Saira Khan was loved for her straight-talking nature on Loose Women, but the former host has revealed the impact her TV career had on her health – and happiness.
"Working in TV impacted my sleep because the work is never regular and there are no set times, so it was either early mornings or late nights and going to bed feeling mentally exhausted, which really impaired my sleep," she said.
On how the lack of sleep made her feel, Saira admitted: "I found that operating on less than seven hours sleep meant I'd get stressed quickly and start eating unhealthy foods."
© David Fisher/REX/ShutterstockSleep plays a key role in regulating our emotions and mood, and our happiness can take a nosedive if we're not sleeping well, as sleep expert Donna Fairley explains: "Anyone who hasn't had a full night's sleep knows it can make you groggy, moody, and even depressed.
“Poor sleep can hinder you from thinking clearly and keeping your emotions at an even keel. Studies show that excessive sleepiness can wreak havoc with relationships and can lead to mood problems such as anger and depression."
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A better mood after a successful sleep is something Saira is familiar with, especially since working with since wool brand Woolroom, on their 'clean sleeping,' campaign which says that cleaning up our sleep space is as important as clean eating.
"I have more clarity of thought and focus and so feel more myself when I've slept well," Saira tells us. "This also feeds into personal confidence and more positive thoughts."
© Nils Jorgensen/REX/ShutterstockSpeaking of her secrets to sleeping well, Saira said: "Going to bed early, leaving my mobile phone away from the bedroom, soft lighting, blackout curtains, cooling PJs, comfy pillows and a good supportive bed are key.
"Over the years I've learnt that creating a natural sleep environment is key and since switching to wool bedding, it’s really helped me achieve a more natural and cleaner night’s sleep.
"The biggest eye-opener has been the realisation that if I want a comfortable night's sleep, then my whole sleep environment has to be spot on," Saira says of the idea that 'clean sleeping' is as crucial as the concept of clean eating.
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"It's not just what you sleep on, but also under and in too, and that's why opting for natural fibres such as wool can help regulate your body temperature and allow you to achieve a cleaner night’s sleep," she concludes.
Saira is working with Woolroom on their new campaign, Clean Sleeping is the New Clean Eating
