27/11/2025
THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP - Especially During the Dark Mornings & Nights
As we move deeper into winter, the darker mornings and early nights can make everything feel a little heavier. If you’re finding it harder to get out of bed just now, please know this: you’re not alone, and there’s nothing “wrong” with you. Our bodies and brains are designed to respond to light - and when there’s less of it, our energy naturally dips.
Instead of beating yourself up for feeling sluggish, try to work with the season, not against it.
🌙 Why Sleep Matters So Much
Sleep isn’t a luxury - it’s a core part of good mental wellbeing. When we get enough quality sleep, we’re better able to:
💤Regulate our mood
💤Think clearly and make decisions
💤Cope with stress
💤Manage anxiety and low mood
💤Support our physical health, hormones and immune system
And yet this is often the first thing we sacrifice when life feels busy or overwhelming.
☁️ Dark Mornings Don’t Mean You’re “Lazy”
When dawn arrives later, our internal body clock (circadian rhythm) gets thrown off. Melatonin - the hormone that makes us sleepy - stays higher for longer, making early starts feel tougher. This is a biological response, not a personal failing.
Instead of pushing yourself with harsh self-talk, try gentler expectations. Winter is a naturally slower season.
🌟 Small Tips to Support Winter Sleep
💤Keep a consistent sleep and wake time where possible
💤Expose yourself to daylight within the first hour of waking
💤Reduce screen time in the hour before bed
💤Build a calming wind-down routine
💤Keep bedroom light low and cosy
💤If mornings are difficult, plan something small to look forward to
💛 Be Kind to Yourself
If getting up feels harder right now, you’re not doing anything wrong - your brain is responding exactly as it’s meant to. Focus on supporting your sleep, listening to your body, and giving yourself permission to slow down.
Winter won’t last forever, but prioritising rest can help you feel more grounded and resilient through it.
Sleep tight!
Shona
