Sleep is possibly the most important aspect of a healthy lifestyle, and unfortunately it is also the most overlooked. Sleep gives you strength to take on the day, and lack of it can deteriorate your health. Now it’s understandable  – in today’s fast paced world – getting a good night’s rest may seem like a far-fetched luxury for some. If you find yourself hitting the pillow at the end of a long day and being struck with restlessness, you’re not alone. 

The good news: we have some simple sleep tips for you. Whether it’s through reading a book, counting sheep, or avoiding screens, there are tricks that can help you get a good night’s sleep. Co-signed by grandmothers around the globe and backed by science, there is a remedy that has stood the test of time and actually works. Before cracking open War and Peace, try a glass of milk!

Milk is more than just a comforting drink; it’s Mother Nature’s sleep aid. It contains tryptophan, an amino acid that plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin and melatonin. These are the hormones that regulate sleep. Serotonin improves mood and reduces stress, while melatonin signals to your body that it is time to sleep. Sure, these nutrients may be hard to pronounce, but they’re easy to get. Just grab a glass and pour!

Below are some tips on incorporating milk into your nightly routine:

Warm Milk for Comfort: Warm up a glass of milk for a soothing and comforting pre-sleep beverage. The warmth can help relax your muscles and prepare your body for rest. 

Add a Dash of Honey: Adding a teaspoon of honey to your milk not only enhances the flavor but also provides additional calming effects, as it contains natural sugars that can further aid in the production of serotonin.

Milk Tea: Add some milk into a calming cup of tea (make sure it’s decaf). This combo is not only delicious, but also serves as a great antioxidant. 

While milk can be a great addition to your sleep routine, it is important to remember that it’s not the only factor for a successful sleep. Combining it with other healthy practices can significantly enhance your sleep quality as well.

Set a Sleep Schedule: Consistency is key. Do your best to try and go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, as this helps regulate your body’s internal clock, which makes it easier to fall asleep.

Create a Relaxing Environment: Romanticize your evening routine. Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Try investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows to create a cozy environment you can look forward to crawling into every night.

Limit Screen Time: Unfortunately, doom scrolling before bed can doom your chances of a good night sleep. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with melatonin production. Try to turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime and avoid those social media rabbit holes.

To sum it up: sleep is the fuel that powers your journey through each day. Without adequate rest, we are like cars running on fumes. So, the next time you find yourself tossing and turning in the night, consider reaching for the remedy you can rely on. Sweet dreams are just a sip away.