Top tips for a better night's sleep

The benefits of taking a magnesium supplement before you go to bed...

One of the many benefits attributed to magnesium use is improved sleep – whether it be simply helping you stay asleep longer, fall asleep faster, or battle recurring bouts of insomnia.

There have been encouraging studies showing that magnesium supplements may improve sleep quality, sleep duration, and benefit people with sleep disorders like insomnia and restless legs syndrome. Future research may clarify the effects of magnesium on sleep as well as the role of magnesium supplements in promoting sleep health.

Amazingly effective FREE short sleep podcasts

10 Relaxation and Sleep Podcasts So Effective, I Nearly Fell Asleep Writing this List

Getting into podcasts means I also discovered podcasts specifically designed to help people sleep, relax, or take a moment to themselves. I mean, we all have that podcast that helps us sleep that was not made at all with that in mind, but let’s keep those to ourselves; I don’t think anyone wants to hear that their podcast is snooze-worthy. Your mileage may vary, but here are some sleep and relaxation focused podcasts in no particular order that have successfully helped me drift off into dreamland in less than an hour.

Calm - top rated app for helping with sleep

Calm is an award-winning mindfulness app that’s available for iOS, Android, and desktop. Developed in 2012, Calm has over 100 million downloads and more than 700,000 5-star reviews.

The app features hundreds of calming exercises, helpful breathing techniques, and sleep stories narrated by celebrities like Matthew McConaughey and LeBron James.

Calm has many offerings, and the interface is relatively simple to navigate through. Plus, they’re constantly adding new content.

FREE trial available.

Best FREE sleep apps

These apps to help you fall asleep approach a good night from a variety of perspectives—from quieting your brain to tracking your hours. The best part? You can get all of the functionality free of charge. And while some apps offer upgrades or monthly subscriptions, we’re focusing on the features that come in the free versions. So you don’t have to sacrifice money for sleep.

Free sleep stories with Audible

Great free sleep stories on Audible - and whilst there is a monthly subscription, you can try it FREE for 30 days before you decide if this is right for you.   The best collection of sleep stories to really help have a good nights sleep... 

White Noise machines

White noise machines are perfect for noise-sensitive individuals and those who want to completely block out background noise. These types of machines help to increase focus, improve sleep, blood circulation, and relax the mind. It is thought that white noise may be the first step towards recovery from mental health issues, sleep disorders, and depression.

Weighted blankets for a better night's sleep

Weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety in both children and adults. They’re typically safe to use. They help many people achieve a relaxed state, allowing them to sleep more deeply. Weighted blankets help ground your body during sleep by pushing it downwards. This process, known as “earthing” or “grounding,” may have a deeply calming effect.

Try a body pillow...

When you sleep on a full pillow, your head and neck are in a natural position. This can help to improve your sleep posture and reduce the chances of snoring. It also allows your spine to move fully in all directions, which is important for good spinal health.

Sleeping on a full long pillow also helps to improve your circulation. This is because it supports your neck and head in a way that prevents them from being compressed by the mattress. It also helps to relax your muscles and joints, which can help to reduce the amount of pain you experience during the day.

In addition to these health benefits, using a full body pillow can also save you money. Full body pillows are often more expensive than traditional pillows, but they offer many of the same benefits. If you’re looking for a better night’s sleep, a full body pillow may be the best option for you.

Maybe just simply a new pillow would help?

It's striking how many of us put up with a pillow that’s either too flat, too soft, or too firm for our liking. As you may be well aware, one size doesn't fit all when it comes to finding the best pillow. Side sleepers will need a different pillow than back and front sleepers. If you suffer from neck pain or get too hot in the night, you’ll require a pillow with extra support or cooling properties. And if you snore or have allergies, then you’ll need to consider hypoallergenic or anti-snore options too. 

Here's a guide to some of the best pillows on the market, whichever way you sleep...