World Sleep Day – 14 Ideas To Help Aid A Better Night’s Sleep

Mar 15, 2019

Good morning and happy Friday everyone! Today is World Sleep Day and so I thought the perfect day to share this post with you all. I have included some of my top tips, as well as some others from a few different bloggers which may be helpful as well.

World Sleep Day

World Sleep Day is an annual event, intended to be a celebration of sleep and a call to action on important issues related to sleep, including medicine, education, social aspects and driving. It is organized by the World Sleep Day Committee of World Sleep Society (founded by WASM and WSF) and aims to lessen the burden of sleep problems on society through better prevention and management of sleep disorders.
worldsleepday.org

Many people struggle to sleep, but chronic illnesses can make this much harder. Medications that are taken can cause insomniac like side effects and if you are pain, it can be difficult to get comfortable enoughto drop off. If you are struggling with bedtime and sleep routines, hopefully this post will have something you could try for a good night’s rest!

14 Ideas To Help Aid A Good Night’s Sleep

1 – Lush Sleepy Lotion

I went into Lush and one of the incredibly friendly staff in there came over to ask if I needed help looking for something. My reply was the magic sleepy lotion everyone was talking about. She helpfully showed me where to find said body lotion but was asking me not to blame her if, in fact, it wasn’t magical, even though she knew many people were saying it was fantastic.

Since that day I think me and Ste have gotten through four pots and are almost through the fifth. Even Ste gave it a try and will now use it most nights. We rub it on the pulse points on our neck and the insides of our wrists as this is supposed to help the smell linger all night. The smell is lovely and the body lotion as good as other Lush ones I have tried, so it is not at all unpleasant to use either.

2 – Candles

I am a big fan of candles anyway and often light them around the house. In the bedroom I tend to use a lot of lavender type ones to promote a sleepy, relaxed environment.

3 – Weighted Blankets

I was bought a weighted blanket at Christmas – makes a huge difference!
Claire from painpalsblog.com

Weighted blankets have been seen to help aid people sleep who suffer from anxiety, restless leg syndrome, insomnia and many more conditions which affect a good night’s rest.

4 – Eye Pillow From That’s Sew Fetch by Katy

AD | Received this product at a discounted price

I have known Katy since the age of 4, when we both attended the same infant school way back when! Upon leaving school we didn’t keep in touch but have recently reconnected via Facebook. I saw a status update about some eye mask pillows she had made for family and friends at Christmas being really popular gifts and she was looking at offering them for sale. I got in touch as though it would be a perfect way of relaxing and getting a good night’s sleep.

Katy will ask what type of effect you are looking for (I wanted somehting calmin and relaxing) and then makes up a personal blend of oils to scent your pillow with. She has taken the time to research and acquire quality oils for this and also uses small businesses for her fabric purchases which is great. She is also happy to let you have the ‘recipe’ for your personal blend so you can purchase the same oils to ‘top up’ the scent on your pillow when it starts to fade. I love the weight of the pillow on my face in bed, and also like to slightly warm it (which can be done in the microwave) as it feels more comforting and also makes the smell a little more potent.

Check out That’s Sew Fetch by Katy on Etsy

5 – Space Masks

I also wanted to mention the Space Masks from spacemasks.com

I received a couple of these in a subscription box I ordered and was intrigued to see what they did. The mask is self heating and starts to work when you take it out the packet. It suggests leaving it on for fifteen minutes but it was so incredibly relaxing that Ste cam in from his shower and had to take it off me as I had fallen asleep! I have another one left and am saving it for a day I really need relaxing from!

6 – Bathtime

I always think a nice, relaxing bath and getting into fresh clean bed sheets has got to be one of the most comforting things. To make it extra relaxing you could use a bath bomb or bubble bath, or even do a face mask.

7 – Sleep Hygiene

Sleep Hygiene is so important
Jo from jboccupationaltherapy.co.uk

Check out Jo’s post about Sleep Hygiene with some more great tips for getting a good night’s sleep included.

8 – Banning Screen Time

This is one of the things I struggle most with. Screen time before bed definitely affects my sleep, meaning I take longer to ‘turn off’ every night.

To help combat this I have started reading my paperbacks instead of a Kindle at night time, and my Kindle screen is also set to black with white writing, so if I am reading a book on there it is not so bright. I have also been giving myself a social media deadline and try not to go online after this time. Switching my phone to a Do Not Disturb mode has also helped with this as it turns off the internet connection. I know some people leave their phone over the other side of the room to resist temptation – this also helps you get out of bed in a more timely manner in the morning as you have to actually get up to turn off your alarm.

