Getting a good night’s sleep is so important. Not only does it help prepare you for the day ahead, leaving you feeling refreshed and alert, but it also has a major impact on your overall health and wellbeing. In fact, lack of sleep is linked to an increased risk of disease, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression.
Whether you’re one of the 33 percent of people not getting enough sleep regularly, one of the many who develop insomnia every year, or you’re just looking to improve the quality of your sleep, there’s good news. Following a few simple tips and tricks for how to sleep better can help you get more much-needed rest so you can live a healthier, happier life.
Get Out in the Sunshine
Increasing the amount of bright light you’re exposed to during the day helps keep your body’s natural sleep clock in good working order, leading to improved sleep quality and longer sleep times. Additionally, research suggests that exposure to bright, natural, or artificial light during the day can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep by around 83 percent .
Shut Down Electronics
Did you know that your television, computer, tablet, and cell phone all emit sleep-disrupting blue light? It actually tricks your brain into thinking that it’s daytime. Powering down your electronics at least one to two hours before bed or switching to night mode, which strips your screen of blue light, can help you fall asleep easier.
Set a Sleep Schedule
Just as your exposure to light can affect your body’s sleep clock, so can the regularity of your sleep schedule. Another important step for anyone interested in how to sleep better is to start going to bed and waking up at the same time every day — even on weekends. This can go a long way toward helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer periods.
Switch to Decaf
Having your regular cup of coffee in the morning is fine, but indulging in caffeinated beverages later in the day could be robbing you of your beauty sleep. Research shows that caffeine can stay in your bloodstream for up to six hours. For improved sleep, it’s best to skip caffeinated beverages or foods like chocolate, which are also a source of caffeine.
Create a Sleep Sanctuary
When you’re creating your bedroom sanctuary, think cool, quiet, and dark. Your bedroom should be free of noise and other distractions that could keep you awake. Using sleep shades or blackout curtains can help prevent street lights from disrupting you. Additionally, it helps to turn down the thermostat to the optimal sleeping range of 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit, as noted by the National Sleep Foundation.
Revamp Your Bed
A sagging, tired, old mattress is sure to leave you feeling the same. Most mattresses only last nine to 10 years. Look for a new mattress that provides good support for better sleep quality, pain relief, stress relief, and less tossing and turning. Likewise, a supportive pillow is a must.
Although the majority of people already know that a good mattress and comfortable bedding is important for getting quality sleep, budget concerns can be an obstacle. But there’s good news. You can try a new mattress, bed frame, and even a beautiful upholstered headboard before making the commitment to buy.
CORT Furniture Rental is a convenient source of bedroom furniture that can help you in your quest to sleep better. Not only will it leave your space looking serene, it will also increase your sleeping comfort for the Z’s you deserve.
