Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for physical and mental health, but many people struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep. If you toss and turn all night or wake up groggy and tired, you may need to improve your sleep hygiene. Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and practices that can help you get quality sleep. Here are some strategies to try:
- Stick to a sleep schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This can help regulate your body’s sleep-wake cycle and make it easier to fall asleep and wake up.
- Create a relaxing sleep environment: Ensure your bedroom is quiet, cool, and dark. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillow, and avoid using electronics in bed. The blue light from screens can disrupt your sleep by suppressing the production of the hormone melatonin, which regulates sleep.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake: Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep, so avoid consuming it in the afternoon and evening. Alcohol, while it may make you feel sleepy, can disrupt sleep later in the night.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help you sleep better, but avoid exercising close to bedtime as it can be stimulating and make it harder to fall asleep.
- Wind down before bedtime: Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind before sleep. This might include reading a book, taking a bath, or practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
- Manage stress: Stress and anxiety can interfere with sleep, so try to manage your stress levels throughout the day. Consider trying techniques like yoga or mindfulness meditation to help you relax and unwind.
- Eat a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help promote good sleep. Avoid heavy, rich, or spicy meals close to bedtime.
Improving your sleep hygiene can take time and effort, but the benefits of quality sleep are worth it. By changing your daily habits and routines, you can improve the quality of your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and energised.
This article was brought to you by Naluri Mental Health Coaches. Naluri empowers you to develop healthy lifestyle habits, achieve meaningful health outcomes, and be healthier and happier through personalised coaching, structured programmes, self-guided lessons, and health tools and devices. Download the Naluri App today or contact hello@naluri.life for more information on utilising digital health coaching and therapy to become a happier, healthier you.