Sleep is one of the most important aspects of life. All humans need it in order to function, and so few of us get enough to stay healthy.
We often put our careers, social life, and household responsibilities above sleep. Over time, this can affect our daily lives as we constantly feel drained of energy.
With that being said, this post will detail some ways to help you finally get that good night’s sleep you’ve been dreaming about.
How to Finally Get the Sleep You Need
It’s important to get close to eight hours of sleep no matter your age. Whether you are a college student in a big city or an aging adult that’s using independent senior living in NJ, you should make it a point to get the proper amount of sleep so you can feel rested and enjoy life. Here are some tips to help you do just that.
#1: Start Relaxing An Hour Before Bed
This is perhaps the most important and easiest way to get the right amount of sleep you need to truly feel rested when you wake up.
An hour before you go to bed, you should start winding down and relaxing so that when your head hits the pillow, you’re already at ease. Some ways to relax an hour before bed include:
- Avoiding screen time; this means no phone, computer, or TV
- Pick up a book or magazine
- Spend some time meditating
- Take a warm bath
- Turn the lights down
These simple tasks will allow your brain to start producing melatonin naturally which will helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
#2: Arrange Your Room in a Way That Will Encourage a Restful Sleep
It’s important to arrange your room in a way that will relax the mind. A messy or overcrowded room can make your brain feel overwhelmed and uneasy without you knowing it, which can prevent you from relaxing. Some ways to arrange your room include:
- Limit the amount of light
- Make sure it’s a cool temperature
- Clean up any clutter or messy areas
- Hang calming decor rather than flamboyant, bright pieces
- Limit the amount of furniture you have in your room
#3: Implement a Routine
A nighttime routine is another outstanding way to get a restful night’s sleep. Try to do the same thing every night at the same time.
For example, if you start winding down by 9:30, then you can wash your face, have a cup of (non-caffeinated) tea, take your pet outside one last time, and then curl up in bed with a book. Your body will appreciate this routine and will look forward to a relaxing ritual.
#4: Limit Your Caffeine Intake
This simple tip can help you get 8 quality hours of sleep and feel rested. Aim to stop drinking caffeine by mid-afternoon so your body has time to get it out of its system by the time you get into bed.
Caffeine seems to affect people in different ways, so the amount of time it keeps you alert will vary. Having said this, if you find yourself wide awake in bed some night this week, think back on the last time you drank caffeine. Remember, many pop drinks have caffeine too— not just coffee and tea.
#5: Pay Attention to What You Are Putting Into Your Body Before Bed
There are somethings you should avoid putting into your body a few hours before bed to ensure you get a restful night’s sleep, such as:
- A large meal
- Alcohol
- Sugar
- Stimulants; caffeine included
If you like to eat before bed, try snacks that are easy to digest, like fruits, nuts, and dairy products.
Get the Sleep You Deserve
You deserve a good night’s sleep, and these simple tips can help you get that. Keep these tips in mind tonight and try to practice them every night moving forward. However, if you are still struggling to get a quality night’s sleep, it may be worth your while to talk to a medical professional.
