Despite the constant emphasis on the benefits of sleep, insomnia and sleep deprivation remain a common struggle among people of all ages. According to research done by the Great Indian Sleep Scorecard by Wakefit in 2022, over 59 per cent of Indians sleep after the recommended time of 11 pm. Our busy schedules are a major cause for this, where a lack of sleep impacts everything from workplace performance to libido levels. Whether it is by choice or due to an underlying health condition, there are ways to maximise both, the quality and quantity of your downtime.
Here's a guide to the best sleep essentials to invest in so you don’t find yourself staring at the ceiling or succumbing to the next episode on your watch list, but instead enjoy a comfortable night of good sleep.
Bedding essentials
Your bed is where all the magic happens, and you need slumber-inducing bedding to keep you cosy. Crafting the right environment with your bedding can help you avoid tossing and turning all night. Go for a mattress that supports your spine and relieves pressure points and look into pillowcases made from silk and satin to prevent skin and hair friction. Breathable comforters, tinted curtains, and weighted blankets are some of the essentials that can help.
Pottery Barn Satin Pillowcases, ₹1,600
Wakefit Orthopaedic Memory Foam Mattresses, ₹12,351
Skincare and body care
After a long day of wear and tear, your body and skin deserve some TLC, and the right essentials can make all the difference. A mild cleanser followed by a hydrating serum is the way to go. Extend this regimen to your body with an exfoliating body wash, then seal in moisture with a night-specific moisturiser. For targeted treatment, consider integrating products like retinol or overnight masks, which address specific skin concerns effectively.
Ilem Japan Rejuvenating Night Gel, ₹2,450
Sulwhasoo Overnight Vitalizing Mask, ₹3,600
Allies Of Skin Pigmentation Corrector Night Serum, ₹9,000
Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream, ₹2,100
LANEIGE Bouncy And Firm Sleeping Mask, ₹2,600
Dietary additions
Alongside eating well, adding certain vitamins can boost your chances of a good night's rest. Melatonin helps regulate sleep cycles, while magnesium and L-theanine promote relaxation. Easy options like gummies and supplements make it easy to incorporate these sleep aids into your night routine, supporting your body's natural sleep processes for better rest.
Sleep and Calm by The Good Bug, ₹1,249
Wellbeing Nutrition, ₹1,103
Aromatic essentials
Our sense of smell is closely linked to the part of the brain controlling unconscious actions, making essential oils like lavender, ylang-ylang, and oud excellent choices for some aromatherapy before bed. Whether applied topically or inhaled, essences from aromatic plants can influence emotions, behaviours, and stress responses, easing you into your nighttime schedule.
Marks and Spencer Apothecary Sleep Bath Salts, ₹999
Ekam N3 Sleep Aromatherapy Plug-In Kit, ₹1,499
Lead image credit: Pexels
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