Today is World Sleep Day and it’s an annual and a global initiative by the World Sleep Committee to create awareness about the importance of healthy sleep.

Observed in various countries, World Sleep Day is a widely recognized awareness program that brings researchers, doctors and patients together in understanding the necessity of ‘sleep’ in leading a healthy, happy life.

The theme for this year’s World Sleep Day is ‘Healthy Sleep, Healthy Aging.”

We all know that certain factors help in triggering good sleep. Developing a sleep routine, diet and lifestyle changes, quitting cigarettes, maintaining a proper temperature in the room play a crucial role in catching a good night’s sleep.

Certain foods before going to bed also help in promoting melatonin, the sleep hormone. If you want to lull to sleep just like a baby, try these easy-to-make recipes.

Chia Seeds Juice:

Ingredients:

1 cup apple (or) juice of your choice

1 cup hot water

1 tbsp of chia seeds

Method:

Warm one cup of water and add chia seeds.

Stir well and allow the seeds to swell.

Add chia seeds to the juice of your choice.

Refrigerate and enjoy it chilled.

Nutritional Values:

Chia seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that regulates sleep pattern by improving mood. Drinking juice with chia seeds helps those suffering from insomnia.

Honey Milk:

Ingredients:

1 cup milk

½ tsp honey

A pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg powders

Method:

In a heavy bottomed pan, warm milk.

Add cinnamon and nutmeg powder.

Stir in honey and pour in a mug.

Relish it before going to bed for a peaceful sleep.

Nutritional Values:

Mixing honey with milk for good sleep is a tested and successful recipe. Honey when mixed with milk, contains L-tryptophan, an amino acid that can induce sleep in a jiffy.

Cherry and Turmeric Juice:

Ingredients:

1 cup cherry juice

½ cup orange juice

½ tsp turmeric powder

½ tsp ginger, finely chopped

Method:

Combine cherry juice with orange juice.

Add turmeric, mix pieces of ginger.

Serve chilled.

Nutritional Values:

Cherry juice is a natural melatonin booster, while orange juice provides necessary vitamins and iron for the body. Turmeric relaxes muscles and prepares body for sleep, while ginger aids in digestion.