Pumpkin spiced lattes, cosy knits, snuggly nights in… Autumn brings an abundance of joy. Though one thing many of us struggle with is as the season changes is disrupted sleep. SAD (seasonal affective disorder) affects one in three UK adults, caused by less light and lower temperatures. This can make you excessively sleepy during the day, lowering your mood and energy. Though here’s something to smile about, with a little upping in the self-care department and these magic bedtime essentials you can set yourself up for a relaxed and restorative Autumn.
Mattress magic
Let the light in
Not a fan of Autumn and Winter? It’s likely down to the lack of light which can lower serotonin levels and zap the ‘perky’ out of your mornings. There are a few things you can do to boost your mood till the sun comes back out to play. Try to open your blinds first thing in the morning to let in some natural daylight. You can also use a light therapy lamp which can help brighten up the darker mornings. The lamp mimics outdoor light, giving you a sunny fix, and providing your brain with the chemicals it needs to feel lifted. Scheduling a stroll in your day is another great way to let in a healthy dose of light and boost your wellbeing. Then it’s home for a cuppa and to put your feet up. Autumn is after all an invitation to indulge in the wonderful art of rest!
PJ Party
Bedtime is the catwalk of the season, which is why this it’s the ultimate time to glam up your PJs. Channel your inner hygge and find yourself the cosiest, trendiest nightwear to make those snuggly nights on the sofa all the more appealing. The best fabrics for Autumn are soft, natural and thermo-regulating. These will be kind to your skin and keep you warm while preventing overheating under that higher-tog duvet. You may also want to add some socks to your winter wardrobe. According to a research study, keeping your hands and feet warm can help you fall asleep faster.
It’s the simple things that really make a difference in the colder months. A mug of hot chocolate in your favourite PJs and a great Netflix series, what could be better? Upping the self-care starts at home. Don’t forget the marshmallows!
Unwinding ritual
How we relax is personal, though this Autumn give yourself permission to really rest. Choose a soothing ritual to unwind in the evening and make it a priority. Whether it’s a long soak in the tub, cooking a delicious meal… Or tucking into that novel you never read on the beach! Giving yourself some screen-free time two hours before you go to bed can help deepen and lengthen your sleep. Blue light keeps your brain switched on, disrupting your circadian rhythm with artificial light. Keeping phones and laptops out of your bedroom reduces the temptation to scroll on social media. Let emails and Instagram wait, you will thank yourself in the morning.
Autumn can be a struggle for those who pine for the longer days and warmer weather, but getting stuck into cosy nights and plenty of R ‘n’ R will make you fall in love with the season. With these bedtime essentials, you will be well on your way to brighter days and before you know it, the sun will be back at your window.
Autumn can be a struggle for those who pine for the longer days and warmer weather, but getting stuck into cosy nights and plenty of R ‘n’ R will make you fall in love with the season. With these bedtime essentials, you will be well on your way to brighter days and before you know it, the sun will be back at your window.
*Collaborative post
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