Feeling sleep deprived? So are many of us, for a number of reasons- from too much stress, poor diet, not enough exercise, poor sleeping spaces, and more. But sleep deprivation impacts us in a number of negative ways. You’re more likely to reach for the cookies and candy at 3pm when you’re tired, you’re more likely to find it difficult to concentrate, and less likely to be productive.
If this sounds like your reality, don’t worry. There are plenty of things you can do to improve your sleep and therefore improve your life. Here are just a few:
Create the right sleep space
The ideal sleeping space should be comfortable, welcoming, and you should look forward to sleeping there each night. If this doesn’t sound like your bedroom, now’s the time to consider why. Do you find it difficult to fall asleep because there is too much light? You may need to get some thicker curtains (or even blackout curtains). Other ways you can improve your sleep space include a comfortable blanket or feather duvet, a bedside lamp or nightlight, candles, and lots of pillows. You can easily find all of these things at Julian Charles.
Change your routine
What’s your current sleep routine like? If you’re like many people, you may end up in front of the TV or bustling around your house, only to realize it’s getting late. You probably take a shower or get changed into pajamas, and then end up scrolling on your phone until you finally try to go to sleep (and find it difficult). Does this sound familiar?
This isn’t a great way to ensure success when it comes to sleep. Instead, consider ways you can wind down. Set an alarm on your phone well in advance so you have plenty of time to enjoy your nightly routine. Then, take a bath, meditate, read, or write in your journal.
Banish the electronics
The blue light that our electronic devices emit actually messes with our circadian rhythm and sleep hormones. While our brains should be signaling that it’s time to go to bed, this light gets them confused, so they instead think it’s earlier in the day. No wonder it’s difficult to get to sleep. Set a cut off time for using your phone, computer, or iPad, and stick to it. Then, put your electronics away and do something unrelated but relaxing.