Sleep and Stress: Techniques to Unwind and Promote Relaxation
In our fast-paced world, stress has become an all-too-familiar companion. It can creep into our lives and disrupt our sleep, leaving us feeling tired and overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are effective techniques to help us unwind and promote relaxation, paving the way for a restful slumber. Here are a few tips to consider:
1️⃣ Bedtime routine: Create a consistent routine with calming activities like reading, bathing, or gentle stretches. Avoid electronic devices due to their interference with sleep hormones.
2️⃣ Deep breathing & meditation: Practice slow, deep breaths in a quiet space with closed eyes. Start with a few minutes of meditation daily and increase gradually.
3️⃣ Physical activity: Engage in enjoyable exercise like walking, yoga, or sports. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days.
4️⃣ Sleep-friendly environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Use comfortable bedding, a supportive mattress, and remove stressors like work-related items or electronics.
5️⃣ Relaxation techniques: Try progressive muscle relaxation, aromatherapy, soothing music, or gentle yoga poses. Release tension and prepare for a peaceful sleep.
Remember, it takes time to find what works best for you. Be patient and kind to yourself. By prioritizing relaxation and incorporating these techniques, you can reduce stress, unwind, and wake up refreshed.
Sweet dreams! ✨
Worst Xmas ever?
There's a a lot of planning that goes into Christmas day and sometimes things just don't go to plan. But it can be a good thing - a family mishap or hilarious memory that you can laugh about in Christmases to come.
Whether you burnt the dinner or were stranded at an airport...
Share your Christmas mishaps below!
Suellen’s sweet Christmas tradition
The festive season is always a great excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, and this time of year poses the perfect opportunity to bring a real showstopper to the Christmas table.
For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche, an impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with spun sugar that is popular at weddings in France and Italy.
What began as a birthday treat at a local French café has become a cherished Christmas tradition for Suellen and her 17-year-old twin granddaughters, Ellie and Sadie. Every year, the trio gather in Suellen’s apartment at William Sanders Village to cook this festive dessert - a holiday highlight they all treasure.
Click read more for the recipe.