Getting good sleep is a basic human need. We work through the day and our body and mind need time to rest and recover so we can come back the next day and do well at whatever we’re doing. If you find it hard to sleep at night despite being dead tired when you go to bed, it’s probably because we’re not taking care of our sleep hygiene.
What Is Sleep Hygiene?
Sleep hygiene is having a bedroom routine and habits that promote consistent, uninterrupted sleep. It involves keeping a stable sleep schedule, making your bedroom comfortable and free of disruptions, following a relaxing pre-bed routine and following healthy habits during the day that overall contribute to good sleep.
How Has Falling Asleep Become An Issue?
I’m sure most of us always used to get some great sleep. Well, what happened now?
The main reason your sleep being disturbed is the stressful, fast-paced life that we’re all following. Staying up late for whatever reason and going to bed late repeatedly can not only have negative effects on your functioning but can also lead to long-term sleep issues.
Considering this there are a few things we can do to improve our sleep cycle. Some of them are:
#1 – Maintain A Routine
One of the most common reasons why you’re not getting good sleep is because of the lack of a sleep routine. Find a routine that works for you and stick to it. Keep a fixed time for when you go to bed so your body gets used to that cycle as well.
#2 – Modify Your Space
Your bedroom should be the perfect resting place for you. Make sure you arrange things and keep your bedroom such that you allow yourself to rest and fall asleep easily when you enter your room.
#3 – Avoid Caffeine & Nicotine
Make sure that you don’t consume any caffeinated drinks at least 4-5 hours before you sleep. Caffeine tends to keep you awake which makes it harder for you to sleep.
#4 – Avoid Alcohol & Other Substances
Alcohol tends to dehydrate your body. Being dehydrated can really affect your sleep quality.
So, if you do drink alcohol make sure to hydrate yourself well before you sleep.
#5 – Exercise
Having a regular exercise routine is good for your sleep. Generally exercising early in the morning is recommended so that by bedtime you’re quite tired and can fall asleep easily. If you’re exercising in the evening make sure you do it a few hours before your sleep and try to avoid any heavy exercises a few hours before bedtime.
#6 – Avoid Gadgets
Keep your phones, laptops, etc away from you at least an hour before you sleep. The blue light from the screens of gadgets keeps you awake and makes it harder to sleep.
One of the most important things that you can for your body is to give it adequate rest. The best way you can do that is by getting adequate sleep. Sleep recharges your body and mind to make sure you function effectively and at an optimal level. So, make sure you get some good sleep to make the best out of your day!
