7 Unconventional Methods to Improve Your Sleep

October 25, 2019 by Alison Egan

Thanks so much to Cheryl Conklin from Wellness Central Wellnesscentral.info for taking over my blog post today to talk about the importance of sleep! I hope you enjoy and learn from this post as much as I have learned! Thanks Cheryl!

Sleep is good for everyone, but for some, it can be incredibly evasive. The effects of sleep deprivation can have a massive impact on your physical health. Not getting enough sleep can aggravate heart-related problems, worsen obesity, and affect you in a variety of physical ways.

Also, many people don’t realize that sleep is essential for creating and maintaining good self-care practices. When the foundations of self-care — physical, spiritual, emotional, social, and professional — are out of balance, our bodies have a tendency to react in extreme and often negative ways. Throw in a lack of sleep, and things really start to go haywire. So, not only is getting plenty of sleep beneficial for our physical well-being, it’s great for our bodies overall.

Here are seven ways you can get sleep back into your life again and reap the physical and psychological benefits.

Get some natural sunlight.

Getting an adequate amount of natural light during the day helps your body to set its circadian clock correctly. It also helps you physically feel more tired later in the evening. Specifically, look at getting some light in the morning or early afternoon. Take a walk during lunch or spend a couple extra minutes outside in the morning. Try to find small ways to integrate more natural sunlight into your daily routine.

Ditch prescriptions

While sleeping pills can help a little, research has specifically shown that even occasionally taking sleeping pills is associated with an increase in cancer rates and mortality. Ambien, in particular, can be addictive. Here are some common side effects that occur when an individual abuses Ambien: agitation, bizarre behaviors, aggression, dizziness, and slurred speech. Try to avoid sleep prescriptions or wean yourself off them.

Take a cozy bath

Research has found that bathing before sleep can enhance sleep quality, especially for the elderly. No matter your age, the warmth of the water can help soothe your body and help you calm down before bed. If you don’t have a bath tub, a warm shower will also do the trick. Try showering in the dark to prepare your body for rest.

Hit the sauna

Ever feel exhausted from a day in the sun, even if you didn’t exert yourself that much? Heat can relax you and help your body drift off more easily. An article in the Huffington Post found that going to a sauna can also help warm you up. Studies have found other health benefits, including heart health benefits for men in particular. If you have the opportunity, hit the sauna at least once a week. If nothing else, it’s relaxing.

Exercise in the morning

According to NBC News, many people who work out in the evening find that it can be harder for them to fall asleep. Working out in the morning can be a perfect way for you to get your brain working most effectively, which can help you with the tasks and responsibilities that you have to take care of during the week. It might be hard to yank yourself out of bed to exercise, especially after a rough night’s sleep. However, just getting moving or stretching can improve your sleep patterns and sleep quality. Don’t worry about the intensity—just get moving.

Get enough sleep-inducing minerals and vitamins

Melatonin is a hormone that your body produces naturally. Luckily, it’s found in many plants and animals. Melatonin plays a critical role in helping you to improve both quality and quantity of sleep, so look for natural ways to boost production or increase your intake. Some plants are high in melatonin, and consuming these could positively affect your sleep.

Other vitamins and minerals that have been shown to improve sleep include vitamins B and E, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. If you’re not getting enough of these sleep-friendly ingredients in your diet, it’s time to start taking a daily multivitamin. These supplements can also raise your mood and energy levels.

Lower the temperature in your room

Have you ever happily fallen asleep, only to wake up in the middle of the night completely roasting? Decreasing the temperature in your room can help you get to sleep more easily. Changes in the temperature of your bedroom can also have an important impact on your body’s metabolism. Make sure that you have enough blankets when you fall asleep, since shivering will negatively impact your sleep.

There are many ways to get a good night’s rest. Try to experiment and don’t panic if sleep is still a struggle. Celebrate the victories when you can, whether those victories come from sleeping more than five hours or being able to fall asleep before midnight. It’ll take time, but your efforts will be worth it.

Harry's Zen Space

July 31, 2019 by Alison Egan

It has been a busy year since I last blogged! Since my last post we have bought our first home in a new neighborhood in Chicago and I’m now back working at a nearby Montessori School where Harry also attends! I have been super busy decorating our home, toilet training Harry and reconnecting with my inner Montessorian in the classroom. I must say I am in a really happy place right now and wanted to share some new blogs starting with Harry’s space in the home where you might find some fun and inspiring ideas! I am also looking for some suggestions too from other mums out there and Montessori teachers alike to share some words of wisdom on how I can improve or where I can shop to find nice purposeful pieces. It is a work in progress and by no means finished but I have to say I am enjoying the journey!

