Simple steps to better sleep
Do you feel fatigued during times of the day when you used to have energy? Do you feel like you need that midday coffee in order to make it through the entire workday?
Many people get tired around 3 p.m. every day and joke that they need caffeine to get themselves going. Why does that happen? One reason may be that they are not getting adequate sleep each night.
Sleep is important
Sleep is one of the three pillars of health – eating a healthy diet, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Adequate sleep can lower your risk for certain diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. It is important to realize that being sleepy during the day may not be normal and can be a sign of other conditions such as sleep apnea.
Are you eating healthy and exercising? You may be missing the third piece of that puzzle – sleep. Sleep is necessary for healthy functioning and can also help regulate mood and improve learning and memory function. Getting the right amount of sleep will also help with maintaining a healthy weight and energy levels. So why is sleep the one thing that people think they can “live without” or do “when they die?” If you feel like you are doing all you can to get a full night’s sleep, discuss your symptoms with your physician to ensure that you cover all your bases.
Tips to get a full night's sleep
Maintain a regular bedtime and wakeup schedule
If you maintain a regular schedule, even on the weekends, it will help you get better sleep.
Create a sleep environment that is relaxing, dark, and cool
Your bedroom should be your sleep oasis and be free from distractions. A dark space keeps unnecessary light out of your eyes which causes you to wake up. Your body also drops in temperature as you sleep, so keeping your room cool will help with your sleep cycle.
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime
All of these substances will disturb your sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine and nicotine for at least 3-5 hours before bed. Alcohol, which people usually think of as a sedative, actually disrupts sleep by causing nighttime awakenings. Consuming less alcohol will help you to sleep better.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine
Whether this be soaking in a bathtub, listening to soothing music, or reading a book, a routine that will slowly lull you into sleep will help you to feel more well rested and less fatigued.