Memory foam | Panda https://pandalondon.com Feel right at home Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:14:00 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://pandalondon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/cropped-Panda-Icon-Logo-01-32x32.png Memory foam | Panda https://pandalondon.com 32 32 Memory Foam vs. Feather Pillow: Which One Should You Buy? https://pandalondon.com/memory-foam-vs-feather-pillow-which-one-should-you-buy/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:31:44 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=228684

Choosing the best pillow is a key step in perfecting your sleep routine – for your head to stay cool and your body to be well supported, your pillow must be right for you. There are two main varieties to choose from: memory foam and feather. It is important to know the properties of each and which is the one for you!

Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam pillows are made from viscoelastic foam, which contours to the shape of your head and neck, offering customized support. They adapt to body heat and pressure, providing comfort and reducing pressure points. These pillows are known for their durability and can help alleviate neck and back pain, making them a popular choice for improved sleep quality. 

What are the benefits of a memory foam pillow?

Among the benefits of memory foam pillows is their incredible support: because they have more firmness, they align your neck, shoulders and spine. You’re less likely to find yourself sinking! You’ll find memory foam is strong enough to relieve pressure from your head and neck.

Because of the density of memory foam, it will contour to your shape – this further enhances head and neck support. This helps to relieve a lot of pain people experience while sleeping. The density often means that there is little room for allergens and bacteria to grow; having a hypoallergenic pillow improves your sleep quality, allowing you to breathe easier and drift off free from irritation.

Memory foam pillows also have a long life span; because of the way they are made, they are durable and last longer than others. This is better for your wallet, as it needs replacing less often, and better for the planet as it leads to fewer pillows in landfill!

Factors to consider when buying a memory foam pillow

When buying yourself a memory foam pillow, look at how dense and firm you want it. This is often down to personal preference – a mid-level of firmness is perfect for many people, but depending on your sleeping position, you might want it more or less firm. Trying in-store or buying one with a trial period is a great way to determine how firm and dense you like it to be. A pillow should be breathable, and you should also opt for a cooling one: this helps you sleep better at night because the fresh side feels much nicer! Look for memory foam pillows with covers made from a breathable material like soft and thermoregulating bamboo.

Memory foam pillows have different sizes and shape options; some are curved to allow for even better body contouring, while many are in the typical shape. You can also get different lofts or heights. Again this comes down to personal preference, so it’s worth considering what you like or don’t like.

Finally, in terms of factors to consider when choosing, look at the maintenance and care instructions. You don’t want a pillow that will make your life more difficult – so opt for one with easy care and maintenance guidelines. Memory foam shouldn’t be put in the washing machine, so pillows with easily removable covers are perfect for increasing the pillow’s longevity.

Feather Pillows

Feather pillows are filled with duck or goose feathers, offering soft, pliable comfort. They conform to the head and neck, are lightweight, and can be fluffed for desired support. Feather pillows are less firm than others and may require regular fluffing. They are favored for their natural softness.

What are the benefits of feather pillows?

You’ll find that a feather pillow is naturally very soft, with little to no resistance, as your head sinks into it at bedtime. As feather pillows are generally quite thick, they have a naturally high loft. However, they can lose their loft over time as the feathers start to flatten inside.

Feather pillows are also more breathable than those made from synthetic material, with increased airflow between the feathers. And because of their soft nature, they are really malleable – meaning you can easily squish and adjust your pillow to make it perfect for you.

Factors to consider when buying a feather pillow

Again, the choice is often down to personal sleep preferences. However, if you’re looking to drift off easily, you need to ensure the quality and fill power of the feathers inside the pillow. Cheaper options tend not to have as many feathers in them, meaning they’re not as soft or supportive! You can also purchase comfortable pillows, which are a blend of feather and down – many people think these are the same, but down actually refers to the layer of protective fibres found underneath a bird’s feathers. A pillow offering a mix of the two is a great option for comfort, support and softness.

Look at the casing and construction, too – what is the cover made of, can it be removed at all, and how well put together does it look? You want a long-lasting, durable pillow, so this is an important point to consider.

Girl reading a book on a Panda pillow

Memory foam vs. Feather pillow: The comparison

No pillow-buying guide would be complete without a direct comparison between the two types, so it’s important to look at how memory foam and feather pillows measure up against each other.

Support and comfort

Both types are comfortable and supportive, but the density and contouring of a memory foam pillow – which moulds to your shape – is often much more comfortable, especially when you’ve been using it for a couple of weeks. Because of how they are designed, memory foam pillows offer much more support with optimum head and neck alignment.

Allergies and hypoallergenic properties

Feathers can often cause an issue for those with sensitive skin and allergies; if the quality of the outside isn’t particularly great, the feathers can poke through, leaving you irritated and itchy. This issue doesn’t exist with a memory foam pillow, which (due to its density) often leaves little room for allergens like dust mites to get in!

Temperature regulation and breathability

Memory foam often retains the heat, whereas feather pillows generally don’t, but if you opt for a memory foam pillow with a breathable cover like bamboo, then you’ll see cooling benefits too. Bamboo is thermoregulating, which makes it the perfect partner for dense memory foam. Again feather-filled ones offer more breathability in general due to the spaces between the feathers themselves, but if you like the benefits of memory foam, choosing a pillowcase made from a breathable material can help.

Durability and longevity

Memory foam definitely comes out on top in terms of being long-lasting and super durable; feather ones lose their shape and comfort over time, and the feathers inside can often become loose and fall out. This leads to your pillow becoming flat and not offering you the support and comfort you deserve, whereas memory foam lasts much longer. This means with the proper care, yours will serve you for years to come, leading to less waste and a healthier bank balance!

Choosing the right pillow for you

Picking your perfect pillow is based on what works for you – do you sleep on your back, side or front? Back and side sleepers tend to prefer memory foam, while front sleepers might like feather pillows more. Personal considerations are important too: if you have allergies, memory foam is probably a better choice as it is more hypoallergenic than feathers. The same goes for itchy and sensitive skin because feathers can irritate. Look at your budget, too. Pillows made from memory foam might be more expensive to begin with, but they are usually better value for money because they last longer.

