It’s no secret that getting better sleep is important on so many levels, as it helps with our cognitive functioning, boosts our immunity to keep us healthy, and of course, gives us energy to get through the day. Psychiatrist Dr. Allie Sharma explains that being sleep deprived can also increase inflammation and predispose us to being sick, and feeling anxious or irritable.
But millions of Americans still struggle to get enough quality sleep, even when they think they’re doing everything right to promote good sleep. According to Dr. Sharma, the key to getting better sleep actually starts with being mindful of what we do in bed before bedtime. This expert says our beds should really only be used for three things: sleep, sex and sickness.
“Use your bed for sleep, for sex and intimacy, and when you are sick and need to rest,” she explains. “Try to avoid working or using the bedroom for tasks that are activating and not associated with feeling calm.” That includes everything from working in bed to watching TV to scrolling through your phone, all of which can mess with your ability to sleep well later on.
For the best chance at good sleep, Dr. Sharma also advises:
- Going to bed around the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning.
- Keeping your room calming to “set the stage for good sleep.”
- Letting your mind and body unwind for a half hour to an hour before bed by doing activities like reading, bedtime yoga, meditating or having a warm bath.
Source: Real Simple