The importance of sleep

The importance of sleep

Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health.

It helps us to: * Rest and recharge our bodies

* Process emotions and memories

* Boost our immune system

* Improve our mood and cognitive function * Reduce our risk of chronic diseases.

There are many different types of beds & mattresses available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular types include:

* **Mattresses**

Mattresses come in a variety of materials, including memory foam, latex, and innerspring, which includes open coil N.B: these springs are unilaterally joined side to side & top to bottom & rely on combining with the interior fillings around them to provide a contour with the user.

Another innerspring version is known as "pocket sprung" these type springs are generally used in higher quality & more expensive products. The springs are generally soft & small, they work independently from each other allowing them to conform & adjust to your body contours, providing an independent sleep space which helps to eliminate the age old issue of roll together on the mattress surface.

Spring counts typically vary from 600-800 up to 2.500 but can go up to 3 or even 4.000 & like other types of spring interiors they are in a range of tensions from soft to firm, depending on your personal preference.

Pocket sprung mattresses use a wide variety of fillings to create different attributes & comfort options, as well as affecting the price fillings are chosen for their resilience, durability, flexibility & ability to absorb body moisture.

Look out for key additional features on mattresses such as handles, air vents, tufting & the outer fabric quality, these all greatly affect the comfort & long term wear & tear of your purchase.

When you consider that we average a 1/3 of our lives sleeping it is worth taking that fact into account when budgeting for a new bed or mattress, what price can you put on a good night's sleep?

If I said to you that you could get a great night's sleep every night for the next 8-10 years & it would only cost you a £1 per night that would be a bargain right?

Then when you break it down that would be a approximate £3650 purchase, now I am not suggesting you spend that amount on a bed or mattress just highlighting the importance of putting a value on sleeping comfortably & supported, in real terms given the benefits physically, emotionally & from a well being perspective for only pennies per night we can all enhance these areas giving ourselves a great start to whatever life has in store in our waking hours, it's a no brainer to spend the maximum you can afford to ensure you also gain the most from the natural benefits of sleep.

**Frames**

Bed frames come in a variety of styles, including platform, canopy, and sleigh. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and wrought iron.

Important factors to consider when purchasing bed frames is the sizing, check the external frame proportions will fit in your available space, far too often people buy bed frames & easily get confused thinking that they are standard sizes like the mattresses that fit them, remember that the frame is always bigger than the mattress that fits it, i:e A standard "Double" size mattress is 4'6" x 6'3" but the bed frame will protrude beyond the mattress. In tight spaces this could be the difference to avoid stress & disappointment.

Most notably people will enquire for a small double size(4'0 x 6'3") bed frame as they want to maximise the floor space in the room not realising that only the mattress size is small double & that the frame for the mattress will be bigger.

In these circumstances where space is at a premium we always recommend opting for a divan set as these generally do not protrude past the mattress.

* **Bedding**

Bedding includes sheets, blankets, pillows, and bedspreads. It is important to choose bedding that is comfortable and that helps you to sleep soundly.

Sleep Tips.

* Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible, even on weekends.

* Create a relaxing bedtime routine.

* Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.

* Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.

* Get regular exercise, but avoid exercising too close to bedtime.

* See a doctor if you have trouble sleeping.