Winter Wellness Series: SLEEP π€π₯±π΄
Sleep is crucial for maintaining optimal physical & mental health. It plays a key role in how the body restores & repairs itself, whilst also improving cognitive function, memory, concentration, productivity and overall performance. π§πͺπ§
Lack of sleep plays a direct role in increasing the risk of chronic health conditions like obesity, diabetes and heart disease, while also contributing to development of irritability, anxiety and depression.
Sleep deprivation may also contribute to impairing immune function π¦ 𧬠- which is especially important during the colder months. Start prioritising sleep QUALITY to enhance your wellness!
Keys to optimise your sleep performance π:
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Stick to a sleep schedule: getting into bed and falling asleep at the same time every night help's set the body's biological clock, making it easier to fall asleep.
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Bedroom should be dark, quiet, and cool: Limit distractions, and keep the room cool for optimal sleep.
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Get off screens 30mins before sleep: Blue light from screen use may interfere with melatonin secretion, which is important for sleep. This can also reduce the amount of deep sleep overall, which is important for recovery and restoration.
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Avoid caffeine after 2pm: Caffeine blocks the effects of adenosine, which is a neurotransmitter that makes us feel tired.
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Limit alcohol: Alcohol intake can inhibit REM sleep, which keeps you in lighter stages of sleep for longer.
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Exercise regularly: Exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, but try to avoid exercising 2-3 hours before bedtime to allow the body to relax.
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Poll: When should the tree go up? π
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.7% Second half of November
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43.6% 1st December
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17.5% A week before Christmas
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33.1% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Moe mai rΔ, Nicholas.
We're sad to announce the passing of Nicholas Boyack, our Hutt Valley reporter who has long written for The Dominion Post, The Hutt News and Upper Hutt Leader.