From affordable inhalers to pricey hi-tech gadgets, people are seeking relaxation, how and wherever they can get it. Editor Trudi Brewer shares what’s new in what has become a life-saving trend.
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A good night’s sleep is not only essential for your well-being, but it’s also crucial for your mental health. According to global marketing company McKinsey & Co, 45 per cent of consumers say better sleep is a very high priority in their lives and will pay almost anything to get it. Perhaps this is why the sleep category is brimming with clever tools and wearable devices designed to help.
Unfortunately, their research shows that sleep-deprived brains lose the ability to make accurate judgments. That, in turn, can lead to irrational and unjustified claims such as ‘I do not need sleep’ or ‘I’m doing fine with a couple of hours of sleep’. At the same time, the ongoing loss of deep (or slow-wave) sleep is linked to a long list of chronic health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, dementia, depression, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. So what’s on offer to help with sleep to suit every budget? Scroll on to learn more.
The tech tools & accessories
Therabody’s SmartGoggles, $368.
This space-age eye mask heats, vibrates, and massages to help reduce eye strain and headaches, with three different modes. These include sleep, focus and relaxation, with SmartSense technology to personalise the experience to suit your needs. It can also be paired with the TheraMind app for meditation.
Muse S (Gen 2) $400.
This EEG-powered (EEG is an electroencephalogram or recording of brain activity), brain-sensing headband with sensors helps track your sleeping position, brainwave activity (EEG), heart rate, and breath to cue the body when it’s time for sleep. The brand says this is your (aka digital sleeping pills), with soundscape sleep induction technology.
Sleep & Glow Omina Pillow, $318.
For crease-free facial skin when you wake, this pillow is for anyone who sleeps on their side because your face is cushioned but not squashed. Why? Made in consultation with cosmetic and sleep experts, the 100 per cent Tencel (natural eucalyptus fibre material) adapts to the shape of your head and neck, ensuring that your vertebrae are properly aligned, allowing for better circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid. Also, your lashes are protected; they keep their original shape and length longer without being squashed while you sleep - it’s genius.
Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask, $118.
Trinny Woodall, the founder of Trinny London, raves about this large squishy, cloud-like sleep mask. Dubbed the ‘ultimate anti-ageing silk eye mask,’ made from 100 per cent pure Mulberry silk, “The Drowsy offers total blackout thanks to its wide-cushioned design that completely blocks out light without feeling heavy or restrictive. In addition, it's breathable and hypoallergenic with adjustable head straps that won't dig in or leave you with marks “n your face,” Woodall attests.
It comes in 14 colours, pictured here Damask Rose.
Lavender infused
Lavender-infused sleep products do more than relax you; the natural chemicals in lavender oil (linalyl acetate and linalool) are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, and while they do have a sedative, they also have a pain-relieving effect while lowering the heart rate and reducing anxiety, which all promotes restful sleep.
Breathe Right Calming Lavender Scent Calming Lavender Scent, $30.
Anyone who sleeps with a partner who snores will know their noise impacts sleep. These clever hyper sensitive latex nasal stripes gently open the nose to allow better airflow and avoid heavy breathing with an open mouth. Laced with lavender, simply scratch the stipe to release the nervous system, calming scent to encourage deep sleep. These are also ideal for allergies or a blocked nose due to colds.
Go 2 Inhaler Sleep Stick, $11.
The natural chemicals in lavender oil are linalyl acetate and linalool, which are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, and have a sedative and pain-relieving effect while lowering the heart rate and reducing anxiety, which helps promote sleep. The 100 per cent natural essential oils in this inhaler blend lavender, red mandarin, and frankincense, designed to offer a sense of inner peace and contentment. See the other Go 2 scented inhaler sticks here.
Neste Dante Italian Natural Lavanda Regenerating Soap, $10.
Possibly the most exquisite soap on offer, this luxe-y Italian soap is made in the traditional way, where soap noodles are boiled in large cauldrons infused with natural and essential - this Lavandula Angustifolia scent is for its relaxing and calming properties.
DrSALTS+ Calming Therapy, $15.
A bath before bed always helps us sleep, but once infused with these 100 per cent pure mineral magnesium salts and the blend of 100 per cent natural essential oils, including lavender, chamomile and lemongrass, it relaxes not only the body but also destresses the mind. A great way to unwind after a stressful day - bonus a long soak in these salts also eases muscle aches and pains.
Manicare Scented Sleep Turban, $20.
A sleep turban will change your life if you have curly, thick or frizz-prone hair. You will wake with silky, knot-free hair thanks to the satin fabric that does not pull moisture from your hair. Also, there is zero friction if you toss and turn, which means no frizz. Finally, the lavender-scented fabric defiantly helps you sleep.
Sleep supplements
Jeuneora Beauty Sleep Adaptogenic Super Powder, $66.
The little sister of the brilliant Jeuneora’s Beauty Sleep Adaptogenic Super Powder, if you are not a fan of a chocolate drink before bed, there are now capsules that offer the same ingredients but in an easy travel-friendly pill form. The same pistachio extract supports relaxation and healthy sleep patterns. While the adaptogenic mushroom extracts (a combination of three mushrooms, Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake) are rich in antioxidants and vitamins to support your body during stress and fatigue.
How to: Take two capsules at least 30 minutes before bed.
CLINICIANS SLEEP SCIENCE, $40.
If you manage to fall asleep but struggle to stay asleep, you’re busy and stressed; the ETAS extracted from asparagus is a new scientifically researched ingredient that supports the body to produce heat shock proteins, which balance stress hormone levels. While Chinese date extract (Zizyphus) and magnesium support mental and physical relaxation to help give you a quality eight hours of sleep.
How to: Take two capsules between 15 and 30 minutes before bedtime.
At home with food stylist Fiona Hugues.