Should you buy a memory foam or feather pillow?

Purchasing a pillow is generally down to personal preference; memory foam and feather pillows are both great in their own way, but you might find one which works better for you. Whether you need a specifically hypoallergenic pillow to relieve symptoms of allergies or you’re looking for pressure relief to avoid an achy neck in the morning, making an informed decision is really important. Supportive pillows are key to a great night’s sleep, which will help improve your physical and mental health!

FAQ

What is the main difference between memory foam and feather pillows?

Memory foam pillows are made from viscoelastic foam that conforms to your head and neck, while feather pillows contain natural feathers for a softer feel.

Which pillow is better for neck support: memory foam or feather?

Memory foam pillows are known for providing excellent neck support by contouring to your head and neck’s shape, while feather pillows may be softer but offer less support.

Are memory foam pillows hypoallergenic?

Yes, many memory foam pillows like bamboo memory foam pillows are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and allergens, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

Do memory foam pillows retain heat?

Some memory foam pillows can retain heat, but many modern versions, like bamboo memory foam pillows, are designed with cooling features to dissipate heat and keep you comfortable.

Which pillow is better for pressure relief: memory foam or feather?

Memory foam pillows are generally better at providing pressure relief, especially for areas like the neck and shoulders, due to their contouring properties.

Explore our range:

The post Memory Foam vs. Feather Pillow: Which One Should You Buy? first appeared on Panda.

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Sleep Safely With a Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillow https://pandalondon.com/sleep-safely-with-a-hypoallergenic-memory-foam-pillow/ Fri, 23 Jun 2023 13:49:58 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=228110

A good pillow can help you sleep better at night for so many reasons – it improves the quality of your sleep by supporting your neck and spine, keeping you comfortable, and helping you breathe easier. You can go one step further with a hypoallergenic memory foam pillow which not only offers vital support but also offers extra comfort for those suffering with various allergies.

What is a Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillow?

A hypoallergenic memory foam pillow is a type of pillow designed to minimise allergic reactions. This means it has been made from materials that are naturally less likely to lead to a reaction, whether that’s irritated skin or trouble breathing. If you’re looking to really sleep safely, investing in a hypoallergenic pillow is a great way to go.

The benefits of using a hypoallergenic pillow are that you will notice fewer flare-ups: for those with eczema, it can help your skin be less red and itchy, while for those who suffer from hay fever, it’ll help you breathe a little easier. Allergen-free bedding is particularly great for children! Hypoallergenic memory foam pillows differ from other pillow types in that they support you orthopaedically while offering fantastic allergy-friendly benefits.

Choosing the Right Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillow

There are certain key factors to consider when choosing the right pillow for you – is it supportive, is it comfortable, what materials are used, how does the pillow production impact the planet and so on. You’ll find there are different shapes and sizes available, too, when you look at hypoallergenic memory foam pillows, smaller ones for children and babies, V-shaped pillows for pregnancy, and pillows with curves or grooves to offer different support. It is also important to think about your preference regarding how firm you want your pillow to be – research customizable firmness options. You need some firmness in order to achieve optimum support, but you might not want it to be too firm as it might not be comfortable for you personally.

What are the Health Benefits of Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillows?

There are many hypoallergenic memory foam pillow benefits. Hypoallergenic pillows help reduce allergy symptoms because they are made from materials that naturally repel allergens such as dust, pollen, and unwanted fibres. Those with asthma and respiratory health issues can provide potential relief making it easier to breathe – this is particularly enhanced when choosing one made from a breathable fabric like a bamboo pillow. On top of this, if your pillow is made with memory foam, it supports your body properly, helping to alleviate neck and shoulder pain. Wake up feeling fine without aches and pains! All of these health benefits lead to better sleep and a happier life.

Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillows

With any pillow, you should be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for looking after your pillow. When it comes to maintaining memory foam pillows, they should not go in the washing machine – pillows with removable covers are great for this, as it means the cover can be removed and washed as per instructions. Pillows made from hypoallergenic materials, however, don’t need to be cleaned as often because they naturally repel dust and dirt! This dust mite protection is one of the reasons hypoallergenic pillow options are so great for you and your family.

You can further protect your memory foam pillow by adding bamboo bedding, as this is hypoallergenic as well as naturally antibacterial – not to mention the pillowcases feel super soft against your skin. This helps extend your pillow’s lifespan, as does avoiding oily skin care products at night and popping your pillow outside to the air on a sunny day. With these cleaning and care tips, you can improve the longevity of memory foam pillows which is great for your pocket and the planet.

What Additional Considerations are There?

Some people worry that memory foam pillows are too firm and not particularly comfortable, but this couldn’t be further from the truth – you just need to give it a couple of days to get used to the feel of your head, and it’ll mould perfectly to you. Memory foam is often cited as being too hot due to the way it can retain heat, which is why opting for a pillow which incorporates a breathable material (like bamboo!) is the way to go for your allergy relief pillow.

Look for pillows certified to your country’s safety regulation standards and those that don’t use dangerous chemicals or other materials in the production process. Check for hypoallergenic certifications and those like the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification, which confirms no harmful substances within the pillow.

Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillows

Safe sleep practices include picking the perfect pillow, and that’s what makes an allergy-friendly pillow such a great option – for those suffering with allergies and those looking to prevent it from happening. From neck and shoulder pain relief to improved sleep hygiene and allergy prevention, a hypoallergenic memory foam pillow has so many benefits.

Your sleep quality and comfort is so important to ensure you feel well rested every morning, ready to face the day and perform your best. This is why investing in a good quality hypoallergenic memory foam pillow is so important, ensuring allergy-free sleep and promoting the perfect amount of rest.

Explore our range:

The post Sleep Safely With a Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillow first appeared on Panda.

