CAN’T SLEEP? MAKE SURE YOU AREN’T OVEREATING...

NOW, more than ever, we’re aware that our health is our wealth. And geting a good night’s sleep is also essential to having a healthy immune system, so if you are struggling getting to sleep at night, you may be left feeling run down and worn out.

As part of their new campaign Hello Health, Lloyds Pharmacy is offering expert tips on how you can get a better night’s sleep. Pharmacy Manger, Bridget Darcy from Lloyds Pharmacy Fairgreen Shopping Centre, Mullingar, says: ‘Poor sleep may increase your risk of serious medical conditions which can include obesity, heart disease, diabetes and potentially a shorter life expectancy. The average person needs anywhere from six to nine hours of sleep per night.

‘For the first time in many years I have had a lot more customers coming to me who are finding it hard to get good quality sleep. I cannot stress enough how important our sleep is to our health and how important it is to maintain good sleep hygiene. Your local LloydsPharmacy is there to help you and has great guidance and tips on how to improve your quality of sleep. So, make sure to pop in or pick up the phone, we are happy to help.’’

Bridget had these tips to help you get a better night’s sleep. GET INTO A ROUTINE. Getting into a good sleep routine is key. Try to go to bed at the same time every night if possible. It also helps to try and wake up at the same time too. IMPROVE YOUR ENVIRONMENT. A quiet, cool, dark room is ideal for sleep. It also helps to have a comfortable mattress and invest in good quality bed linen. Eliminate as much light from the room as possible.

AVOID HEAVY MEALS AND ALCOHOL. Eating heavy meals before sleep of drinking too much alcohol can really affect the quality of your sleep. CREATE A BEDTIME RITUAL. Make sure to wind down before bed, having a warm (not hot) shower can help you to relax. Even better, having an Epsom Salts bath and burning some essential oils can really help to ease muscle fatigue and prepare you for a good sleep. EXERCISE. Engaging in some form of exercise each day can contribute to more sound and restful sleep.