Tips for a better nights sleep

In the last few years I have struggled with burning the candle at both ends, basically I go to bed late and wake up early. I know what you are thinking, 'just go to bed earlier'. But genuinely, I cant! I go to bed at 10pm and I won't be asleep until at least 12 or 1 (am) and then will be awake again by around 5am. I have almost become conditioned to this as I no longer really get that tired.

After years of late nights for studying (GCSE then A Level- I was studying obsessed) and waking up early to study as much as possible, I now naturally wake up early. It is almost as though the stress from exams still sits with me, months after leaving school.

I am gradually becoming less stressed and less productivity obsessed however I am still struggling to fully rest and sleep. I am convinced that the reason I cannot sleep is because my brain is used to being alert the whole time, probably down to anxiety too.

I have recently tried to improve my sleeping pattern, I am going to share with my tips:

Tips for a better nights sleep:

(Not my pic, cannot find credit- tumblr)

1) Put your phone on the other side of the room

 I know this is now a tip that has been shared for ages, but I never really listened to it and I really should have. It is so easy to lay in your bed and scroll on your phone for over an hour without even realising so seriously, put it on the other side of the room. This is a bonus because if you set an alarm then you actually have to get up to turn it off.

2) Wind down early

Don't take your makeup off, have a shower and get your pj's just before bed, make sure you are relaxed and ready at least an hour before. I personally like to be 'settled' (lol how old am I) an hour before bed so I can watch a tv programme and wind down. If I don't do this, I feel wide awake before bed- which is not helpful if you are trying to get more sleep.

(Not my pic, cannot find credit- tumblr)

3) Have a warm drink

Not everyone will relate but I hate feeling cold before bed, I just cannot get comfortable. It would probably be easier to get an extra blanket but I personally like to have a warm drink (hot chocolate or tea) before bed so that I feel warm from within- which sounds weird but is true! It helps me relax and feel cosy.

4) Prepare for the next day

If you are working the next day or have something you have to be ready for, get prepared the night before. This way, you have no stress of tomorrow in your head whilst you're trying to sleep. It is easier to to relax knowing everything is ready and having a plan, I know for sure that this helps me as I thrive off organisation.

I would love to hear any of your tips in the comments as I still do struggle to get a good nights sleep, though these tips have helped!

Ellie x