Sleep has traditionally been an underrated part of a healthy lifestyle, but it is garnering more and more attention lately. We are starting to understand the benefits of a good night’s sleep, and how it can impact your physical and mental health. If you are looking to make positive changes in your life, consider focusing on your sleep. On this page, you can learn more about the benefits of proper sleep, as well as how to get it.
Benefits of Sleep
There are so many benefits of getting proper sleep. Consider the following benefits:
- A boost to your immune system.
- Repairing and building muscle.
- Reduce risk of heart problems.
- Increase productivity and focus.
- Improve mood.
- Improve memory.
- Help control weight.
Most people need an average of 7-9 hours of sleep each night to be fully rested and to reap these benefits.
How to Get Better Sleep
So now you know the benefits of a good night’s sleep, but how are you supposed to get it? Here are a few tips to consider to help improve your sleep patterns.
First, consider reducing your blue light exposure at night. Blue light, which comes from things like TVs, computers, and phones, can influence your circadian rhythm and trick your body into thinking that it is daytime. This makes it harder to fall asleep at night. Consider limiting your exposure by using an app to reduce the blue light on your screens at night, or not using your electronics at all in the last few hours before bed.
Another way that you can get ready for bed easier and fall asleep quicker is by not drinking caffeine too late in the day. Caffeine has a very long half life, meaning that it will stay in your system for a long period of time. If you are sensitive to caffeine, switch to decaf around midday.
You can also set up a bedtime routine. While this might sound silly, it can help trigger your brain and body to know that it is time for bed. Having a consistent sleep schedule (going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day) and establishing a calming night time routine can help you sleep better. Things like reading before bed, meditating, listening to calming music, and drinking herbal tea can help you wind down at night.
Bedroom environment and temperature can also have an impact on sleep quality. Issues such as light and noise can have a negative impact on sleep. Make sure that the curtains are drawn, and if light is still coming in, consider getting blackout curtains. If your bedroom is noisy, consider a sound soother to block out noise. It is also beneficial to sleep in a cooler temperature, around 70 degrees.
Improving Your Life
Improving your sleep could improve your life! It can help you stay physically and mentally healthy, improve your mood, and help you focus during the hours that you are awake. Give these tips a try and see if they make a difference!
If you are looking for other ways to improve your life, consider applying for a Connecticut pardon. If you have a criminal history that is holding you back, a pardon can make a big difference. Bettering yourself and making positive changes in your life are just the kinds of things that the Board of Pardons wants to see! For more information, contact my office.