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Sleep
Sleep quality is a foundational aspect of wellbeing – for mind, body and soul. Yet we all struggle with it from time to time, and for many different reasons. Over the years we’ve explored a wide range of tools to support us in creating deeper restorative sleep and with that easier nights.
Here you’ll find the tools we’ve found most helpful, now shared with you – from creating the right environment to calming remedies, grounding practices and gentle devices designed to guide the body into peaceful sleep.
Sleep Environment
A restful night often begins with the right environment. Blackout blinds, supportive pillows and filters that soften harsh light all help create a space where the body feels safe, comfortable and ready to let go into sleep.
Charlotte Recommends: Blackout blinds are highly effective for improving sleep quality by creating a completely dark environment, which is helps the body to produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. By blocking out external light sources such as streetlights or early morning sunlight, blackout blinds help maintain a natural circadian rhythm, allowing youn to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Particularly beneficial for shift workers, young children, or anyone living in brightly lit areas. I used this with my foster kids and also take them on holiday in the summer to avoid the early morning sunshine reducing my 7hours of sleep!
Charlotte Recommends: if a blackout blind isn’t possible and you don’t mind something on your head then this mask is my recommendation. The design means there is no contact on eye lashes (which irritate me and stop me being able to sleep with it on). The blocking out of light helps the body release sufficient melatonin to initiate sleep and allows you to sleep longer in the summer months with early sun rises.
Charlotte Recommends: Cervical contour memory foam pillows are recommended for improving sleep quality and managing pain due to their ergonomic design, which supports proper spinal alignment and reduces strain on the neck and upper back. The memory foam conforms to the head and neck, distributing pressure evenly and minimizing pressure points, which helps prevent numbness and discomfort. I like this one as it accommodates various sleep positions.
Charlotte Phelps: Using a knee pillow can significantly reduce pain by promoting proper spinal alignment during sleep. When placed between the knees, it helps maintain the natural alignment of the hips, pelvis, and lower back, which can alleviate pressure on the spine and reduce strain on the lower back muscles. This improved alignment can lead to decreased pain and stiffness, particularly for those with lower back issues, sciatica, or hip pain, by distributing weight more evenly and reducing stress on joints and muscles throughout the night. I like to like on my right side, so put my left leg on this pillow and it really helps reduce my lower back stiffness and pain.
Nicky Recommends: Whole body pillows offer benefits beyond pregnancy support, making them valuable for various sleepers. These pillows promote proper spinal alignment by supporting multiple body parts simultaneously, which can reduce pressure on joints and muscles, potentially alleviating back, hip, and knee pain. Additionally, they can improve sleep quality by encouraging a more stable sleeping position, reducing tossing and turning, and providing comfort for side sleepers or those recovering from injuries. Ever since i was pregnant I’ve kept sleeping with mine because it’s just so damned comfortable and gives me really good spinal support.
Nicky Recommends: Good pillows are essential for ensuring proper spinal alignment and overall sleep quality, as they support the head and neck, reducing strain on the body during rest. This pillow features body-conforming Adapt material micro-cushions that adapt to the shape of your head and neck, providing tailored comfort and support, while its traditional medium support design is ideal for a variety of sleeping positions. I know I’ll sleep well when i place my head on this bad boy…
Calming Aids & Remedies
Sometimes we all need a little extra support to unwind. From gentle herbal teas and natural remedies to soothing baths and lavender sprays, these are the calming aids we turn to when it’s time to slow down and prepare for rest.
Charlotte Recommends: Blue light, especially from electronic devices, interferes with sleep by suppressing the production of melatonin. This type of light has a short wavelength and high energy, which can trick our brains into thinking it’s still daytime, disrupting our natural circadian rhythm. Blue light filter glasses are beneficial to wear in the evenings because they block or reduce the amount of blue light reaching our eyes. By wearing these glasses, you allow your body to naturally produce melatonin as the day progresses into night, helping to maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
Alchemists Recommend: The Calm Carry Sleep Aid is a newer tool we’ve been experimenting with, and it’s fair to say it’s a bit like Marmite — you’ll either love it or not get on with it at all. Some of us found the pressure too much – Nicky is quite sensitive, and Sally couldn’t use it with her pacemaker. While Charlotte and Ben absolutely loved the effect and felt it really supported their sleep. If you’re curious, it’s definitely worth a try to see which camp you fall into.
Charlotte Recommends: Lavender contains compounds linalool and linalyl acetate that have been shown to have relaxing effects on the nervous system. When inhaled, these compounds help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a state of relaxation conducive to sleep. Studies have demonstrated that lavender can increase slow-wave sleep, the deep, restorative phase of the sleep cycle. You can use essential oils in a number of ways to help with sleep. Dab a little behind your ears, pop it in a diffuser in the room you’re in for the hour before you intend to head to bed, add a few drops to a bath or shower before bed.
