Sleeping is an important part of being more energetic each day. Sadly, most of us no longer have a real bedroom. Instead, we have computers, TVs, and of course, we carry our mobile devices everywhere. We eat in bed, watch TV in bed, talk on the phone in bed, debate on social media in bed ñ and all that activity makes it much harder to get to sleep.
Instead, to have more energy each day and get a really good night’s sleep, consider making your bedroom into a fortress of comfort designed especially for sleeping.
- Minimize – The less clutter you have in your home, the easier it is going to be to relax and sleep. This is especially true of your bedroom. Set up your bedroom so that everything has a home, and everything is neat. You don’t want a lot of clutter on top of furniture to distract you. Keep only what you want and need in your bedroom.
- Humidify – Dry air, especially winter air, can cause disturbances during your sleep. Get a cold air humidifier to turn on each night. The ideal air humidity for sleeping should be about 45 percent. Lower risks dry sinus cavities and higher can trigger mold, bacteria, and dust mite issues.
- Keep It Cool – The ideal temperature for sleeping is between 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. That might seem cold, but with the right PJs and the right sheets and blankets you should be very comfortable and fall asleep fast.
- Get a Good Mattress – Many people skimp on mattresses, but a mattress is one of the most important investments in your health that you can make. You want one that is neither too hard or too soft, made from natural fibers that support your body to help maintain spine alignment.
- Spring for the Best Sheets – Don’t be cheap about sheets. You only need two sets so that you can wash your sheets weekly and switch off. Buy at least 400 thread count and 100 percent cotton sheets. Make sure that they fit your bed correctly. Light colors like white are easier to keep clean and stay cooler.
- Get the Right Pillows – The other aspect of sleeping is your pillow. A pillow should support your head so that your spine stays in alignment and so that your head isn’t bent or raised higher than it would be naturally lying on your shoulder.
- Use Layers – To keep your temperature comfortable, use layers. Sheets, a couple blankets, and a light comforter is the best. You can then remove layers as needed or add them back if you get too cold.
- Outlaw Electronics – Don’t let any electronics cross the threshold of your room. Keep TVs out, phones out, and your mobile devices out. The only exception is if you’re on call for some type of emergency. Otherwise, understand that the best help you can offer anyone is a good night’s sleep so that you’re well rested each day.
Good sleep will make you more energized throughout the day. Go to bed and get up at the same time each night and morning.
In our last post, we’ll talk about one of the most important things you can do to ensure that you stay healthy and energized throughout your life.