Tips for Sleeping Better

Tips for Better Sleep – 8 Tips to Help You Get Your 8 Hours

The average adult needs 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night. But we all know that doesn’t always happen. Here are 8 tips to help you get your 8 hours:

1. Stick to a schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day – even on weekends!
2. Get comfortable. Make sure your bed is comfortable. You want your bed to be big enough so that you have room to stretch out and turn easily. Your pillows and mattress should be supportive and comfortable. Our knowledgeable sales staff can help you find the mattress that is just right for you.
3. Make your bedroom a sleep-only zone. Use your bedroom for sleeping and intimacy only, not for other activities like working or watching TV. Remove all TVs, computers, and other gadgets from the bedroom.
4. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and large meals before bedtime. The stimulating effects of caffeine in coffee, soft drinks, teas, and chocolate can take as long as 8 hours to wear off fully. Nicotine is also a stimulant. Alcohol robs people of deep sleep. And a large meal can cause indigestion that interferes with sleep. It’s best to avoid them before bedtime.
5. Exercise early. Exercise can help you sleep. But don’t wait until late at night to exercise. A workout too soon before bedtime can interfere with sleep. Try to get your exercise at least 5 to 6 hours before going to bed.
6. Create a relaxing bedtime ritual. A warm bath, reading a good (non-suspenseful) book, or another relaxing routine can help you wind down before bedtime. Before long, your body will begin to associate these restful activities with sleep, making it easier for you to fall asleep at night.
7. Make sure your bedroom is cool and dark. Sleep in a slightly cool, dark room; Darkness tells your body it’s time for sleep. And avoid bright lights right before bed, including the ones that come from the TV or the computer.
8. Don’t lie in bed awake. If you can’t get to sleep, don’t just lie in bed. Do something else, like reading or listening to soothing music, until you feel tired. The anxiety of being unable to fall asleep can actually contribute to insomnia.