I checked myself in to a sleep sanctuary to finally get the Z’s I deserve

Cherishing a good night’s sleep, I have always prioritized its importance in my daily life.

It’s no secret that sleep impacts every facet of our well-being, from our energy levels and mood to our cognitive abilities, overall health, and even our physical appearance—bringing the saying ‘get your beauty sleep’ to life.

Recently, I had been feeling a bit worn out, and I realized my sleep was not as restorative as it used to be.

I was in desperate need of a snooze-filled retreat. 

So when the opportunity to experience the ‘Sleep Sanctuary’ curated by Emma Sleep and set within Darlinghurst’s newly refurbished hotel ‘The Strand’ presented itself, I was quick to seize it.

Emma’s Sleep Sanctuary in Sydney

Priced at The Strand’s standard weekend rate of $249 per night, what sets this experience apart was the Emma Sleep package, a treasure trove of sleep-enhancing benefits.

This package promised more than just a room—it extended a sumptuous sleepgustation dinner for two, a rewarding sleep consultation session with the knowledgeable Emma Merritt, and a breakfast surprise of a delectable box delivered to our door the next morning.

Collectively estimated at over $2,000, these features transformed the standard rate into an incredible value proposition for sleep enthusiasts.

Checking in for a decent night’s sleep

On arrival, my partner and I were graciously welcomed at the ‘rest-ception’ by a warm receptionist who effortlessly checked us in.

Our stay was in the luxurious Emma Platinum zzZuite room, where a delightful surprise awaited us—a box of goodies.

Inside, we found a $250 voucher for the upstairs rooftop bar, a reservation for a 7-course sleepgustation at 6 pm, a clever ‘do not disturb’ door sign, comfortable Emma slippers, a custom sleep eye mask, and a Kobe Clara 2e loaded with a myriad of preloaded audiobooks designed to aid in sleep preparation.

Further, consultation and discussion about all things sleep with the Sleep-ologist, Emma Merritt, was scheduled for us.

Our consultation was an enlightening dive into the science of sleep preparation.

It underscored the need to steer clear of high-intensity devices, the effects of coffee and alcohol on our sleep patterns, the benefits of engaging in low-energy activities if you are unable to sleep, the advantages of daily exercise (not too close to bedtime), and the importance of a regular sleep routine.

This interactive session reinforced my understanding of sleep optimization and the role our sleeping environment and habits play in achieving optimal sleep quality.

Dinner and cocktails? Yes please!

Post-session, my partner and I ascended to the stunning rooftop bar for our sleepgustation—an artfully crafted culinary experience intended to promote sleep.

The experience was a feast for our senses.

Our menu detailed a 7-course degustation designed to foster melatonin production and be gentle on our stomachs, complemented by a whimsical sheep lamp on our table and cloud lights hanging above us.

Following the heavenly feast, we returned to our room, now perfectly set for sleep.

Our bed, turned over perfectly features its Zero Gravity mattress—a breathable innovation aiding temperature regulation during sleep.

A selection of pillows added an extra touch of personalization to our comfort. It’s safe to say that these arrangements invited sleep effortlessly.

101 on how to get a more restful sleep

The primary mission of the Emma Sleep Hotel was to instill an understanding of sleep’s significance and offer guests the chance to experience Emma’s products firsthand.

Reflecting on our deep sleep on guests’ experiences, the sleepgustation was not only delightful for many of the guests but also aided in more restful sleep.

Many reported sound sleep with few disruptions, further attesting to the efficacy of a sleep-optimized environment.

Alas, this week-long event has concluded, but its impact on us and the other guests continues to resonate.

Among the many insights we gained on sleep, two significant ones were the importance of a sleep routine and the association of our bed with rest and sleep.

Through my conversation with the sleep-ologist, I learned that maintaining a consistent sleep routine assists my body’s internal clock in identifying when it’s time to rest.

On restless nights, rather than tossing and turning in bed, I learned to engage in a calming activity in a different room.

This practice helps my brain associate the bed solely with relaxation and sleep.

Also, the comfort of the Emma products we experienced was unparalleled, and the blissful sleep we enjoyed was a testament to their effectiveness.

Though it may have been a brief escape, it was a dreamy journey of sleep enlightenment that will surely influence our sleep habits moving forward.