Are you Sleeping?

Sleep is a vital function for every function of the body. A lack of sleep can cause concentration problems, lethargy, altered moods and lowered immune function. As an osteopath I ask about general lifestyle which includes sleep. It's simply staggering how many people are used to sleeping badly. Here are some top tips to make sure you get the rest you need;

• Keep the bedroom as a place for rest and relaxation. This means no laptops, mobile phones or TVs. We are barraged with all manner of information all day, so you need to give yourself time to wind-down before sleeping.

• Eat early in the evening so you have time to digest your meal. Sleep is vital for repair, so don't use the body's resources for digesting.

• Have a regular routine; wake and go to bed at the same times each day so your body knows what it's meant to do and when.

• Eat a balanced diet- avoid fatty and rich foods.

• Avoid excess alcohol; a glass or two of vino may even help sleep but beyond that it's a no no for sleep routines.

• Do some light exercise in the evening so that you can allow any tension to melt away and settle your breathing.

• Reduce caffeine - if you have to have caffeine have it during the day and be caffeine free after 3pm.

• Share your worries- talk about your day and let go of anything that bothered you or use a journal.

Wishing you a good night's sleep.