SLEEP TIGHT

Why do people say, ``Good night, sleep tight"? What is the meaning of` `sleep tight"?

The tightness has nothing to do with the body of the individual. And it doesn't mean holding on to someone sleeping next to you tightly! ``Tight'' here refers to the tightness of the bed. Nowadays of course, most beds are made of either wood or steel. In the old days, it was only the frame of the bed that was made of wood. The middle portion, the portion on which people slept on consisted of strings. There were strings running from one end of the frame to the other. If these strings were not tightly strung, the bed sagged, making it very uncomfortable for the person lying down. Result? The individual did not get much sleep. If the strings were tightly strung, then the bed was firm and the person sleeping on it got a good night's sleep. So, when you say sleep tight, what you are saying is, I hope your cot is tightly strung.

Sleep Tight: 6 Tips To Get Your Best Sleep Ever

It’s a fact: getting a solid 7-8 hours of sleep is good for you. We know being better rested not only makes us more mentally clear and physically energized for whatever the next day brings, but what might surprise some is how much our skin, mood, weight, immunity and even memory benefits from catching those all-important ZZZs.

Not all sleep is quality sleep, however. The goal is to reach a deep, deep slumber, otherwise known as REM. There are lots of things we can do to encourage a successful snooze! Below are some of my six best tips for creating an optimal sleep environment:

1. Shut It Down
Turn off all screens (TV, laptops and smart phones, too!) at least 45 minutes before bedtime. These activities rev us up, keeping our brains wired when we should be winding down. In addition, the glow of the screen delays the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Instead, I like to read a book or magazine.

2. Lights Out
Twinkling stars are dreamy however studies show that light signals our brains to be awake and therefore we get the best sleep in the pitch dark. Black out liners are concealed behind your existing curtains or shades, so you can keep the design you love and get the sleep you need.

3. Shut Eye
If your partner wakes up for water in the middle of the night and turns on the light (don’t you just love that?!) you’ll have nothing to worry about if you’re wearing a soft sleep mask.

4. Sleep Sounds
White noise machines produce low level soothing noises that tune out everything from neighbours bickering to barking dogs. You can always download an app to get those ambient sounds that will help you sleep tight or try one of these noise machines to get the job done.

5. Rest Your Head
Pillows are sometimes underappreciated and thought of as a one-size-fits-all situation. That is not the case! Take the time to choose what type is right for you. Factor in whether you’re a back, side or stomach sleeper. Decide if you prefer a soft and cloud-like material or something firm and sturdy. The right pillow can make a major difference in your snooze fest.

6. Breathe Deep
Essential oils such as lavender, ylang-ylang, and chamomile promote relaxation. I don’t prefer to light candles when I’m about to go to bed because, hello danger! I do appreciate satchels, mists and diffuser sticks, which also get the scented job done.

Now that you know how important sleep is, what are you going to try first? I’m going to start with a little meditating before bed, reflecting on all the things I’m grateful for during the day and grabbing a good book! The key is creating a routine you can sustain and relaxes you. Hopefully you have the tools to do it now!