Are you getting enough sleep? If you’re like most people, you’re probably actually sleep deprived. When we’re not getting enough sleep, our decision-making abilities are impaired, we tend to reach for the wrong types of food, and it can be difficult to convince ourselves to get enough exercise throughout the week.
In this post, you’ll learn how to create the #PerfectSleepingSpace, and the habits and actions you can take to wind down before bed and enjoy a bedtime routine.
Ready? Let’s get started.
Overhaul your bedroom
The first step is to analyze your current sleeping space. Are your curtains thick enough, or do they let in light from outside? Are your sheets cool and comfortable? Do you have the right blankets and comforters to feel cozy and ready for bed? Do you have a lamp or candles so you can turn off the main light before you wind down? If you need to improve your sleeping space, check out Julian Charles for some excellent deals.
Consider your routine
Studies have shown that the blue light emitted by our electronics can interfere with the chemicals that tell us it’s time to go to sleep. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time on their iPad, computer, or phone before bed, now’s the time to cut that habit out. Set yourself a time to stop, and then turn your phone onto airplane mode. Pick up a book, go for a relaxing bath, or listen to a podcast. This will help your brain naturally wind down for sleep.
Set a bedtime
If you go to bed at 11pm one night, 9.30 the next, and 1am the next night, it’s going to be difficult for you to consistently go to sleep. That’s because your body doesn’t know when it should be getting ready for sleep, and you’ll likely feel groggy in the morning. Instead, set a bedtime each night, and set an alarm to remind yourself that you need to start getting ready for bed.
Set healthy habits
When do you have your last coffee for the day? If you’re hoping to get a good night’s sleep, it probably shouldn’t be any later than 2 or 3pm. Try to avoid snacking late at night, and lay off the sugar and carbs close to bedtime. These can send your blood sugar through the roof, keeping you awake.