Sleep SOS: My Go-To Hacks for Better Sleep in 2025

Let’s be honest, 2025 hasn’t exactly kicked off with boundless energy for many of us. With the post-festive season colds, flu, and endless bugs doing the rounds, getting quality sleep has felt like an uphill battle. If you’re like me and struggling to hit the reset button, it might be time to make a few changes to improve your sleep and start feeling refreshed again.

I’ve taken some expert-backed tips from Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of Simba’s charity partner, The Sleep Charity, and put them to the test. Here are the simple tweaks that have made a real difference for me.

1. Rise and Shine with a Light-Based Alarm Clock

Dark winter mornings have always been a struggle, but swapping out my traditional alarm for a light-based one has been a game-changer. These clocks gradually brighten to mimic a natural sunrise, gently waking you up rather than jolting you awake. Combine this with some hybrid pillows and you’ll be feeling refreshed and ready for the year ahead.

Lisa Artis explains, “Using a light-based alarm clock can help reset your body’s natural rhythm in a way that traditional alarms simply can’t. It allows your body to wake up gradually, reducing stress and improving your overall mood.”

Since making the switch, I’ve noticed I wake up feeling more refreshed and less groggy, definitely worth considering if you dread those dark winter wake-ups.

2. Giving Dry January a Go—It’s Never Too Late

I’ll admit, I didn’t start Dry January on the 1st, but better late than never, right? Cutting back on alcohol, even mid-month has done wonders for my sleep quality. Simba’s recent study found that 34% of Dry January participants reported better sleep by the end of the month, and I can see why.

Lisa Artis says, “Many people underestimate how much alcohol disrupts their sleep. While it might help you fall asleep initially, it disrupts your sleep cycles and leaves you feeling groggy.”

Even small changes, like swapping out midweek drinks, have made a noticeable difference in my sleep routine.

3. Planning a Sleep Retreat—Because Why Not?

This one’s definitely on my 2025 bucket list. Simba’s Breaking Dawn Retreat, launching in Lowestoft in July, promises to harness the power of natural light for better sleep. New research from Simba concludes that two-thirds of Brits don’t get enough daylight in the winter months, I think this could be the perfect reset.

Located on the Suffolk coast, where the sun rises first in the UK, the retreat offers floor-to-ceiling windows and sunrise-timed blinds designed to support healthy sleep patterns.

Lisa Artis says, “Morning light is key to regulating your internal clock. Exposure to sunlight at the right time strengthens your sleep routine and prepares you for better rest at night.”

I’m seriously considering booking a stay when reservations open, with prices starting at £295 per night. You can check out more details on Simba’s blog here.

4. Exercising Smarter for Better Sleep

We all set fitness goals in January, but I’ve realised that timing my workouts right is just as important as actually doing them. High-intensity workouts too close to bedtime left me wired and staring at the ceiling, so I’ve shifted them earlier in the day and now opt for yoga in the evenings.

Lisa Artis advises, “Exercise reduces stress and improves mood, but intense activity late at night can work against you. Aim to finish workouts at least three hours before bed.”

This change has made a noticeable impact, and I’m falling asleep much faster now.

5. Tracking My Sleep - But Not Obsessing Over It

I’ve recently started using a sleep tracker to get insights into my rest patterns. While it’s helpful, I’ve learned not to get too caught up in the numbers.

Lisa Artis warns, “Sleep trackers provide useful data, but over-monitoring can lead to ‘orthosomnia,’ or sleep anxiety. Focus on actionable changes rather than chasing perfect numbers.”

Since focusing more on consistency rather than stats, I’ve seen genuine improvements in how I feel when I wake up.

A few simple changes to my routine have made a huge difference in my sleep quality this year. Whether it’s embracing natural light, cutting down on alcohol, or finding smarter ways to exercise, I’m hoping 2025 will finally be the year of great sleep.

How are you improving your sleep this year? Let me know what’s worked for you!