Instagram on your smartphone, or catching up on emails on your tablet, leave the tech at the door and your head will thank you for it in the morning.

6. Write it down and ditch it at the door

Lisa says: If you find yourself going to bed with things on your mind – perhaps worries of a heavy workload – make a list and forget about it for the night.

We say: Vow to wake up raring to go and tackle your workload the next day, not tonight Josephine…

Credits: Home Design Ideas

Lisa Artis is a sleep expert at The Sleep Council.