How to Improve Your Sleep

by | Mar 20, 2015 | Lifestyle

Photo: ausfp.com

Photo: ausfp.com

Heading to bed early but still not getting enough sleep? For many hard-working New Yorkers, losing this chance to properly rest can have a major impact on their daily lives. Losing sleep can result in decreased alertness, sleep impairment, or even increase your risk of contracting diabetes. But this trend isn’t uncommon. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 50-70 million US adults have a sleep or wakefulness disorder. Here are some ways to make the most of your night:

Don’t Eat Late

When your body is used to winding down and going to bed at a certain time, it may not be a smart idea to eat around then. Studies have shown that some people’s glucose levels were higher when they ate food at night as opposed to during the day. The body’s inability to properly digest the food can lead to waking up during the night.

Shut Down Your Technology

Although the lure of your phone can be appealing, it’s best to text your friends goodnight about an hour before you’re ready to sleep. Many people become easily addicted to what’s online and may find themselves web surfing longer than planned. It has even been reported that the light from the phone can trick your brain into thinking that it’s daytime-not something useful for when you want to get to sleep.

Sleep Without Clothes

Not only does it lessen your laundry load, but it also helps your body regulate your temperature. Wearing clothes can interfere with your body’s natural heat and keep you tossing and turning. But if you’re uncomfortable with slipping into your birthday suit, sleeping with very loose pajamas can also help.

Bathe

Treat yourself to a warm bath or shower before bed. The heat can help your body and muscles relax, allowing for deeper, more efficient sleep. Just make sure that you have enough time to dry everything off – sleeping with damp hair can be distracting.

Tags: sleep
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