Temperature Changes: Sleep Better in the Hot or Cold
By Brandi Goodman
Changing temperatures can spell trouble for our sleep. You may notice that you don't sleep well whether you're extremely hot or extremely cold. Most people need to drift off in a cool but not cold temp to get enough rest at night. With some tips in mind, you can find ways to get more adequate sleep no matter what the temperature changes to throughout the year.
Tips for Sleeping in the Cold
You might find yourself waking frequently if it's cold at night. Your body is shivering. Your teeth are chattering. You wrap yourself up tightly and still can't find a way to get any rest. Make sure you're fully clothed. You should be bundled up so your body is protected from the cold and you can get to sleep better. Make sure you're wearing socks as well since heat can escape through the feet. If you're still too cold, add another layer. Have a thick blanket on as well.
You might want to keep a heater in your room if you still struggle to sleep. Just be sure it's one that has an automatic shut-off feature. You don't want it running all night. Heaters like this can easily overheat and cause a fire if you don't use caution.
Tips for Sleeping in the Heat
Sleeping while it's hot is especially difficult. You may find it hard to get any rest during the summer months when temperatures soar past 100 degrees. Shower in cool water before hitting the hay and you'll help to bring your own body temp down. You can also apply a damp, cold cloth to your forehead. This is where a lot of heat escapes so keeping your head cold can help keep your body cooled as well.
An air conditioner will help tremendously to get your room to a better temperature. If you don't have one available, then at least have a fan blowing on you. You can place a bottle of ice water in front of it so you'll get colder air to blow.
The average temperature people enjoy sleeping in falls between 68 and 72 degrees. Once it reaches below 65 or above 75, then people really start to struggle to fall asleep. Keep some tips in mind so you can always get plenty of rest no matter what the temperature happens to be. Sleep is necessary for good health, after all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santee, Calif.