There’s nothing worse than lying in bed for hours on end trying to fall asleep. Unfortunately, it seems like the harder you try, the less likely you are to nod off.
This can be especially frustrating if you need to wake up early in the morning or have a long day ahead of you. Furthermore, being sleep deprived has a ton of negative side effects, like the inability to focus, lethargy, and even weight gain.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Keep reading for our top seven tips on how to get a great sleep every night.
1. Keep Your Room Dark
First, understand that our bodies were designed to sleep at night (and in the dark). Leaving lights on can significantly impede your sleep, even if you don’t realize it. Something as simple as leaving the TV on could generate enough light to prevent you from falling asleep.
2. Get a Better Mattress
Next, learning how to get good sleep may mean getting a better mattress. If your mattress is too soft, too stiff, or just generally uncomfortable, it could be causing your inability to fall asleep at night. We recommend checking out The Beloit Mattress Company to find the best mattresses.
3. Turn Off the Electronics
Unfortunately, getting great sleep also means making some changes. For example, staying on your phone or watching TV right before bed keeps your mind active and engaged. Turning off the electronics before bedtime will help you fall asleep faster.
4. Get the Room Temperature Right
For most of us, if we’re too hot, falling asleep can be nearly impossible. The same can be said if you’re too cold. For the best sleep, make sure you perfect your specific temperature needs.
5. Don’t Eat Directly Before Bed
Did you know eating right before bed can interrupt your sleep? Not only that, but it can also give you acid reflux, which can make it harder to fall asleep. We recommend eating at least three hours before you plan to go to bed.
6. Avoid Caffeine Late in the Day
Good sleep habits also include laying off the caffeine four to six hours before it’s time to go to bed. Caffeine can stay in your system and keep your body and mind more alert for several hours. If you like coffee as a dessert after dinner, consider switching to decaf.
7. Use Ambient Noise or Music
Finally, consider using sleep aids like ambient music or white noise to help you fall asleep. Some people like the sound of a window fan while others prefer the sound of rain or trickling water.
Play around with different sleep soundtracks, including guided sleep meditations.
Want More Advice for Great Sleep and Other Lifestyle Hacks?
If you want better sleep, we highly recommending following the tips listed above. However, that’s not all we have to offer.
Our blog is designed to help people like you improve their lives. Whether you’re looking to get great sleep or wanting to boost your finances, we can help. Be sure to check out some of our other articles before you go.