Sleep is a vital part of life, essential for mental and physical regeneration. Without enough sleep we not only look tired, but our bodies are tired and can’t function efficiently, and this shows in our mental clarity and the appearance of our skin. Recent studies have proved that the most ageing thing to a person’s appearance was lack of sleep. Without sleep, the body is not able to regenerate fully, resulting in dull, sallow complexion, dark circles, more blemishes and a compromised circulatory system, reducing new fresh nutrients being supplied to the skin and a reduced lymph flow removing toxins, all of which are only going to temporarily increase the visible appearance of ageing, not conducive of a beautiful complexion. Therefore, beauty sleep is not a myth.
If you feel like you’re in need of some beauty sleep and a restful night’s kip to help keep you looking and feeling beautiful, here are some top tips to help you:
Say no to caffeine after lunch.
Caffeine can interfere with your sleep for up to ten hours after drinking and this includes tea and dark chocolate. So to ensure the best sleep possible, avoid caffeine at all costs!
Regular bedtimes.
Getting into a routine with bedtimes will work wonders. Your body and mind will become accustomed to a routine and it will be easier for you to fall asleep and relax – so try and go to bed at a similar time every night.
Be mindful of the temperature.
For a good night’s sleep, you should aim to keep the room cool. While overheating will immediately rouse the mind, ice cold feet aren’t any good either, so reach for the bed socks to keep those tootsies warm!
Turn it off!
Clear your sleep space of electrical equipment, the bedroom should be for sleep and sex not work, computers and phones emit electromagnetic fields (EMF’s) that interfere with the brains sleep patterns and speeds brain degeneration
Bathe.
Run a deep bath, not too hot as this will only stimulate the body more, fill a muslin with fresh or dried sage and lavender heads, secure with thread and run the bath water through this, sage is very grounding, while lavender relaxes, or for an easier option soak in a bath of your favourite night time tea bags, chamomile and lavender soothe the nervous system. While soaking you can also enjoy sipping a cup of hot herbal tea.
Enjoy a massage.
Slowly massage an oil all over your body into damp skin, a lavender or chamomile infused oil is perfect, wrap up in fluffy dressing gown and slowly and deeply massage your feet, use your thumbs to press firmly all over the soles, pressing and holding to stimulate reflex points this takes energy and mental focus away from an over active mind.
Lovely lavender.
Hang a lavender bag by the side of your bed, or even under your pillow. This soothing scent will ease the mind and help you have a deep sleep.
Deep breathing.
Close your eyes and try taking deep, slow breaths, making each breath even deeper than the last.