Charlotte Recommends: Lavender contains compounds linalool and linalyl acetate that have been shown to have relaxing effects on the nervous system. When inhaled, these compounds help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a state of relaxation conducive to sleep. Studies have demonstrated that lavender can increase slow-wave sleep, the deep, restorative phase of the sleep cycle. Spraying it on your pillow increases the amount you inhale and allows you to inhale it throughout the night and so is a common sleep aid
Charlotte Recommends: Magnesium plays an important role in pain management and inflammation reduction. It acts as am antagonist to NMDA receptors which attenuates pain hypersensitivity. It also helps to prevent the development of chronic pain conditions and decreases the levels of pro-inflammatory substances in the body. I take 2 morning and night.
Charlotte Recommends: Magnesium plays an important role in pain management and inflammation reduction, and magnesium oil offers a unique way to deliver these benefits directly through the skin. When applied topically the digestive system is bypassed allowing for more efficient absorption. The topical application can be particularly beneficial for localised pain and muscle tension, as it helps reduce inflammation and promote muscle relaxation right where it’s needed. Some users report relief from restless leg syndrome and nocturnal leg cramps when applying magnesium oil to their feet before bed. I also use mine for endometriosis and menstrual abdominal pain
Charlotte Recommends: If I’ve has a stressful day a calming hot bubble bath before bed helps me relax. And this is my go to bubble bath to have. I love the natural products and the Ylang ylang, Patchouli and
Clary sage essential oils known for their calming and relaxing properties. it also contains lavender flower extract, which is also well-known for its sleep-promoting and relaxation effects. The aromatherapeutic blend of these essential oils is designed to be inhaled as you soak in the bath, potentially to create a relaxing atmosphere conducive to sleep. Well it works for me, hope it does for you too
Charlotte Recommends: Lavender-scented Epsom Salts can really help relax and encourage sleep. The magnesium sulfate in the Epsom salts absorbed through the skin aids in relaxation and sleep regulation. The lavender scent provides aromatherapeutic benefits, known for its calming and sleep-promoting properties. Soaking in a warm bath naturally relaxes muscles and lowers body temperature, signaling sleep readiness. The combination of warm water, magnesium, and lavender scent can reduce overall stress levels. Additionally, the ritual of taking a bath with these salts can psychologically prepare the mind for sleep by establishing a pre-sleep routine. This i my idea of heaven!
Charlotte Recommends: Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) contains compounds that increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and promote relaxation. Studies have shown that this tea can improve both sleep quality and quantity. In one trial, participants who drank passionflower tea nightly for a week reported significantly improved sleep quality compared to a placebo tea. Additionally, passionflower has demonstrated anxiety-calming effects similar to some anti-anxiety medications, but with fewer side effects. This anxiolytic property can help calm racing thoughts and reduce stress before bedtime, making it easier to fall asleep. I recommend this one because it is completely organic, and is grown by expert farmers on an artisanal tea farm.
Charlotte Recommends: This Essential Oil Blend combines bergamot, lavender, and lemongrass, each contribute sleep-promoting properties. Lavender is well-known for its calming and sedative effects, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Bergamot has mood-lifting and stress-reducing properties, which can help calm a busy mind before bedtime. Lemongrass is often used for its calming and anxiety-reducing properties, which can help create a more relaxed state conducive to sleep. The combination of these oils creates a synergistic effect, enhancing their individual benefits. When used in a diffuser or as part of a bedtime routine, this blend helps create a soothing atmosphere, signalling to the body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Sometimes i find just lavender a little much, and in those times this blend works for me – try it yourself.
Sally Recommends: I’ve always been a fan of Bach’s Rescue Remedy and this Night version is great. It combines five original Bach flower essences, including Rock Rose and White Chestnut, which work together to alleviate unwanted, repetitive thoughts that can disrupt sleep. By taking a few drops before bedtime, you should find it easier to relax and transition into sleep without the grogginess associated with medication. Gotta be worth a try..
Sally Recommends: I’ve always been a fan of Bach’s Rescue Remedy and this Night version is great. It combines five original Bach flower essences, including Rock Rose and White Chestnut, which work together to alleviate unwanted, repetitive thoughts that can disrupt sleep. By taking a few drops before bedtime, you should find it easier to relax and transition into sleep without the grogginess associated with medication. These new gummies make it even easier…
Charlotte Recommends: These natural sleep aids are formulated with ingredients like Griffonia seed extract, L-Theanine, lavender, and chamomile, each known for their calming properties. Griffonia seed extract provides 5-HTP, a precursor to serotonin that helps regulate sleep and mood, while L-Theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep and achieve deeper rest, ultimately helping users wake up feeling refreshed.
Charlotte Recommends: Each strip contains a blend of ingredients designed to promote better sleep, including Vitamin B6, Melatonin, and L-Theanine. Vitamin B6 helps regulate sleep patterns and reduce stress, Melatonin is a hormone that controls the sleep-wake cycle, and L-Theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness. The strips also contain Chamomile and Lemon Balm extracts, known for their calming properties. This vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free formula is designed to dissolve quickly on the tongue, providing a convenient alternative to pills or gummies for those seeking to improve their sleep quality and manage stress. If you don’t like tablets these are great!
