Sleep is something we need every day. It enables our bodies to grow and repair; it bolsters our immune system and is essential for our overall health and well-being.
Research suggests that around two-thirds of us in the UK are not getting enough sleep. 
and the likelihood of getting ill increases. Long term poor quality sleep can have an even greater impact on the body leading to more serious diseases such as increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, depression and osteoporosis.
Follow these top tips to help you get the sleep you need and stay happy and healthier for longer:
- Get a good quality bed. March is national bed month. Get some great advice on beds and sleep from The Sleep Council, who recommends replacing your bed at least once every seven years.
- Love your bedroom. Your bedroom must be a room you feel calm and comfortable in. Make sure the environment is right, so not too bright, messy or cluttered.
- Work out in the morning. As you tire naturally throughout the day you will sleep better come bedtime.
- Shut the dog or cat out. Sorry, research shows that pets can be a key factor in disturbing your sleep. Cuddling up with them in bed is always appealing, but when it’s time to sleep shut them out.
- Self-help acupressure points can improve the quality of your sleep. The Heart 7 acupoint can help reduce anxiety and stress and aid better sleep.
With your palm facing up firmly hold your thumb at the crease where the wrist meets the hand below the little finger. Hold for up to 2 minutes.
- Have a massage. Massage can be a great way to help you relax. It lowers the blood pressure, reduces stress and boosts the bodies’ circulation. Massage can also directly influence the bodies’ production of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that has an important role in aiding sleep.
- Finally to ensure you experience good sleep it’s essential to follow good lifestyle habits. Make sure you eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and laugh a lot!!!
Information source: Healthy Magazine – March/April 2016 edition and The Sleep Council
