Rest and Recharge: Tips for Better Sleep in Autumn

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisper, we know that autumn is upon us.

It’s the season of cosy jumpers, pumpkin-spiced everything, and, let’s be honest, our favourite comfy PJs. But as delightful as autumn can be, the change in seasons can also bring about disruptions to our sleep patterns. As the days get shorter and the nights longer, it’s important to ensure we are getting the restful sleep we need to recharge and take on each day with vigour.

Why Autumn Affects Our Sleep

Before we dive into the tips, it’s important to understand why the autumn season might be affecting your sleep.

As the days shorten, there is less natural light, which can disrupt our circadian rhythms. This can make it harder to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning. Additionally, the drop in temperature can also affect our sleep quality.

Create a Cosy Sleep Environment

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, a place where you can escape from the stress of the day and sink into a deep, restorative sleep.

To create a cosy sleep environment, start by making your bed as comfortable as possible. Invest in soft, warm bedding, and consider adding an extra blanket or two as the temperatures drop.

Keep the room cool, but not cold, and consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the dry autumn air.

Establish a Bedtime Routine

A consistent bedtime routine signals to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Start by dimming the lights an hour before bed to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Engage in relaxing activities, such as reading a book, listening to soft music, or practicing gentle stretches or yoga.

Avoid screens and caffeine in the hour leading up to bedtime as they can disrupt your sleep.

Embrace Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can be a wonderful way to create a calming and relaxing environment.

Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and cedarwood are known for their sleep-inducing properties.

Consider adding a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser in your bedroom, or sprinkle a few drops onto your pillow before bed.

Stay Active During the Day

Regular physical activity can help regulate sleep patterns.

Try to get outside and enjoy the fresh autumn air during the day. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a jog, or even raking leaves, staying active during the day can help you sleep better at night.

Practice Mindfulness

Practising mindfulness or meditation before bed can help calm a racing mind and prepare your body for sleep.

Take a few minutes before bed to practise deep breathing, focus on the present moment, and let go of any stress or tension from the day.

Final Thoughts

We all know how important sleep is for our overall well-being. It affects our mood, our energy levels, and even our skin. So, as the season changes, let’s make a conscious effort to prioritise our sleep. 

Sweet dreams and happy autumn!