How To Get A Good Night's Sleep

Do you often find yourself lying awake in bed, unable to drop off? Help is at hand from sleep scientist Dr Alice Gregory

- Dr Helen Pilcher

Sleep is really important

It impacts every aspect of our lives. It’s vital for regulating our emotions, weight, immune system and cognitive functioning. When we don’t get enough sleep, we can feel terrible.

‘Everyone needs eight hours’

This is a myth. People vary hugely in terms of their sleep requirements. Some people manage perfectly well with less than eight hours, while others need more.

Consistency is key

Stick to a routine with a consistent bedtime and waking time. Your body needs to know what it should be doing and when it should be doing it. This is important for all of us, including babies and young children. If the evening always goes ‘story, bath, bed’, then they know what to expect.

It’s normal to wake up during the night