9 – V Shaped Pillows

A V shaped pillow helps me. I have 2 from Ikea. I use them to alleviate pressure on my hips or prop myself comfortably in bed during a bad flare.I wouldn’t be without them!
Rachel from whatapain.co.uk

We have lots of pillows in bed for a similar reason. I can use them under my head, neck, knees, feet, in between my legs and in all manner of ways to get some comfort in my joints.

10 – Routine

Routine has definitely meant that I can get a better night’s sleep. My body starts to expect bedtime when I try and keep it at the same time and similar to waking up in the morning. Almost every day now I set my alarm so that I don’t lay in bed for hours. I will always factor in to have a nap if I have a bad night and this helps recharge the batteries. I will also try and set my alarm and not nap for too long or too late, so it does not affect my night time routine.

I read somewhere that the optimum nap time to fit in with the cycle of sleep is to have either half an hour, 1.5, 2.5 hours etc so always try and stick to that, depending on what time of the day it is and what I have planned.

11 – Shhleepies Feet Foot Oil

I have seen a lot of my mummy blogger friends talking about how this has really helped improve their children’s sleep – which in turn makes their’s better too! I have actually purchased a bottle and… misplaced it, so haven’t had chance to try it yet. I thought it was still worth a mention though as there have been some brilliant reviews on it and you might want to give it a go. The owner is absolutely lovely as well. I pointed a friend in her direction but her daughter has an allergy to orange. They were able to still create a special blend for her without the orange oil which was so lovely!

Check out Shhleepies Feet Foot Oil from Mummy Loves Organic

12 – A Reset

Here’s my post about the method I use to get over sleep inversion and insomnia, resetting the body clock
Char at chronicallyhopeful.com

I loved this post from chronicallyhopeful.com – How I Overcame Insomnia

Once you end up in a vicious cycle of not sleeping all night and then napping all day it can be hard to get out of. This is a really good technique for helping to reset your body clock.

13 – Headspace App

Again, this is not one I have tried myself but I have heard great things about the meditations on it, and know many people find it effective to help them relax at bedtime.

14 – White Noise

Some love it and some hate it. White noise machines are popular for babies but can be really useful for adults too. I like to have the fan on at night, part of it is because I am struggling with my temperature due to being poorly at the moment, but I also like the gentle noise to go to sleep to. If you don’t want to buy a fancy machine you can also get videos on YouTube that play all sorts of things from the waves on a beach, to the rain forest to a hoover!

So that’s my list with some of my top tips for helping to get a good night’s sleep! Do you have anymore you can add? Please pop them in the comments below as they may help someone else reading. A big thankyou to the other bloggers I have featured in this post who had some great ideas which I had to include! Hope you all have a great night’s sleep now after reading this,

Blog Tour Book Review – The Baby Detective

Feb 22, 2019

The Baby Detective by Sarah Norris

The Blurb

The only parenting book that offers a unique, step-by-step guide to enable parents to solve baby care problems for themselves.

The Baby Detective is the only book of the parenting genre to develop a unique, step-by-step investigative process that will enable parents to solve their own baby care problems.

It puts them firmly back in the driving seat, giving them the tools to do away with sometimes conflicting and confusing expert advice, and to face parenting challenges using their own intuition.

Drawing on case studies of Sarah’s previous clients, the book is based around her unique principle of AIM, in which parents are guided through the process of Assessing a problematic situation, Investigating the possible causes and Modifying behaviour in order to resolve it.

It provides insight in to how and why environment, biology and personality interact to affect your baby, as well as suggesting numerous tips and strategies for remedying problems.

What I Thought

Where To Buy

Amazon

The Author – Sarah Norris

With 25 years experience Sarah is one of the top maternity nurses and Baby Care Consultants in the UK, and is the author of the exciting new parenting book ‘The Baby Detective’ with Orion Books.

In her role as The Baby Detective, Sarah employs her unique investigative approach, based on clear thinking, common sense and compassion, to empower and encourage new parents, and to help guide and support them through the confusion that is modern day parenting.

Sarah is passionate about her work and is dedicated to providing advice that is non judgemental and unbiased, is equally supportive of all parenting and feeding methods, and is always respectful of the parents choices.

Social Media

Website

Twitter @Baby_Detective

Stoma Accessory Hacks

Sep 28, 2018

Good morning and happy Friday! So excited for the weekend, have you got any plans? We don’t have anything major planned but I will be off to Halifax at some point.

17799181_200395783785219_3518227040727897966_n

Stoma Accessories or Stoma Necessities?

There is a big debate at the moment about the products we get sent to help with stoma care. Certain things are not being prescribed by doctors anymore as they feel they are not a necessity item – but lots of ostomates do not agree and say doctors have no idea about what it is like managing a stoma every day.

