It’s no secret that getting enough sleep is super important because it can significantly affect our health, mood, and overall well-being. Usually, several key elements come together so we can get good quality sleep and be able to feel and be at our best the next day.
If you can’t fall asleep right away, wake up in the middle of the night without the urge to sleep again, or just can’t get a good night’s sleep, as sleep experts here at Garner Appliance and Mattress, we’ve rounded up the most common culprits along with our helpful tips on how you can fix them and work toward developing better sleep habits.
Your Bedroom Isn’t Sleep-friendly
Many experts say that a dark bedroom helps you fall asleep quicker as it sends a signal to your brain that it’s time for some shuteye. So if you want to get some sleep pronto, your bedroom must not have any lights on. When our eyes are exposed to light, our brain thinks we should remain alert and active. So, avoid using your phone, tablet, or any gadget that emits artificial or “blue” light that inhibits your ability to fall asleep.
The right bedroom temperature also matters. While there isn’t a perfect temperature to induce feelings of drowsiness, sleep experts recommend that you set your thermostat anywhere between 60 and 75° F. Experiment and observe so you can find the ideal temperature to help you feel relaxed. Sleeping in a cooler room lets you fall asleep quicker and sleep deeper.
You Drink Too Much Caffeine
Too much caffeine can negatively impact your ability to fall asleep. If you’re a big fan of tea, soda, or coffee, experts say that a cup or two a day shouldn’t impact your sleep habits, provided you drink it at the right time. According to the US FDA, the half-life of caffeine is anywhere between four to six hours, which means half of the total caffeine you consume throughout the day stays in your system that long.
If your bedtime is at 10 p.m., don’t reach out for a cup of joe after 4 p.m., so you don’t risk staying up longer.
You’re Stressed Out or Anxious
Stress and anxiety are common culprits that can impact how you function mentally, emotionally, and physically. Feeling pressure at work, the loss of a loved one, as well as looming financial problems can cause undue stress, making good sleep harder to come by. If you can’t fall asleep because you’re feeling anxious, it’s best to see a medical professional who can help address and manage what you’re feeling.
Interestingly, wellness experts recommend practicing mindfulness techniques such as controlled breathing methods, muscle relaxation techniques, or generally approaching life issues with a non-judgmental focus and increasing kindness, acceptance, and understanding with whatever you’re going through. This way, you help your mind enter a state of calmness, which then allows your body to relax and slowly feel sleepy.
You’re Not Comfortable
If you’ve slept a good ten hours but still wake up tired or sluggish, it could be your bed’s fault. Although comfort is subjective for every person, start by finding a comfortable mattress that is suitable for the kind of sleeper you are (side, front, back), as well as the mattress type you prefer (memory foam, spring, etc.).
Finding the best mattress can help make a big difference and reduce the risks of getting body aches and body pain that often get in the way of getting a good night’s sleep. When you lose sleep because you’re uncomfortable, you risk getting sleep-deprived, which can lead to more serious health conditions.
Prioritize Sleep, Prioritize Your Health
Not getting enough sleep is not good at all. While taking naps is okay, it’s important to develop healthy sleeping habits so you can recharge your mind and body. As you change up your day-to-day activities to make sure your body is ready to get the rest you need, one major investment you shouldn’t skimp on is your bed.
Today, there are a lot of mattresses available on the market, and shopping for a new one can be a little overwhelming. Our sleep experts here at Garner Appliance and Mattress will be more than happy to help you find the perfect one you can sink into after a busy day. Visit our Garner or Clayton location to experience our mattress showrooms or check out our online catalog to see what’s available.