These days it seems like things are moving faster than ever before, and with technology use at an all-time high through remote work, we’re always on the clock. It’s been reported that more people now are getting less sleep and experiencing insomnia than in the past. This weekend is your chance to practice a little self-care and labor less during the long weekend. That’s why we decided to round up a few ways you can get better quality sleep, and in turn, reap the benefits of being a well-rested individual.
Quality Sleep
Too many people underestimate the power of quality sleep and how much it can impact your overall health. Most research shows that adults should be getting 7-9 hours of solid rest each night in order for the body to recover fully and be ready for the next days flurry of events. But more often than not, that doesn’t happen. Maybe you’re up late trying to meet a deadline, or your toddler won’t stop crawling into bed with you at 2am. Whatever it may be, here are a few tips to help you get a little more shuteye each night.
Routine
First and foremost, you must get on a regular sleep schedule (easier said than done, right?! According to Sara Gottfried, MD, a clinical assistant professor in the department of integrative medicine and nutritional sciences at Thomas Jefferson University, good sleep is crucial to overall health. In a healthline article, they report that a good night’s sleep on a regular basis is optimum for hormone regulation. This includes sleeping long enough and deeply enough to enter rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. “Sleep debt is an epidemic that so many people simply take for granted as part of a busy lifestyle,” Gottfried says. “Sleep cleans out the toxins in your brain. It’s like a power cleanse. Poor sleep wreaks havoc on your internal biochemistry”.
Room Temperature
If you “sleep hot” you probably find yourself tossing and turning because you just can’t seem to get the temp cool enough at night. First, keep your sleep space cool and well-ventilated. If you’re still struggling with heat at night, Brooklinen, the “internet’s best sheets”, is known for its high-quality bedsheets (everything from linen to percale to cashmere), as well as its comforters, duvet covers, pillows, and more. Their Classic Percale Sheets, which feature a breathable 270 thread count weave that you stay cool all night long. Even better, save 25% by purchasing a Hardcore Bundle, which includes a Core Sheet Set, extra Pillowcases, and a Duvet Cover.
Light
Artificial light or too much light indoors can make it hard to get quality shuteye. There are a variety of masks out there to help drown out the light Healthline recommends using Use a sleep mask or blackout curtains to block out light and ensure you get to rest quicker.
The Brookstone Weighted Sleep Mask will help keep the light out while adding weight to the face. The Weighted Sleep Mask uses the same science behind their Gravity Blankets to give your face the perfect pressure stimulation. It also blocks out light and feels amazing, thanks to a combination of micro-plush and imitation cashmere. You can get yours here.
White Noise
Try a white noise machine to cancel out disruptive sounds, or to add the little bit of sound you need to fall asleep.The Brookstone Sleep Sound Mixer has 8 soothing sounds sure to help you get a better nights stleep. Use the sliders to layer up your favorite tones and create a custom blend that will help you fall — and stay — asleep. The mixer’s high-quality speaker fills your room with relaxing sounds while the 7 ambient night-light colors add to your sensory experience. Find out more here.
Whichever of these options you may choose to help finally get that quality sleep you’re looking for, make sure that your bedroom is primarily used for what it’s meant to be - allowing you to get some high quality rest! And make sure you use the extra day off this weekend to get into a better routine. We all could use better sleep.