Sleep

Sleep is one of nature's greatest gifts. It is as vital to our wellbeing as eating and breathing. Our bodies need this break - to relax, to repair, to replenish, and to rejuvenate.

Sadly, the pressures of modern times mean too many of us aren't getting the rest we need. Here are some of our favourite tips for a good night's sleep.

• Open the blinds as soon as you wake up: Exposure to bright, natural sunlight in the morning stimulates melatonin production and promotes a healthy circadian rhythm which is essential for sleep.

• Be consistent: Setting a bedtime (and wake time) and sticking to it, even on weekends is a powerful tool for getting better sleep.

• Declutter your bedroom: Create a restorative sleep sanctuary by removing anything that distracts you from sleeping. Your brain cannot relax when it surrounded by mess.

• Limit caffeine intake: The effects of caffeine can last up to 7 hours after you consume it. Avoid drinking coffee after midday.

• Minimise Blue Light Exposure: Whether you want to believe it or not, screen time seriously impacts your sleep, especially the quality of it. Turn off screens an hour or two before bed.

• Create a routine to help you relax: Retrain your mind and body to relax by carrying out similar habits each night. You might want to add some lavender oil to a hot bath and then settle down to read, or listen to some soothing music, journal, or meditate.

• Make sure your room is the right temperature: For us to fall asleep, our body temperature needs to drop. A room temperature of around 18 degrees celsius helps signal to our body it's time for bed.

• Have a glass of warm salt water before bed: This can raise your oxytocin levels, helping you to feel calm, and relaxed.

Herbs for Sleep: Valerian, Passionflower, Lavender, Chamomile, California Poppy, Holy Basil, Ashwagandha, St John's Wort, Wild Lettuce, Lemon Balm