We need sleep for our health and prevention of more serious diseases, and sleeping medications come with risks and harmful side effects themselves. Begin to embrace and implement these suggestions below to help ensure a good night’s rest.
- Stick to a sleep schedule. This means you stick to the same times to wake up and sleep, even on weekends. Doing so will help your body clock to regulate, and assist in both falling and staying asleep at night.
- Have a bedtime ritual. Allow a good 30 minutes for a relaxing routine activity that is free from technology. Separating your bed/sleep time from activities that cause stress, anxiety, or excitement will make it easier to fall and stay asleep. This includes avoiding bright lights, and “screens” (TV, mobile devices, computers, etc.)
- Avoid naps. If you have sleeping problems, don’t nap, particularly in the afternoon. While it’s true a power nap can be useful, for those that have problems falling asleep at night, avoiding naps can help.
- Daily exercise. National Sleep Foundation suggests vigorous exercise at any time of day, but not at the expense of your sleep. Even light exercise is beneficial.
- Assess your sleeping space. It may seem obvious but your bedroom needs to promote a good night’s sleep! This includes evaluating the temperature, with the National Sleep Foundation suggesting a cool 60-67 degrees F being optimal. Noise (including your partner’s snoring) should be diminished as much as possible. Consider ear plugs, white noise machines, and other devices to block out sounds. To make the room as dark as possible, consider blackout curtains and eye covers/shades. Also be aware of allergens. A good air purifier can make a world of difference if you are sensitive.
- Spring for a good mattress. Pun intended! Again, it may seem obvious, but the mattress and pillows you use can make a huge difference in how well you sleep. Most mattresses have a lifespan of 9-10 years, if it’s good quality. Pillows can become worn out, too. Many advances have been made in the arena of memory and gel foam. Your sleep is a worthy investment in your health, not just a luxury.
- Use essential oils. These powerhouses of nature have a variety of health benefits, but there are a few that are well-known to help you sleep better. They include: rose, geranium, frankincense, orange, lemon, and lavender.
Teri Gentes - whole-self health advocate, coach and consultant helping you take better care of yourself.