Rest EASY

By LISA BYRNE

But not all sleep issues are caused by an inactive lifestyle as stress and anxiety can also be a major cause. Jo Foster, owner of Richmond-based natural aromatherapy brand Kiss the Moon, spent years travelling the world for work, leaving Jo constantly jetlagged. Having changed her career and lifestyle, Jo’s full of snippets of advice on achieving the perfect slumber. “My biggest tip is to claim back the last 20 minutes of the day to unwind such as having a bath, reading a book or doing some stretches.”

My own sleep issues stem from a heart-breaking sudden bereavement, after which I found it increasingly di cult to sleep – and when I did, I’d often su er sleep terrors. I also occasionally sleepwalk and was once escorted by a kindly night porter back to my room after I slept walked into a bar at a Cardi hotel!

Rather than mainlining Nytol, I’m always on the lookout for natural alternatives. And believe me, I have tried everything in a quest to tumble into a heavenly slumber.

One utter game changer was recommended to me by a Leeds’ health guru, who advised sipping a cup of soothing Moon Milk, just before bed. This concoction consists of warm milk, honey, cinnamon, cardamon and most crucially Ashwagandha – an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for thousands of years to relieve stress.

Another big hit is Sleepee Doze, a revolutionary supplement also including Ashwagandha among its ingredients, created by founder Dan Chapman for his sleep deprived wife as a natural alternative to sleeping pills. And I never travel anywhere without a batch of the iconic jasmine scented self-heating masks by Spacemasks. Within moments of putting on the mask while listening to the free wellbeing app Insight Timer, I’m snoozing away into a delicious dreamland.