In this day and age, it can feel like a monumental task to get enough sleep. After all, with busy work schedules where employers are demanding more productivity with fewer resources and less time allotted, our daily lives don’t allow for much time to get a good night’s sleep. Luckily, there are some tips and tricks which can help you get better quality and quantity of sleep, no matter how hectic your life may be.
Tip #1: Use a Sleep Mask or Blackout Curtains
One of the best ways to improve sleep quality is to ensure that there is no extra light coming into your room at night. We sleep best in a totally dark room, free from the headlights of cars and other distractions.
But you don’t need to spend a ton of money in redesigning your room for better sleep, you can simply invest in a good sleep mask that keeps the light out and allows you to get a full night’s sleep without disruption. Alternatively, you may choose to hang blackout curtains, which will serve the same purpose as a sleep mask but won’t put any extra pressure on your face while you sleep.
Tip #2: Go to Sleep at the Same Time Every Night
Our bodies operate on consistent rhythms and routines. For example, if you eat breakfast at the same time every day for years, then one day you have to skip said breakfast, your body is going to tell you that you are very hungry around that time. This is because our bodies crave consistency. We always want to know when our next meal is coming.
Similarly, our bodies like to be in a consistent sleep routine. For instance, if you fall asleep at 11:00 pm one night, and 8:00 pm the next, your quality of sleep will be much poorer than if you fell asleep at 8:00 pm both nights. Again, our bodies want to be on a consistent schedule, whenever possible.
Tip #3: Don’t Use Electronics in Bed
Smartphones, TVs, and similar devices can create havoc on our sleep. By turning off your phone and moving the TV out of your bedroom, you’ll be able to enjoy a much better quality of sleep.
If you need something to do before going to sleep while lying in bed, read a book!
Tip #4: Don’t Hit Snooze
As much as possible, you should resist hitting the snooze button when you wake up. We all know how tempting it can be to spend even just a few more minutes sleeping when you’re feeling exhausted. But these micro “snoozes” can often make you more tired in the long run. If you want to sleep for as long as possible, set your alarm to the latest possible minute you can, and ditch the snooze button.
Tip #5: Don’t Eat Right Before Bed
This tip may be controversial for some people. After all, if you work odd hours and get home very late, you may have no option but to eat right before going to bed. In some cases, this is unavoidable. But if you are able to, it’s best to eat a few hours before bed so that your body can fully rest during sleep, rather than focusing on digestion.
That being said, there are some people who believe we may digest our food very efficiently while we sleep. So, what’s the major takeaway? Be consistent in your bedtime and meal routine and if you’re feeling like you aren’t getting good quality sleep, try changing something up!
Awaken Chiropractic is home to the best Parker Chiropractors, hands down. At Awaken Chiropractic, we truly care, and would be happy to help you figure out how to get back to optimal wellness and health. Book your appointment today.
