Do you often find yourself tossing and turning in bed and unable to drift off? Sleep is one of the most critical aspects of overall health, but if you’re struggling to get enough rest, don’t fret! There are things you can do to promote better sleep and get the rest you need. Today, we’ll be exploring six sleep hacks recommended by Matthew Walker, a renowned sleep scientist. These tips are simple yet effective and can help you get the perfect shut-eye that your body deserves.
One of the best ways to get better sleep is to develop a sleep schedule. A sleep schedule involves going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. By doing this, you can regulate your body’s internal clock, making falling asleep easier. It can take your body a few days to adapt to a new sleep schedule, so it’s essential to stick to it even on weekends. A comfortable and peaceful routine before bed can also help with sleep, such as taking relaxing baths.
Many people rely on caffeine to get through the day, but it may be affecting your sleep more than you realize. If you’re struggling with sleep, you might want to cut down on caffeine intake altogether, especially in the afternoon. Caffeine can stay active in your body for up to 8 hours, making it harder to fall asleep at night. Instead, opt for caffeine-free beverages like herbal tea or water.
Your sleep environment can have a significant impact on the quality of rest you get. The ideal sleep environment should be dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in blackout curtains and earplugs if you live in a noisy area. Additionally, try to maintain a cooler temperature between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in your bedroom.
Stress and anxiety can play a massive role in keeping you up at night. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises before bed can help calm your mind and body. Alternatively, you can also try progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and releasing specific muscles throughout your body.
Physical exercise can have many benefits for sleep. Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. On the flip side, not exercising can lead to restlessness at night. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, but try to avoid rigorous activity in the evening, which can interfere with sleep.
Lastly, take a closer look at your diet. Certain foods may be making it hard for you to sleep. Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, and spicy foods in the evening, as they can cause acid reflux or indigestion that can interfere with sleep. On the other hand, some foods can promote sleep such as chamomile tea, bananas, or almonds.
Implementing these six sleep hacks can help you attain better sleep and improve your overall well-being. Remember, getting enough rest is crucial to properly tackling daily stress and tasks, so prioritize it. Developing a healthy sleep routine takes time, but it is worth the effort. Sleep well!
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Sonar unifies activity, sleep and nutrition data from all of your favorite wearables and health apps, transforming it into deeply personalized guidance for boosting your daily performance, healthspan and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or in the early stages of your health journey, Sonar is for everyone and is trusted by tens of thousands of users in over 160 countries. Launched out of Columbia University in New York, and built in partnership with doctors from Johns Hopkins and UC San Diego, Sonar merges the latest medical, sports and data science to help you train smarter, recover faster, sleep deeper, eat healthier and push yourself to new limits.
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