I am the world’s worst sleeper – and I am married to the world’s best. It is true and it is the story of my life. Some can find ironic that I am attempting to give any sort of advice in this area – but I have been trying some things and they have helped.
My sleeping nights are not perfect, but I can now fall asleep quicker than I ever have (and that is without taking any sleep aids or medications, which is something I am really trying not to do – and have been successful for the last 3 months).
Without further ado, here are my suggestions of 5 things that can help you sleep better at home and away.
I have bought all items and have been using them for the last 3 months.
This Works Sleep Plus + Pillow Spray, 75ml
Costs from £28 from This Works, £26 from Marks & Spencer, £20 from Amazon UK and $40 from Look Fantastic (USA/Canada), Net-a-Porter or Neiman Marcus.
This Works has a huge range of sleeping sprays and I have worked through them all – and this is my favourite. I do not think it will magically put you sleep – but it smells divine and I now associate that smell with a good night’s sleep. It also cancels out the smell of the magnesium oil (below) and it is perfect for travelling as your beds will smell the same.
They say ‘A motion activated sleep solution, to help restore sleep patterns for restlesss sleepers’.
You can also try a sleep kit from This Works for £22.
BetterYou Magnesium Goodnight Spray 100ml
Costs from £8.25 from Amazon UK (ships internationally) and $22 from Amazon USA.
This product was recommended by a friend who is a master sleeper and had some serious trouble sleeping recently. I have tried this spray and I think it really works – it smells a bit strange, but I now put it in my legs and my feet every night (you have to build up tolerance to the spray and start with less) and things have improved. It is all natural and seems to be some sort of cult item.
What they say? ‘Magnesium is required by the body to maintain a state of rest. Magnesium deficiency can lead to leg cramps, restless legs, stiffness and excess muscle tension. All of which can cause interrupted sleeping patterns and sleepless nights.’
Aromatherapy Associates Relax Roller Ball (10ml)
Costs from £18/£25 from Aromatherapy Associates, Feel Unique (Europe), Look Fantastic (US/Canada), Saks Fifth Avenue.
The sleep set can be bought for around £35 in the UK/Europe at John Lewis or North America.
This is one of my must have travel items – not only for sleeping but also when I am a bit anxious or nervous. I also used it when I quit smoking and needed a little pick me up. Smells divine and I use it on my wrists, behind ears or chest. I don’t use all three products at the same time time, by the way!
PS. May 22-29 – the roller is 2 for 1 on Aromatherapy Associate’s sale.
Noisly App
Costs £1.99 from UK App Store and $1.99 from USA App store.
This is the wildcard here and I have to say, it is one of my favourite apps – you can create white noise and specific noises/sounds to help you fall asleep and combine them. You can also set a timer on your phone to disable the app after a set time (or it can just keep going all night). I found it particularly useful on planes too.
Fitbit Inspire HR (used in conjunction with the FitBit app)
Costs from £115 from Amazon UK and $148 from Amazon US
I haven’t worn my fitbit for about 3-4 years and I have recently started a ‘healthy programme’ and thought I needed a new one. I had completely forgotten about the sleep tracker and I have been enjoying it a lot. The app is completely changed from what is was back then (progress!) and I have now set a sleep schedule which we are sticking to 7-days a week. The new fitbits send you ‘go to sleep notifications’ on your wrist but the biggest change? I stopped using my phone as an alarm (and I have moved it away from the bed). The fitbit comes with a silent alarm (vibration based) and I cannot recommend it enough. I was worried at the beginning that I wouldn’t feel it, but hasn’t failed once.
I am also having acupuncture, and I feel that it has helped a lot of issues (I haven’t been the easiest patient).
I hope one of these products help you sleep better if you are a challenged sleeper like me. If you have any tips to share, feel free to leave a comment or email me anytime.
xo
Mrs. O