Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep

Pillar of health

Beyond the joy of sinking into the cloud-like billow of doonas and pillows (is it the weekend yet?), sleep has incredible restorative powers. In fact, the importance of a good night’s sleep is grouped with eating well and exercising — it’s one of the cornerstones of good health for every living being on the planet. Getting enough sleep will reduce stress, improve your memory, make you smarter, can help with weight management, help you live longer and make you happier. And best of all: it’s FREE!

Sweet dreams

“Extending our sleep period improves our mental and body performances during the day,” said Dr Liborio Parrino is Chair of the World Sleep Day Committee. “It also enhances our dreaming experience, as REM stages are mostly concentrated in the final portion of sleep,” which we often miss out on in the hectic pace of modern life.

Snore no more

Did you know that how you sleep also affects your health? It can impact snoring, back pain, how often you get up in the night and even personality! For instance, people who sleep on their tummy are often more restless in the night and the position can strain the neck and lower back. If you have to sleep on your tummy, get a very soft pillow. For those that snore, get off your back. Back-sleeping will make sleep apnoea worse and can add strain to lower-back issues.

Perfect position

Side sleeping is preferred by 40% of the population and it helps control snoring, ease back pain and increase blood flow, which is especially good if you’re pregnant. People who sleep in the starfish position (only 5%), which is on your back with your arms up near your head, are said to be good listeners who don’t like being the centre of attention.

Spoon me!

But spooning is the position that takes the cake when it comes to a good night’s sleep. It’s good for your emotional health as it releases the feel-good chemical, oxytocin, lowering stress and creating a deeper bond with your partner.

10 tips for a better sleep

1  Set a routine. Try to go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
2  Take a little nanna nap if you need it. Studies show that 10 to 20 minutes is best.
3  Maintain a healthy diet and cut back on alcohol.
4  Cut off the caffeine at least 7 hours before bedtime.
5  If you need a pre-bed snack, a piece of fruit is best.
6  Having a regular exercise routine helps you sleep better at night.
7  Make your bed a comfy nest with soft sheets, a fluffy doona and good pillows.
8  Find a cosy sleep temperature and keep the room well ventilated.
9  Eliminate light and distracting noises as much as you can.
10  Reserve your bed for sleep and snuggles — no working, phone-scrolling or TV-watching.

See more in-store

Browse our range online or visit us in person at your local Early Settler store to select some goodies to help you get a good night’s sleep. And don’t miss our guide to creating the ultimate teenage retreat to ensure your irritable adolescent has a comfy place to recharge.

Pictured at top of page: Brooklyn queen bed.