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12:00 AM 19th October 2024
lifestyle

Sleep Expert Suggests NOT To Go To Sleep At 'Normal' Time Next Week

 
Image by Alexa from Pixabay
Image by Alexa from Pixabay
With darker mornings and longer evenings, the last Sunday of October marks the end of British Summer Time (BST), as the clocks go back from 2am to 1am on October 27th. Whilst many are excited for an extra hour in bed next Sunday, for some, the clocks going back can disrupt their sleep schedule and impact the quality of their rest.

Interested in helping, Mattress Online’s sleep expert, James Wilson ‘The Sleep Geek’ has offered his advice on getting a good night’s sleep next Sunday.

James says that we should avoid sleeping at our ‘normal’ time when the clocks change.

He explains:
"For many of us the biggest issue with the clocks changing is the stress it causes us. We need to put it in perspective when it comes to how it impacts our sleep timing. Most of us will lie in on a weekend, so the adjustment in wake-up time is not too noticeable. One thing to consider though, is that on Sunday night don’t delay going to bed to fall asleep at your ‘normal’ time. Your normal time that night will be an hour later than the day before, so it’s important to go to bed when you feel sleepy.

"Additionally, getting natural light slightly later in your day on Sunday will help set your body clock and could help your body adjust to the change faster. Most of us will have adjusted after one or two nights."

For those feeling a bit stressed or anxious about their sleep when it comes to the time change, James has some words of advice.

James says:
"If you’re worrying about getting to sleep, then try some self-care to relax before bed: This could be listening to calming music, reading a book or taking a warm bath. Self-care habits include limiting your caffeinated drinks intake, exercising regularly and no alcohol before bed.”

"Most people who don't have sleeping issues should naturally adjust to the change within a couple of days, if not sooner. However, if you do struggle to sleep, there are key things to get right before seeking the help of a professional."


James suggests waking up as close to the same time every day as possible, including weekends, and having a consistent targeted sleep time. However, it is important to only go to bed when sleepy. He also suggests creating a better sleeping environment by making sure the bedroom is dark and quiet. And check that your pillows and mattress are still comfortable and don’t need changing.

Mattress Online has a number of different methods it recommends for better sleep, including a form of self-hypnosis known as ‘finger breathing,’ which can be used to bring you back into a calmer state of mind.

If you are still struggling to go to sleep, it is recommended that you discuss your concerns with a GP.

Information supplied by MattressOnline