I don’t want to go into this debate too much as I feel that may take another post to do it justice. I am very fortunate that none of the products I request have been blocked. I do think that this, in part, is due to the fact that I only try and order what I really need and do not over order. Using these supplies for other things may be seen by some as a bad thing but they are not used regularly for things that don’t involve my ostomy – they just work well on some things and I thought I would share them with you!

Skin Barrier Spray

This works fantastically well on my stepdaughter’s nappy rash. A quick spray or two and it helps heal and then protect her skin.

“Did you know that our Elisse Barrier Spray also works on bites, prickly heat and heat rashes by reducing itching and soothing the skin”

Trio Ostomy Care on Twitter – @TrioOstomyCare

Adhesive Remover Spray

“I use the adhesive remover wipes to remove the residue from cannula tape in hospital. I always have them packed and take them with me”

Alannah on Twitter – @glitterygutsx

I use it to get that horrible tape off that they stick over your blood test holes. I have ripped my skin so many times that this helps so much!

Gelling Sachets

Ste’s mum pops a couple of these in her hoover to take advantage of the nice smell!

Dry Wipes

These are great for cleansing your skin when all my face cloths are in the wash. I use them with my cleansing oil, then to help wash off any exfoliators or face masks I use at night time.

They are also handy for finishing off cleaning your mirrors and windows – great for a streak free shine!

Disposable Bags

I don’t use them regularly for this but they once came in handy when I ran out of doggy poo bags until I went to the shop It meant Knox still got his walk that day so he was very happy!

I hoped you enjoyed heqaaring these handy tips and that they may help some of you out! Let me know if you have any more in the comments below,

How To Make The Most Out Of The Summer With A Young Family

Jul 4, 2018

With the summer in full swing, we thought we’d take a look at some of the fun activities you could be getting up to with your family. If you’re bored, stressed, or simply don’t know know how to entertain the kids, this article should serve you well!

1. Make healthy summer treats

The last thing you want to do during the summer months is slave away over a hot stove, but if you want to treat the family to something special, there are lots of options to consider. You could make a delicious fruit dip with cream cheese, marshmallow fluff and orange, or try no-bake bars with granola and a Nutella drizzle. And instead of sugar-filled ice creams, make your own with fruit and natural yoghurt. That way, you’ll know exactly what your youngsters are eating!

2. Book a UK break

If your budget allows, then you may want to consider booking a summer break in one of our nation’s most beautiful destinations. Whether it’s Devon, Cornwall or Somerset, you can find a wide range of large holiday homes to rent for the weekend, and many can be adapted for disabled guests, too. The hardest part about booking a “staycation” is knowing where to go because the United Kingdom is home to some of the world’s most interesting and cultural places. Do your research and you’ll soon find a family-friendly holiday idea that’s within budget.

3. Bring out the paddling pool

With the warmer weather set to last for another couple of weeks, why not have fun with the kids and bring out your paddling pool? Having a good old splash can be great fun, and it means that you can relax with a book and a coffee while supervising your children in the garden. If that’s not an option, you could head to your local swimming pool (most council-run pools offer discounts for parents during the summer months), or spend a day on the beach. Remember to practice good beach safety and teach your children the dangers of swimming in the open sea.

4. Organise a barbecue

If you need an excuse to bring your friends and family together this summer, then consider the idea of organising your own barbecue. Whether you’re a BBQ pro and have the tools and the kit to create delicious steaks and skewers, or you’re more familiar with a disposable BBQ, there’s no excuse not to have fun in the sun and make the most of the summer months. Stock up on drinks, meats, salads and ice creams, and organise a summer afternoon to remember!

5. Remember to use sun cream

If you only take one thing from this article, let it be this! Sun cream is so important in the
summer months, even if you’re only spending an hour or two in your back garden. We’re in a summer heat wave right now, with temperatures climbing over 30 degrees in some parts of the United Kingdom, so it’s essential that you look after your skin – and your children’s skin, which is more susceptible to burning. Remember to top up every hour or two you’re outside, and avoid the sun during its hottest hours of the day between 10 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon. What are your plans for the summer? Whatever you’re planning on getting up to, have a great time and remember to make the most out of every day – especially while the weather’s nice!

Handy Hacks For People With Arthritis

May 2, 2018

Good morning all, happy hump day! I have been planning this post for a little while as wanted to share a few of the products I have found which make life a little easier when you have arthritis. I really hope you enjoy a read and the things I use help some of you too.

This post has been kindly sponsored by Millercare, who provide living and disability aids to help those with disabilities, chronic illness and mental health achieve the best quality of life they can.

Kitchen Chopper

I have mentioned my chopper before but I couldn’t be without this little gadget. I struggle with arthritis in my hands – wrists, thumbs and fingers. When trying to use a knife my hand often seizes, meaning it stiffens up and is very painful until it ‘clicks’ back out. Trying to finely chop things like onions and garlic when cooking can be really difficult due to this. With this however, I only have to slice my onion and then let this do the fine work. I bought mine many years ago but have seen them recently on sale in Asda and I am sure places like Amazon will have them too.

