How to Improve Your Chances of Good Sleep
By Genevieve Cunningham
Good sleep is hard to come by. When we're young, sleeping is second nature. We stay up late, sleep the mornings away, and never seem to tire. As we get older, a lack of sleep becomes apparent in our health, demeanor, and productivity. But unfortunately, just when we seem to need sleep the most, we have the hardest time finding it. If you've been feeling fatigued due to a lack of rest, take a look at these tips for improving your chances of good sleep tonight.
Avoid Distractions
Most of us are guilty of reaching for the remote or phone while lying in bed. While we tell ourselves that we're just browsing because we can't sleep, the truth is that the browsing may actually be the reason why we can't relax. If you want to fall asleep at night, leave the distractions -- phone, TV, tablet, magazine -- out of the bedroom. Then turn off the lights and sounds and soak in the quiet darkness.
Create Comfort
The more comfortable you feel, the more likely you are to get sleep. Unfortunately, many people aren't comfortable at all, and some people don't even know it. Or perhaps it's just that they could be so much more comfortable. If you've never given it any thought, experiment. Add or subtract pillows. Change the temperature of the room. Grab a few more blankets. Create a little haven of comfort, and your sleep has a better chance of improving.
Quit Afternoon Caffeine
Most people like a little caffeine in the mornings, whether it's in the form of coffee or a Diet Coke. And first thing, caffeine can help us get moving. It can wake us up and stimulate the senses. But if you drink caffeine in the afternoons, it might linger in your system long enough to keep you awake. Try to cut back on any caffeine consumption after noon. You may feel sluggish at first, but as your sleep improves, your energy may level out.
Good sleep is the envy of many. We want to feel rested. We want to get rid of the bags beneath our eyes. We want to feel refreshed and ready for the day. If you have trouble getting sleep, give these tips a try. You may be able to consciously shift your habits to help create better sleep and better health for years to some.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Whittier, Calif.