Getting a good night sleep

One of the most talked about things by new parents, sleep. Or lack of it! Nothing prepares you for it and we have to find ways of coping with it (coffee anyone?). In those early days, even years after having a baby, sleep just seems to come at a premium. People tell you, “sleep when your baby sleeps”. But who managed to do that? Nap times for me were always about getting on top of the washing pile, batch cooking or maybe squeezing in a little exercise. Early nights helped, sometimes. But one early night doesn’t quite make up for weeks of lost sleep. So what can we do to help? Sleep hygiene or good practices that help give you great quality sleep, despite lack of quantity, can help a little. Here are my top tips and a sleep meditation for you to try at home:

• Avoid eating too close to bed time. At least a two hour break before sleep to ensure your digestive system isn’t working overtime as you’re trying to drift off

• Reduce your alcohol intake, especially in the two hours before you go to bed. Alcohol has a huge impact on the quality of your sleep - even if initially you may feel like it helps to knock you out!

• Limit caffeine intake later in the day. I can’t drink coffee any later than around 2pm or I still wired at bed time!

• Avoid blue light too close to bed time. At least an hour before, no tv and no devices. Or try wearing blue blocking glasses.

• Try reading a book or try a sleep meditation to help you switch off and wind down.

• Ensure your room is cool enough. 16c is the optimal temperature to promote a good night sleep

• Spray your pillow with lavender.

What works for you? Any top tips?