Is Your Body Craving More Sleep?

Is Your Body Craving More Sleep?

Sleep expert's seven tips to a good night's rest

Just had lunch but still hungry? Experience mid-morning headaches? Or lost your sex drive? All of these could be a sign that you're not getting the sleep your body is craving, according to sleep expert and group CEO of Bedsonline.com.au, Cliff Sneider.

Reaching for that alarm clock off switch isn't always a result of Monday blues or the dread of a winter walk to the bus stop. In fact there are many factors, such as the position of your body in bed, your pre-bed ritual and even diet, that effect how you feel when we wake up in the morning. Cliff said:

'It can be difficult to identify why you're so emotional, unfocused, or just can't shake that cold. Sometimes you may find yourself eating all day or even disinterested in your partner - these can all be symptoms of sleep deprivation or an interrupted sleep. Anyone experiencing these symptoms may find almost instant relief from altering small aspects of their regular routine. If not, then a trip to the doctor may be required to determine the issue."

Bedsonline.com.au is Australia's leading online bedding speciality retailer. As a longstanding expert in bedding, Cliff has come across nearly every sleep issue that's out there and, by providing some simple tips learned through experience, has managed to improve sleep quality for most sufferers.

'The amount of sleep each individual requires can vary and by trying to increase the time you're asleep gradually each night, you will eventually find what is right for you. Keep in mind that if you've been deprived of sleep for an extended period of time, it will take longer to get back into a healthy pattern," said Cliff.

Cliff's top 7 tips for a good night's sleep:

1. Create a regular bedtime routine – Your body needs cues to know that it needs to slow down. Ensure that you're home at the same time every evening to prepare your body for sleep.

2. Create a sleep-conducive environment – The ideal sleep space should be dark and quiet - outdoor noises or the whirring of a fan indoors can startle your body. The bedroom should also be comfortable and cool, with a temperature of 18 -20°C.

3. Get up at the same time every morning – Again, it's all about routine. The body needs its cues, even when you're asleep! Assess how many hours your body needs to function efficiently and set your alarm to ensure that you've reached this number – even at the weekends!

4. Finish exercise at least 2-3 hours before bed – Regular exercise is excellent for sleep, but allow your body's adrenalin to slow down for a couple of hours. If not, you could risk a restless first couple of hours of sleep.

5. Find the right position - Sleeping on your side with your knees bent or with a pillow between your knees is the best way to maintain proper body posture. If you must sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to support the normal curve of your lower back. Sleeping on your stomach or with your head elevated on an oversized pillow arches the natural curves of the back, and increases pressure on the diaphragm and lungs. These positions can lead to restless tossing and turning, leaving you tired the next day.

6. Try to unwind - You may try stretching, relaxation exercises, a hot shower or bath, meditation, or a glass of hot milk or herbal tea to calm the body. If you're faced with a task that may cause you frustration or a conversation that may anger you, avoid until morning.

7. Avoid electronics an hour before bed – Playing with phones, tablets and even watching television increases brain activity that becomes difficult to switch off. Try reading or another relaxing activity instead.

For further tips and sleep advice visit bedsonline.com.au