Nicky Recommends: WillPowders is a pioneering brand focused on enhancing well-being through education and innovative nutrition solutions, particularly emphasizing the benefits of healthy fats. Their mission is to empower individuals to improve their mental and physical health by providing a range of products and resources designed to combat poor eating habits, boost energy, and promote optimal wellness within their community.
WillPowders’ Calm supplement, featuring L-Theanine, offers a natural solution for reducing anxiety, promoting better sleep, and enhancing cognitive function. This versatile amino acid boosts neurotransmitter production, balance brain hormones, and even support intestinal immunity, making it an excellent choice for managing stress in various life situations, from exam pressure to general daily challenges. I like to have some on hand when i know i’m going to be having a stressful week
Grounding & Energy Support
Sleep comes more easily when we feel balanced and connected. Grounding mats, natural salts and other earth-based supports help restore harmony in the body’s energy, making it easier to sink into deep, restorative rest.
Charlotte Recommends: I lie on my mat for 15mins morning and night as part of my holistic pain management routine. It promotes circulation, relaxation and provides me with time to plan my day or reflect on it as part of my gratitude and meditation practices.
Nicky Recommends: A grounding mat connects the human body to the Earth’s natural electrical charge through conductive materials and a grounded connection. This process allows the transfer of electrons from the Earth to the body, neutralising free radicals and reducing inflammation. Grounding helps normalise circadian rhythms and cortisol levels, leading to improved sleep quality and faster onset. Pain reduction is attributed to decreased inflammation throughout the body, which can alleviate muscle soreness, joint pain, and chronic pain conditions. I use this after each treatment i give, and morning and night. I would prefer to walk on the land but sometimes there isn’t time or the weather isn’t so great – so this version is more efficient and time-friendly.
Charlotte Recommends: A grounding pillowcase works on the same principle but focuses on your head and face area. Made with conductive materials, it allows for direct contact between your skin and the grounding elements while you sleep. This can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing headaches, facial tension, or skin issues. I’ve know people report improved complexion and reduced facial puffiness. It’s an easy way to maintain grounding contact even if you move around during sleep.
Charlotte Recommends: Designed to connect your body to the Earth’s natural electrical charge while you sleep. A grounding sheet is placed under your regular sheet and contains conductive materials like silver or carbon fibres woven throughout, allowing the transfer of electrons from the Earth to your body. This connection helps reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality, and balance cortisol levels. I have one on my bed and i wake up feeling more refreshed and experiencing less pain or stiffness.
Charlotte Recommends: My favourite natural sleep remedy is a simple mixture of salt and honey, I mix up a batch and store in one of these jars that I leave next to my bed fore ease. This started when I was teaching myself to sleep, getting to sleep was quite easy, staying asleep was a different matter. I discovered this quick and simple remedy and never looked back. You can read about it here
Charlotte Recommends: My favourite natural sleep remedy requires pink pink Himalayan salt and this one is my go to. When I was teaching myself to sleep, getting to sleep was quite easy, staying asleep was a different matter. I discovered this quick and simple remedy and never looked back. you can read about it here
Charlotte Recommends: My favourite natural sleep remedy requires raw organic honey and this one fits the bill. If you can get a local to where you live – do that. But at least this one ticks all the boxes. When I was teaching myself to sleep, getting to sleep was quite easy, staying asleep was a different matter. I discovered this quick and simple remedy and never looked back. you can read about it here
Light & Sound Devices
The rhythm of light and sound plays a huge role in how we sleep. These devices use gentle frequencies, soothing sounds or therapeutic light to guide the body’s natural cycles and encourage peaceful, uninterrupted rest.
Alchemists Recommend: The Calm Carry Sleep Aid is a newer tool we’ve been experimenting with, and it’s fair to say it’s a bit like Marmite — you’ll either love it or not get on with it at all. Some of us found the pressure too much – Nicky is quite sensitive, and Sally couldn’t use it with her pacemaker. While Charlotte and Ben absolutely loved the effect and felt it really supported their sleep. If you’re curious, it’s definitely worth a try to see which camp you fall into.
Charlotte Recommends: SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lamps can improve sleep quality and overall well-being, especially during darker months. These lamps mimic natural sunlight, emitting bright light that helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and melatonin production. By using a SAD lamp for 20-30 minutes each morning, users can effectively reset their internal clock, leading to more consistent sleep patterns and improved mood. The lamp’s 10,000 lux light intensity stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and sleep-wake cycles. This can alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, boost energy levels, and enhance daytime alertness. Regular use hepls with better sleep onset, reduced sleep disturbances, and a more refreshed feeling upon waking.
Charlotte Recommends: When I was teaching myself to sleep, I struggled to get my brain to switch off and a meditation machine was my answer. The use of light waves and sounds ways force the brain in a way that create a new habit so over time you are able to enter the state without the machine. I used mine daily for about 3 months and my sleep went from 3 to 7 hours a night.
Charlotte Recommends: For many people the consistent soothing audio backdrop helps them to relax lowering heart rate and blood pressure which are essential for easing into sleep. The consistent sounds can also help distract from stress, and mask other disruptive noises. This approach has been proven to prolong deep sleep phases.