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: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldnβt be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcareβs Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. Youβll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and letβs dig in.
Click read more for more information.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.