What is the winter solstice?

The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year and is also known as midwinter or the hibernal solstice. During the winter solstice, the Earth’s axis is tilted furthest from the sun, resulting in the shortest number of daylight hours. For us optimists, it also signals that the days will start to lengthen as we head towards spring and summer. The winter solstice also has the longest night of the year and is a timely reminder to get more sleep. We love all things sleep and the health benefits of good sleep are too good to ignore. A good nights’ sleep is considered essential for mental and physical well being, boosting your immunity, better brain function, aiding digestion and reducing stress levels. Read on to discover ways to celebrate the winter solstice and our tips for improving your sleep.

Ways to celebrate the winter solstice

The winter solstice has been (and still is) significant for many cultures across the globe. It’s seen as a time to celebrate the symbolic death (waning) and rebirth (growing) of the sun with feasting and festivals. Here are some lovely ways to celebrate the winter solstice:
Host a gathering and share a warming winter feast.
Light up the longest night with candles.
Take a midwinter dip in the ocean.
Get up early to watch the sun rise.

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Tips for Improving your Sleep – understanding your sleep cycle

Understanding your sleep cycle will help you get a better nights’ sleep. A good nights’ sleep can be measured in hours with 8 often the ideal number to achieve. However, sleep occurs in sleep cycles. From early deep sleep to periods of lighter sleep to deep and REM (vivid dreaming) sleep, your body and brain are very busy getting you your sleep. To help encourage good sleep, start by waking up at the same time every day and walk in the morning sunshine to reset your circadian rhythm. Your circadian rhythm is your internal 24 hour clock that regulates cycles of sleepiness and alertness by responding to light changes (day to night and night to day) in our environment.

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Tips for Improving your Sleep – setting the scene for sleep

Feeling stressed, distracted or anxious before bed prolongs how long it takes us to fall asleep and can lead to sleep disruptions throughout the night. Style your bedroom to induce a sense of calm and to reduce any environmental triggers. Clear your space of clutter and mess to encourage the same of your mind. Incorporating touches of nature and calming, fragrant scents can help to reduce stress levels and enhance your mood. Make your bed with bed linen crafted from natural and breathable fabrics. Create a serene feel with the soft flickering glow of a candle and use dim bedside lighting to relax before sleep.

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Tips for Improving your Sleep – time to unwind

Take the time to prepare your body for rest. Making a habit of practising wind down routines to relax any tension in your body, such as a meditation, gentle stretching or a calming yoga session. Enjoy a steaming hot shower or long soak in the bath in the hour before bed. Feel completely relaxed while wrapped up in plush towels and a super soft robe while your body naturally cools down ready for sleep.

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