Is it just me or is it just impossible to get a good night’s sleep these days? Whether we’re up all night with the kids, or we’re suffering with long hours at work, we’re stressing about money, worrying about the future or just can’t get comfortable – there’s always something that stops us from being able to properly switch off.
It’s a problem that a large number of the population suffer with, and it’s growing. Did you know that a lack of sleep can contribute towards serious health problems? Heart problems, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure to name a few. So, what’s the solution? Well, experts believe that we all need to spend a little more time – investing in resting! Which means taking time specifically to dedicate towards getting a decent night’s sleep.
Need a little inspiration? Check out these 4 ways you can improve your sleep.
Reduce your blue light exposure
Screens play an important role in our everyday lives. But did you know that your screen time could be having a detrimental effect on your sleep? Investing in a pair of blue light blocking glasses from Eye Buy Direct is a step towards protecting your eyes and helping to reduce their exposure to the blue light that emits from our screens. This blue light tricks the brain into believing it’s daylight, making it unequivocally difficult for our brains to switch off and rest. In addition to eyewear, you could also limit your screen time and have no screens 2 hours before you head to bed. Give it a try!
Reduce your caffeine intake
If you’re consistently experiencing poor sleep, then caffeine is not your friend. Sure, we all like a hot mug of tea or coffee to start the day, but consuming caffeine after 3pm is a big No-No. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system which doesn’t allow it to relax, meaning you’re alert and peppy; perfect for all those meetings you have this morning, but not so great when you’re tossing and turning in bed. Avoid caffeine after 3pm as it stays in your system for 4-6 hours and or switch to decaffeinated options instead!
Stop the nap habit
It’s true that short power naps are great for giving you a little energy boost. However, long naps at inconsistent intervals during the day can have a negative impact. All this napping confuses your body clock! If you’re going to nap, then set an alarm for 20 minutes max and don’t nap after 11am!
Is your bedroom the problem?
Clutter, mugs, books, dirty clothes, clean clothes, your laptop, printer even gym equipment – all these things are probably having a negative effect on your sleep. Your bedroom should be optimised for sleep and intimacy. Anything else just doesn’t belong, so remove it. Reduce artificial light, noise and anything electrical like the TV or alarm clock. Keep your bedroom cool, quiet and the perfect place to escape to after a long day at the office.
