HAVE SLEEP MASK, WILL TRAVEL

By SUVARNA SHASTRI

Are you one of those who love large windows that let natural light flood into rooms? And then can’t sleep because you require an absolute blackout to achieve restful sleep?

Because just a pinprick of light can disrupt REM and deep sleep, leading to post-sleep tiredness.

I am, and have tried everything from turning away from the windows (but for how long?) to various sleep masks. My growing collection of masks all worked – somewhat – until they didn’t. Some didn’t fit well and those that did, would either loosen and slip and slide and become useless or weren’t dark enough.

I was about to give up, and resign myself to muttering my way through afternoon naps. Until the new Manta Sleep Mask Pro came my way.

Firstly, it comes with tips to get the most out of the mask.

1. Get the fit right. The mask is infinitely adjustable, and the detachable C-shaped eye cups can be placed anywhere along the head strap so it fits you just right.

Make sure you get the position and angle of your eye cups right – and make sure your strap isn’t too tight or too loose. The right fit means zero light leakage and total comfort. Don’t settle for any less.

2. Give it a few nights. As it’s different from any other masks on the market, you may need a few nights to adjust to your new mask before it feels natural. Kind of like a new mattress.

3. One mask = multiple uses. Say goodbye to blackout blinds and meditation masks. Manta Sleep Mask PRO isn’t just made for night-time. Use it for naps and meditation, too.

4. Carry it with you. You never know when you’ll need to meditate, nix your migraine or take a power nap.

I tried it and found that after the recommended tweaks, it provides 100 per cent blackout for maximized sleep quality. What I particularly like as a side sleeper is that the eye cups sit completely flat against the temple without sacrificing eye space. So there’s nothing between my head and the pillow. The eye cups also feature a smart “air bubble” that expands to keep light out when switching positions, and compresses flat when you lie on your side.

Now I am actually looking forward to an upcoming long-haul flight in which I will be able to sleep comfortably without having to twist and turn to block a fellow passenger who loves watching reruns of Andaz Apna Apna!                

• Manta Sleep Mask (includes premium ear plugs and case/wash bag) retails for $35 and the PRO, for $89.00 at www.mantasleep.com.

HOW’S YOUR SLEEP?

From CANADA.CA

In Canada:

1 in 2 adults have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep.

1 in 5 adults do not find their sleep refreshing.1 in 3 adults have difficulty staying awake during waking hours. A number of factors are related to insufficient sleep in adults:

• More sedentary time

• Chronic stress

• Poor mental health

• Alcohol, caffeine, and

nicotine before bed.