National Sleep Awareness Week is a time to highlight the important connection between good sleep and better health. Sleeping is essential for our mental and physical health, but sometimes it can be very difficult to settle into a night of quality rest.
Poll Results from the NSF (National Sleep Foundation):
“Light Exposure During the Day
Nearly 1/2 of Americans say they’re not exposed to bright light indoors in the morning (49%) or afternoon (47%)
Physical Activity
More than 1/3 of Americans (36%) fall short of the CDC recommendations for moderate or vigorous activity, and when they’re not physically active, they spend much of their time seated
Meal Regularity
4 in 10 Americans eat meals at inconsistent times
Screen Use at Night
Over 1/2 of Americans (58%) often look at screens within an hour before bedtime or in bed before sleep” – NSF
Tips for a Better Sleep:
1. Stick to a consistent sleep and wake schedule
2. Reduce your screen/tech time in the hour before sleep
3. Practice a deep breathing technique for sleep
4. Avoid that midday slump caffeine fix, it can affect how quickly you fall asleep
5. If you exercise before bedtime, keep it light
6. Keep your bedroom dark, cool and quiet
7. Replace your pillow every 1-2 years
8. Mattresses should be replaced every 7-10 years, depending on the mattress
Don’t wait to give yourself a better night of rest, become your Best Slept Self!