Life Begins At...

lifebeginsat.com.au 135 Autumn 2019 W I T H D R L A U R E N T O B E R We're craving our down time so much, that we're getting it at night, when we really need to be sleeping. ABOUT Dr Lauren Tober Dr Lauren Tober is a Clinical Psychologist, Life Coach and Yoga Teacher, and the founder of the Centre for Mind Body Wellness. Website / laurentober.com Facebook / @drlaurentober Instagram / @drlaurentober I know myself when I get in an extra hour of sleep, I feel clear, calm and optimistic, and people often comment on how well I look. For extra points, make some time in the day to rest, so your body and mind are getting some well needed down time too. If you're having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep, sleep hygiene is paramount. This is a term that Psychologists use to refer to cultivating optimal sleeping habits like establishing a calming bed time routine, keeping the bedroom clean and tidy, avoiding substances such as coffee, alcohol, nicotine and chocolate close to bedtime, ensuring the bedroom is a comfortable temperature, removing or turning off any devices or lights, get up at the same time every morning (even if you don't get enough sleep the night before) and using your bedroom only for sex and sleeping (not for stressful conversations, work or lying awake ruminating). One very important thing to remember is that rest is almost as nourishing as sleep, and that lying awake worrying about not sleeping, is not at all restful and is likely to keep you awake even longer. So if you are lying awake and feel unable to sleep, try reminding yourself that rest is almost as nourishing as sleep, and all you need to do is to rest quietly and you'll be fi ne in the morning. A great way to support you to do this is to gently focus on your breath, or to listen to a relaxation or sleep meditation practice. I teach people all over the world to rest well. You can join me at Super Bloom Festival in Melbourne in April or practice with me in the comfort of your own bedroom by downloading one of my sleep or relaxation practices, or joining one of my online courses. I believe that prioritising sleep and rest is one of the best things you can do for your mental health and happiness. It certainly can't hurt to try!

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