Models Direct - IMAGE Summer 2006

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IMAGE Online Summer 2006

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The beauty of Sleep

We all know how important a good nights sleep is, but sometimes it can be hard to actually get one!

Lack of sleep shows in your face (think about those big dark circles under your eyes) so it is very important for models to be fresh faced from a great nights sleep. Taking your child to an assignment over-tired can also be a trying experience - as behaviour and concentration can be affected.

School age children should be getting at least 10 hours of sleep a night and teens need between 8 and 9 hours. So it is essential that good bedtime routines are established early. Set cut off times for TV, video, computers and games consoles - as stimulation of this kind before bed can be disruptive and stop a child from falling to sleep quickly. Snacks should be free of artificial stimulants like caffeine (try milk and a biscuit).

Lack of sleep for children not only makes them irritable at home but will also impact on their schooling. Sleep deprevation can easily escalate and can cause illness (as the immune system can be weakened through lack of sleep).

As adults we also need a good nights sleep.

Top tips include: Keep regular hours - go to bed and get up at roughly the same time to establish a routine.
Create a restful sleep environment - cool, dark, quiet with a comfortable bed.

Exercise - we all know moderate regular exercise is beneficial. But don't exercise too close to bedtime - it is too stimulating for the body.

Don't over-indulge - too much food and alcohol late at night can play havoc with sleep patterns.

Try to stop smoking - yes it's bad for sleep too! Smokers can find it harder to fall asleep, wake more often and experience more sleep disruption.

Relax - establish a bedtime routine, have a warm bath, listen to quiet music, read a book.

Deal with worries - write to do lists to help stop worries preying on your mind and preventing your from falling asleep.

If you can't sleep - don't lie and fret about it, GET UP and do something relaxing till you feel tired again.

If all this fails you could try this American 'Sleep Sandwich' idea: banana, marmite and lettuce!
Yummy, eh?

Here are some handy tips to help you prepare for assignments!

Plan your journey and arrive in good time. Being fifteen minutes early will allow you to get familiar with the people and scene. Earlier than this may be awkward, they may not be ready for you, they may not even be there!

Be polite and courteous. Be nice to everybody. You never know if the person you are speaking to is important.

Show your personality and individuality. This is what gives you the x-factor - remember you are competing in a tough industry and you want to be remembered.

Don't wear distracting clothes or makeup unless the assignment requires it. You will be given a brief on attire so make sure you adhere to it and don't overdo it on the makeup, clothing, perfume or aftershave.

Charge your mobile phone. We may need to contact you on the day and so may the client. It is also extremely important for you to be able to contact us if you are running late.

Find out about the assignment before you leave. Our assignments coordinators will always give you the details over the phone and in writing but make sure you read them thoroughly and ask questions if you are unsure of anything. If you are working for a particular company, familiarise yourself with their work as it will help you understand your role for the assignment.

Smile and enjoy it! A genuine smile shows in the eyes, not the mouth so make your eyes smile for the camera! Relax and have a fabulous time!

IMAGE Online Summer 2006

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