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Hybrid vs Memory Foam Mattress https://pandalondon.com/hybrid-mattress-vs-memory-foam-mattress/ Tue, 14 Feb 2023 13:05:08 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=192192

What Is The Difference?

With sleep being pivotal to well-being, choosing a mattress is a big decision. Understanding the difference between memory foam mattresses and hybrid mattresses will help you make the best choice for bedtime so you stay supported and rest comfortably.

Searching for the best mattress?

Finding your ideal mattress takes time and perseverance, though knowing your stuff is a great place to start. There is no greater feeling than diving onto your perfect match, whether that’s a memory foam or a hybrid mattress. Many sleepers searching for the perfect night’s sleep want to know the difference between these two popular mattresses. Let’s take a look.

What is a memory foam mattress?

This type of mattress is made from viscoelastic foam, designed to conform to the shape of your body in response to heat and pressure. The foams, which vary in firmness, provide unique spinal support and naturally contour to most sleeping positions. This makes them very popular in the world of bedtime. One of the potential drawbacks was its tendency to retain heat. Though with advanced technology, many mattresses feature cooling layers to keep sleep breathable while providing all the benefits of memory foam.

memory foam bamboo pillow foam test

Memory foam mattresses can sometimes be more on the firm side which doesn’t suit sleepers who prefer a little cushioning. They also come in a wide variety of fabrics and styles which can determine their comfort and support. While not for everyone they can provide a supportive night’s sleep and promote healthy alignment.

What is a hybrid mattress?

The hybrid mattress is a type of mattress that combines two or more support systems, typically memory foam and pocketed springs, to provide a balance of comfort, support, and pressure relief. Hybrid mattresses are a little newer to the scene, though they are quickly becoming the go-to for the perfect night’s sleep. Hybrid mattresses blend classic pocket springs with supportive memory foam and advanced airflow technology to elevate the sleeping experience. Memory foam allows the mattress to provide unique spinal alignment. At the same time, pocket springs (which vary in count and quality) deliver a slightly softer cushiony feel and reduce motion transfer – ideal for those sleepers with wriggly partners.

When shopping for a hybrid mattress, there are a few things to consider. Materials are key to getting the best quality kip. Natural, breathable fabrics like bamboo are ideal for being thermoregulating, hypoallergenic, and anti-bacterial, keeping bedtime ultra-fresh. Panda’s hybrid bamboo mattress is the ultimate portal to breathable sleep with bamboo-infused BioCell Foam™ combined with orthopedically approved OrthoAlign Foam™ and seven zones of premium pocket springs. A smooth bamboo cover seals the mattress in hypoallergenic comfort, which is easy to keep clean and care for. The hybrid bamboo mattress is perfect for those who like to have it all, bringing together the best of science and nature to deliver the best night’s sleep (straight to your bedroom).

Hybrid-Bamboo-Mattress-Layers-cut

What is the best mattress for you?

To decide whether a memory foam or hybrid mattress is best for you it’s best to ask yourself a few questions. 

1. What is your sleeping position?

A good mattress will support your sleeping position. Both of these can provide you with healthy support and spinal alignment. However, a hybrid mattress can provide additional cushioning and advanced breathability to improve sleep.

2. How firm do you like your mattress?

A hybrid mattress could be the best option if you like a firm, though not too firm mattress. The unique combination of foams and springs provides healthy support with a slightly more cushiony feel.

3. Does motion transfer bother you?

If you tend to wake in the night from your partner’s movements, a hybrid mattress will be your new best friend. The motion control technology will set you up for smooth, undisturbed nights and much fresher mornings.

Ready for bed?

If you feel like you are ready to take the dive and upgrade bedtime, Panda’s Hybrid Bamboo Mattress comes with a free UK delivery recycling and collection service and a 100-Night trial to get to know each other.

P.S. Though by night 99 don’t be surprised if you never want to sleep without it.

Sweet Dreams

The post Hybrid vs Memory Foam Mattress first appeared on Panda.

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How to Choose the Perfect Pillow https://pandalondon.com/how-to-choose-the-perfect-pillow/ Mon, 20 Dec 2021 13:55:52 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=99408

In the name of good sleep, it’s time for some pillow talk! Did you know that what you lay your head on is a major player when it comes to bedtime? If you find yourself tossing and turning throughout the night and waking up with a funky neck on the regular…you are in the right place. It’s time to choose the perfect pillow and get you snoozing…as lord knows we all need our beauty sleep!

First up, you might be wondering how does the perfect pillow helps?

How can the perfect pillow help you sleep better?

You know that feeling of putting your foot in the perfect shoe? That’s how your head feels about pillows. The perfect pillow helps you sleep better by supporting your sleeping posture. Considering the average person spends about 26 years of their life sleeping it’s worth giving it some attention. It’s important to keep the neck and spine in healthy alignment while you snooze to prevent unhappy backs! (back pain is no fun, right?)  Never mind head shoulders, knees, and toes when it comes to sleep… it’s all about the neck, shoulders, back, and hips! So how do you find the pillow of your dreams? Well beauties, that depends what kind of sleeper you are. 

What is the perfect pillow for back sleepers?

If you dive into bed, lay flat on your back, and tend to stay like that till morning, you my friend are a back sleeper. You need a pillow to promote spinal alignment by supporting your neck and head. For better sleep, you want to lay your head on something that feels soft and cushiony without over-arching your neck. Back sleepers require a tad higher loft than stomach sleepers and a touch lower than side sleepers. For a fabulous night’s kip memory foam is a winning choice for back sleepers. It adapts to your head and neck supporting proper alignment. If you are looking for a better pillow, memory foam could be the way to go.

When the pillow feels good… you feel epic. 

100% Bamboo Bedding Set: Pure White + Vegan Eye Mask - Lifestyle

What is the perfect pillow for side sleepers?

Left, right… wiggle all night? Side sleepers tend to be the wiggliest of them all. The pillow that will help you sleep better needs to be the right blend of soft and comfy.  The perfect pillow for side sleepers also needs to be firm enough to keep you supported. In the pursuit of better sleep, a memory foam pillow could work wonders for side sleepers. The reactive foam adapts to your head as you turn over making them the perfect pillows for night-time wriggling! 

