Laying it bare…Sleep experts reveal the benefits of sleeping naked

Laying it bare…Sleep experts reveal the benefits of sleeping naked

How does sleeping naked affect our sleep?

We are all looking for ways to improve our sleep, from less caffeine, getting to bed earlier or investing in a memory foam pillow. Though could there be a more ‘au natural’ place to start? Studies suggest sleeping naked can ease you into the quality rest you need to recharge your mind, body, and soul for the day ahead. Hmm. Can ditching the PJ’s really help us nod off? And what are the benefits of laying it bare? We speak to sleep experts Lauri Leadley and Olga Kapitsa to find out the truth about sleeping naked.

Did you know your body has its own thermostat? According to sleep expert Lauri, our normal body temperature is around 37 degrees during waking hours. As we get sleepy, a little like the sun setting at the end of the day, our bodies’ natural process is to cool down. This encourages the production of melatonin, the hormone telling our bodies it’s time to relax. Anything that supports the release of melatonin around bedtime is going to make it easier to fall asleep. Lauri says ‘ being too warm at night is the biggest cause of waking up, leading to overthinking, negative emotions and low mood’  Sleeping naked naturally reduces your temperature, easing you into deeper, longer rest… a cool alternative to counting sheep!

What are the benefits of sleeping naked?

Sleep expert Olga praises doctors and scientists for raising awareness of how vital sleep is to overall wellbeing. Long gone are the days we boast about surviving on four hours a night! As Matt Walker said in his famous Ted talk ‘sleep is a superpower’. Sleeping naked comes with a whole host of benefits. Such as…

Looking younger- Before you buy another eye cream, you might want to try sleeping naked. Lauri says “it increases melatonin which stimulates antioxidant enzymes improving your appearance” Seems there really is such a thing as beauty sleep- And far cheaper!

Feeling lighter- Tend to crave carbs before lunchtime? It could be because you’re not getting enough sleep. Not only does sleep prevent those energy slumps that have you reaching for the cookie jar… Lauri says “a lower body temperature will increase your metabolic rate”. It’s true what they say, you snooze, you lose.

Improving relationships- Heard of Oxytocin? This is the feel-good hormone that is released with skin-skin contact. Olga says “sleeping naked can improve feelings of connection and fulfilment between couples.” And the benefits don’t just stay in the bedroom. As Lauri says…”better moods mean better days”

More confidence- Body image is something many of us struggle with. Olga explains sleeping naked can help “raise self-esteem and increase body satisfaction”. Better sleep helps us wake up feeling fresh and focused for the day ahead. Looking for a natural confidence boost? It could be time to drop the PJ’s.

What is the ideal bedding environment for sleeping naked?

Keeping a cool, calm environment is the best way to sleep naked. Lauri says “Natural organic bamboo bedding is calm and soothing on your skin”. Invest in a soft, hypoallergenic memory foam pillow that keeps your back and neck aligned. You want to make bedtime something you look forward to… and a comfy bed is the best place to start.

What are the best tips for those new to sleeping naked?

Feeling shy about sleeping naked? You are not alone, according to sleep expert, Olga “71% of us have never tried it” Though if you are tempted to give it a go, here are some tips for stripping down and getting your snooze on!

Unwind before bed-A hot bath is perfect before bed as your body will cool down when you get out of the tub. Wrap yourself in a gorgeous fluffy towel and pop on some magnesium lotion. Lauri also recommends a “power-down hour where you write down the things you’re grateful for”… and turn off those screens!

Know you’re doing something good for your body- Mindset matters. When you lay your head down on a supportive, snuggly memory foam pillow you know you are doing something good for your body. As Lauri says ‘” focus on the benefits of getting a cool, clean, deep night’s sleep and waking up feeling refreshed and fabulous”

Still, want to leave something on? Olga says “let it be an eye mask, shutting out the light will help you drift off… naturally” Could tonight be the night you give it a go?

Lauri Leadley- Founder of Valley Sleep Centre providing complete sleep health management including sleep studies, diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. 

Instagram- @laurilynn

Olga Kapitsa- psychologist and wellness coach