The lead up to Christmas can be very stressful and overwhelming, meaning the festive season can actually have a negative impact on our sleep.
From overindulging in food and drink, to not spending enough time outdoors, Christmas brings with it many factors that can result in poor sleep. So, how can we ensure we’re getting the best possible sleep over the holidays?
1. Get up at the same time
This one might be a little challenging but if possible, try stick to a regular sleep schedule. This means that even if you had a late night, try make an effort to get up nice and early the next day. This will ensure that you continue to build up a strong drive to sleep well the next night. I know how tempting it can be to have lots of lie ins, but this can result in your body clock getting out of sync, leaving you more susceptible to poor sleep. Therefore, it's worth remembering that the more consistent you are with your sleep and wake times, the better the quality of your sleep will be.
2. Take time out to unwind and relax
Christmas can no doubt be a very busy time but taking time to practice relaxation techniques and mindfulness will help to rest your mind, ensuring that you are feeling more refreshed even if you are struggling to sleep well.
Being busy all the time is not only physically exhausting, but it can also leave us mentally exhausted too if our minds are constantly full and occupied. We then start to feel we need more sleep to combat the tiredness, but there are actually other ways in which we can get an energy boost. Take regular breaks to stop and just breathe, clear your mind, get some fresh air and movement. This will help you to sleep better at night but also feel more refreshed during the day.
3. Say no to napping
Don’t take a long afternoon nap after a poor night’s sleep. If you’re really tired and is feeling desperate, limit yourself to a short nap that’s no longer than 30 minutes. Any longer, and it will impact your ability to sleep well at bedtime.
4. Don’t stress if you don’t get eight hours of sleep
The belief that everyone must get eight hours of sleep is a myth. The quality of your sleep is more important than the quantity, so focus on good sleep and not just more sleep.
5. Get outdoors
Try to exercise outdoors as much as you can as this is not only just good for your physical health, but also your mental health. Taking a leisurely walk outdoors for 30 minutes every day and this can help to reduce anxiety, which will also be great for your sleep.
6. Reserve your bed for sleep only
Poor sleepers generally engage in many behaviours that make the bed a cue for wakefulness and I am definitely guilty of this one. This include using their bedroom to watch television, talking on the phone or lazing in bed long after waking in the morning or most commonly, lying in bed for hours worrying or feeling frustrated. These are all even more likely over the festive period. Avoid using your bed for anything other than sleep and your relationship with your bed and sleep should soon begin to improve.
7. Watch your alcohol intake
We all like to enjoy a few drinks over Christmas time but too much alcohol will affect the quality of the sleep you get. My advice is to try and stop drinking an hour or so (more if you can) before bedtime so that you are not going to bed under the influence. Try and drink some water during this time too, as this will make you less likely to wake from dehydration as the effects of the alcohol wear off.
I hope you have found this post useful and that it has given you some ways to better manage your sleep during the holidays. I know it can be a little overwhelming at times but try to relax whenever possible and re-center yourself when things do get a little too much. Afterall, Christmas is a time for celebrations so make sure you are present and enjoy this time with your loved ones!
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, stay safe and healthy!
With love,
*Medical Disclaimer: The following content should not be used as medical advice or as a recommendation for any specific supplement or medication. It is important to consult your health care provider prior to starting a new medication or altering your current dosage.
Post a Comment