Curl up like a Koala and get snoozing. 

What is the perfect pillow for stomach sleepers?

Ok, this one isn’t for everyone! In fact- only 7% of all sleepers opt for stomach sleeping. Achy shoulders, anyone? Front sleepers, if your head and neck are over elevated you may experience shoulder, back, or neck pain, which is no fun to wake up to.  A thinner pillow is perfect for stomach sleepers as it will prevent you from over-arching. Memory foam can work wonders for reducing neck and back pain from sleeping.  It is designed to soften with your head keeping you in perfect alignment and snoozing soundly. Though not just any memory foam pillow will do. Consider looking for something cool and soothing on your skin. Smooth natural bamboo is the comfiest landing spot for face planting. Bamboo is naturally thermo-regulating,  hypoallergenic and feels nice and gentle on your sweet cheeks. What more could you want in a pillow?

memory foam mattress topper - social

Stylish pillowcases you say? Sure, why not? Darling, you do you!

Whatever type of sleeper you are, lay your head on Panda’s award-winning Memory Foam Pillow and you’ll be snoozing sweetly and waking up feeling bamboo-tiful!

FAQs

What type of pillow is best for side sleepers?

Side sleepers should choose a pillow with a higher loft or thickness to keep their neck aligned with their spine. Bamboo memory foam pillows can provide the necessary support for side sleepers.

What is the best pillow material for people with allergies?

Hypoallergenic materials such as memory foam and bamboo are good options for people with allergies. These materials are resistant to allergens such as dust mites and mould, making them a safer choice for those with allergies.

How often should I replace my pillow?

Pillows should be replaced every 1-2 years or when they lose their shape or support. Old or worn-out pillows can cause discomfort and may even contribute to neck or back pain.

The post How to Choose the Perfect Pillow first appeared on Panda.

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5 Simple Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep – Every Night https://pandalondon.com/simple-tips-good-nights-sleep/ Thu, 13 Sep 2018 09:00:45 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=7663

We all love a bit of shut-eye. Night owls, early birds, slackers, or workaholics, we all need rest to function properly. Sometimes, relaxing and getting decent sleep is difficult, so we wake up cranky and unproductive. If we’re not careful, this can lead to further poor habits that can affect everything from how organized we are to how we perform tasks.

Having trouble catching up with your Z’s? To help, we’ve assembled some useful tips to get a good night’s sleep – every night and wake up ready to take on new challenges.

People are creatures of habit. Consciously or not, we brush our teeth or make our bed pretty much the same way every day. This is a good thing – it allows us to go on autopilot and have our brain focus on other things. We depend on our habits; it’s beneficial if they’re useful ones.

Have you ever noticed how you set your alarm at the same time every day and wake up before it? That’s your body responding to a routine. It can be difficult, but we recommend you try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid naps during the day. As sweet as they can be, they confuse your body clock, especially if you don’t take them simultaneously every day. If you follow the same schedule daily, even on weekends, you’ll find that you won’t need to rely on that alarm anymore.

You know that feeling when you need to lie down after a big meal? Eating a lot to fall asleep quickly might seem like a good idea, but we should avoid this. Digesting different foods can increase internal stress for our organs, affecting our sleep. The same is true for alcohol. And, as we all know, coffee should be avoided late in the day if we don’t want to spend the night staring at the ceiling.

Remember how our bodies love schedules? Well, it’s the same with eating and drinking routines. Aim to have your last meal at least one hour before bed. We should avoid food rich in sugar and fat and aim for a balanced dinner. This helps to keep our bellies from expanding too much.

It’s difficult to fall asleep when there are distractions. By adjusting your sleeping environment just right, you can doze off quickly! An obvious part of this is noise. Even if you can fall asleep while there’s noise around, the quality of your sleep is still affected because your brain reacts to external stimuli. Try to keep your bedroom quiet, or get some earplugs to block out sounds. A white noise machine could also do the trick to lull you to sleep.

Another factor to keep an eye on is light. Our bodies are attuned to natural light: when it’s there, we know we should be awake; when it’s gone, we get sleepy. Artificial light confuses us, particularly the blue light emitted from our phones and computer screens. That’s why we should aim to increase exposure to natural light during the day and limit our screen time in the evening. And if you can’t control the amount of light while you sleep, then consider a good eye mask. We’re in love with our Panda Bamboo Eye Mask, which protects us from all outside light while being soft and gentle to our eyes.

You’re certainly aware of how detrimental inappropriate temperature can be for your sleep. Something around 20ºC is what most people are satisfied with, but personal preference plays a role. There’s a neat trick here – if you take a shower shortly before bed, you can help yourself doze off. This is because your body temperature naturally falls during the night. When you let yourself cool off after a warm shower, you are mimicking this process and helping yourself drift off into dreamland. Try it, it’s a fantastic feeling!

It’s a fact, we sleep best when tired. And we get tired from having a day filled with varied tasks and activities. An important thing to focus on is physical activity. When we exercise, we contribute to the overall health and get it to fall back into its natural rhythm, including healthy sleep patterns.

We shouldn’t exert ourselves too much right before bed, though. This time is best saved for unwinding. Relaxing activities, like listening to music, reading a book, or meditating work wonders to clear our minds. Our bodies interpret this as resting time and lead us spontaneously into sleep.

Do you find getting a good night’s sleep hard, even with a healthy lifestyle? The answer might be in the very base of your sleep, your bed. An unsupportive mattress, a flattened-out pillow, and bedding that makes you feel too hot all contribute to your restless night and wake you up aching in the morning.

Our beds should make it easy for us to maintain natural alignment along our backs. Whichever sleeping position one prefers, it’s essential that we don’t exhaust our neck and spine during the night, as this only leads to stiffness and pain during the day. We all strive for a soft bed, but some pushback is necessary. That’s why we should aim for mattresses and pillows that combine comfort and support.

