While it might seem to be a mundane activity, sleep is a crucial part to living a happy and healthy lifestyle. It contributes not only to your physical health, but to your mental and emotional well-being as well. According to the National Sleep Foundation’s article, How Much Sleep Do We Really Need, adults (aka anyone 18 and over) should be getting between 7-9 hours of sleep a night. School-aged children need 8-11 hours. (Raise your hand if you don’t meet this on a regular basis. Guilty as charged over here).
What can a good night’s sleep really do? Consistently getting a good night’s sleep can lower your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and helps to keep your hormone levels stable. Sleep also can improve memory and the learning process–when you fall asleep, your brain “practices” the skills you tackled while you were awake, according to Health.com. They also say a full night of snoozing can additionally help children pay better attention in school, curb mood swings, and decrease impulsive behavior.
Ready to snooze? Check out these tried and true tips for getting your best night’s sleep and feeling refreshed.
Stick To A Sleep Schedule
Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every night (even on your days off!) Your body will adjust to the routine and a schedule will reinforce your body’s sleep cycle, ensuring you get the best sleep possible.
No Late Night Lattes
This may go without saying, but caffeine too late in the day will wreck havoc on your bedtime routine. If you’re still dying for that afternoon cup of coffee, try switching to decaf coffee or tea six hours before bedtime. Same rule applies for soda and energy drinks, which are loaded with both caffeine and sugar and can negatively affect the quality of your sleep.
Avoid Distractions In Your Bedroom
Ideally, this means no TVs and no checking your phone in bed (again, guilty over here). Make your bed and bedroom are a relaxing, serene, sleep-only zone. Looking at screens before bedtime increases stimulation and stress. Associating your bed with activities other than sleeping (working, checking emails, watching TV) makes it harder for your body to relax when you’re ready for bed.
Invest In Your Mattress
The quality of your sleep is only as good as your mattress. Good sleep starts with good support–without this, you won’t be comfortable. A top-notch mattress helps with your spine alignment and even regulates body temperature (yes, even the fabric of your mattress matters). When you rent from Fashion Furniture, you can feel confident that you’ll best your best sleep. Choose the mattress that’s perfect for you from our three sleep system categories based on the support and comfort you need. Our team is ready to guide you and help hand-pick your perfect bed so you’ll feel rested night after night.
Ready to sleep well? Contact us to get started!