Get Better Sleep Despite Your Busy Lifestyle
The good news is that we as a culture acknowledge self-care now more than ever and have realized the benefits of things such as the quality of sleep. But just because we know that sufficient sleep is essential to productivity and performance, doesn’t mean we do a good job of getting it with an increasingly busier and busier lifestyle.
Here’s a few of our favorite hacks to nail at least 7 hours of quality sleep while still completing your to-do list daily.
Minimize screen time at night
We had a very busy day at work with barely any time to do personal stuff. Sometimes, bedtime is the only available time for us to check emails, browse Twitter and Insta, and catch up with friends etc. While we may think we only do that for a few minutes, suddenly we realize we’ve used up over an hour catching up on the happenings on our beloved internet. This eats into the amount of sleep we should get - and fast.
Just as we set alarms to wake up, it helps to have a predefined time to sleep. Once it hits, push yourself to put down your device and sleep. In fact, we recommend investing in an old-fashioned alarm clock and keeping the phone out of the bedroom entirely.
Make your sleeping place super cozy
What better way to treat yourself to a good night's sleep than to make it a place to look forward to going, with a comfortable bed, cozy pillows, and dim ambient lighting?
If your mattress makes sleeping a pain in the neck, invest in a better mattress. Look online for testimonials and visit local spots, like the mattress stores Johns Creek GA, for example, to test out comfortable options. Testing them out will give you great insight into what you’re looking for before making the investment.
Your choice of lighting also matters. Opt for reddish lights as opposed to blue lights at night. Several studies suggest that red lights are better for sleeping.
Inform your family members about your bedtime
If your partner or children aren't aware of your bedtime, they may barge in and disrupt your beauty sleep. Inform them of your bedtime, and lay down the law for peace during those hours.
Use earplugs and eye masks
If you have someone else in the home that stays up late, probably your partner or the next-door neighbor, consider using earplugs to block out the noise. Additionally, an eye mask will help block out the light, especially when you have a roommate or spouse awake during your bedtime.
Earplugs and eye masks can also help you get your mind away from the most distracting senses. We also love a good soundscape - just make sure your partner is into it also.
Control pests
Mosquitoes, rodents, and cockroaches can rouse you awake as they fly and scamper about your room. Even if you didn’t notice them during the day. Calling a professional pest control service to get rid of all the pests in your home wouldn't be a bad idea if it helps you sleep better.
Start a bedtime ritual
A bedtime ritual can be anything you do just before bedtime. Creating such a routine will help your brain adjust to that pattern, and you'll find it easier to sleep at the same time every day.
Your bedtime ritual could be meditation, lighting a candle, reading a page, or doing yoga. Ideally, it should be something that helps you relax.