There’s a saying that goes ‘Sleep is for the weak’, which contradicts the principles of healthy living. Because lack of sleep can do harm to your body, especially if prolonged.
Sleep is beneficial to both physical and mental health, as well as productivity and overall quality of life. Everyone may benefit from better sleep, from youngsters to the elderly, and sleep hygiene can help them achieve that objective.
The most striking indicators of poor sleep hygiene are having trouble falling asleep, having frequent sleep interruptions, and being sleepy during the day. Poor sleep hygiene can also manifest itself in a lack of regularity in sleep quantity or quality. Prolonged poor sleep hygiene could lead to sleep disorders like Insomnia, Sleep Apnea, and Narcolepsy, which could become a chronic illness if not closely monitored.
There are several simple steps you could take each day to improve your sleep hygiene. Habits you should develop to make healthy sleep feel more effortless include optimising your sleep schedule, having a pre-bed routine, and regular daily routines. Creating a comfortable bedroom environment could also be an invitation to unwind and sleep.
Have a sleep schedule
Sleep becomes a natural part of your day when you have a defined routine, and your brain and body become accustomed to getting the full amount of sleep that you need. Always remember to have a fixed wake up time and don’t overdo napping time.
Maintain a Night Routine
The way you get ready for bed can drastically impact how you fall asleep. Some of these suggestions are included in a pre-sleep playbook to help you relax and fall asleep when you want to. For an easier way to relax and prepare yourself, remember to unplug or set a ‘do not disturb’ function on your devices to keep yourself less occupied. Don’t forget to keep your routine consistent, like putting on your clothes and brushing your teeth. That will help your mind remember that it’s bedtime.
Cultivate Healthy Habits
It isn’t just nightly routines that determine sleep quality. Positive daily habits can help to increase your circadian rhythm and decrease sleep interruptions. There are healthier living habits, such as stopping smoking, as nicotine stimulates the body in ways that compromise sleep. You should also stop having late dinners, as food digestion takes a long time.
Always remember to think about your health before you decide to stay up late and disrupt your sleep hygiene. Remember to just go to bed if your body is tapping out at certain hours.
