Grazia have another great piece concerning Rebecca Dennis and how to get a good night’s sleep during lockdown. Here’s an excerpt:

According to international breathing coach and founder of Breathing Tree – a London-based yoga studio – Rebecca Dennis, there are also plenty of breathing exercises you can do either before bed, during the night or throughout the day to reduce stress enough for a good night’s sleep.

‘With insomnia rising at an alarming rate, sleep is considered something of a luxury rather than the necessary regular state we require to regenerate, heal and recharge,’ she says. ‘In order to get a good night’s sleep we need to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system first. This will send messages to the body and mind that we are safe and can relax.

‘Try the 4-7-8 Technique. This breathing exercise can help you feel calm and stimulate the nervous system to a relaxed state. Begin by lying down in a comfortable position. Close your eyes. Press the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth, slightly open your mouth, and exhale until you reach the bottom of your breath. Close your mouth and quietly inhale through your nose for 4 counts. Then hold your breath for 7 counts. Exhale slowly and gently for a total of 8 counts to return to the bottom of your breath. Repeat for 4 full breaths, and work your way up to 8 breaths over time.’