Our Memory Foam Panda Pillows and Toppers were carefully developed to provide the healthiest sleeping environment you could wish for, all with the luxurious feel of bamboo fibre. Don’t take our word for it, though; do your research and start your 30-night trial!

We hope these tips have made you realise how much you could improve your sleep with just a few small adjustments. Sleep is often sacrificed and disregarded, even though it plays one of the most important roles in maintaining your overall health.

Sweet Dreams!

FAQ

Why is quality sleep important for health?

Quality sleep is essential for physical and mental well-being. It aids in body repair, cognitive function, and overall health. It helps reduce the risk of various health conditions.

How can I create a sleep-friendly environment?

You can create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and comfortable. Investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows also helps.

Is a bedtime routine necessary for better sleep?

Establishing a bedtime routine signals your body that it’s time to wind down. Activities like reading, gentle stretches, or relaxation exercises can prepare you for sleep.

How does technology affect sleep?

The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your sleep-wake cycle. It’s best to avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime.

Why is stress management important for better sleep?

Stress and anxiety can disrupt sleep. Effective stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness, can help improve sleep.

How much sleep do I need each night?

The amount of sleep needed varies by age, but most adults require 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

The post 5 Simple Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep – Every Night first appeared on Panda.

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The Importance of Pillows for Neck and Shoulder Support https://pandalondon.com/importance-neck-shoulder-support/ Wed, 27 Jun 2018 08:00:18 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=7318

Tend to wake up with a sore neck? You’re definitely not alone. An increasing number of people complain that their sleep is affecting the way they feel during the day. Your sleeping habits and the lack of proper support during the night play a big role in this.

If your days are consistently ruined by nagging pain, a very likely cause is the pillow you sleep on. Many of us consider pillows to be a purchase you don’t put much thought into. However, depending on your sleeping position, your pillow can have a huge impact on the quality of your sleep. Choosing the right pillow to support your neck and shoulders can help you wake up ready to take on the day’s challenges.

First things first – take a look at how you sleep at night. Do you tend to lie flat on your back or are you a side sleeper? Choosing the right pillow (and mattress, for that matter) depends on the amount of support your neck is currently getting.

Learn More:

Different sleeping positions

Learn more about your sleeping position

The different stages of sleep with memory foam pillow

Learn more about your sleep

Neck and shoulder support | Panda London | Panda Memory foam bamboo pillow & mattress topper

Many of us toss and turn during the night, waking up in a different position than the one we fell asleep in. Support and alignment are essential here, so try to get a versatile pillow that adapts to your body and takes the strain off the neck and shoulders.

Memory foam is the material that is currently unsurpassed in this domain. One of the most common factors contributing to a poor night’s sleep is restlessness and movement. When moving during the night, typically we are trying to find the most comfortable position. It’s important to find a pillow which is able to keep you supported and comfortable throughout the night.

 

How the lack of support affects your body

One of the areas most affected by poor sleeping posture is your cervical spine. This is the part that connects the base of the skull with the upper back. If your cervical spine is under strain, it can cause you serious pain. Luckily, the aching stops on its own if you stop the overextension. But if you continue sleeping with poor neck-spine alignment, you won’t give your body a chance to recuperate.

From the neck to the shoulders, the levator scapulae muscles can easily be overworked. If your pillow isn’t giving you the support necessary, you may experience stiffness and pain when moving your head to the sides. If your poor sleeping posture persists, you may even develop a pinched nerve in your upper back. It’s essential to consider how much you exert yourself during the night.

It’s hard to change your sleeping habits. Improving your posture is extremely important to help prevent neck, shoulder, and back pain.

An important thing to keep in mind is to give your new pillow time to get results. As with everything, try to reduce stress in your life, maintain good posture and minimize unhealthy habits. This will help you sleep better and relax more, giving your new pillow a chance to work its magic. Once you start enjoying the benefits of regular rejuvenating sleep, we’re sure you that you’ll appreciate a well-crafted, supportive pillow.

Finding the pillow that best supports you

Depending on your particular needs, your pillow shopping can end up with you coming home with very different products. From comfort levels to shape and materials, the pillow shopping category is one that offers many options.

The Panda Luxury Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow offers the perfect balance between both comfort and support. Using three layers of Visco memory foam helps to properly support and align the neck and shoulders throughout the night. The Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow adapts to the particular contours of whoever’s using it.

The luxury Panda memory foam bamboo pillow comes with a bamboo fibre cover that ensures softness and comfort. This means you’ll be kept cool in the summer and warm in the winter, while moisture and odour won’t stick to your pillow. The best part – the more you wash it, the softer it will get, counterbalancing the sturdiness of the pillow nicely. Bamboo viscose is naturally hypoallergenic, you won’t have to worry about irritation or discomfort. This makes it suitable for those who suffer from eczema, sensitive skin or hay fever caused by dust mites.

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Sleeping Tips for Toddlers https://pandalondon.com/sleeping-tips-for-toddlers/ Fri, 19 May 2017 12:14:56 +0000 https://pandalondon.com/?p=2224

If you have a little one yourself, you of all people will know that sometimes getting them off to sleep can be an exhausting ordeal. That’s why we have put together this list of tips, that have been tried and tested. We hope this will allow you and your child to get the best night’s sleep possible.

Sleep is important for everyone! It is key for the brain to stay healthy, especially during early development.

The sleep-wake cycle is regulated by light and dark, and these rhythms take time to develop, resulting in the irregular sleep schedules of newborns. These begin to develop at about six weeks, and by three to six months, most infants have a regular sleep-wake cycle. Did you know that, on average, a child will spend 40 percent of his or her childhood asleep?! Click here to learn more about the different stages of sleep.
A healthy sleeping routine can have a wide range of positive effects on the body. Sleep is especially important for children as it directly impacts mental and physical development.

If your little one seems to be significantly hyperactive towards bedtime, consider looking at their diet to see if they are consuming too many sugary sweets. Although not considered a stimulant, eating a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrate can have an effect on their sleeping patterns.

