Life Hacks: Sleep Skills

Sleep is an essential function of the body. When you’re sleep deprived, many adverse effects can begin. Following some simple tips can help you fall asleep faster and sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation and the Mayo Clinic have compiled a list of things that can help combat insomnia and trouble falling or staying asleep.

Stick to a routine.

This may seem like something you would suggest to a child, but in reality your bodies’ circadian rhythm will get thrown off if you do not go to sleep around the same time everyday.

Sleep deprivation can cause adverse effects on your body. WebMD notes some ways it can be harmful. It can decrease your memory and impair your ability to process information cognitively.

It can also cause stress on relationships, because you’re too tired to participate or listen.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drowsy driving is responsible for 100,000 crashes each year, with 1,550 fatalities and 71,000 injuries.

Do something relaxing before bed

A study from Harvard Medical School shows that the blue light emitted from phones and televisions will trick your mind into thinking it’s time to wake up, rather than go to bed.

This study has correlated “working the night shift and exposure to light at night can lead to several types of cancer (breast, prostate), diabetes, heart disease and obesity.”

Stress and anxiety can also take away from being able to fall asleep.

Also try to eliminate all noises, unless it is calming music or sounds.

Don’t nap

If you have a hard time falling asleep after daily napping, then it might be time to eliminate the nap. This will ensure you are tired enough to fall asleep at night.

Daily exercise

This will combat any restlessness. Any amount of exercise, from walking to vigorous exercise, will ensure that you are tired and ready to fall asleep.

Comfortable Mattress

Most mattresses have a life of 10 years, and after they become unfit for sleeping. Also your room temperature should be around 60 to 67 degrees while sleeping.

Anna Ashcraft is the Managing Editor of Features for The Spectator.

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