Overworked, under pressure and missing out on sleep? Those of us who find it hard to sleep can feel more desperate than ever, tossing and turning or just not getting enough of the restful sleep we need to be healthy and alert. Sleep is increasingly linked to many aspects of overall health and well-being, and it seems that more and more of us are finding it hard to get a good night’s sleep. Continued lack of sleep can also affect cognitive function and increase stress-hormone levels.

For better sleep, try a technique like relaxation breathing exercises when you get into bed tonight.

• Exhale through your mouth.
• Close your mouth and inhale through your nose for a count of 4.
• Hold your breath for 6 counts.
• Exhale for 8 counts.
• Repeat the sequence until you drift into sleep.

If you want to boost self-esteem and confidence too, try doing these breathing exercised morning and night whilst giving yourself positive affirmations in the present tense on each breath out, such as:

• I am confident
• I like who I am
• I believe in myself

Repeat the sequence 3 times morning and night.