Sleep deprivation is used as torture, and smart people don’t torture themselves. Don’t ignore good sleep hygiene. New parents, hang in there.
Your health and quality of life are greatly influenced by sleep loss, says Diwakar Balachandran, MD, Medical Director at the MD Anderson Sleep Center. It could lead to agitation, memory problems, and trouble focusing and thinking. Conversely, more thorough, and consistent rest can set you up for a more successful, less stressed life.
Here are some tips to help you get a great night’s sleep
For efficient sleep, avoid screen time before bed. Using a screen right before bed can disrupt your sleep, and it can be difficult to get to sleep if you watch a terrifying movie, read an article that makes you emotional or consume any anxiety-inducing media on your screen.
Just sleep in your bedroom. Avoid eating, watching TV, using devices – including laptops, phones and tablets – in bed. Ensure that your bedroom is cool, quiet and dark. It will become associated with sleep rather than activity or tension if you just use it for sleeping.
Cut down on daily caffeine and avoid it after midday. It’s obvious why a double espresso before bed could keep you awake, but keep in mind that people who consume a lot of caffeine could have night-time withdrawal symptoms, causing restless sleep.
Eat a balanced diet. It may be tough to fall asleep and stay asleep after a meal right before bed. However, modest food right before bed appears to encourage sleep.
Establish a night-time routine. Follow a consistent bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath, reading or listening to music. Your body will know when it’s time to sleep if you engage in relaxing activities before bed.
Decide on a bedtime. Plan yours to allow you to sleep for at least 7–8 hours, going to bed at the same time. And make sure you stick to it, at least on weeknights.
Good night, sleep tight
If you want to improve your sleep a weighted blanket mimics a therapeutic technique called deep pressure stimulation – using firm and controlled pressure to induce a feeling of calmness. Boosting your serotonin and melatonin levels, it can help to decrease your cortisol levels and is a must-buy for anyone looking to improve their sleep.
You already know that peak wellness depends on your sleep cycle, as your circadian rhythm and health are intimately connected. The Better Sleep Shadow Sleeping Mask is just the thing you need for your best night’s rest.
Photo by Lauren Kay on Unsplash