3. Mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation is one of those things you’ll often hear mentioned when it comes to advice about falling asleep, and for good reason. It’s designed to help slow down your mind and be more in the present, so you can go to bed worrying less.

You can do it as part of your night-time routine or after you’ve got into bed: to get started all you need to do is find a quiet and comfortable space to sit or lie down.

“Focus your attention on your breath, observing each inhalation and exhalation,” Dr Hall says. “When thoughts or distractions arise, gently bring your focus back to your breath. Engaging in this practice before bedtime helps to create a relaxed state of mind, fostering tranquillity and improving sleep as a result.”

4. Soothing touch

Soothing touch refers to any form of contact which is relaxing or calming – that could include cricketing, but that might also look like self-massage or even indulging in a warm bath.

“Consider activities that involve soothing touch, such as gently massaging your body using long, slow strokes,” Dr Hall recommends. “The touch stimulates relaxation responses in the body, preparing you for a restful sleep.”

5 self-soothing practices to help you wind down before bed