Sleeptember highlights the importance of sleep throughout the month of September. Run by The Sleep Charity, this campaign aims to help you optimise your sleep so you can look, feel, and function at your best.

Surprisingly, one in five Brits say they sleep poorly. And about 43% in this cohort cite worry and stress as a huge part of this problem. So, what’s the fix? Here are our top tips to help you get on top of your sleep game this September!

Tip #1: Create a “Worry” Journal

Write down your worries, then write an absurdly exaggerated version of each. This can help put concerns in perspective and even add some humor. Additionally, getting your “worries” out on paper can help alleviate some of the weight, making everything seem a little less heavy.

Tip #2: Try Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a powerful relaxation technique that can significantly improve sleep quality. It involves systematically tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in the body. While the whole thing takes about 15 minutes and involves going through each muscle group one-by-one, it can make a huge difference in your stress levels before heading to bed.

In fact, research shows that relaxation techniques, including PMR, can help reduce anxiety and stress. So, try it out!

Tip #3: Write Down Three Good Things

Instead of just listing positives, challenge yourself to find three good things about a stressful situation. So, determine what’s stressing you out… then, try to find those silver-linings. What are some positives? How can you see it all in a new light?

Tip #4: Use Aromatherapy

Create a unique scent associated with relaxation by using a specific essential oil only at bedtime. This could mean lighting a lavender candle (a scent associated with relaxation!) or placing essential oils and certain parts of your body and doing a brief meditation or breathing practice.

Tip #5: Create a Bedtime Mantra

Craft a personal, rhythmic mantra to repeat that counters your specific worries. Some examples include:

• I release the day and welcome peaceful sleep.
• With each breath, I become calmer and more relaxed.
• My mind is quiet, my body is still, I am ready for rest.
• I am safe, I am calm, I am loved.
• Sleep comes easily to me, healing and refreshing my body and mind.
• I let go of all worries and embrace tranquility.
• My bed is a sanctuary of peace and comfort.

I encourage you to further follow the Sleeptember campaign and use this month to your advantage! In just 30 days, your sleep could be 30% better if you make a small change each day. 

Curious about how chiropractic care might help enhance your sleep? Schedule your FREE discovery call with your local Finsbury Park chiropractor today. BOOK NOW.