Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Too Little Sleep?



When you don't sleep well, the next day can feel like a big struggle. Luckily, some sleeping issues can be easily remedied by changing your old ways and welcoming brand-new bedtime rituals. For better sleep, creating a nighttime routine can promote a restful night that's hopefully full of sweet dreams.
Turn off the tech: Right now, unwinding at night may mean hanging out on your computer or turning on the tube for a few hours. But looking at screens late into the night can mess with your internal clock. Make a conscious effort to turn off all electronics at least 20 minutes before bedtime for more sound sleep.
Play soothing sounds: Loud music blaring isn't your best bet for bedtime, but certain softer sounds can help lull you into a tranquil mood. A guided meditation can provide some welcome restful assistance at bedtime, or try to listen to calming tunes before climbing into bed.
Stretch it out: Yoga your way into bed! Create a new nighttime ritual with calming poses like Extended Puppy and Butterfly. Intense exercise before bed can interfere with your sleep cycle, but some light stretching can really relax your body and mind before you hit the hay.
Read a "real" book: We've all become accustomed to reading on tablets, but turning the pages of a good old-fashioned book or a text-only ereader can help get you the sleep you deserve. Turning off all tech in your bedroom helps with sleep, and (unfortunately) iPads are no exception to the rule.
No more nightcaps: Booze before bed may sound like a dreamy ritual, but it's actually hindering the quality of your sleep. Lay off the alcohol, and brew a mug of Sleepytime tea. You'll wake up feeling far fresher, and ready to embrace the day.

No comments:

Post a Comment