I decided to place two twin beds or single beds as we call them in Ireland in Harry’s room so he could have a friend sleep over sometime and there was also another method to my madness…toilet training! If he wet one bed in the night, he could easily be changed quickly and climb into the other. It totally worked! I know some people toilet train day time and night time at different stages but I decided to do it all at the same time! It was a wet month or two but totally worth it in the end! We started at 2 years and 8 months with Harry as this was when he decided he was ready and when I decided to not buy any more nappies/diapers anymore. I’ll do a whole blog on that soon!

Overall, I wanted a neutral, relaxing space with very little distractions as bed time can be a little dragged out if there is too much clutter around. Harry gets distracted easily so I wanted just to have only books and teddy bears in his sleeping place and keep the toys and activities in another area.

As for the beds, I found a really great carpenter on Facebook marketplace who lived in the suburbs and he custom made these beds for 350 dollars total for two beds. This was a way better deal than anything I could find online or in mainstream stores. It really is worth having a look on that site as sometimes you can find little gems.

His bedding is the ‘Cars’ bedding from Pottery Barn Kids which is a favorite store of mine! Their sheets are all on sale right now so it’s a great time to purchase! I also bought the storage units from here too which are massively discounted. The car lamp is also from PB which is on sale at the moment as well as the framed photo of cars which can be found here. I believe the airplane mobile which is hanging from the ceiling is out of stock now sadly.

These were my most expensive purchases! The soft floor rug I picked up at Home Goods and art pieces for his wall as well as reading stool are from Marshalls and Home goods which as you know are great bargain spots!

I would love to hear some feedback or suggestions on how I could improve his room. I’m already making a collage of photographs of family from home to frame and put on the wall directly beside his bed so he can see all the faces who love and care about him as he falls asleep at night. I also have added some musical instruments and puzzles for him to play in the morning for when he wakes up in the hope of getting a little lie in! It hasn’t worked yet!! haha!

I’ve also included a sneaky snap from my next blog post coming soon about Harry’s play/work space and all of his recent activities that he is loving at the moment at home!

Harry at the Water ways in Children's Museum

Harry's Day Out at the Children's Museum of Chicago

May 04, 2017 by Alison Egan

What I love about Chicago is that even when the weather is bad, there is still so much to do with children. From Museums to indoor kiddie gyms, Chicago has it all!

This week we decided to take Harry to the Children's Museum on Navy Pier. To me, it sounds like a museum full of kids art or something but no...this place is amazing! 2 floors of fun-filled spaces ( I know it's technically 3 stories but the first floor doesn't count as it's just a gift shop that I quickly whizzed past before he caught sight of something!)

Here are some photos I took from our day at the Children's Museum. You can also check out the schedule here if you feel like going with your little one. As you can see, there are so many interactive experiences, from putting out fires at the fire-station, washing real cars in the Kid Village and going grocery shopping! There is also a big dinosaur excavation site where you can be a paleontologist for the afternoon. For Harry's age group, there is the Pritzker Playspace where he engaged in messy play with paint and shaving cream as well as crawling through tunnels and constructing towers with wooden blocks. I loved this room as it reminded me of a Montessori environment with its wooden purpose-filled activities.

Harry's favourite area was the water area by far. He literally had to be forced out at closing time kicking and screaming!! The best part was, he slept for two hours afterwards! I even had time for a nap too!

Hope you too can enjoy a day out at a Children's Museum or something similar near you!

Alison xoxo

Top 10 Things To Do For Free In Chicago with Baby!

February 20, 2017 by Alison Egan

Chicago is such a baby/child/family friendly city! There is just so much to do here and for free too which makes it even better. I feel so lucky to live here at this time in my life. To be in a multicultural global city full of diversity and things to do! The people are just so friendly and even the bars and restaurants all cater for children, often allowing them to eat for free on certain days. Never have I once been turned away from a restaurant just because I have a baby accompanying me. This happened to me in Ireland once before! I will not mention the names.

