Sleep your way to better immunity During sleep our immune systems are most active fighting infection, viruses, colds and flu. We are designed to sleep more in the winter, and so wherever possible get to bed as close to 10pm as possible and sleep for at least 8 hours.
To optimise your sleep:
- Turn off all electrical goods in your house (some need to be kept on obviously - like the fridge and freezer and central heating!)
- Wind down in the evening from about 8pm
- Do not eat within 2 hours of going to sleep, otherwise you will be still trying to digest and your immune system won't get its go.
- Do not work late into the night, right up to going to bed, your stress and awake hormones will keep you awake.
- Play some relaxing music, read a book, before bed
- Use some lavender behind your head and knees
A good night sleep is most important during the seasons of coughs colds and chest infections, so your body is given a chance to do what is supposed to do - protect you from harm!#Cambridge