We all love naps, but if your child is having trouble getting to sleep at night, cutting nap-time down during the day will help. Power naps for adults and babies are important, for those moments when you just cannot keep your eyes open. This does not mean stop-napping all day, we would recommend stop nap-time at 2:00pm. This will give them enough energy until their bedtime.

Keeping your toddler active throughout the day will promote better sleep in the evening. These do not have to be strenuous activities, even something like a walk round the park will do.

Fun Activities:

  • Mini Golf
  • Football
  • Cycling round the park
  • Swimming
  • Dancing
  • Being creative

Every person is different when it comes to places in the house where they fall asleep the best. You will have to adapt as your child grows older and his/her sleeping preferences change. You may find that they fall asleep faster when they are alone, with the television on low in the background/other room or simply using something such as a night-light.

The best advice here would be to try out a series of different locations and ask them. Kids love nothing more than sharing their thoughts with you!

Ensuring that your child is comfortable and supported whilst in bed is extremely important. This is essential to ensure that they are having a restful night’s sleep. Using a memory foam pillow suitable for your child’s age and a proper kids mattress is a great way to ensure that s/he is comfortable and properly supported. The memory foam conforms to the natural hollows in your child’s neck and back. Depending on the age of your child, being aware of flat head syndrome and understanding how to prevent this is important.

One thing to keep in mind, as memory foam is heat sensitive, without the right cover (for example a bamboo cover), you may find that your child is getting overheated which will result in a disrupted night’s sleep.

Find the best pillow for your child.

Children love routines and day-to-day activities such as playtime, bath-time and bedtime. This helps them to be more receptive to falliing and staying asleep.

Begin bedtime activities around the same time every night. Give nightly baths, read a story before bed, establish a calm and soothing routine. Eventually your child will adapt to the routine and start to get ready for bedtime.

If you notice that your toddler is not going to sleep at bedtime, consider taking about 20 minutes beforehand to simply unwind. This gives the child enough time to calm down. After some time, they will become accustomed to this routine and will understand that it is almost time to go to sleep.

Let him/her sit in your arms or baby swing them for 20 minutes to help comfort them.

Although it’s easier said than done, keeping the room in which your child sleeps clean is a great way to create a peaceful environment. During the day when your child is not in their bedroom, open the windows for at least 30-45 minutes. If it’s a cold day, make sure that the room is not too cold before bedtime.

When cleaning their beds and toys, using chemical-free cleaners is a great way to ensure that they will not be harmed in anyway (Always read the bottles before using any of these items).

You’ll notice a big change once your baby is ready to get on more solid foods. Just a little cereal in their milk can make them sleep better at night.

Some parents use cereal in evening feeds and notice that the kids sleep much better. Introducing something such as cereal in their milk in the evening, or some form of a snack an hour or two before bed (low in sugar) typically helps to get them off to sleep.

How your diet impacts your sleep.

Removing sound sources from inside and around the bedroom areas helps to ensure that your child will not be disturbed. This would include things such as turning the television down at night time while the baby is sleeping. If you live in a city and there are always loud noises outside, consider investing in a baby sound soother. These sounds will help promote sleep and aid in blocking out unwanted sounds.

*This information should not be taken as medical advice. If you believe that there is something wrong with your child’s sleeping routine, seek advice from your local GP.

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The Best Habits to Adopt for a Better & Healthier Life https://pandalondon.com/best-habits/ Tue, 28 Feb 2017 11:50:37 +0000 http://pandalondon.com/?p=1876

At the beginning of the year everyone is attempting to quit their old Habits, bellowing out “New Year, New Me” over social media. After doing some research we found that only 4% of people actually stick with their new year’s resolution throughout the entire year and 80% of them give up by March!*

Therefore we thought we would put together a short list of useful tips to help you lead a healthier life. Believe it or not, making small changes to your day-to-day routine can have a massive impact on both your physical and mental wellbeing. Before diving into your resolutions, we wanted to give you a few simple tips to keep you motivated throughout the year.

1. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself and give yourself unrealistic deadlines. They say to make a habit, you need to do something for at least 4-5 days in a row at roughly the same time.

2. Commit to it, make sure it is something that you really want to do. If you put your mind to it, you can achieve your goals!

3. Don’t put yourself down if you make a mistake. Instead of getting aggravated with yourself, treat it as a lesson. Understand what made you stumble to you can try to avoid doing the same in the future.

4. Reward yourself – each time you reach your milestone, treat yourself whether that’s buying yourself something new or going somewhere you’ve always wanted to go.

Once you’re able to complete the habit without having to think about it, it’s time to move onto establishing your next habit.

Now onto the best habits to adopt!

Drinking more water

The first would have to be drinking more water. This is quite a unique “resolution” as people would typically say “eat healthier”. Although eating healthy is equally important, we believe that if you’re not used to leading a healthier lifestyle, this could be much harder to adopt. Therefore, starting small and drinking at least 9 glasses of water per day is a great start.

Drinking more water has a series of amazing health benefits, to name a few…

      • Relieves Fatigue
      • Improves Mood
      • Treats Headaches and Migraines
      • Helps in Digestion and Constipation
      • Aids Weight Loss
      • Flushes Out Toxins

Having a stable sleeping cycle means the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends. Stick to a Routine. The trick to a healthy sleep cycle is to get into a routine. Make Mornings Bright and Keep the Night Dark. Light tells your body’s clock when it’s time to wake up. At night, dim the lights to cue your body that it’s time for sleep. Set your alarm earlier and earlier each day. Just like you gradually scaled back your bedtime, you should do the same with your wake up time.

Being well-rested helps improve your memory and helps you be more creative!

Researchers at Harvard University and Boston College found that people seem to strengthen the emotional components of a memory during sleep, which may help spur the creative process.

 

Improve your attention span!

A 2009 study in the journal Pediatrics found that children ages seven and eight who got less than about eight hours of sleep a night were more likely to be hyperactive, inattentive, and impulsive.

