Sleep is important for accomplishing your goals each day. I read a study that found that most people don’t get enough sleep. Even those who don’t get enough sleep but don’t realize they are tired perform far worse on tests, among other things. It just goes to show that everyone needs a good night’s sleep. It is so important.
According to WebMD, “Sleep Deprivation Can Lead to Serious Health Problems. Sleep disorders and chronic sleep loss can put you at risk for:
- Heart disease
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Diabetes”
Here are Five surprising ways to get a good night’s sleep.
1- Use Blackout Shades
Darkness triggers the brain to produce melatonin, which helps you fall asleep. It also cuts out any distractions. Try blackout shades, like SmartWings motorized roller shades (100 blackout essentials). Not only do they look great, but they work like a charm. They block out 100% of the light, making your room the perfect condition for a full night’s rest. My favorite part (besides the fact that you sleep so much better) is that these blinds can be controlled with a remote, an app, or your voice. You can even have them on a timer so they open and close when you’ve designated.
2- Turn the AC down just a bit.
Most people sleep better when the room is a little colder, but there is a scientific reason why: Sleeping in a room between 60–68° F stimulates the production of melatonin. Plus, sleeping in a cooler room can help you get deeper REM cycles, reducing fatigue during the day. I love to sleep in a chilly room and then cover up with our down comforter.
3- Wear socks to bed.
It is really hard for me to do this. I remember watching The Oprah Show, and a doctor said that wearing socks to bed actually helps people sleep better. The logic behind it is that although we sleep better in cool air, we don’t like our feet to be cold. When our feet are cold, we don’t sleep as well.
4- Try squeezing in a short nap during the day.
I’m not a napper, but my husband could nap every day if given the chance. Hahaha! Since our circadian rhythm makes us feel the most alert in the morning (usually between 7 and 9 a.m.), it starts to drop around 11:00, so taking a short 30-minute nap between 1:00 and 3:00 could help.
5- Write Down What’s on Your Mind.
Do you stay up worrying about things you must finish (or start)? Make a list before you get into bed. Don’t think about or worry about them until you wake up. You’ll see them the following day and can start figuring out ways to solve or complete them.
