Wondering why you’re not sleeping well? New research might have the solution

17 September 2019, 14:06

Scientists reveal how to have a better sleep
Scientists reveal how to have a better sleep. Picture: Getty

By Sian Moore

Getting a good night’s sleep seems to be getting even harder, but scientists in Australia think they’ve found the secret to help you get a full eight hours.

Forget turning off technology, a cup of chamomile tea or a sleep-inducing app – apparently the secret for a good kip is woollen pyjamas.

According to new research, Australians scientists have found that a good pair of woolly pyjamas could be the key to a well-rested sleep, as the cosy nightwear keeps the body in the ‘thermal comfort zone’ by regulating its temperature.

The theory was tested out on two groups of adults, which included students in their 20s and adults aged between 65 and 70.

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The results showed that the students who wore merino wool to bed took 11 minutes to drift off, compared to the others who wore alternative materials and took 15 minutes. The wool-wearers even managed to bag an extra seven minutes of sleep at the end of their snooze.

The older participants of the test who headed to bed in a woolly set were asleep within 12 minutes, whereas their counterparts took 22 to 27 minutes to snooze.

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Dr. Paul Swan, a researcher at The University of Sydney, said: “Not so long ago sleeping under wool bedding was the norm, and science is now rediscovering the benefits of sleeping in wool.”

“Maybe it is not a coincidence because wool regulates your body temperature far better, keeping you in what is known as the ‘thermal comfort zone’.”

“Enjoying good sleep has become increasingly difficult in modern times, and so anything that helps is great for your mental and physical health.”

Maybe it's time to grab a new pair of woollen pyjamas...