In our fast-paced, modern lives, achieving a good night's sleep has become an elusive goal for many. The importance of quality sleep for our physical and mental well-being cannot be overstated.

At a recent event at Delta Home in Lisnaskea heard from the Sleep Expert, Tom Coleman who told those attending about the secrets to a perfect night’s sleep.

Sleep is the ultimate act of self-care! It should be a priority in our lives and Mr. Coleman gave his five keywords for better sleep.

Stress

Getting stress under control is crucial. That means starting to wind down from about 6pm.

Light

Light is the most powerful external cue to regulate our sleep/wake cycles. Your biological brain needs to know the time.

Environment

Make sure you create a sensory haven and invest in a quality mattress and good bedding.

Electronics

Get off the technology, stop scrolling and disconnect from work. Setting clear boundaries around your technology will vastly improve your sleep.

Practice and patience

This is crucial to developing new & healthy sleep habits and wind down routines. Your brain will take time to re-wire and learn how to achieve regular sleep.

Mr. Coleman said: ‘’We seem to be getting busier and busier nowadays and learning to unwind is a valuable skill. In order to transition from our demanding and busy daytime lives into restful and restorative sleep, we really need a routine, a ritual which makes that transition seamless and relaxing.

"Many people arrive in bed, wired and tired thinking of the busy day they have had, with a “to-do” list in their head and maybe also looking ahead to another busy day. This is not conducive to sleep. Your sleep quality and ability to fall asleep will be informed by everything you do during the day. The first things to get right are based around healthier lifestyle choices.”