Weeding Tool

I was sent this to try from the lovely people at Roundup and it has been a blessing to use while trying to sort my garden out. Bending down is a real struggle but with this I am able to stay standing while de-weeding my garden following the months of winter neglect. The Roundup Gel simply attaches to the extendable tool and dispenses with a click. The handle is extendable to suit everyone and to help reach near and far. The wand has a RPP of £22.99 including the Total Gel.

Pen Grips

I have purchased two different types of these from Amazon. Both arrived really quickly and were inexpensive. I often like to use chunky pens as find them easier to grip but also struggle with calluses on my ring finger because of the dodgy way I hold my pen. These have helped turn my ordinary BIC pens into chunkier versions which are easier to hold and they are super soft meaning no more calluses and blisters! Win win! There are different shapes and materials available so it might be a bit of trial and error to find out what works for you and which you find comfiest, but they are well worth it! I used to use these in school and they really helpful when writing in any capacity.

Stick on Heat Pads/Hot Water Bottle/Warming Bags

Ste often grabs the stick on heat pads from Poundland. They are really handy, cheap and most of the time work well on tired and aching joints. I find my hot water bottle and heated microwave pad really helpful too, and when at home are just as easy to use.

Millercare have the Lavender Scented Wheat Bag on their site, which is similar to mine (without the Unicorn cover mine has). It is a great shape and can be used on all different areas of the body. Click here to find out more

One Cup Kettle

A purchase that wasn’t intended to be handy but it really is. I no longer have to pick up a heavy kettle when I make myself a drink, and I save on electricity! These types of kettle are great for those that struggle with grip and lifting heavy objects like me. Just a click of the button and it dispenses the perfect amount of water for my cuppa with no hassle. Rather than picking it up to fill it, I use a jug with a smaller amount of water in and do two or three trips to fill it up.

Perching Stool

My perching stool is used in so many different ways! Currently it is upstairs, as I use it in the bathroom and when getting ready in the morning to sit on. I have also previously used it downstairs in the kitchen when cooking/preparing food and while doing the ironing. If, like me, you will be using it in multiple areas of the house I suggest getting two, so you don’t have to keep moving one around. I have the one with arms as it makes it easier for me to stand up from.

Check out Perching Stools at Millercare

Iron With Separate Steam Chamber

I bought my iron in the sale and it also wasn’t purchased with this handy intention but it has been extremely useful. Rather than filling the iron with water which makes it heavier and more difficult to use with my wrists, hands and elbows being bad, I fill the base unit. This means the iron still produces steam and does everything it needs to do but is easier and lighter to use. These irons often aren’t cheap but as I said, I got mine in the sale so if you keep your eye out it is possible to grab a bargain!

Bath Boards

I have had these for years, since being a child at home in fact. They are an invaluable help for getting in and out the bath. I often shower now as it is easier, and use my bath board to sit on if needed.

Millercare have a wide range of different options from seats for in the bath as well as those which go over the bath. Have a look here

Stair Basket

This is a trick I learnt a couple of years ago and can’t for the life of me remember where from! I keep a small basket/bucket at the bottom of my stairs and if I have anything I need to go upstairs, I place it in there. Once it is full, or I am heading upstairs anyway, I take it with me. Saves multiple trips up and down the stairs every day!

Electric Tin Opener

Another handy kitchen gadget. I really struggle with tin openers, they just don;t like to work for me (I swear it’s them, not me). My electric tin opener was a cheap purchase which has saved me many tears over the years!

Long Handled Toe Nail Scissors

When I looked through the Millercare website I found a product I didn’t know existed but has made me extremely happy! One job I struggle with immensely is cutting my toe nails. I often go and get a pedicure just to have my nails sorted out and nail polish neatly applied. Trying to cut them with clippers myself ends up with a messy hack job at best and a blood bath and sore toes for days at worst. I am going to give these long handled scissors a go and give my poor feet the pampering they deserve!

Long Handled Nail Scissors

DenTek Teeth Flossers

I got sent these to try out and what a brilliant invention they are! My dentist is always telling me I need to floss but I just can’t get my hands to work properly to hold the string, get it in my mouth and do the job intended. These are super easy to hold and make the job a million times easier for me! They also do kids ones which are bright and colourful and really good to encourage healthy habits early on.

cof

cof

So that is my round up of a few things I use to make my life with arthritis a little easier. I hope you enjoyed reading and that some of you have found something that may help you. Please let me know your handy hacks in the comments beliow, I am always on the look out for things to make life that little bit easier! Ciao for now!