Often it has been difficult being so far away from family in Ireland but in a way it has pushed me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to meet some amazing people. Over the past 11 months I have explored the city inside out and have seen all it has to offer. If you are a new mum on maternity leave in a new city, I cannot urge you more to just get up, get dressed and get out of your home and neighborhood! Say yes to as many possible play dates as possible and always try and leave with a new number of a mum that you just met. You never know when you will need to meet them for a coffee to exchange stories or just rant over a glass(bottle) of wine!!

Here are some of my fav things to do with Harry on the days I am not working and all are free!

Although these places are specific to Chicago, you can easily apply them to your own city/town. Well except Zoo as most cities do not offer this free service!

1. Go on a nature walk around the pond at Lincoln Park.

Here we like to stop and observe the Canadian geese and other wildlife around the pond. Harry laughs so much when they do their swoop and smooth landing on the lake surface. It brings him so much joy! I often take him out of the stroller and strap him to me with ergobaby carrier so he can get a better view. We stop as we pass the flowers and he usually wants to touch them. I try never to let him pull them off as I want to teach him to respect nature early on but sometimes he just goes for it! We take it home to display on his nature table in his room where he has some leaves and pine cones.

2. Go to Lincoln Park Zoo!

This is a great spot for kids of all ages and is always buzzing. There is great energy here and always have seasonal activities going on. From the Christmas light show in Winter to the corn-picking in the Fall Harvest Fair.

Just as well that he is not old enough yet to ask questions like 'Mammy, Why is there a long thing hanging from under the Zebra?'

3. Read a book in a book store!

Sometimes I pop into Barnes and Nobles for a look at the children's books. I often read one or two out loud for Harry. I know many of them have reading events from the authors so keep an eye on their website. Sometimes he falls asleep mid story so then I can go look at the books for grown-ups!

4. Visit 'Land of Nod'

Land of Nod have lots of free events such as kiddy music concerts and story times in store so I sometimes walk to the one on North Clybourn to see what they have coming up. Events are also on the website. I just love strolling around the store too for inspiration for Harry's bedroom and for a look at their beautiful selection of Children's toys. It always puts me in a great mood! It's just such a happy place.

5. Discover a new playground that you have never been to before!

This happened as I took a new route home from a usual walk that I do. I ventured off my usual path and stumbled across my new fav playground! Bauler park! It even has a swing for two! Ideal for mommy and baby on babies first time swinging as it can be a bit daunting! I love the fact also that they have some previously owned cars and toys in great condition that the children can play with. Great idea! Also good for teaching the children about patience and sharing! Harry already starting to have mini tantrums if he doesn't get what he wants instantly!

6. Go for a walk in a new neighbourhood that you haven't been to before.

You might just tumble across your new fav coffee shop or discover a new venue that you can try out such as an art or pottery class! I found my new hobby this way. I was strolling up Lincoln Avenue and stumbled upon 'Bottle and Bottega' and now love attending their art classes!

7. Visit one of the many museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago or the Field Museum on one of their free days!

Every month, each of the museums offer a free day for Illinois residence to avail of. I cannot tell you how great these days are! They are usually mid week so the museum is quiet enough if you go during the school year. This is more for you rather than baby but still great for them to be in such a beautiful environment. They are all extremely child friendly and the staff are super helpful! The Field Museum has loads to do for young children. See previous blog post!

8. Pack a picnic and head to the Farmers Market!

This is seasonal obviously but a winter alternative could be hit the farm on a Wednesday or Friday morning and there you will find an abundance of children rocking to the free kiddy concert there inside the barn! Suitable for all ages! Although I do think the older kiddies get more enjoyment out of it! We still take Harry to Monica and Andy music class with Mr Tim that he loves!

9. Play with sand at one of the many beaches along the lake front.

Obviously this is seasonal too but a great way to pass the time. For Harry's age we really need to keep a very close eye on him as often he tries to put the sand in his mouth but it is so great for his gross and fine motor development. From carrying the buckets to pinching the sand between his fingers. Now that he is walking it will be great for him to practice trying to walk in the dry sand!! Extra challenge for his little legs this Spring/Summer! Messy play is so important for young children. Especially when they are confined to an apartment with no garden so I have a feeling I will be spending a lot of time on the beach this Summer!

