With an endless to-do list and so many distractions around us, it’s difficult for many people to relax and focus on getting proper rest. Nonetheless, sleep allows your body to rejuvenate after a long day and is key to a happy, healthy lifestyle. We’re huge sleep enthusiasts here at Coop, so we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves on how to achieve better sleep. Become the best (and least grumpy) version of yourself with these simple tips; after all, you’re not you when you don’t sleep!
1. Avoid electronic devices at least an hour before your bedtime.
We know that late night Netflix binging is tempting, but the blue light cast from electronic devices at night disrupts the sleep cycle. If you can’t avoid your phone, TV, or laptop, try out a pair of orange-tinted glasses. They might look silly, but studies have shown that they help counter blue light and allow for better sleep quality.
2. Stay away from heavy meals at least 2-3 hours before your bedtime.
After a long day, munching on a cheeseburger at your favorite fast food joint sounds like a great idea—until you’re trying to sleep and feel the pangs of indigestion rising. Eating a big, greasy meal close to your bedtime amps up your metabolism and makes it difficult for your body to relax, so it’s best to enjoy your last meal 2-3 hours before your bedtime.
If you simply can’t fight the hunger, opt for a light, healthy snack like apple slices with almond butter.
3. Don’t drink alcohol close to your bedtime.
Along with avoiding heavy food, you should also avoid alcohol close to your bedtime. Yes, it might help you fall asleep faster, but it also diminishes the quality of sleep, often causes people to wake up throughout the night, and decreases the time spent in deep sleep. The result? You wake up feeling groggy and gross. Sip your drinks in the early evening or earlier for better quality sleep.
4. Use a sleeping app.
Technology sure has come a long way. Apps like Sleep Genius, Pzizz, and SleepCycle were created to help you enjoy restful sleep. SleepCycle, in particular, tracks your sleeping patterns through sound analysis and wakes you up during your lightest phase of sleep. As a result, you wake up feeling refreshed and energetic. With so many options out there, you’re just a Google search away from finding the perfect sleep app to fit your needs.
5. Sleep on a pillow that adjusts to you.
We don’t all come in the same shape and size, so your pillow shouldn’t either. An adjustable pillow conforms to your body and unique sleeping style, so you can enjoy the ultimate comfort and proper support for the best sleep ever.