Between the midnight feeds, the "I had a bad dream" wake-up calls, and the mental load of tomorrow’s school lunches, us Mums aren't exactly known for being well-rested. If you’re tired of being tired, it might be time to ditch the standard advice and try something a little more... unconventional. Try out these 5 bizarre hacks for better sleep.
Clear the "Floordrobe" Under Your Bed
We’ve all done it: shoved the spare suitcases, the out-of-season Kmart hauls, or the "to-be-sorted" pile under the bed to make the room look clean. However, experts suggest that clutter under your bed leads to a cluttered mind. To improve both the quality and quantity of your shut-eye, try keeping that space completely clear. Removing the physical weight of "stuff" directly beneath you is believed to create a calmer energy in the room, helping your brain finally switch off.
The Power of the Kiwi Fruit
It sounds like an old wives' tale, but there’s actual science behind this one. Research shows that eating two kiwi fruits one hour before bed can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Why? Kiwis are packed with antioxidants and serotonin (the "feel-good" hormone that also regulates sleep). It’s a delicious, low-calorie way to hack your hormones for a better night in the dreamworld.
Master the 4-2-6-2 Breathing Technique
When your mind is racing at 2:00 AM, give it a job to do. The 4-2-6-2 method is a rhythmic breathing pattern that forces your body into a state of relaxation:
Breathe in for 4 counts.
Hold for 2 counts.
Exhale for 6 counts.
Hold for 2 counts.
Repeat this six times, then reset the count back to one. By focusing on the numbers, you block out the "did I remember to pay that bill?" thoughts while physically lowering your heart rate.
Take a "Mental Walk"
If counting sheep feels a bit dated, try a mental walk. Close your eyes and visualise a route you know like the back of your hand. Perhaps your childhood walk to school or the aisles of your local Woolies.
Focus on the exact details: the cracks in the pavement, the smell of the bakery, or the colour of a neighbour's front door. This level of detail occupies your busy thoughts and effectively blocks out stress by grounding your brain in familiar, safe territory.
Chill Out (Literally)
If you’re a fan of cranking the heater, this might be a tough pill to swallow! The optimal temperature for sleep is actually a crisp 18°C.
Our body temperature naturally drops as we drift off, so keeping the room cool helps your body reach that "sleep mode" faster. Plus, a cooler environment stimulates melatonin production, making it much easier to stay under the covers until the kids wake up.
While we can’t promise that your little ones won’t wake you up at dawn, these quirky tricks might just help you make the most of the hours you do get. Here’s to less tossing and turning and more deep, blissful dreaming!
