As we get closer to this year's 'fall back', you might be thinking, "Awesome! An extra hour of sleep!" But the truth is that many of us feel a little off once Daylight Savings Time ends and we have to adjust to a slightly different sleep schedule. If you're looking for some tips on getting better sleep to make the adjustment easier, we've got you covered! Read on.
1. Be consistent! If you're always changing up your bedtime (or your waking team), you might be making it even harder to get the good sleep your body needs. Find a time that works on both workdays and weekends, and stick to it.
2. Make the bedroom a space for relaxation only -- no work or eating! You'll begin to associate being in your bed with, you know, sleeping.
3. We've all heard that we're supposed to unplug before bed, but it can make a big difference! Put away the screens and make a nightly ritual of doing something relaxing that doesn't involve electronics. A good bath or book are both good options.
4. Keep it dark! Light will keep your brain awake, so the darker you can make your space, the better.
5. Opt for an alarm that will wake you gently instead of startling you out of sleep. Sunrise alarm clocks can be your best friend of you want to be woken in a more natural way. Here are a few recommendations!
6. Try meditating. If you've never given it a try before, you may be surprised at how much capacity you have to relax your body and your mind. Not sure how to get started? Click here.
7. Sometimes a daytime nap is a must, but don't let it linger for too long. Twenty to thirty minutes should be the maximum to ensure you're actually going to sleep that night.
8. Try to eat dinner a few hours before bedtime. If your body is still busy digesting a big meal, it may be harder for you to get to sleep, so be sure to give yourself some time.
9. We all love caffeine, but if you're a coffee, soda, or energy drink lover, limit your consumption to the morning, or at the very least, before 2 pm. Opt for decaf later in the day!
10. Finally, don't push it! If you're simply not able to sleep, take a half hour and do a quiet, comfortable task, like reading or doing a crossword puzzle. Once you're feeling more sleepy, return to bed.
