Whether you're indulging in a night of unbridled passion or simply slipping under freshly washed sheets after a busy day at work, few places can compete with the heavenly sanctuary that is your own bed.
But while some of life’s happiest moments are spent under the covers, for those who suffer from insomnia, lying wide awake at 3am, tossing and turning in sweaty, tangled sheets, can be tortuous.
But they're not alone. Britain is a nation of insomniacs, according to a recent sleep study.
The Mental Health Foundation found that nearly a third of Brits suffer from insomnia - and those are just the people who are desperate enough to speak to their GPs.
Disturbed sleep patterns could also be the underlying cause of many health problems. Scientists have found after discovering a link between disrupted sleep patterns and the gene that controls the immune system.
"Lack of sleep can lead to low energy and concentration levels, depression, immune deficiency, relationship problems, weight gain (as the mind tries to boost energy by making us eat more), and even serious medical problems such as heart disease," says cognitive hypnotherapist, Lesley McCall.
Using this information, a US-based design company, has come up with a novel idea of combating insomnia – a floating bed.
The company, aptly named, The Floating Bed Company, claims their beds (which resemble a hanging teepee) promote a wide range of health benefits as they gently rock you to sleep.
According to the website, the floating motion, inspired by the way babies 'float' in the womb, has been scientifically proven to create a calming effect and activates a “deep, powerful relaxation response and even improves dreams".
The floating sensation is said to send a calm signal to our vestibular system (the sensory system that controls balance and movement).
Other health benefits from sleeping on a ‘Omni-Pendulum’ motion bed include increased energy levels, better circulation and better oxygenation in your lungs.
“Rocking creates a pumping action that increases circulation between spinal discs and other joints, bathing your cells in fresh nutrients. The nervous system recognises this and sends signals of pleasure to encourage you to continue,” states the website.
Would you try one?
Floating Beds
Find out whether scientists have finally cracked the 'insomnias curse' and discover how you can have 'sweet dreams' at a touch of a button...
