6 Essentials That Have a Positive Impact On Your Sleep
If sleep was as simple as hopping in bed, closing your eyes, and nodding off, then everyone will be a smart sleeper and enjoy sleeping fast. Meaning, you do not need any other essential to sleep soundly. However, there are things in your bedroom that will make a difference between simple rest and a perfect restful slumber. Also, this does not mean that you need to buy the many sleep gadgets that are available everywhere but smart essentials that have an impact on how best you sleep. Below are essentials that have a positive impact on your sleep.
1. A comfortable mattress
A comfortable Serta mattress is a no brainer that it is a smart essential for quality sleep. If you have had a mattress for more than ten years, chances are that it is not comfortable. Hence, it will affect the quality of sleep that you get. To know that your mattress is not as comfortable, you will tend to shift often at night or wake up with back pain as it is not supportive enough. These are the common signs that your mattress is not right for you, and it needs a replacement. Thus, start shopping for a new one that will give you the comfort that you need.
2. Breathable sheets and blankets
As you choose sheets and blankets, opt for those that are of natural materials like linen, cotton, and wool. Even though they should help you to keep warm, it does not mean that you should be too warm, as this will interrupt your sleep as you will wake up in a pile of sweat. Avoid polyesters as they are not breathable and trap excessive body heat. As you buy, get more than two sheet sets to ensure that you have fresh sets ready when others are in the wash.
3. A glass of water
Eight hours is a long time to stay without drinking water. Still, according to studies, mild dehydration leaves you less energized, cranky, and not able to focus well. So, if you get thirsty at night, you do not want to go all the way to the bathroom or kitchen for a glass of water. This will cause you to have an interruption in your sleep and also make it harder to fall asleep. So have a big glass of water next to your nightstand where it is within reach for you.
4. A perfect temperature
To sleep comfortably the bedroom temperature needs to be cool. However, ensure the humidity levels are right. When the humidity is high, it is not easy for you to stay cool, and when low, it leaves your nasal passages, skin, and throat with a dry uncomfortable feel. All these are not ideal for a restful slumber. The humidity level should be 50 %, and if your bedroom feels desert-like or swampy, it best to buy a dehumidifier or humidifier depending on which one suits you to get the right humidity balance.
5. Environmental blockers
Environmental blockers make it tough to doze off. Either it is stuff going on outside, people you live with or light and noise. So other than turning and tossing almost half the night, ensure that you find ways to block sleep-disrupting distractions. Thus, have an eye mask that will help when the light starts to creep in from the next-door building. Invest in earplugs or a white noise machine to cover any noise that could be interfering with your sleep.
6. A book
This is another smart essential, but read a physical book other than one on your smartphone as the blue light is destructive, and it will make you stay awake as it makes your brain alert. To help you relax, when you do these, you take time to unwind. In return, it will be easier for you to fall asleep. Reading helps to slash the stress rates by up to 70% in comparison to sipping a cup of tea and listening to music. So create time before bedtime to read a physical book, and with time, you will have a sleep routine that allows you to relax well after a long hectic day.