A NEW real sheep-counting experience to help holidaymakers get a better night's sleep has been unveiled in Sussex.
Sleep tech company Emma Sleep has revealed its new ‘Shleep Sanctuary’, which will see guests stay in a “luxurious” sleep dome near a hillside in Pyecombe with views of the countryside and many sheep.
After dinner guests will be encouraged to count the sheep before drifting off to sleep.
The dome, which will launch next summer, was created after a poll of 2,000 adults found 44 per cent have struggled to get to sleep this year.
Dr Dennis Schmoltzi, CEO at Emma Sleep, said: “The power of a good night’s sleep can’t be underestimated and it’s clear the nation needs it now more than ever.
“Counting sheep is more than an old wives’ tale - it’s a tried-and-tested visualisation technique that Brits are relying on to send them to sleep.
“They’re also longing for a serene and peaceful environment to drift off in when they’re struggling to relax, which is incredibly important for sleep quality."
The study also found 23 per cent claim their quality of sleep is worse now than ever before - with ten per cent even admitting they can’t remember the last time they slept well.
More than a fifth (21 per cent) have struggled to sleep due to worries over the cost-of-living crisis, while 23 per cent have been kept up fretting about work.
As such 14 per cent of adults have employed ‘visualisation tactics’ like counting sheep in a bid to get a good night’s sleep.
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed factors which they believe boost their chances of sleeping well - including fresh air (23 per cent) and the sound of nature (19 per cent).
Theresa Schnorbach, sleep scientist at Emma, said: “When practised regularly, these kinds of exercises have been proven to lower the heart rate by encouraging slower breathing and activating the parasympathetic nervous system.
“Imaginative distraction is also an effective cognitive strategy to help sleep, where you imagine a pleasant and relaxing image in as much detail as you possibly can - like counting fluffy sheep as they jump over a fence.
“The aim is to use as much cognitive capacity as possible so that worrying thoughts are suppressed.
"Studies show this not only shortens the time it takes to fall asleep but also improves sleep quality.”
Emma Sleep has launched a contest offering two people the chance to try the dome when it opens in summer 2023.
After a sleep in dome you will be ready for a guided yoga session in the morning followed by a breakfast hamper full of locally sourced food
For a chance to win a stay at the ‘Shleep Sanctuary’ with a guest of your choice register your interest at www.emma-sleep.co.uk/shleep
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