When it comes to healthy living, a good night’s sleep is simply a must. They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing.
In the last few years, my sleep cycle completely changed. Gone off-track rather. There was a time in my life when I could sleep for hours at a stretch and easily snooze until noon if not disturbed. Well that was eons ago. But lately, I have trouble getting more than 4-5 hours of sleep. I see significant differences in the quality of my day, depending on how well I was able to sleep the night before. Obviously, a good sleep goes a long way and one thing that is definitely not over-rated!
I have been trying a few things that seem to impact my sleep. Different things work for different people – so these might not be as effective for some as it might be for others. But I wanted to share them with you because I do feel a positive change.
- Turning off all electronic devices at hour before going to bed.
This includes the cell phone, TV, e-reader, laptop. I put is as #1 because it is the toughest for me to follow. I am constantly on my phone (not really proud about it though) or love watching TV. I absolutely love reading and do some light reading before calling it a night, instead of watching late night TV or re-runs of friends. This one is tricky as well – because if I am reading something intense or thought provoking, then I find myself thinking about it even after closing the book.
- Aromatherapy
There’s something about the soothing fragrance in the air that has a direct association with sleep and calmness. Burning a candle might be risky, lest you forget to blow it off before dozing off. Amit and I love this pillow mist.
- Stay active during the day / exercise
Needless to say, if you are active during the day, chances of sleeping better are more. Having some physical activity during that day – such as working out at the gym or running outside helps tremendously. Also, helps clear out the mind.
- Moisturize
This is probably the one thing that I am most particular about and I have seen a direct co-relation between feeling moisturized and feeling comfortable for sleeping. Use a light moisturizer on your face ( I use this, its very lightweight and doesn’t make my skin oily ). Spend an extra 30 seconds to rub and massage your foot – trust me, it’s an instant relaxant. Mom introduced me to this foot cream years ago and now I cannot live without it.
- Mattress
This one is as tricky as it is important. Everyone has their own preference – firm, soft, memory foam, etc. But finding a mattress that works for you ( and your partner ) is very, very important!
Going to a store to shop for a mattress is the most overwhelming experience ever! Everyone claims that they have the best mattress and then there are sleep numbers! Major information overload!!
A few months ago, I received a mattress from Tuft & Needle, and we have been sleeping on it since. This was the first foam mattress we tried so were a little apprehensive about it initially, in terms of how it would be in the area of firmness and how much of a difference would we feel, considering we have been used to spring mattresses. But so far – so good. I love that it is fairly firm ( enough for me ), the mister had a little bit adjusting to do initially, but now has no issues. The foam adjusts to your body weight and provides support accordingly.
Besides that, I have to mention that it came in a surprising compact package and it dint take more than 10 minutes for the mattress to come to it actual size. Also, no mattress smell! That one I know can be a huge turn off for many. I also love the fact that they have a 100 night trial policy – that was super helpful for us to know. A mattress is a huge investment afterall and you need to be sure that you (and your body) absolutely love it.
Hope some of these tips resonate with you. If there are any secrets that you have uncovered for a good nights’ sleep – please share with me and fellow readers.
I have partnered with Tuft & Needle to gift one of you lucky readers with a mattress. Read the rules & details and sign up for the giveaway below. xo Neha
Giveaway Rules : For entering the giveaway, you must be at least 18 years old and must live in the United States.
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