Why is sleep so important for your mental health? Take a look at this informative illustration by one of our favourites @journey_to_wellness_

So, as you can see there is so much that goes on inside your body and brain while you sleep, and so much that happens as a result of not getting enough sleep.

So how can we get a better nights sleep?

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Try to be active during the day. ‍

Little children often run around all day and then sleep deeply all night... Take a tip from a toddler and get at least 60 minutes of exercise a day. Physical activity can decrease stress and help people feel more relaxed. Just don't work out too close to bedtime because exercise can wake you up before it slows you down.

Avoid alcohol and drugs.

Lots of people think that alcohol or drugs will make them relaxed and drowsy, but that's not the case. Drugs and alcohol actually disrupt sleep and increase your chances of waking up in the middle of the night.

Say goodnight to electronics.

I think we all know this is a hard one. Try to stop looking at your phone/iPad or laptop an hour, or at least half an hour, before lights out. Nothing says, "Wake up, something's going on!" like the buzz of a text or a notification on your socials.

Keep a sleep routine.

Finally, going to bed at the same time every night helps our bodies to expect sleep. Creating a set bedtime routine can enhance this relaxation effect. Try to unwind every night by reading, listening to music or writing in a journal. Finding something that relaxes you and routinely doing it every night can have a big impact on regulating your sleep patterns and making sure you get a deeper rest.

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And on that note, good night and sweet dreams :)

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