PODCASTS TO HELP YOU SLEEP

Listening to something soothing is a brilliant way to switch off your brain at bedtime and drift off to sleep. Sometimes our busy brains need distracting at the end of a hectic day. While reading works for many, we know that having the light on sends a signal to the brain that it should be awake. So instead, why not try a podcast. Switch off the light, cuddle under the duvet (don the headphones if you share a bed) and listen to something that calms your soul. Here are three very different podcasts designed for after dark.   

1. SLEEP MEDITATIONS - FROM HEADSPACE

We love the calming voice of Andi Puddicombe as much as we love his techniques. Based on the principles of mindfulness, the Headspace series features a series of guided steps to develop your own skills around meditation as a route to find inner calm. His 'Sleep' series is a collection of short podcasts designed to help you rethink your approach to sleep and switch off the mind once you get in to bed. Soothing and very impactful. This is a lifeskill we recommend you spending a little time to learn so it's there when you need it. We find it easy to tap in to for a fleeting moment through the day to stay grounded and calm when under stress  and for those nights when you get in to bed ready to sleep but your mind won't switch off. Get a taster of the Headspace Sleep podcast here (courtesy of theguardian.com)  

2. SLEEP WITH ME

Fancy a bedtime story - Sleep With Me is just that, with a twist.  Here is how it describes's itself... "Sleep With Me is a bedtime story designed to take your mind off the racing thoughts that keep you awake at night. As you listen you will find yourself distracted from your worries and drifting off into dreamland..due to the fact the story gets a little bit more boring with each passing minute. This podcast is a little weird, a bit silly and a tad offensive so beware. It is very similar to ASMR or guided meditation bedtime story that slowly carries you off to slumber. “Sleep With Me” is a groundbreaking podcast created to help you fall asleep. So get in bed, press play and drift off into dreamland. If you struggle with insomnia or just getting a good night’s rest, you’ve found the podcast for you." Sleep With Me is narrated by Dearest Scooter and written by Drew Ackerman It's odd but kind of brilliant. Try it. It might just be your thing.  

3. MIETTE'S BEDTIME STORIES

If you like your bedtime stories to be a little less...strange, then try Miette's Bedtime Stories for size. "Lay yourself down to sleep with the soothing soporific of Miette's purr as she reads you the world's greatest works of short fiction, in a style all her own and in a way only she can. World classics, known and unknown literary masterpieces, and modern experimental titles are all represented in what's quickly becoming the most comprehensive (and most saucy) short fiction anthology. Sweet dreams." We could listen to her gentle northern lilt all night...