Sleep Tips for A Healthier You

When it comes to getting enough sleep, most of us fall way behind. Daily tasks and responsibilities seem to take priority over the amount of sleep that we get. However, numerous studies have shown that getting less sleep affects our body in negative ways, and in most cases, causes us to get less done than we think.

Improving the quality of our sleep, and how much we get, can dramatically improve our health and our daily accomplishments. Sleep plays an important role in the way our body and mind functions. Being healthy doesn’t just mean keeping up with dieting and exercising, it’s a lifestyle that includes getting a good night’s rest and having more energy when you need it. Here is a list of five easy sleep tips that you can start using today to make a healthier you.

1. Reduce the Amount of Blue Light Before Bed

We all have that one last email to read, one more video to watch, and just a few more minutes of scrolling through our social media on our smartphones we want to get out of the way right before we go to bed.

However, did you know the blue light that screens emit can trick our bodies into thinking that there is still daylight? This is one of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to fall asleep at night.

What can you do? Turn them off! Get those things out of the way at least two hours before you plan to go to bed. Use that time instead to wind down and prepare yourself for a good night’s rest. You can also use apps that change the blue light settings on your phone to reduce the amount of blue light.

2. Drink Less Coffee Late in the Day

Caffeine is a great stimulant when we need to wake up and get things done. People all over the world count on coffee and the benefits that it provides to help make it through their day. Like many things, however, caffeine should be used in moderation. If you are going to drink coffee, make sure you make a habit of keeping it a morning routine. Eliminating coffee from your afternoons and evenings can make it much easier to fall asleep at night.

3. Get into A Routine

The absolute best method for getting more sleep is to establish a routine. This can be one of the hardest things to accomplish for people who are not used to disciplining themselves. However, if you master this one thing, you will inevitably master the rest.

You can start in the morning by outlining your daily schedule. If your schedule changes regularly, do this every morning. Get the important things out of the way first. Studies show that we are much more productive the first few hours after a good night’s rest.

4. Make Your Bedroom More Comfortable

Our bedrooms are where the magic happens. The environment where we sleep can make a huge difference in the routines we establish and the way we fall asleep. Things like reducing lighting and burning incense can help calm our bodies and minds. Figure out what helps you relax the most and use those things to your advantage. Some people listen to soothing music, others prefer a long period of silence. Make your bedroom a sanctuary of relaxation and you will reap the restful benefits.

5. Get More Sunlight During the Day

Did you know that getting more sunlight in the waking hours can help set your body’s natural clock? For many of us that have trouble falling asleep at night, this can be a huge help. Increasing the amount of sunlight we get in the day helps set our circadian rhythm, letting us know when to fall asleep and when to wake up. Getting more sunlight when you need it, and less bright light sources when you don’t are the very best ways to establish a routine that works.

All these methods will not only improve your sleep, but also your health. You need to be able to be the best version of yourself. Use these sleep tips today to start living a lifestyle that better serves you.