To be at your optimal level of health, it is important to develop good sleep discipline. Getting consistent, quality sleep reduces groggy mornings, lethargy, and the stress or negative health effects that can come from sleeplessness. If you find it difficult to get consistent, high-quality sleep, or you are an individual who has trouble falling asleep and/or staying asleep, consider these four helpful tips:
1. Eat a little healthier
Your diet can have a major impact on whether or not you get a good night of sleep, according to the Sleep Council. By eating healthy, well-balanced meals that are full of vitamins and minerals, your body can achieve better regularity in it's natural rhythm. If you want to go the extra mile, consider looking for foods that are made without processed sugars and fats as well. In addition to food, it is a good idea to monitor the other things that you are regularly consuming. Consuming caffeine, smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can interrupt your sleep cycle and make it difficult to get a good night's sleep. Although you may be able to combat some of these problems with over-the-counter sleep aids, it's not a good idea to develop a dependency for sleeping medications. In fact, it's probably a good idea to consult with a doctor before deciding to try any sleeping aids – even over-the-counter ones.
2. Get into a routine and stick to it
Although you may feel like a kid again, sticking to a regular bedtime and evening routine is a great way to promote a healthy, regular sleep pattern. Using a routine can help both the mind and body achieve more stable cycles and better prepare themselves to shut down for the night, according to the National Sleep Council. Make sure you aren't falling asleep to reruns of your favorite television shows, too. The flickering light of a television, smartphone or tablet can stimulate the brain, which makes it hard to fall asleep. Do yourself a favor and turn off all your electronics about half an hour before bed. If you need another way to wind down, consider reading a book or writing in a journal instead.
3. Exercise early and often
If you're looking for other healthy ways to achieve mental and physical stability, consider turning to a regular exercise routine. Staying active helps your body burn through sugars and calories found in food, which will ultimately lead to a deeper sense of sleep. But while being physically active is generally a good thing, exercising too close to bed can actually make you feel energized, which will make it next to impossible to fall asleep. If you're going to work out, try to aim to do so before it gets too late in the day.
4. Consider a new mattress
Even if you are taking other steps to get your body ready for a good night of sleep, an old or damaged mattress can still leave you feeling restless and uncomfortable when it comes time for lights out. Start by rotating your mattress or adding a mattress pad. If it is still too uncomfortable to fall asleep or stay asleep on, it may be time to go mattress shopping. Make a trip to Arwood's Furniture & Mattress today! We are a proud, family-owned business with the best furniture deals in town.
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