Sleep Soundly Even in the Cold
By Brandi Goodman
Your sleep may start to suffer as the weather changes. Some people find it difficult to transition from sleeping in the heat to sleeping in the cold. Neither is all that comfortable until you find a plan of action that best suits your needs. You can sleep soundly -- even in the cold -- with some tips in mind.
Change Your Blanket
The blanket you use in the summer should differ from the one you use in the winter. You're going to need a thicker blanket that keeps you warm. A thin sheet won't suffice on those freezing nights.
Take a Warm Bath or Shower
Getting into a warm bath or shower can help raise your body temperature. You'll feel more comfortable and find it easier to drift off no matter the temperature in your room.
Wear Even Layers
Wearing a thin pair of socks and thick sweatshirt to bed won't do you any favors. You'll most likely wake up with your feet freezing, or your back sweating. You need even layers if you hope to sleep soundly throughout the night. The thickness of your clothing materials should match from your head to your feet.
Set Your Room's Temperature
If you have the ability, it's wise to set your room's temperature. It's recommended to keep your room between 60 and 67 degrees for a good night's sleep. If your room gets colder than that, you'll struggle to stay asleep at night and may wake up freezing. Your personal feel-good temperature may be a little higher, and that's okay. Set your furnace to whichever temp you need to sleep easily.
Manage Your Cold Symptoms
Perhaps an actual cold is your problem. It's easy to get sick in the colder months when the temperatures drop. You need to do your best to manage your cold symptoms before you try to sleep. Otherwise, you'll find yourself tossing and turning as the night goes on -- no rest in sight.
Start by drinking something warm to help soothe your throat. A warm glass of tea can help, or try hot water mixed with lemon and honey. Gargling with salt water also helps a sore throat. You can use eucalyptus and lavender essential oils in a diffuser by your bedside as well. It helps you breathe easier so you can drift off.
Sleeping in cold weather doesn't have to be complicated. Give one or more of these methods a try and you may just find yourself drifting off easily at night -- getting all of the rest your mind and body desires.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in American Fork, Utah.