by Shenrina Badri

Sleep helps our body as well as mind to unwind and relax especially after a hard day of work. It leaves us feeling rejuvenated and energised for the day that lies ahead as well.

We require a different amount of sleep at the various stages of our life cycle. For example, newborns require between 14 to 17 hours of sleep, preschoolers between 10 to 13 hours of sleep, teenagers between eight to 10 hours, adults between seven and nine hours and older adults between seven and eight hours.

The Sleep Council in the United Kingdom recommends the following to having a good night’s sleep:

1. Try to relax before going to bed.

2. Ensure that your bed is comfortable.

3. Going to bed and waking at approximately the same time daily will programme your body to sleep better.

4. Create a restful sleeping environment.

Do more exercise and avoid smoking.

Reduce your intake of caffeine and don’t overindulge in food.

If you find that you cannot sleep, get up and do something relaxing until you feel sleepy again.

Always see your doctor if you feel that there could be a medical reason as to why you are unable to sleep.

Source: Child Mag, Nov 2015