Sleep Tips

Life is always so much easier when you have had a good night’s sleep isnt’ it? And we hear from so many customers who are struggling to find that good night’s sleep.

Everyone has different needs for sleep but one thing is true – you must get enough or you won’t function as well as you could. There have been many studies that show if you are well rested, you will get more done in the day. We have discovered over the years many “sleep tips” that you may find helpful.

Establish a schedule

Go to bed and get up at the same time every day and keep the schedule. (we do it for our children, why do we forget about ourselves?) As much as we love those naps during the day, it will mix up your schedule. If you have to nap, keep it to 15 minutes or less and this shouldn’t disturb your regular sleep pattern. Put away those phones and I pads and find something that is calming and peaceful before you go to bed. Some examples are a light novel, having a nice relaxing bath, listening to serene music. If you are upset, delay your bedtime until you can settle your mind; you will have a lot of trouble getting to sleep if you are distressed. We have discovered and now sell in the store some wonderful natural teas made ethically by Boreal Wildcraft in Manitoba and the “Peace Tea” has ingredients such as lemon balm, catnip, chamomile, hops, St John’s Wort, which is ideal for calming down before bedtime. Also exercise, exercise and exercise (but earlier in the day!!) will help you sleep at night as well avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed. And avoid heavy meals and too many liquids before bedtime.

Still Waking Up?

Don’t look at your clock, in fact, always keep it facing away from you otherwise, no matter what time it is, you will fret about it. If you can’t get to sleep, get out of bed. You don’t want to associate your bed with restlessness. Don’t start anything interesting or you won’t get back to bed until dawn! And if you do get up in the middle of the night, don’t eat a snack simply for something to do. Otherwise, your stomach will think it is a good idea to wake you up in the wee hours every night.

This information however is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have tried these tips and still have trouble sleeping or you still feel too tired during the day, we urge you to see your doctor.