How Journalist Leigh Campbell Overcomes Insomnia to Get a Good Night's Rest

She's adamant that her bed remains a positive space.

Welcome to Bedtime Stories, an interview series where we ask inspiring individuals to share their nighttime routine and sleep secrets – from the beauty products they can’t live without to the tricks they swear by when they’re too tired to function (no coffee needed). For this instalment, Leigh Campbell, executive editor of Mamamia shares the beauty products she uses and her sleep routine.

Leigh Campbell wears many hats. She's the executive editor of news, opinion, and lifestyle website Mamamia, host of podcasts You Beauty and This Glorious Mess, an ambassador for Look Good Feel Better, and a mother. It's a lot to juggle and her busy schedule is unsurprisingly tiring.

A familiar name to those who have worked in the media industry, Leigh's career so far has been nothing short of impressive. She worked as the beauty director of Cosmopolitan magazine for eight years before going on to become Head of Lifestyle at HuffPost Australia. In her current role at Mamamia she oversees the editorial offering while also continuing to write about fashion, food, wellness, travel, homewares and of course, beauty.

An expert voice in the beauty and lifestyle space, Leigh has tested fabulous products and been invited to glamorous events. But juggling her career with motherhood and also dealing with insomnia means she not only has her hands full but means it's crucial for her to find a way to get to sleep each night.

Below, the beauty expert and lifestyle journalist walks us through her morning and bedtime routine as someone who deals with insomnia, and reveals the sleep and beauty products she swears by.

Can you walk us through your bedtime routine?

I don't really have one. It depends on how tired I am, but at a minimum I'll wash my face and put on some skincare. If I am feeling energetic that might be four to five steps, but realistically it's usually two. That's why I am always on the hunt for the most effective and time effective products. Because I'm tired. Who isn't?

What sleep or beauty products do you swear by that you won’t go a night without?

Boring but necessary - prescription sleep aid from the doctor. I have always had insomnia so it's a must. I'll swipe on a serum and nourishing night cream (don't forget the decolletage!), and I also use a magnetism spray on my tummy and the back of my knees.

What about your morning routine — are there any products you swear by?

I am a proud instant coffee fan so I have two cups, and my Vida Glow collagen, within an hour of waking. Short, quick skincare routine (which always involves SPF) and then maybe makeup depending on how many people I am seeing IRL. I have a toddler to get to daycare before the work day starts so sadly there's no slow and mindful start in my house. Just lots of Peppa Pig.

What is your solution for those nights you simply can’t nod off to sleep?

Get out of the bed. My therapist taught me that it's important you do so before you develop a negative association with the bed. Move to the lounge, or spare room. The bed must remain a positive space for you.

What are three things (besides coffee) that help you when you're too tired to function?

Not letting a mum choose coffee is just cruel. But if I am really that tired I let go of the guilt and let myself rest. Our culture rewards the 'hustle' far too much - resting is not lazy.

What time does your alarm go off in the morning? Can you walk us through your morning routine?

I don't have an alarm, I have a two year old. The time depends on if he needs to wee, or wants water, or if the Gro Clock is blue or yellow.

What do you normally eat for breakfast to kickstart your day?

Two cups of Instant coffee and then sometimes an almond flat white.

For more from Leigh, follow her Instagram @leighacampbell