Sleep and Stress: Techniques to Unwind and Promote Relaxation
In our fast-paced world, stress has become an all-too-familiar companion. It can creep into our lives and disrupt our sleep, leaving us feeling tired and overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are effective techniques to help us unwind and promote relaxation, paving the way for a restful slumber. Here are a few tips to consider:
1️⃣ Bedtime routine: Create a consistent routine with calming activities like reading, bathing, or gentle stretches. Avoid electronic devices due to their interference with sleep hormones.
2️⃣ Deep breathing & meditation: Practice slow, deep breaths in a quiet space with closed eyes. Start with a few minutes of meditation daily and increase gradually.
3️⃣ Physical activity: Engage in enjoyable exercise like walking, yoga, or sports. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days.
4️⃣ Sleep-friendly environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Use comfortable bedding, a supportive mattress, and remove stressors like work-related items or electronics.
5️⃣ Relaxation techniques: Try progressive muscle relaxation, aromatherapy, soothing music, or gentle yoga poses. Release tension and prepare for a peaceful sleep.
Remember, it takes time to find what works best for you. Be patient and kind to yourself. By prioritizing relaxation and incorporating these techniques, you can reduce stress, unwind, and wake up refreshed.
Sweet dreams!✨
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
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40.9% Yes
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33.9% Maybe?
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25.2% No
Auckland Transport----Free weekend travel for kids Making family outings easier
Did you know kids aged 5 to 15 can ride buses, trains, and ferries for FREE every weekend and public holiday with an AT HOP card?
But wait, there’s more! Load a child concession onto your child’s MyAT account and unlock 40% off weekday travel too. Managing their HOP card is super easy: create an AT HOP profile under your MyAT account, enter their birthday, and you’re good to go.
So, grab those HOP cards, tag on, and start exploring, because family adventures shouldn’t come with a price tag!
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Great news for Auckland’s tertiary students!
From 14 December, tertiary students will enjoy even bigger savings! The tertiary discount is increasing from 20% to 40% off AT HOP adult fares on buses, trains, and most ferries.
If you already have a tertiary concession loaded on your AT HOP card, there’s nothing you need to do, the increased discount will be applied automatically.
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Summer Rail Upgrades
27 December 2025 to 28 January 2026
We’re upgrading your rail network this summer as we get closer to more trains, more often, when City Rail Link opens up in 2026.
27 December – 18 January: Full rail network closure.
9 – 26 January: Partial rail network closure.
27 – 28 January: Full network closure for City Rail Link testing.
Rail replacement buses will be available throughout the summer rail upgrades to keep you moving.
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IKEA Sylvia Park – What to Expect Now That It’s Open
If you’re planning a visit to IKEA Sylvia Park, consider taking public transport.
Train: Eastern Line - it's about 19 minutes from Waitematā to Sylvia Park.
Bus: Six routes serve the area. Five stop directly at Sylvia Park shopping centre, and another stops on Carbine Road, close to IKEA.
For bulky purchases, home delivery is available to help reduce congestion and parking queues.
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Enjoy the festive season without the fuss.
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Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
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