Conquer Winter Blues: Embrace Improved Sleep Habits
In the winter, we may notice that our sleeping habits change. Here at Hemsley Organics, we understand the importance of a long, restful night of sleep. So, in this article, we will be exploring all the ways that you can embrace improved ways to get rest in the colder months and how to conquer those nasty winter blues.
Why Do We Lack Energy In The Winter?
In the winter, the weather changes drastically and so do our lifestyles. The evenings get darker soon, there are less daylight hours and the sun is typically not in the sky. With the lack of vitamin D, we can start to feel low and come down with a case of the ‘winter blues’. . Sunlight plays a pivotal role in regulating serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter associated with mood. The lack of sunlight in winter can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to decreased serotonin production and contributing to feelings of tiredness and low motivation.
Another contributing factor is the disturbance of the body's natural circadian rhythm. The shorter daylight hours characteristic of winter can upset the intricate balance of the sleep-wake cycle. This disturbance not only affects the duration and quality of our rest but it can also influence our overall energy levels. The body's internal clock, closely linked to light exposure, may experience misalignment during the winter, resulting in fatigue, irritability and low mood. In short, the change to winter can massively affect our sleeping patterns.
What Is Sleep Hygiene & Why Is It So Important In Winter?
Sleep hygiene can refer to any set of practices and habits that promote a good-quality night’s sleep and overall sleep health. In the winter, these practices become all the more important as it optimises our sleeping environment and enhances the restorative rest we need during this season. By establishing a consistent sleep schedule and maintaining a comfortable sleeping environment, we are able to positively impact both our physical and mental well-being.
As mentioned above, sleep becomes even more important in the winter - which is the same when it comes to our sleep hygiene. For example, an adequate and restful sleep is vital for stress reduction and anxiety management. Sleep hygiene practices, such as creating a calming bedtime routine and optimising your sleep environment, contribute to a more relaxed state, reducing the likelihood of winter-related stressors affecting your mood. Also, sleep hygiene practices help align the body's internal clock with the external light-dark cycle. By regulating exposure to light, especially in the morning, and avoiding excessive light exposure at night, sleep hygiene supports the stabilisation of circadian rhythms.
Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment
So, how do you optimise your bedroom for better sleep? We would recommend establishing a consistent bedtime routine, which will signal to your body that it’s time for rest. With our new Sleep Well Pillow Mist, we invite you and your senses into a night of calming rest. Our Reiki-blessed Pillow Mist is meticulously crafted with a blend of five soothing essential oils—Lavender, Cedarwood, Bergamot, Jasmine, and Chamomile. Each oil is selected to cultivate a tranquil ambiance, fostering a serene environment for a restful night's sleep. The infusion of earthy, sweet, and woody aromas is designed to harmonise with both the mind and body, promoting relaxation, calmness, and stress relief. Before bed, spray this on to your cushion and bed liberally and let the calming scent lull you to sleep.
