CAPE TOWN, South Africa, 15 March 2019 – It’s World Sleep Day today, and The Westin Hotel along with local singer Zolani Mahola from the band Freshlyground discover the power of JOMO (The Joy Of Missing Out).
Sleeping is an essential part of our lives, as it allows our bodies to reboot, and prepare for whatever the next day throws at us.
Technology has however made rest, sleep and rejuvenation challenging as it is one of the main reasons why so many people struggle to shut down and have a good night’s rest.
Devices have been linked to poor sleep quality, as the blue light in most screens delays the body’s circadian rhythm. In addition, the constant demands of returning calls and sending emails, along with various notifications from apps on your device, can affect your ability to “switch off” before bed.
In addition, nearly 65% of travellers sleep less while on the road, which is why The Westin Cape Town is encouraging guests to experience #JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) on World Sleep Day.
The #JOMO campaign will encourage guests to take a break from tech all in the name of a good night’s sleep.
Alongside guests, Freshlyground’s Zolani Mahola will also be taking time out from her busy schedule to unwind at The Westin and will be experiencing a “device-free” day. Zolani called on her social media followers to join her in a day without tech distractions, but putting some distance between themselves and their devices. Taking some “space” from social media is all with the aim of boosting wellness through me-time.
Zolani joined The Westin in launching their World Sleep Day activities by testing out the hotel’s signature Heavenly® Bed in The Westin’s foyer to create awareness around the importance sleep plays in a healthy lifestyle.
Hit the snooze button
Dr Melissa Lipford, a neurologist at Mayo Clinic and sleep consultant for World Sleep Society, who champions World Sleep Day, says: “There is a direct correlation between your sleep and your overall well-being.
“And perhaps unexpectedly, quality sleep is also foundational for people to reap the benefits of fitness and is a necessary part of exercise recovery. Disconnecting and winding down one to two hours before bed, which includes putting away light-emitting electronic devices, lends to falling asleep more easily and experiencing deeper, more restful sleep.”
In lockstep with a growing global demand for well-being and an increased awareness of the value of self-care, Westin will reward guests who find the ‘Joy of Missing Out’ and take time back for extra sleep, exercise or a break from technology.
Waking up to wellness
Zolani’s downtime from her device comes amid a packed schedule of performances, both with Freshlyground and as a solo artist, and corporate speaking engagements, and quality time with her family. She has recently returned from the USA, where she hung out backstage on the Daily Show, with Trevor Noah, and met up Goldfish in California.
“It’s so important to put your health and wellness first, by taking back time for yourself. I have been travelling and performing over the last few months, and I decided to switch off for World Sleep Day at the Westin and reenergize ahead of my upcoming performances, talks and appearances.”
In addition, the Westin will be offering guests the option of JOMO doortags and specially-curated Sleep Well amenities. In helping guests get a good night’s sleep, The Westin offers a complimentary Sleep Well Lavender Balm bedside amenity, infused with the calming essential oils of lavender and chamomile – the latest in a series of sleep offerings that promise a better slumber for travellers.
Leon Meyer, GM of The Westin Cape Town, says: “In today’s always-on culture, the value of disconnecting and taking time for your wellbeing cannot be underestimated. This wellbeing starts with a good night’s sleep, which we embrace with our signature Heavenly beds and pillows. A restful night not only improves business productivity, but leads to better health and overall happiness.”
For more information visit www.westin.com/sleepwell and follow along on social via #WestinJOMO.
