Sleep is one of my favourite things in life, but when deadlines roll around, my body goes into shock and begins to forget what it feels like to be rested.

During this time of the year, whether or not you’ve finished your exams – your sleeping habits have probably changed, and not for the better. You get into bed with the best intentions of heading to dreamland but instead find yourself lying awake worrying about your days ahead. We’ve all heard the old remedy of drinking warm milk to help you sleep, but if you’re lactose intolerant like me, it’s going to take more than a glass of milk for a restful night.

Here are a few tips for a good night’s sleep and a pleasant awakening.

1.  If you have a lot on your mind, it will be difficult to calm your thoughts enough to drift off to sleep.  Try to write down what’s on your mind and make a list of the things you need to do for tomorrow.  Having everything down on paper will help you organise your thoughts.

2.  Let your body unwind for the day.  Try and keep the 30 minutes to an hour before you go to sleep as quiet and peaceful as possible.  Turn off the news and try to avoid hectic TV programs and movies.

3.  Eating right just before going to bed may seem like a good idea, but your body needs time to digest.   Avoid a big meal two hours before bed.  This will not only help you fall asleep quicker but help you have a more restful night.

4. Keep the noise levels down around you as best you can.  Turn off your music and TV to avoid distractions from sleep.  If you can’t avoid noises try using earplugs.  If you decide to use earplugs just be careful not to sleep through your alarm!

5.  Having a drink before you go to bed sounds like a good way to get to sleep, but alcohol reduces your quality of sleep.    Alcohol will make you fall asleep faster, but you will likely wake up later in the night and have to visit the toilet a few times.

6.  Caffeine may help you wake up in the morning, but it can also prevent you from sleeping. Caffeine can linger in your system for 10-12 hours after your last cup of coffee.  Try to cut back on the amount of caffeine you consume overall and avoiding caffeine after lunchtime will send you dreaming in no time.

Sweet dreams!

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