Getting enough sleep is a huge part of a person’s overall well-being. When you sleep may matter just as much when it comes to getting those restorative zzz’s, too. When your body knows what to expect, it may make the sleep that you do get more efficient. We’ve pulled together a few tips to help you get your sleep schedule in its best shape yet.
Figure Out the Lighting
It’s true that the type and amount of light you’re exposed to can throw off your ability to fall asleep, but your body also gets some cues about winding down before your head even hits the pillow.
Relaxation
Similar to those light cues, you may need to start the winding down process mentally earlier to hit your target sleep times.
Identify the Daytime Problems
For some people, that’s naps. For others, it’s the afternoon caffeine fix.
Move Your Body
Whatever that looks like for you, this is another important way to get your body used to the idea that there are things we do while awake (like move around) and things we do while we sleep (hit those REM cycles).
White Noise
Try to clearly outline the sensations of productive sleep by choosing sounds you associate with those times, like a fan or even a noise machine.
Get Comfortable
Have you rejected the top sheet like some Millennials? If it works, it works.
Enforce Boundaries On Sleep Time
Many people really prefer to eat their last meal at least a couple of hours before sleep. If that’s important for you, find ways to stick to that schedule.
Wake Up Consistently
Sleeping on a schedule also means waking up on a schedule.
Talk with a Doc
If you’re struggling more than you think you should with consistent sleep, it might be time to reach out for a bit of help.
Stick with It
Honestly, it might downright suck at first! But it can be rewarding to stick with a healthy sleep schedule as life takes you where you’re going.