Eventually you will notice that your natural body clock will start to take control and you’ll start to wake up a few minutes before your alarm clock.

In fact, hair and nails are mostly made of protein. Your body uses it to build and repair tissue. You need it to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. It is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood.Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a “macronutrient,” meaning that the body needs relatively large amounts of it.

Milk is made of two proteins, casein and whey. Whey protein can be separated from the casein in milk or formed as a byproduct of cheese making. Whey protein is considered a complete protein and contains all 9 essential amino acids and is low in lactose content.

Also, cutting out foods which contain high fats and sugars is also great for your overall wellbeing.

This might be an obvious one, but incorporating more vegetables into your meals will also have a series of positive health benefits. If you didn’t know, most vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories. Vegetables are also an important source of many nutrients, including potassium, dietary fibre, folate (folic acid), vitamin A, and vitamin C.

And diets which include more potassium may help to maintain healthy blood pressure.

Working out can be fun, if you know how to do it. If you’re looking for some guidance, visit your local gym, they should offer some type of personal training. Using a personal trainer is great if you’re just starting out and not too sure what exercises are best to achieve the results you desire.

Working out is great for both your physical and mental health, exercise keeps you more focused and is proven to reduce stress. It helps fight anxiety and depression. By working out we do not mean spending 4 hours a night at the gym, we mean going for walks and cycling around the park with friends. Habitual exercise is a great way to ease yourself into moving more, eventually you will feel yourself getting stronger and you will want to push yourself further and further.

Take sometime for yourself, meditation can be performed in many different ways. This is simply down to preference and what works for you.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness, originates from the Buddhist tradition. The Buddhist term sati translates to ‘mindfulness’ and breathes life into the practice. Mindfulness is a great way to overcome suffering and understanding. It is all about acknowledging reality of life by simply letting your mind wander, accepting any thoughts that come up, and understanding the present.

The practice is done by sitting with eyes closed, crossed legs, the back straight, and attention placed on breathing in and out. For the period of meditation the individual focuses on his or her breathing, and when wandering thoughts emerge, one returns to focusing on the object of meditation, breathing. Research has found that a regimen of mindfulness can reduce anxiety, depression, and perceived distress.

There are many different ways to meditate, if you’re new to meditation we would highly recommend applications such as Headspace, available on the Apple App Store.

There’s nothing wrong about enjoying your job or earning money. But always keep in mind that you are here to live life not work your life away. Although working is important, it is also essential to take time for yourself and spend time doing the things you love with the people you care about the most. Go on an adventure, travel the world or just take some time off to appreciate the things you love the most.

 

* Based on a ComRes Poll by Bupa, November 2016.

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Bedtime Tips For Best Sleeping Positions https://pandalondon.com/best-sleeping-positions/ https://pandalondon.com/best-sleeping-positions/#comments Tue, 30 Aug 2016 09:53:37 +0000 http://pandalondon.com/?p=1193

Everyone loves to sleep, but not a lot of people know the benefits of their sleeping position and the ways they can support it. We’ve put together a list of pros and cons of the three most popular sleeping positions, along with a tip to keep you sleeping comfortably. We’re sorry to report that if you’re a vampire and sleep upside down this post will be no good for you.

We asked everyone in our office which position they sleep in, we found that the majority of us are back sleepers.

Pros:

Sleeping in the “Savasana” position (on your back) is great for your spine and neck health, as your back is straight and supported. Also, sleeping on your back allows your mattress to support your spine efficiently. Keep in mind that using too many pillows can make breathing difficult. Neurologist Dr. Decontee Jimmeh said: “Sleeping on your back also combats acid reflux”. There is also the fact that your face is not squashed against anything during the night, meaning you are reducing the chances of increasing wrinkles!

Cons:

Unfortunately, those who suffer from snoring and sleep apnea are more likely to be a back sleeper. Doctors can sometimes recommend that you sleep on your side, as back-sleeping is commonly linked to sleep apnea. Also when sleeping on your back, your tongue can be forced backwards resulting in that not-so-beautiful, deep and prolonged loud noise we all know as snoring.

Bedtime Tip:

Ok, we are feeling generous, so we are going to give you two! First up, find yourself a mattress that will provide pressure point support and will keep your neck and spine aligned. A hybrid mattress that combines a balance of ultra-responsive springs and contouring, orthopaedic grade foam is your best bet. Not ready to change your mattress? Tip number two is to prop a pillow below underneath your knees, this can help relieve pressure from your spine. Go for a firm, supportive memory foam that supports your natural curves, and you are all set for a better, quality kip.

Pros:

If you’re a side sleeper during pregnancy, it’s good to know that many doctors recommend sleeping on the left side. Sleeping on this side improves circulation to the heart, which is great for you and your baby.

For those not expecting anytime soon, like sleeping on your back, sleeping on the left side can also ease heartburn and acid reflux, making you more likely to fall asleep faster.

Cons:

One of the cons we found is that it can put some pressure on your stomach and lungs. Also, you may find that you are woken up at night with pins and needles!

Vivian Eisenstadt, a physical therapist in Los Angeles, Calif., told Medical Daily in an email, “If you’re going to sleep on your side, pillow prop using the following: an ergonomic pillow thick enough so your head doesn’t tilt down, a small pillow under your waist so your stomach doesn’t curve down, and the third pillow between your legs.”

Bedtime Tip:

Side sleeping is one of the most popular sleeping positions, though how can you make it as comfortable as possible? Popping a pillow between your legs is a great way for you side sleepers to reduce moving around throughout the night. Have a restless partner? A mattress that optimises motion control will make sure they do not disturb you! For brownie points go for one that naturally contours to your sleeping position to ensure your neck and spine are kept protected and healthy as you drift off and dream.

Pros:

Sleeping on your front can reduce the chances of snoring and help with sleep apnea!

Cons:

We were shocked to learn that not one person in our office sleeps on their front, which is good really as this can flatten the natural curve of the spine and cause back pain. It can also restrict your breathing as you are lying on your chest and your nose and mouth may be covered.

