Sleep, where mental wellbeing begins
For many of us, bedtime is when the noise of the day finally catches up. A busy mind. Restlessness. Waking in the early hours and struggling to properly settle again.
In our recent sleep survey, 65% of people told us that anxiety or an overactive mind disrupts their sleep, while 33% said menopause or perimenopause affects their ability to properly rest.
Hormonal changes can have a significant impact on sleep quality. The Menopause Charity notes that anxiety, stress, hot flushes and fluctuating hormones can all contribute to difficulty falling or staying asleep.
Dr Louise Newson, GP and menopause specialist, explains that changing hormone levels can affect not only sleep itself, but also mood, stress levels and the body’s ability to fully relax before bed. Sleep experts also recognise the importance of creating a calm sleep environment and consistent evening rituals, helping to signal safety and rest to the nervous system.
We believe the bedroom should support that feeling -a sleep ecosystem that works gently with your body and mind. Soft lighting, breathable natural fibres, comforting weight, calming textures and a quieter evening routine can all help create a greater sense of ease before sleep.
Rest starts before sleep
When life feels busy, rest can feel difficult to reach - especially when the mind keeps racing long after the day has ended. Often, it’s not about forcing yourself to sleep, the Floks team shares how they slow their mind down to get a good nights sleep.
Gentle movement
“I’d say a few minutes of yoga – which can consist of any of these - some gentle movements, a long held childs pose, a meditation, some deep breathing. It doesn’t have to be thought out and considered, just finding some space and time to be quiet and tune into how your body is feeling can be really calming. Creating a little ritual around that can also be really helpful – lighting a special candle, selecting some peaceful music ( the same music every night is great for signalling wind down time for your brain) rolling out your mat in an uncluttered and peaceful place where you won’t be disturbed, making others aware you’re taking 10 minutes for yourself and don’t want to be disturbed. ”
- Liz
Protecting sleep
Balance
"Walking out in the fresh air after dinner makes all the difference for me, even if it's only for 15 minutes. And sometimes, just a flick on TV to watch something easy because life is all about balance and it stops my mind whirring..."
- Sophie
Your bed, as a place to land
We think of the bed as more than somewhere you sleep. It’s where the body finally lets go of the day. A place to slow down, exhale and feel held for a while.
The Mental Health Foundation says that poor sleep can leave people feeling more anxious, overwhelmed and emotionally drained, reinforcing how closely rest and wellbeing are connected.
From breathable natural fibres to gentle weight and warmth, every part of the sleep environment can help create a greater sense of calm, helping the body and mind feel more settled before rest.