THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP

Having sleep troubles is common, and not so surprising considering the fast pace and busyness of so many people’s lives. Ensuring you are getting enough sleep each night will help in all areas of your wellness, while also increasing productivity and focus, managing stress, boosting your immune system, preventing weight gain, improving memory, and many others.

Establish a realistic time to go to bed and stick to it, even during weekends Maintain a comfortable temperature in your bedroom, and low light levels using lamps Ensure you have a comfortable mattress, pillows, and sheets Try to avoid screens from mobile phones, television, and other electronic devices in the bedroom and close to bedtime. Don’t consume ca eine, alcohol, or large meals close to bedtime Exercise earlier in the day rather than to evenings, to ensure you can wind down properly before bed Once we fall asleep, our bodies enter a sleep cycle that has four di erent stages. The fi rst three stages are NREM (non-rapid eye movement) and the last stage is REM (rapid eye movement).

Stage 1: light sleep where your muscles relax, and your heart rate, breathing, and eye movements start to slow down. Typically, this stage lasts several minutes.

Stage 2: deeper sleep where your heart rate and breathing continue to slow, eye movements cease, and body temperature decreases. Typically, the longest sleep stage.

Stage 3: heartbeat, breathing, and brain wave activity reach their lowest levels, and muscles are as relaxed as they will get. The most important stage for you feeling refreshed and alert the next day.

REM: the fi rst REM stage typically occurs 90 minutes after you fall asleep. Eyes move back and forth quickly under your eyelids, while breathing rate, heart rate, and blood pressure begin to increase. This stage is where most dreaming occurs.

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Stop in for a welcome break while on your travels

2 Highfield St, Culverden 03 315 8492

The Waiau River provides thrills, spills and a wild ride. Let experienced professionals take you in a jet boat or raft through narrow gorges, canyons and fast-fl owing waters on a spectacular, braided river. Alternatively, paddle your own canoe in a day long guided excursion.

Whether it’s a mountain bike, a quad bike, an e-bike or a child’s trike, there are trails suitable for riders of every type of fi tness level, age and ability. Terrain varies from steep downhill, single tracks to easy o -road trails that weave through the stunning forest and alpine terrain. BYO bike or hire wheels from the village.

Fancy a night in a luxury lodge, a heritage hotel or an evening of total indulgence glamping under the stars? Or is a bed in a backpackers’ hostel more your style and budget? Hanmer o ers a huge range of accommodation options. Book a bach, Air B&B or choose from numerous hotels, motels or apartments located in the heart of the village and in the picturesque rural areas beyond. There is a room to suit all budgets and sleeping preferences.

Hanmer Springs Golf Course o ers outstanding scenery and challenging golf holes. Open every day of the year, the course layout is suitable for all ages and abilities. Visitors are always welcome. Clubs, trundlers and motorised carts are available for hire, and professionals are on hand to o er lessons. If a full round feels a little full on, the Hanmer Pitch and Putt golf course is an excellent alternative. Absolute beginners can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while advanced golfers can sharpen their short game.

There are many walking trails in the Hanmer Forest, ranging from easy family-friendly bush strolls, to the more challenging climb up Conical Hill - worth it for the spectacular views - or for the hardy, a hike up to the summit of Mount Isobel.

Home to some of the finest artwork in the South Island from over 50 New Zealand artists, including paintings, pottery wood turning, jewellery glassware, sculptures & ceramics.

Clarence Lane, 34 Conical Hill Rd, Hanmer Springs P. 027 432 5914 E. info@taitgallery.co.nz www.taitgallery.co.nz

Included in each room booking deliciously prepared wine and platters

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