#NOWTRENDING CLEAN SLEEPING

Neuroscientist DR SARAH MCKAY explains how to get a healthy amount of shut-eye the natural way

You may have heard of the “clean eating” trend – you cut out the jun junk food from your diet for a healthier he feeling you. Well, now there’s a similar concept for sleep.

Yes, it turns out clean sleeping is the latest trend making its way into the bedroom. So what exactly does it mean?

Neuroscientist and wellness expert Dr Sarah Mckay explains why you should be giving it a go. Clean sleeping 101

With many Australians being chronically sleep-deprived – which has a severe impact on safety, health and wellbeing – adopting a clean sleeping routine has never been more important.

“Clean sleeping is another way of describing the concept of ‘sleep hygiene’,” says Dr Mckay.

“Clean sleeping habits are simple. Relax in the evening, go to bed at the same time every night, keep your bedroom cool and dark, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and put down devices an hour or two before you ou go to bed.” Your sleep environment Dr Mckay explains the simple ways to ensure your bedroom is the perfect place to catch ZZZS.

PRIORITISE YOUR BEDTIME

Creating an evening bedtime ritual will help you fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply and wake refreshed the next day. Try setting your alarm to remind you it’s bedtime!

TURN OFF YOUR TECH

Implement a “digital sunset” in your home. Tuck away your mobile phone, computer or tablet. Technology is overstimulating, stressful and often leads to bedtime procrastination.

DIM YOUR LIGHTING

The sleep hormone melatonin is triggered by darkness. In the evening, try using dim lighting such as the Philips Hue White & Colour Ambiance Candle (philips.com.au) which is designed to help maintain a natural and consistent sleep rhythm with low levels of warm, sunset-like colours.

COOL YOUR ROOM

A slight drop in body temperature signals to your brain that it’s time to sleep. It is easier to fall asleep in a room that is cooler, rather than too warm.