Sleep expert is urging everyone to snooze naked - even during winter

18 December 2023 , 12:05

1050     0

Sleeping nude has many benefits (Stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Turns out, nude sleeping isn't just for that one week in the British summer where it reaches 20C.

As freezing temps and flurries of snow hit the UK, many of us are going to bed dressed in fluffy pajamas and a hot water bottle. But, one expert insists the only thing you should be wearing before you doze is off is... well, nothing.

Wearing your birthday suit, even if it's freezing outside, could actually have both physical and mental benefits to your health. Just make sure you're not known for the odd sleep walking episode if you live with others.

Sammy Margo is Chartered Physiotherapist and sleep expert at Dreams. Talking to the Metro, she said sleeping in the nude will help you fall asleep faster. "Your body temperature plays a crucial role in the timing of your sleep," she said.

"It's linked to your circadian rhythm – the internal body clock which controls your sleep/awake cycle. Falling into a deep sleep is linked to cooling your body, so allowing your body to cool down by sleeping naked can signal to you that it’s time to sleep."

Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts

Margo says that sleeping naked with a partner, especially in the colder months, can lead to 'increased physical and emotional intimacy'. The expert argues that skin-to-skin contact can release a hormone associated with 'bonding and trust'. Other improvements include increased self-confidence and better complexion.

Want big news with big heart? Get the top headlines delivered straight to your inbox with our Daily Newsletter

If you're still struggling to doze off this winter, it may be down to some of our beloved Christmas treats. Sleep specialist and CEO of Ethical Bedding James Higgins says you may want to 'rethink' some of your late night snacks over the festive period if you're not nodding off quickly.

Christmas puddings may be a staple in December, but Higgins warns the popular dessert is often rich in sugars and fats which can cause indigestion and disrupt sleep. "The high sugar content can lead to a spike in blood sugar levels, leading to energy surges and crashes," he added.

"A good alternative is to cook your pudding from scratch instead of opting for store-bought versions. Use less sugar, whole grains which increase the fibre content and aid digestion, incorporate nuts like almonds or walnuts which are good sources of sleep-aiding magnesium, and add sleep-promoting spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon."

Mince pies may also need to be consumed in moderation due to high sugar and fat content. "The rich, heavy pastry can be hard to digest, especially if eaten late at night, potentially causing discomfort and restlessness during sleep," Higgins states.

Again, opting for sugar-free recipes or using whole grain pastry could help alleviate some of the side-effects. Higgins even recommends having a mince pie with a 'nice herbal tea' such as chamomile.

What do you think of the sleeping tip? Let us know in the comments section below

Liam Gilliver