Getting a good night's sleep is essential for our overall well-being and productivity. However, with the demands of our modern lifestyle, many of us struggle to get the quality sleep we need. From too much screen time to work and life stress, quality sleep seems years away. However, if you find yourself tossing and turning at night, there are some easy-to-follow tips to help you improve your sleep.

First, work on establishing a consistent sleep schedule. One of the best ways to improve your sleep is by establishing a regular sleep schedule. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and enhances the quality of your sleep. Next, make sure to limit your time with electronics in the hours leading up to bed. The blue light emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops can disrupt our sleep-wake cycle. Try to avoid using these devices for at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, engage in relaxing activities such as reading a book or practicing a calming bedtime routine.

Unfortunately, the stress of our everyday lives can have a significant impact on our sleep schedules. The stress of work, home, kids, or managing your health has affected your ability to sleep long before you realize you aren’t getting great sleep. Stress and anxiety have a serious affect on the quality of your sleep, which means 8 hours isn’t always 8 hours. If stress is negatively impacting your life, it may be helpful to develop a regular relaxation routine that helps you de-stress before bed. This can include practices such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in calming activities that help you unwind from the day.

Your bedroom environment plays a crucial role in promoting better sleep. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Consider investing in blackout curtains or an eye mask to block out any external light. Use earplugs or a white noise machine to drown out any disturbing sounds. Keeping the temperature between 60-67°F (15-19°C) can also help create a more comfortable sleep environment. A comfortable place to sleep is a critical part of your sleep hygiene.

All in all, you may need to speak to your doctor if these lifestyle changes aren’t working out for you. They can provide personalized advice and rule out any underlying sleep disorders that may be interfering with your sleep. It may be time to switch medications, change your diet, get tested for a new condition, or even order a new mattress in a box nz that will jumpstart your next good night’s sleep.