10. Enjoy a free instrumental recital at the Chicago Public Library

Usually these recitals are half empty and you can just enter and leave easily at any time should there be a meltdown. Harry is often mesmerized and has a nap at this point so I can sit back and enjoy the tranquility of the musical piece which takes me to another place in my mind. I think it is really important to instill a love of or at least an appreciation of music and culture early on.

Museum Monday

February 06, 2017 by Alison Egan

There is nothing quite as spectacular as passing the Field Museum in Chicago with its grand entrance and pillared facade. With its scientifically rich and sensorially engaging environment, you really ought to get out with your little one and experience it! The best part is they have free admission for Illinois residence on certain days so be sure to check their website to avail of the offer!

Harry and I accompanied our neighbour friends Amy and Theo for a winter excursion this past Monday and were blown away with what the museum had to offer for the little ones. Our fav spot was the world music room which is located on the ground floor. It is a sound-proof room filled with percussion instruments from around the world. Harry and Theo spent forever running around chasing each other banging on the bongos and shaking the elephant bells. The bright,red, giant buttons on the walls held their attention for a long time as they ran between them, pushing them to hear the different instrumental sounds.

The magical red buttons that kept them busy for ages!! They played beautiful insturmental music from different parts of the world.

One of my favorite spaces was the Dino activities area which I look forward to taking Harry when he gets a bit older. This is filled with sensorial experiences and fossil brushing activities. Super fun and educational at the same time. Apparently you can even do sleepovers there 'Dozin with the Dino's' How cool is that? So much to do in here, I could go on forever. I hope to go back on the next free day to explore the section all about China!

Forget the Mosh pit, it's all about the Dino Pit!

Harry's debut in the Big Apple

October 05, 2016 by Alison Egan

Harry and I spent the day walking the length and breadth of Manhattan doing some sales and account visits for Egan's Irish Whiskey. I mean, it is only right that he comes along too as he is seventh generation after all! For this reason, I decided to dress him in his one-piece cotton suit from Target. He really looked the part and melted hearts all around (even with the little bit of dribble on the sleeve!)

It was great to catch up with cousin Blake at Dylan Murphy's Irish Bar in Upper East Side.

Sunset in San Francisco

September 21, 2016 by Alison Egan

Harry loved his first trip to San Francisco where he attended his first ever baseball game with Daddy, uncle Ralphy and uncle Jeremy to see The Giants play at AT&T stadium! We loved strolling through Golden Gate Park with him and showing him the iconic bridge...not that he will remember but Jonny and I enjoyed reminiscing about our very first holiday together here in 2013. We cycled over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito where we enjoyed oysters and wine on the sea-front overlooking the city. Long before we had our little puddin...(Harry's nickname)

Wining and Dining in Napa

September 18, 2016 by Alison Egan

So for my thirtieth birthday, my fabulous, generous and most loving husband surprised me with a fun trip to Napa Valley, California for some weekend wine-tasting! Yes, we brought Harry too and we had such a wonderful time! Here is proof that you can still get out and do all of those things that you did pre-baby....just this time you have to pack everything in your house to go along with you. Trust me, for the wine and chocolate..... it was worth it!!

Some of our favorite vineyards that we visited while we were there were; The Hess, Raymond, Rutherfurd and Rombauer. I seriously cannot wait to go back there. A lovely lady at Raymond gave us lots of 2-for-1 tasting coupons to use at the various vineyards which we really appreciated and certainly put to good use! The chocolate pairing at Rutherford was out-of-this-world. A very memorable evening sitting in the sun followed by a walk through the vineyards tasting grapes with Harry to thank him for his patience and good behaviour!

Harry in The Hamptons

August 03, 2016 by Alison Egan

This was one of our best trip so far as a family. We spent the few days with great Irish friends of ours from our past life in Shanghai who also have a little boy so it was perfect. We rented an Airbnb so had plenty of space to run around. We were able to cook and drink at home as well which was great because as you probably have guessed, it is expensive here. Probably the most beautiful part of the USA in my opinion. It just oozes class and elegance and is picture-perfect. Our favourite little town was Sag Harbor where we strolled the streets, poking our heads in and out of little boutiques and artisan coffee shops.No such thing as Starbucks or Costa Coffee around here! Our most memorable evening was spent chilling on the beach at Sag Harbor with some beers from the nearby 7/11 watching the million dollar yachts go by at sunset.