We’re all so much better when we’re well-rested. We have more energy, we think more clearly, and we’re more reasonable and understanding. As such, it’s worthwhile trying to ensure that you have enough rest, at all times. While there’ll be times when you’re run off your feet, it’s always possible to be at your best — you just have to ensure that you can get a great night’s sleep. But of course, this isn’t always as easy as simply wanting it. There are increasing numbers of people struggling to reach the land of Nod, for various reasons. We take a look at a few ways to make falling asleep and improving your overall sleep experience better below.
Limit the Triggers
The best way to improve your sleep is to reduce the intake of things that could compromise it. The biggest one is probably coffee. We all drink so much of it, and it’s affecting our sleep. While a cup or two in the meaning isn’t the end of the world, it’s best to avoid caffeine from mid-afternoon afterward; it stays in your system for a long time. Smoking and alcohol will also affect the quality of your sleep — alcohol in particular. It keeps you at a surface level of sleep, rather than allowing you to sink into a deep sleep.
A Calm Mind
You probably know how difficult it is to fall asleep when your mind is racing. You’ve been building up thoughts all day, and now they’ve got nowhere to go, so you’re just spinning them around in your mind. As such, it’s recommended that you take steps to calm your mind down before you go to sleep. A little meditation or reading will do the trick. You’ll want to avoid your smartphone or computer in the run up to bedtime, however — they just work to keep your mind in a state of alertness just as it should be winding down.
Comfortable Nights
Of course, even if you were completely ready for sleep, you’d still find it difficult to reach the land of Nod if you’re not comfortable. So if you’re struggling to fall asleep, perhaps take a look at your bedding. Is it really all that it could be? If it’s not, take a look at upgrading. You can take a look at this Saatva Vs DreamCloud article to find the mattress that will be right for you. Along with the mattress, you’ll also want to upgrade your sheets and pillows.
How to Rise
Finally, remember that the sleep experience is just about falling asleep — how you wake up is important too. Are you waking up refreshed and ready to go, or groggy? If it’s the latter, look at changing your wake up method. An abrasive alarm will bring you out of sleep too harshly. Instead, you can get an alarm clock that slowly wakes you up. There are even alarms that simulate a gradual sunrise, so you’re gently brought back to the land of the living — it’s a great way to start the day.
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