5 steps to lose weight in your sleep!

"There is a false belief that sleep is a waste of time and that we can get away with less than we need, but truth is people who cut corners with their sleep, function below their best”, stated by Director of the Sleep Health Foundation, Dr David Hillman. Did you know that adults who have poor sleep patterns are more likely to be overweight and obese? Those who sleep around six hours a night are found to have a waist measurement that is 3cm greater than individuals who were getting nine hours of sleep a night.

If you’re thinking you need high energy activities to lose weight, then think again. Here are 5 steps to get you towards juicier Z’s and might as well be the start towards losing weight: stress free!

Step 1: cut sugar & alcohol. Sweets affect your sleeping hormones. The more sugar you eat during the day, the more you wake at night.

Step 2: revisit your ambitions. Why do you need to get that seven-figure salary? Is it to get happy? Happiness can only be found in the here and now. Where can you alter your expectations?

Step 3: Create an exercise regime for balance. If you have stress at work, running up the hill will cause more stress on the body. Choose something calming such as yoga to get the balance right.

Step 4: create an evening ritual. Screen time induces dopamine, your natural high. Cut out screens at least 30-60 minutes before lights off. World leading yoga teachers recommend taking an Epsom salt bath, writing your to- do list down and keeping the list and your phone outside of the bedroom.

Step 5: Lay on your back with your legs up the wall; a powerful way of reversing blood flow, inducing calming hormones, and stretching out sore muscles. Use this time to exhale and let things go. Crawl into bed with a clear mind and relaxed body.

More interesting facts about sleep:

A study in 2017 showed that sleep problems cost Australia $66.3 billion and lead to over 3000 deaths.

Just like obesity, smoking, drinking too much and not exercising enough, sleep problems cause real harm in our community.

Alcohol has harming effects on your sleep. Even though it might help you fall asleep to have a glass or two, the quality of sleep is much poorer and makes you wake up feeling less rested than if you sleep alcohol free.

Yoga postures can help your body detox and release calming hormones. It also helps you clear your mind.