Beginning a new year is supposed to be restorative and uplifting—a fresh start! The reality, however, is that by the time the second week of the month rolls around most of us find ourselves back to old habits and mindsets. So long to all those resolutions and good intentions.

But what if there was just one simple thing we could do to improve our overall wellbeing in 2018? A way to be happier and healthier? We’re talking about sleep. We know, we know—'try sleeping with a newborn!' We’ve been there! But most infants start sleeping through the night at six months. After those inevitably rough first few months, moms regain more control over their sleep schedules. At that point lack of sleep becomes more about the millions of things to do and the lack of hours to get them done in. Life is all about balances and making choices—what matters, what comes first. In 2018, let it be sleep. It’ll do you, your body and your mind a world of good!

A recent study from the University of Rochester found that only when you sleep can you brain remove toxic proteins from your brain, created by daily brain activity. A great piece in the Huffington Post explains that a lack of sleep causes the toxins in your brain to build up, 'wreaking havoc by impairing your ability to think—something no amount of caffeine can fix. Skipping sleep impairs your brain function across the board. It slows your ability to process information and problem solve, kills your creativity, and catapults your stress levels and emotional reactivity.'

So, that brain-melty feeling you get when you’re running on fumes and iced coffee is a real thing. Sleep is essential. While we can’t always control how much sleep we get—thanks to little ones who rise early, commuting to work, getting kids to school and more—we can definitely improve the quality of the sleep we do get.

Studies have shown that having a sleep ritual that includes a few key habits can make a huge difference. This wonderful piece from Business Insider breaks down 7 rituals that make a world of difference. It all comes down to unplugging from the world and our phones, taking a moment to reflect, and building in the sleep into our schedules. Easier said than done, of course.

After adopting these habits, however, we’ve felt a shift in our energy levels and our general outlook on the world. Whether it’s reading a book, listening to a mediation app, using essential oils, or putting on your coziest PJs—a major part of our routine—these practices help to make sleep an ingrained part of your daily life.

Another new study found that sleep-deprived people have much higher rates of depression and anxiety. Forbes breaks down the research linking lack of sleep and repetitive negative thinking, or RNT, here. The major takeaway of this ground-breaking study is that getting more sleep is truly an act of self-care and love.

That’s why this January we’re relaunching our Sleep is The New Black Campaign, which gives X% off our best-selling PJs and loungewear! We’ll be sharing lots of tips to encourage you on your journey to a more restful 2018!