If you are suffering from sleep apnea, snoring, or any pain during your sleep we would recommend speaking with your doctor. Have any interesting facts about sleeping positions? Then be sure to get in contact, we’d love to hear them!

Bedtime Tip:

Ok, stomach sleepers time for some pillow talk. You want to be lying on something as flat as possible to ensure your neck and spine are aligned. If you enjoy a little head-hugging comfort whilst resting assured you are being correctly supported, a hybrid pillow offers the best of both. This will allow you to flop into your favourite position and sleep sweet and sound, night after night.

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Before you head to bed….

Remember how we sleep is incredibly personal; only you know what feels most comfortable. From upgrading your mattress to switching your pillow, there are plenty of ways to ensure you are supported and snoozing healthily. Give these dreamy tips and make bedtime the best part of the day.

Sweet Dreams

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Top 6 Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep https://pandalondon.com/tips-for-a-good-sleep/ Fri, 13 May 2016 12:56:46 +0000 http://pandalondon.com/?p=485

We strive to help our customers have a better night’s sleep with our bamboo pillows and bedsheets. However, we know many people have trouble getting a beneficial sleep every night. So we have put together our top 6 top tips for a good night’s sleep!

1. Pick a time to go to sleep and wake up and stick to it

Committing to a consistent sleep schedule—going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends and holidays—can significantly enhance your sleep quality. Aligning with your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythms, optimizes your sleep-wake cycle, allowing you to reap maximum benefits from your rest periods. Maintaining this routine steadfastly, regardless of occasional late nights, is crucial. It’s time to resist the temptation of the snooze button and embrace the power of a regular sleep pattern for improved health and well-being.

2. Make your bedroom the perfect sleeping haven

  • Keep your bedroom clean and tidy, free of any clutter and dust.
  • Let some fresh air into your room during the day and, if possible, leave a window slightly open during the night, too, as the air you breathe affects your sleep. Fresh air helps regulate the humidity in your room, which helps prevent that horrible dry throat feeling in the morning.
  • Regulate the temperature in your room; try to keep it cool (around 18° C is perfect!).
  • Invest in blackout blinds/drapes to help stop you from waking up too early.
  • Keep any electrical items out of the room or stored away from your bed, as these can distract you from sleeping.
  • Try not to bring any work, letters, food, etc., into your room, as this can also add distraction.

 

3. Make sure your bed is comfortable

It’s recommended that you change your mattress every 5-9 years, but in the meantime, try to rotate your mattress every time you change your sheets. You will also benefit from a suitable pillow (we know a certain type of pillow that is pretty good! 😉). If your pillow is too thin, your neck will tilt backwards, which can be very uncomfortable, and if you stack your pillows too high, your neck will be propped up at an uncomfortable angle, which again is very uncomfortable and could lead to straining muscles in the neck. Try to find a pillow to suit your sleeping position as well and experiment with different levels of supportiveness to find your perfect pillow.

Try placing a pillow between your legs if you sleep on your side. This will support your hips and make this position more comfortable or place a pillow under your legs if you sleep on your back. Having the right pillow will help keep your spine aligned when you sleep which can reduce neck and back pain, making you more comfortable and relaxed when you sleep. According to experts, not only is the height and firmness of your pillow’s head support important but so is matching the right type of pillow to your sleeping style. If you tend to sleep on your side, for example, you would need a medium-high thickness pillow that puts the spine in the midline position.

Add a layer of orthopedically approved memory foam with a memory foam mattress topper.

4. Create a bedtime ritual

Try some different relaxation techniques like breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation. Starting with your toes, tense all the muscles as tightly as you can, then completely relax. Work your way up from your feet to the top of your head. Have a warm bath and a warm drink such as chamomile tea or warm milk. Try to avoid caffeine and try to have your drink at least an hour before you go to bed so that it won’t wake you for a midnight bathroom visit!

Scientists have also found that the best way to sleep is in your birthday suit! But if you feel more comfortable in pajamas, they recommend lightweight cotton ones as they won’t affect your body’s natural temperature regulation.

5. Wind Down

Try doing something calming before bed, such as reading or listening to some calm music. For some people, using electronics before bed can make it hard to fall asleep because the particular blue light from the screens of devices activates the suprachiasmatic nucleus within the hypothalamus inside the brain, which makes the brain believe it is daytime. iOS has released a new feature called ‘Night Shift’, which changes the colour of the light emitted from the phone to a warmer, more yellow shade, which reduces the blue light, making the screen a lot less harsh. Therefore, that part of the brain isn’t disturbed as much, making the brain’s circadian rhythm act normally and allowing it to define night and day accurately.

Try experimenting with candles instead of brighter lights. This will help you relax as the lights aren’t as harsh. Then, when it is time to blow the candles out, the house will gradually get darker, which in turn will help your body get used to the darkness and relax. If you are concerned about using candles, there are battery-powered candles available; have a look online.

6. Using Sounds

What about trying a white noise generator? It creates a quiet, constant white noise throughout the night, which can be changed to sounds of the waves or rainforest and other relaxing sounds. Dr. Ralph Pascualy, the medical doctor at the Swedish Medical Center-Cherry Hill, explains:

“The brain naturally craves sensory input. That’s why people in sensory deprivation tanks hallucinate; robbed of any stimulus, the brain creates its own. During sleep on a quiet night, any random noise, whether a passing truck or a creaking floorboard, will likely activate the restless brain, waking you up. Constant white noise, he told me, “gives the brain a tonic signal that dampens its internal systems” –  Dr. Ralph Pascualy

So there we have it! Our top six tips on how to get the best night’s sleep. If you try these techniques, let us know how you get on by tweeting us at @PandaLife_UK. Also, if you try any techniques we have not mentioned, please send us your advice! We love to find different ways to help our customers!

If you have trouble sleeping and it is a concern or believe you have a sleeping disorder, we advise you to consult your doctor for medical advice.

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