This post is written in partnership with New Chapter, Vermont-based maker of whole-food vitamins and supplements, however, all opinions are my own. I only work with and recommend companies whose products I love, and I’m so excited to share these with you!
Whilst an extra hour of sleep can seem like a blessing, did you know that the upcoming time change (as the clocks ‘fall back’) can actually have a negative effect on our health? However, there are some simple and easy strategies that you can add to your daily wellness routine that may counteract these effects, helping you thrive as we move into the winter months. Here are my top tips:
Win the Morning, Win the Day…
Establish a great morning routine: my morning routine is sacred, and I truly believe it sets me up for a healthy and happy day ahead. I love to combine different aspects of wellness to start the day, boosting my emotional and mental health by reading something inspirational or educational, meditating and writing in my gratitude journal. I boost my physical health and wellness by moving my body and having a nutrient packed breakfast, and in the fall and winter months I love to include New Chapter’s One Daily Multiherbal Energy Boost as it contains a blend of invigorating Eleuthero, Rhodiola and Maca to support the body’s stress response, and cordyceps for steady energy throughout the day without any slumps or crashes.
Manage Your Stress in The Moment…
Managing stress levels throughout the day can help both your boost energy levels and contribute to a great night of sleep. I recommend having a ‘go-to’ list of easy and accessible stress relieving tools such as breathing techniques, going for a walk outside, and even some stress relieving snacks such as dark chocolate or almonds. New Chapter’s One Daily Multiherbal Stress Relief is part of my de-stress toolbox because of its blend of clinical strength Ashwagandha that supports healthy cortisol secretion and adrenal function, and Black Seed for reducing occasional anxiety and promoting a sense of calm.
Plan Ahead for Great Sleep…
Great sleep doesn’t happen by accident these days, and I suggest getting a head start on the time change to help ease the transition. From the Wednesday before the time change set your bedtime back 15 minutes every day (this works for children too). Our systems love consistency, so this is key for re-setting our body clocks to accept the time change and won’t have you lying awake for an hour on Saturday night! If you typically go to bed at 10pm it will look something like this:
• Wednesday – bedtime at 10.15pm.
• Thursday – bedtime at 10.30pm.
• Friday – bedtime at 10.45pm.
• Saturday – bedtime at 11pm (which will then become 10pm).
I also recommend a sleep supplement that contains Tart Cherry, such as New Chapter’s One Daily Multiherbal Sleep Well. Tart Cherry provides us with melatonin, the naturally occurring substance that helps us both fall asleep and stay asleep. Sleep Well also contains a soothing blend of Chamomile and Passionflower both traditionally used to promote healthy, restful sleep.