11 best sleep tips
We know sleep is important, yet many of us are not taking the appropriate steps to ensure we are getting the best sleep possible. This is critical, as our bodies use sleep as a time to rebuild, repair, and perform other basic functions to maintain our health. Why is quality sleep so elusive for some people? It really comes down to your lifestyle. Here are 11 great sleep tips:
We know sleep is important, yet many of us are not taking the appropriate steps to ensure we are getting the best sleep possible. This is critical, as our bodies use sleep as a time to rebuild, repair, and perform other basic functions to maintain our health. Why is quality sleep so elusive for some people? It really comes down to your lifestyle. Here are 11 great sleep tips:
1. Avoid caffeine – Do not drink caffeine prior to bedtime, as it can take your body hours to process the caffeine, which may keep you awake longer.
2. Avoid alcohol – Consuming alcohol keeps you from reaching deeper layers of sleep.
3. Avoid sleeping medications – These drugs make you fall asleep, but you are not getting the quality rest and repair needed during that sleep. For some, these medications can also cause a dependency.
4. Avoid screens – Almost all screens use blue light as their source, which tells your body that it’s still daytime and interrupts your natural cycle. Turn off devices 30 minutes before bedtime.
5. Set a bedtime and keep it a ritual – This will make it easier for your body to adjust.
6. Read fiction – This will allow you to relax and not stress about tasks.
7. Dark room – Cover up any lights and don’t use a television.
8. Cold room – 63 to 68 degrees is optimal for better sleep.
9. Quiet room – Use a box fan to provide a neutral sound to cover up any outside noise.
10. Go to bed early enough to wake up without alarm clock – Work with your natural sleep cycles.
11. Sleep alone – Stirring during the night can disturb sleep. Consider sleeping alone for a few nights if this is an issue.
By adopting these 11 tips for better sleep, you will surely see a positive impact on your quality and quantity of sleep, as well as your overall health.
